Golden Bull Restaurant

"Everyone asks the same question upon entering this Santa Monica establishment, “How long has this place been here?” Since 1949, the Golden Bull has served stellar chops in an old-school dining room with serious Mad Men TV show vibes, stiff cocktails, and friendly service. Given the interrupted service due to the Palisades fire, the menu is currently much smaller than its usual but still have burgers, salads, a few steaks, and accompanying sides. Hours are also limited to Wednesday to Saturday service, though happy hour starts at 4:30 p.m. on weekdays." - Matthew Kang, Mona Holmes

"This beach-adjacent spot in Santa Monica has transformed its side parking lot into one of the more impressive outdoor dining spaces in town and the locals have responded. Plain and simple, this place is happening. So, if you’re planning to rally your friends for a casual group dinner, you’ll need to grab a reservation at this American restaurant well in advance. That said, if you and a group show up before 4pm in flip-flops and a swimsuit after a day at the beach down the street, you’ll still probably find a table after a short wait. Get the burger and several rounds of martinis." - jess basser sanders, brant cox, brett keating

"Established in 1949, this historic steakhouse off Pacific Coast Highway reopened in 2018 with a refreshed old-school vibe and fine-tuned chophouse menu. The dinnertime menu covers the classics with Caesar salad, shrimp cocktail, lamb chops, New York strip, and a bone-in ribeye. Remember to order some stiff cocktails, including Manhattans and martinis. The patio is expansive and welcoming for larger groups." - Eater Staff, Matthew Kang

"The shrimp cocktail at Golden Bull in Santa Monica Canyon isn't your typical shrimp cocktail. You will not get snow-white chilled shrimp hanging decoratively around a silver goblet loaded with ice. Instead, six shrimp come atop a bed of greens orbiting a ramekin of cocktail sauce and a lemon wedge. While the presentation isn't quite as festive as others, the shrimp itself is a standout. They’re seasoned with a kick of Old Bay and just-grated lemon zest—so tasty on their own, you barely need the sauce. Our only complaint is that shrimp could be a little colder, and the dish isn't on their otherwise solid Happy Hour menu. " - brant cox, arden shore

"Summoning an era of stiff martinis and big chops, the Golden Bull received a second chance at life with new ownership under Mark Verge, who operates Ashland Hill and Margo’s in Santa Monica. The old-school vibes continue to charm the beachside restaurant. Order the prime rib, a relative rarity outside of LA’s Lawry’s and Tam O’Shanter." - Matthew Kang, Eater Staff, Mona Holmes