Chez Jay
Steak house · Ocean Park ·
Iconic dive bar: steaks, seafood, stiff drinks, celebrity history
Iconic dive bar: steaks, seafood, stiff drinks, celebrity history
"When it comes to Santa Monica bars, there’s a belief that it’s Chez Jay and everyone else—and it’s hard to argue otherwise. Opened in 1959, this nautical-themed landmark (literally) is a one-of-a-kind watering hole where you can get a dangerously stiff drink and a 10-oz. butter steak at the same time. There are peanut shells on the floor, a weird giant fish on the wall, and a jukebox playing The Stones. If you want one of the last remaining authentic Santa Monica experiences, head to this crazy shack by the water." - brant cox, sylvio martins
"The Santa Monica restaurant is celebrating its 66th Anniversary on August 9 with a full day of events: live music, a classic car display, and a three-course prix fixe dinner in the main dining room. Tickets are available on Resy." - Rebecca Roland
"We’re not sure what kind of person steps into Chez Jay, the 60-year-old nautical-themed landmark in Santa Monica and thinks “This would be a great place to drink my sauvignon blanc.” But if you really feel like the perfect pairing for your butter steak or bowl of peanuts is hiding away in your chilled cellar in the Palisades, then with a $10 corkage fee, there’s no reason not to bring it." - kat hong
"Scary movies taught us that ghosts are mostly widows in Victorian dresses and hollow-eyed children with unhealthy doll obsessions, but walk into Chez Jay in Santa Monica, and you’ll realize every apparition here is a bitter sea pirate looking for a light. Open since 1959, this nautical-themed drinking hole is where you go when you’re tired of Ocean Blvd.’s glossy apartment complexes and generic Italian restaurants and need to feel something authentic. Or at the very least, something borderline metaphysical. There are peanut shells on the floor, a jukebox that probably doesn’t play anything later than Earth, Wind & Fire, and a giant fish on the wall that you’re almost positive is staring at you. It is—and so are all the framed photos." - brant cox
"Diners have been settling into the red leather booths at Santa Monica’s Chez Jay since it opened in 1959. Vodka fans will enjoy the 1959 Tini, made with Tito’s vodka and olives for a sharp and salty sipper. Pair the cocktail with an excellent Caesar salad and a side of truffle fries for what may be the ideal snack. On warm days, head for the outdoor patio deck and take in the ocean air." - Rebecca Roland