Mercado Santa Monica

Contemporary & Traditional Mexican Food Mercado is an inventive mix of food, atmosphere and tradition, reflecting the heart and soul of Mexican dining.

Located in the heart of Downtown Santa Monica, Mercado serves as the third installation of a classic and contemporary Mexican restaurant group that includes El Arco Iris in Highland Park and Yxta Cocina Mexicana in Downtown LA. The beautiful space by New York architect Poonam Khanna, is an eclectic fusion of modern design, accented with traditional touches, that create the ultimate in intimate ups

06/27/2024

Dear Valued Guests,

It is with mixed emotions that we announced the closure of both Mercado Santa Monica and Mercado Los Angeles after more than 10 incredible years of serving our communities. Our last day of service will be this Saturday, June 29th and our last day of service will be Sunday, June 30th.

We would like to extend our deepest gratitude to every one of you who has dined with us over the years. Your support has been the heart and soul of our restaurant. It has been an honor to serve you, and we are profoundly grateful for the memories we’ve shared together.

We also want to express our heartfelt appreciation to our dedicated staff members. Your work, passion, and commitment have been the driving force behind our success. You have played an integral role in creating a memorable dining experience for our guest.

While this decision was not made lightly, we believe it is the right step for our business at this time. As we prepare to say goodbye, we invite you to join us in celebrating the cherished moments and connections that have been made within these walls.

Our remaining days of operation will be filled with gratitude and a commitment to providing the exceptional dining experience you have come to expect from us. We hope you will join us in making these final days truly special.

Thank you once again for your patronage. These have been some of LA’s best Mexican restaurants and we are proud to be able to say that. We look forward to continuing to serve you authentic Mexican cuisine at our Mercado locations in Hollywood, Pasadena and Manhattan Beach.

With gratitude,
Jesse, Cathy, Jose, Rob and the staffs of Mercado, SM and LA.

06/04/2024

Best flan in the universe! Simply the best. We’re the go-to destination for modern Mexican delights, where every bite is a journey of flavor. Unleash your senses and discover why Mercado is Santa Monica’s prime spot for contemporary Mexican cuisine!

Reservations: 310.526.7121

05/26/2024

Make your spectacular at Mercado.
Enjoy our USDA PRIME 16 ounce Ribeye! Chile piquin rubbed, served with market vegetables, queso fresco mashed potatoes and jalapeño horseradish cream. Enjoy the best Mexican food, drinks and hospitality. Just call 310.526.7121 and make your reservation.

05/15/2024

Elevate your business dinners to new heights at Mercado Santa Monica. Experience exclusive private dining in our upper level, accommodating up to 35 guests. Immerse yourself in the vibrant flavors of Mexico while building valuable connections.

Reserve now and create unforgettable memories with your colleagues.
Call 310-526-7121.

05/07/2024

This Mother’s Day, show mom how much you love her. Join us this Sunday in this celebration of beauty with Cold Water Lobster.

Reservations: 310.526.7121

04/19/2024

Join us for a great experience and the best Mexican cuisine on Cinco de Mayo!

Reservations:
310.526.7121

03/31/2024

Experience the best Mexican cuisine in Santa Monica!

Carnitas Nachos at Happy Hour Tuesday-Sunday.

01/31/2024

We’re the go-to destination for modern Mexican delights, where every bite is a journey of flavor. Unleash your senses and discover why Mercado is Santa Monica’s prime spot for contemporary Mexican cuisine!

01/23/2024

Sip into happiness at Mercado Santa Monica! Happy Hour, Wed-Thu (5-7 pm) & Fri-Sun (4-6 pm). Join us for the perfect blend of joy with our House Margaritas.

01/14/2024

Embark on a flavor journey at Mercado Santa Monica! Our Pollo en Salsa de Cuatro Chiles awaits – relish the succulent blend of roasted free-range chicken, four-chile salsa, and queso fresco mashed potatoes.

