Big Dean's Ocean Front Cafe

"If California ever designates a historic district for mediocre sports bars, downtown Santa Monica will be where it happens. That said, there are a few of them worth going to, such as Big Dean’s. The classic bar right on the Santa Monica boardwalk is one of those places that, on paper, couldn’t possibly be a good time, but somehow always ends up being exactly what you want. The crowd is mostly local, there are two patios perfect for sprawling out and getting some sun, and their burger is our favorite on the beach." - brant cox

"Santa Monica has miles of beaches and yet so few patios worth your time. Big Dean’s is one of them. This classic sports bar has been around since the 1970s, and though the design has changed throughout the years, the fantastic front and back patios remain better than ever. Big Dean’s is where you go on a lazy Saturday to watch some sports and end up staying all afternoon, drinking beer and eating one of our favorite burgers in Santa Monica." - brant cox, arden shore, sylvio martins, cathy park

"It might not be fair to judge a book by its cover—but in the case of Big Dean’s, what you see is what you get. And that’s why we like it so much. Because even though this beachside sports bar is basically underneath the pier, it’s one of the few places where you’ll find actual Santa Monica locals hanging out this close to the tourists. Grab an excellent burger (an underrated LA classic) and a pitcher of beer, then head to their turf patio to watch whatever game is happening." - brant cox, sylvio martins, nikko duren

"The classic dive bar is located right on the Santa Monica boardwalk, and despite its highly trafficked location, always manages to keep a local crowd. Don’t expect anything fancy, just cheap beer, solid bar food (their burger is one of our favorites in town), and a great front patio that’s quite literally on the beach. " - brant cox

"This Westside institution at the end of the Santa Monica Boardwalk is so close to the beach, you can walk up barefoot. Big Dean’s has been around since the 1970s and offers spacious front and back patios, TVs playing sports, and a fantastic chheseburger. It's not fancy—two perfectly greasy patties, lettuce, tomato, and house special sauce— but it’s exactly what you need after a long day of being thrashed in the waves." - brant cox, sylvio martins, nikko duren, garrett snyder