"Open since 2007, this tiny cocktail bar on 2nd St. has become somewhat of a drinking staple in downtown Santa Monica. Though it technically shares a wall with Hotel Carmel next door, this is definitely not a hotel bar and that’s a good thing. Which is to say, the drinks are well-made and the crowd is mostly made up of locals. Happy Hour: 5:30-7:30pm, Tues-Fri. $5 beer, $7 wine and cocktails, $4-7 snacks." - Brant Cox