01/05/2024

Dive into the exquisite Tacos de Carnitas, boasting slow-cooked natural pork, guacamole, red onions, cilantro, and the zesty Yxta salsa brava. Savor the flavors of this dish every Tue-Thu, 5-7 pm, and Fri-Sun, 4-6 pm in our Happy Hour.

01/04/2024

Savor the vibrant flavors of freshness at Mercado Santa Monica! Indulge in the best Mexican food in town. Experience culinary excellence like never before.

12/27/2023

Join us at Mercado Santa Monica for a fiesta during our happy hours! Wed-Thu, 5-7 pm & Fri-Sun, 4-6 pm. Sip on our unique cocktails and savor the best Mexican dishes in town. Let the flavors of Santa Monica delight your senses!

12/22/2023

Family fun at Mercado Santa Monica! Explore our Kids Menu designed for ages 13 and under. From Quesadillas to Burritos, each plate comes with your choice of rice and beans or French fries. Join us for a delightful family dining experience.

12/20/2023

Savor the fusion of culinary artistry and visual masterpieces at Mercado Santa Monica. Our Mexican modern cuisine is a canvas of flavors, complemented by the stunning art adorning our walls. Immerse yourself in a complete and unique sensory experience.

12/17/2023

Introducing our newest creation at Mercado Santa Monica: the Smoky Yuzu cocktail! Experience the perfect blend of amarás mezcal verde, yuzu, and mint. Simply delicious. Join us for the best cocktails in Santa Monica paired with outstanding modern Mexican cuisine.

12/03/2023

Tacos de Alambre de Filete:
filet mignon skewers, poblanos, yellow onions, avocado, Yxta salsa brava, pickled red onions, fresnos, micro-cilantro.

Only at Mercado!.

11/23/2023

Gratitude fills the air this Thanksgiving! In honor of the holiday, our doors will be closed today. Wishing you a day brimming with warmth, laughter, and cherished moments. Happy Thanksgiving from our team to you!

11/17/2023

Camarones al Ajillo: mexican sweet shrimp, chile de árbol garlic butter, cilantro lime rice, ciabatta.

Only at Mercado!.

11/13/2023

Dive into a sea of flavor at Mercado Santa Monica! Indulge in the exquisite taste of Today's Fresh Catch - a culinary journey that promises to delight your taste buds. Join us and savor the ocean's finest offerings!

11/05/2023

Prepare your taste buds for a tantalizing treat this season with our latest dessert creation: Pumpkin Flan! Only available at Mercado, indulge in this mouthwatering delight.

11/05/2023

Enchiladas de Pollo en Mole Oaxaqueño:
Mary's free-range chicken, oaxacan mole, queso fresco, crema fresca, red onions, sesame seeds, mexican rice.

Only at Mercado!.

11/02/2023
10/29/2023

At Mercado Santa Monica, we have an option for everyone! Don't miss out on our delicious and healthy salads, a must-try on our menu. Discover the best Mexican modern cuisine just a few blocks away from the pier.

10/21/2023

Come celebrate National Mezcal day at all stores today! This is La Pasión Picante by one of our talented bartenders from . It’s made with , guava, habanero agave, lemon juice and a splash of sour. Delicious and refreshing!

10/17/2023

JOIN US FOR TACO TUESDAY!

We’ll have discount tacos every Tuesday from 4–9 pm (happy hour not available).

Make a reservation or call the restaurant at 310-526-7121 to place an order for pick up, or order online for pick up or delivery, or use DoorDash mobile app.

Photos from Mercado Santa Monica's post 10/06/2023

It's official! Dine LA starts today, and we couldn't be happier. We have prepared a special menu for you. Join us and live the Mercado Experience.

