"What It Is: A modern Indian restaurant in Santa Monica Perfect For: Casual Midweek Dinner, First/Early In The Game Dates Tumbi recently opened right off the 3rd Street Promenade in downtown Santa Monica. This isn’t an area of town typically known for thrilling food options, but after stopping into this modern Indian spot, we can say this is the most exciting new Indian restaurant we’ve tried since Badmaash. The menu is fantastic and inventive, with everything from prawn masala to a pani puri that ends with you pouring tamarind-mint water into a puff pastry. Verdict: A 3rd Street Promenade-adjacent restaurant we’re actually excited about. It’s on the Hit List." - jess basser sanders, brant cox, brett keating