Calabra
Restaurant · Santa Monica ·
Mediterranean rooftop eatery with ocean views, kebabs, and cocktails
Mediterranean rooftop eatery with ocean views, kebabs, and cocktails
"In Rome, you might take a tour of the Vatican City, climb the steps of the Sistine Chapel, and look out on the Piazza San Pietro. In Santa Monica, you take the elevator up to the roof of the Proper Hotel and look out past the 7-11 and CVS onto the Pacific. Calabra is not Rome, but the crowd is happy to have a reason to be dressed while surrounded by rattan furniture, palm fronds, and a swimming pool. Though these design elements are evocative of Tulum, it doesn’t feel gimmicky—it’s just nice to see and be seen somewhere other than the farmer’s market. Plus, the cocktails and Mediterranean food here are quite good, from the kebabs and dips to hefty burgers and gyros. All dining transactions at the Proper in Santa Monica are part of the Link & Dine program." - Team Infatuation
"Calabra, the outdoor rooftop restaurant located in the Santa Monica Proper hotel, serves Mediterranean and California cuisine set among the best ocean views in Southern California. Four words: Get the lamb chops. —Taylor Anderson"
"When it comes to brunch on the Westside, it doesn’t get dreamier for most people than views of the ocean, lots of sun, and a menu filled with shareable, Mediterranean small plates. Calabra has all three in spades. Perched atop the Santa Monica Proper Hotel, the splashy space includes an indoor lounge, poolside patio, and lots of loungy furniture. The music is loud and people definitely want you to notice their outfits, but the atmosphere is fun and breezy, the challah french toast with cinnamon coconut cream is a must-order." - brant cox, sylvio martins, cathy park
"For some reason, rooftop pools are scarce close to the ocean. But there is Calabra. Perched atop the Santa Monica Proper Hotel, this splashy Mediterranean restaurant has an indoor lounge, poolside patio, and lots of loungey furniture. The music is loud and people definitely want you to notice their outfits, but the atmosphere is fun and breezy, and the lamb burger is really good. Load up on dips and enjoy the ocean breeze." - brant cox, arden shore
"The profound lack of good rooftops in Santa Monica is one of society’s great mysteries. At least we have Calabra. Perched atop the Santa Monica Proper Hotel, this gigantic bar has an indoor lounge, poolside patio, and curved couches that you can rent out for more privacy. Come weekends, the music is loud and people are definitely dressed up, but if you want to sneak up on a weekday to watch the sunset and sip a gin and tonic, you’ll always be able to find a seat at the wrap-around bar." - brant cox, sylvio martins