If you’re searching for the best happy hour in Santa Monica, The Misfit Restaurant + Bar should be at the top of your list. Known for its Art Deco setting, half-off craft cocktails, and signature bar bites, this local favourite delivers both style and savings—all before the sun sets.
From open to 7 PM every day, The Misfit happy hour menu brings together standout drinks, wines by the glass, and a weekday-exclusive $9 Barfly Menu that rivals any lunch special in town. Whether you’re strolling over from the beach or clocking out of work early, this is one Santa Monica deal that’s worth planning around.
As of 2026, we’ve compiled the latest details on pricing, menu favourites, and tips to make the most of your Misfit visit.
Table of Contents
Quick Snapshot: What to Expect at The Misfit Happy Hour
Before diving into the full drink and food lineup, here’s a quick look at the key details for The Misfit’s Happy Hour in 2026:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Happy Hour Times | Daily from opening until 7:00 PM |
| Food Specials | $9 Barfly Menu (Monday to Friday only) |
| Drink Deals | Half-off all cocktails, wines by the glass, and spirits |
| Location | 225 Santa Monica Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90401 |
| Atmosphere | Art Deco, casual, upbeat, often crowded |
| Reservation Tip | Dinner reservations accepted; happy hour is first-come at the bar |
This mix of quality drinks, satisfying food, and unbeatable timing makes The Misfit one of the most reliable happy hour destinations on the Westside.
Happy Hour Times at The Misfit
One of the biggest reasons locals flock to The Misfit is the generous happy hour window. Unlike most bars that wrap up by 5 or 6 PM, The Misfit offers drink specials until 7:00 PM every day—including weekends.
That gives you up to seven hours of discounted cocktails, wines, and spirits, depending on when you arrive.
Happy Hour Schedule
- Monday – Thursday: 12:00 PM – 7:00 PM
- Friday: 12:00 PM – 7:00 PM
- Saturday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Note: Food specials (Barfly Menu) are typically available Monday through Friday only.
Whether you’re out for a weekday lunch or catching up with friends on a Saturday afternoon, you’ll find happy hour prices flowing until early evening.
Cocktail Specials: Half-Off Signatures and Spirits
The highlight of The Misfit’s happy hour menu is its half-off cocktail lineup—a rare find in a city where drinks often run $18 or more. During happy hour (open to 7 PM), you can enjoy the same expertly crafted drinks for as low as $8–$9.
These aren’t watered-down well drinks either. The Misfit features inventive, premium cocktails with top-shelf spirits, fresh herbs, infused liqueurs, and house-made syrups.
Featured Cocktails
- French Apple Cart – calvados apple brandy, cointreau, lemon, allspice
- If It Ain’t Broke… – mezcal, pineapple, lime, cilantro, serrano
- Japanese Dream – vodka, matcha, basil, coconut, lime
- Thunderbird – rye, bergamot, sweet vermouth, orange bitters
- The Misfit Cocktail – barrel rested gin, sweet vermouth, orange bitters
- Midnight Basil Gimlet – vodka, kaffir lime, fresh basil
- One Night in Babylon – gin, cucumber, lemon, za’atar
Prices for these usually range between $16–$18 each, but you’ll get them for around $8–$9 during happy hour.
Wines, Drafts, and Beers at a Steal
The Misfit doesn’t just impress with cocktails—it also serves up a thoughtful selection of wines, craft beers, and drafts, all available at half price during happy hour (until 7 PM daily).
Whether you prefer a chilled prosecco, a bold red, or a local IPA, there’s something on tap or by the glass to suit your taste—and your budget.
Wines by the Glass
Regular: $14–$15 | Happy Hour: ~$7–$8
- Victorine de Chastenay – Brut Rosé (Burgundy, France)
- Hidden Sea – Sauvignon Blanc (Southern Australia)
- LGO Private Label – Chardonnay, Rosé, and Pinot Noir (Dunnigan Hills)
- Friend & Farmer – Tempranillo (Spain)
- Valravn – Cabernet Sauvignon (Sonoma)
Draft & Bottled Beers
Regular: $9–$12 | Happy Hour: ~$5–$6
- Smog City Citrus Blonde (Los Angeles, 5%)
- Garage Brewing Inline IPA (Temecula, 7.5%)
- Chapman Crafted Pils (City of Orange, 5.2%)
- MadeWest Hazy IPA (Ventura, 7%)
- Juneshine Hard Kombucha (Passion Fruit Guava, 6%)
- Daura Damm (Gluten-Free) – Bottle
- Erdinger N/A – Non-Alcoholic Bottle (Germany)
From bubbly to bold, this list is a big part of what makes The Misfit one of Santa Monica’s most celebrated happy hour spots.
Also read: Buffalo Wild Wings Happy Hour Menu (2026): Drinks, Prices & Times
Barfly Bites: $9 Food Specials (Weekdays Only)
While drinks take center stage, The Misfit’s weekday-only Barfly Menu delivers serious value for anyone looking to pair their cocktail with something delicious. Available Monday through Friday, these curated small plates and sandwiches are each just $9 during happy hour.
