R+D Kitchen

Nestled on Montana Avenue in Santa Monica, R+D Kitchen has become the neighborhood’s go-to gathering spot for locals who treat it like an extension of their living room. Part of the Hillstone restaurant family, this walk-in-only establishment draws a fascinating mix of well-heeled regulars and curious newcomers, all vying for a table in the perpetually packed dining room. If you’re planning to visit, arrive before 5:30pm or prepare yourself for a potentially lengthy wait on the sidewalk.

The menu showcases elevated American comfort food with a few location-exclusive gems that make this spot stand out from its Hillstone siblings. The Wild Mushroom Meatloaf is the kind of dish that wraps you in warmth—rich, decadent, and substantial enough to make you forget about whatever diet you were considering. Their Dip Duo has achieved cult status: the guacamole is perfectly respectable, but the real star is the cold queso that’s essentially glorified pimento cheese, and somehow that makes it even more irresistible.

The bar scene here is unlike most Hillstone locations, with a genuine social energy that keeps people lingering over martinis and glasses of pinot grigio well into the evening. The crowd skews toward the neighborhood’s affluent residents, creating an eclectic atmosphere where conversations flow as freely as the drinks. It’s prime territory for people watching, whether you’re posted up at the bar or settled into a table.

For those seeking a reliable neighborhood restaurant with consistently good food and a vibrant atmosphere, R+D Kitchen delivers. Come early, order the meatloaf, and settle in for an evening of excellent people watching and even better comfort food.