With its exposed brick walls, wooden boards and roaring wood-burning oven, Tar & Roses has mastered the rustic, homely design aesthetic. But despite the low-key neighbourhood vibe here, this restaurant is much more than your average grill. Opened in spring 2012 by award-winning head chef and Santa Monica local Andrew Kirschner, the menu reflects wholesome home cooked American food but with bags more flavour and imagination than you’re likely to find in the average LA kitchen. The menu is big on grilled meats and popped corn with a classic Americana feel and the produce is sourced from the famous Santa Monica Farmer’s Market, just three blocks away. Bold flavours are complimented by a great list of well-priced wines – and if the weather’s right you can even dine al fresco under the Santa Monica sky.