Crafted with local ingredients and bold flavors, these aren’t basic bar snacks—they’re full-on meals in disguise.
Popular $9 Barfly Items
- The Smash Burger – Double patty, Tillamook cheddar, secret sauce, pickles, lettuce, tomato, red onion
- Jicama Shrimp Tacos – Corn slaw, avocado, chipotle aioli, fresno chili
- Beef Picadillo Tacos – Olive, pecan, raisin, arugula, and aioli
- Crispy Blue Corn Veggie Tacos – Calabasitas, corn, queso fresco
- Crispy Chicken Sandwich – Jidori chicken, fennel slaw, spicy mayo, green apple
- Falafel Lettuce Wrap – Pickled veg, butter lettuce, harissa tahini
- Sand Dab Tacos – Mango salsa, avocado schmear, chili oil
- Tuscan Kale-Quinoa Salad – Sunflower seeds, manchego, bell pepper, champagne vinaigrette
Note: These food specials are not available on weekends. Be sure to visit Monday through Friday if you’re hungry.
Is It Worth It? Why Locals Love The Misfit’s Happy Hour
In a city where cocktails can easily cost $20 and appetizers even more, The Misfit stands out as one of Santa Monica’s best-value happy hour destinations.
Here’s why locals (and savvy tourists) keep coming back:
Extended Happy Hour Hours
Unlike most happy hours that end by 5 or 6 PM, The Misfit keeps the deals going until 7:00 PM daily—even on weekends.
Quality Over Quantity
The drinks are crafted, not compromised. From infused tequilas to house-made syrups, every cocktail feels premium—even at half price.
Substantial Food at Snack Prices
The $9 Barfly Menu doesn’t just offer bites—it delivers full-size burgers, tacos, and hearty vegetarian plates that feel like full meals.
The Ambiance
Housed in a historic Art Deco building with a casual, upbeat vibe, The Misfit offers a setting that’s both visually striking and welcoming. It’s more stylish than a dive bar, but more approachable than a high-end lounge.
From solo sipping to group hangouts, it strikes the right balance between affordability and atmosphere—a true unicorn in Westside nightlife.
The Misfit’s Location, Hours & Vibe
Situated in the heart of downtown Santa Monica, The Misfit is as convenient as it is iconic. Located at the corner of 3rd Street and Santa Monica Boulevard, it’s steps away from top shopping spots, the pier, and the beach.
Address
225 Santa Monica Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90401
(310) 656-9800
Operating Hours
- Monday – Thursday: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Friday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM
- Saturday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Happy Hour runs from open until 7:00 PM daily.
The Vibe
Expect a lively crowd, vibrant music, and Art Deco interiors that blend timeless design with modern energy. Whether you’re people-watching on the patio or perched at the mezzanine bar, The Misfit offers one of the most memorable atmospheres in Santa Monica’s dining scene.
Tips for Beating the Crowds (and Getting a Seat)
The Misfit’s happy hour is no secret—and with half-off drinks running until 7 PM, it fills up fast. To make the most of your visit, here are a few insider tips to help you avoid long waits and grab the best seats:
Arrive Early
Aim to get there by 4:00 PM on weekdays or before 3:00 PM on Fridays to beat the after-work rush. On weekends, lunch hour is your best bet for a relaxed experience.
Sit at the Bar (or Mezzanine)
Happy hour seating is first-come, first-served, especially at the bar. The mezzanine level offers a great view and slightly quieter ambiance if the main floor gets too loud.
Weekdays = Food Deals
If you want to try the $9 Barfly food specials, make sure to visit Monday through Friday. Food deals typically aren’t available on weekends.
Large Group? Call Ahead
While happy hour is casual and usually walk-in only, large parties should call in advance to see if accommodations can be made.
With a little planning, you’ll be sipping and snacking without the stress—and soaking up one of the best happy hour scenes in Santa Monica.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does The Misfit have happy hour on weekends?
Yes! The Misfit offers half-off drinks every day, including Saturdays and Sundays, from open until 7:00 PM. However, the $9 food specials (Barfly Menu) are usually Monday through Friday only.
What is the “Barfly Menu” at The Misfit?
The Barfly Menu is The Misfit’s happy hour food menu, featuring high-quality bites like the Smash Burger, tacos, and salads—all priced at $9. It’s available Monday–Friday during happy hour.
Are happy hour deals available in the dining room?
Most of the time, yes. While food specials are often served at the bar, drink deals typically apply throughout the restaurant. When in doubt, ask your server or host for seating recommendations.
Can I make a reservation for happy hour at The Misfit?
Dinner reservations are accepted, but happy hour is first-come, first-served—especially at the bar. For groups, it’s smart to arrive early or call ahead.
Does The Misfit have vegan or gluten-free options?
Yes. The Crispy Blue Corn Vegetarian Tacos and Tuscan Kale-Quinoa Salad are great vegan-friendly choices. There’s also a gluten-free fried chicken on the regular menu that’s highly rated.
