Cha Cha Chicken

Tucked away on Ocean Avenue just south of the Santa Monica Pier, Cha Cha Chicken feels like a tiny slice of the Caribbean dropped right onto the California coast. This breezy, mostly outdoor shack radiates island energy with its laid-back atmosphere and reggae soul. The real kicker? It’s BYOB—a rarity in this beach-adjacent part of town—so you can bring your own bottles and actually enjoy them without anyone rushing you out the door.

The menu leans into authentic Caribbean flavors with a Latin flair that sets it apart from anything else in Santa Monica. The coconut chicken arrives perfectly crispy with mango and jerk dipping sauces that complement each other beautifully. Don’t sleep on the spicy black pepper shrimp either—the pineapple and garlic combination creates something unexpectedly addictive. And when you need something substantial to balance out that bottle of wine, the dirty rice and black beans deliver exactly what you need.

Ordering happens at the counter, and your food arrives at outdoor tables where ocean breezes and casual conversation flow freely. This is the kind of spot where lingering is encouraged rather than tolerated. Bring friends, bring drinks, and bring your appetite for generous portions—the jerk veggie wrap alone could feed a small group.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxed afternoon hangout, a casual dinner spot that won’t break the bank, or just somewhere to enjoy good food and good company under the California sun, Cha Cha Chicken delivers. It’s unpretentious, delicious, and genuinely fun—exactly what a beachside meal should be.