Staff Picks Dining: CA Iconic Venice, and Santa Monica Happy Hours

Venice Beach offers an array of Happy Hours or low cost options from sushi to burgers. These are some of my favorites from longtime businesses.

*Hama’s Happy Hour Spicy Tuna Roll; photo by Kathy Leonardo; courtesy of ETG*

Hama Sushi was one of the first sushi restaurants on the westside. Established in 1979, it is located on the circle of Windward/Main street, a block from the Venice Boardwalk. I can tell you personally Hama is a wonderful restaurant – the food is fresh and delicious. It has been a part of Venice Beach community and has supported local nonprofits and events for over forty days + years.

Hama offers traditional Japanese cuisine with unique fusion dishes. It has an exceptional happy hour at the bar which is quite large. The large selection of items includes rolls (California, Spicy Tuna, salmon, or scallop), dumplings, edamame, Calimari, to name a few. Be sure to check the website to confirm hours and prices. Hama Sushi, 213 Windward Avenue, Venice, CA 90291; (310) 396-8783; https://www.hamasushi.com

Also in Venice, Hinano has been around since 1962. It is steps from the beach, and on the edge of Venice and Marina Del Rey. A low-brow, dive bar, with sawdust on the floor and free flowing popcorn, you can play pool, feed the jukebox, or catch your favorite sports team (full college and NFL cable sports package). Be aware it accepts CASH only. No hard liquor is served, just wine and beer.

*Hinano, Bacon, Cheese Burger; photo by Kathy Leonardo; courtesy of ETG*

On weekend nights live bands and some locals along with tourists crowd into the bar. The weekdays are much quieter. You’ll find more locals on the weekdays who come for the burgers which are incredibly tasty. Although Hinano does not have a happy hour per se, all of its basic bar food is under $10. So in my eyes, it’s happy hour all day, every day! Additions like bacon will be extra, but grilled cheese and hotdogs are all relatively inexpensive. But seriously, the burgers are delicious – get grilled onions and cheese, they come with a snack bag…and you can eat all the popcorn you want. Wine and beer is a good price as well. Jim Morrison is said to have frequented the salty in establishment. Hinano, 15 Washington Blvd., Venice, CA 90292. https://www.hinanocafevenice.com/

If you are looking for healthier options, you may want to stop by the Rose Cafe which was established in 1979. It is much more upscale than inexpensive as Hinano, however, you can purchase one or two portions of veggies/protein at the point and grab counter and eat quite healthy for a relatively good price. http://therosevenice.la

*The Galley’s Crab Cakes; courtesy of The Galley*

In Santa Monica, the Galley has been around since 1934. It’s tiny yet comfortable neighborhood hang-out with a great happy hour. The holiday-esque lighting, and whimsical dining room complete with kitschy signs makes for a charming dining experience.

The bar is the place to be for happy hour with selected items on the menu, (both food and drink) half price. The venue also features a patio. You’ll have to check the website for more info, which is subject to change. http://www.thegalleyrestaurant.net