Cuisine:

• American
• Californian
• Eclectic
• Others
• Brew, Pubs, Microbreweries
• Pub
• Tapas

The Yard Description:
"You wouldn't expect food this good from a place like this!" said one happy diner during our visit to The Yard, which exudes a busy beach bar vibe (the Pacific Ocean is visible from the patio). Don't be fooled by the casual feel of this downtown Santa Monica gastropub, with its slapdash look of red walls, concrete floor, hanging round flower lamps, plants, chalkboard full of scrawled specials, and TV above the bar. Executive chef Chris "CJ" Jacobson, a former contestant on Bravo's Top Chef, has skills, as evidenced by his fried pig's ear with bacon, dates and blue cheese, which cooks for more than eight hours, and his spicy, satisfying shrimp 'n grits. Even his bar fare gets upgraded, as half-pound hamburgers are house-ground from chuck, short rib and skirt steak, while his fish tacos are accompanied by cumin slaw. There are many beer and wine choices, including six beers on tap, and busy bartenders who enjoy making seasonal signature cocktails. During happy hour, $3 beers and $5 appetizers are available, and there are many weekly specials, including live music.


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