Fig

Tucked inside the Fairmont Miramar Hotel, Fig is one of those Santa Monica gems that feels like a well-kept secret—even though the crowd during happy hour suggests otherwise. The space is lush with hanging plants and greenery, creating an oasis-like atmosphere that blurs the line between upscale hotel dining and casual poolside retreat. There’s an undeniable energy here, especially when the sun starts dipping and the patio fills with a mix of guests seeking that coveted half-off menu between 5 and 6 pm.

The kitchen delivers California-inspired fare that leans into fresh, seasonal ingredients without taking itself too seriously. Standout dishes include the peaches and burrata, a deceptively simple plate that lets peak-season produce do all the talking, and the roasted sea scallops with their irresistible coconut sauce. The sweet potato falafel surprises with its pillowy texture and eye-catching pink sumac foam. Even dessert delivers—the apple galette with its ideal pastry-to-ice cream ratio makes for a satisfying finish.

This is the kind of spot made for lazy afternoon dining, where you can watch kids splash around in the pool while nursing a cucumber margarita. The vibe skews slightly chaotic but in a charming, California way. Expect a diverse crowd: vacationing families, retirees making the most of the happy hour value, and locals who’ve figured out that hotel restaurants can occasionally punch above their weight.

Fig works best when you embrace it for what it is—a pretty, plant-filled escape with food that’s fresher and more thoughtful than your typical hotel fare. Come for the happy hour deals, stay for the sun-soaked ambiance, and leave with the kind of relaxed contentment only a good poolside meal can provide.