STARTER

Jícama Shrimp Taco
panko crusted shrimp, jícama tortilla, chile de árbol aioli,
mexican slaw, pickled red onions, micro-cilantro

or

Jícama Ahi Taco*
sushi grade tuna, jícama tortilla, smashed avocado,
fresnos, chile de árbol aioli, cilantro soy sauce, micro-cilantro

ENTRÉE (choose one)

Carnitas
Chef Jose’s slow-cooked natural pork, guacamole, Yxta salsa brava,
pico de gallo, cauliflower al pastor, cilantro, tortillas

Camarones al Ajillo
mexican sweet shrimp, chile de árbol
garlic butter, cilantro lime rice, ciabatta

Fish of the Day*
today’s fresh catch

DESSERT

Tres Leches Cake
or
Scoop of Churro Ice Cream

$45 per person (not including tax and gratuity)
Dine LA menu is for dine-in only and may not be shared among multiple guests.

10/01/2023

Carnitas: Chef Jose's slow-cooked natural pork, guacamole, Yxta salsa brava, pico de gallo, cauliflower al pastor, cilantro, tortillas.

Only at Mercado!.

09/24/2023

Elevate your event at Mercado Santa Monica's Private Upstairs Space! Enjoy the best modern Mexican Cuisine & top-notch service. Book now: 310-526-7121.

09/20/2023

Our cocktails are crafted with the freshest ingredients, delivering amazing flavors that perfectly complement our exquisite dishes. Join us for a taste of paradise. Salud!.

Want your restaurant to be the top-listed Restaurant in Santa Monica?
Click here to claim your Sponsored Listing.

Videos (show all)

Camarones al Ajillo: mexican sweet shrimp, chile de árbol garlic butter, cilantro lime rice, ciabatta.Only at Mercado!.
Elevate your event at Mercado Santa Monica's Private Upstairs Space!  Enjoy the best modern Mexican Cuisine & top-notch ...
Enhance your upcoming event at Mercado Santa Monica's exclusive private area upstairs! Reserve your spot today by giving...
We are celebrating the arrival of 3 new items to our menu!:Ceviche Negro: marinated sashimi grade ahi tuna, avocado, jic...
Craving tacos? We have the best in town. Join us! HOURS:Mon: ClosedTue-Wed: 5:00 PM - 9:30 PMThu: 5:00 PM - 10:00 PMFri-...
Celebrate Mom at Mercado this Sunday, May 14!. Join us for a delicious Mexican dinner and make unforgettable memories to...
Get ready for our Happy Hour!Join us from 4-6 pm. Salud amigas & amigos!. #santamonicacloseup#santamonicabeach#cityofsan...
Bienvenidos familia!. This is the perfect weekend to visit Mercado. Join us and enjoy the best Mexican food in Santa Mon...
La mejor comida está en Mercado!. Join us from:Tue–Wed: 5–9:30 pmThursday: 5–10 pmFri–Sat: 4–10 pmSunday: 4–9 pmMonday: ...
Join us on THURSDAY, MAY 5 for food and drink specials at all our locations! Happy hour menu not available. Reservations...
All of our locations will be participating in Dine LA with special prix fixe dinner menus. Dinner includes a starter, ch...
Happy 13th Anniversary Yxta!  Reservations: 213.596.5579

Telephone

Address


1416 4th Street
Santa Monica, CA
90401

Opening Hours

Tuesday 5pm - 9pm
Wednesday 5pm - 9pm
Thursday 5pm - 9:30pm
Friday 4pm - 9:30pm
Saturday 4pm - 9:30pm
Sunday 4pm - 9pm

Other Mexican restaurants in Santa Monica (show all)
Lula Cocina Mexicana - Santa Monica Lula Cocina Mexicana - Santa Monica
2720 Main Street
Santa Monica, 90405

VOTED BEST MEXICAN RESTAURANT IN SANTA MONICA BY 17 DRUNK LOCALS AT 1:32AM ON MAY 5TH.

Red O Restaurant Red O Restaurant
1541 Ocean Avenue #120
Santa Monica, 90401

Adjacent to the World Famous Santa Monica Pier sits RED O’s first-ever Mexican Cantina offering a unique variety of Baja-inspired seafood, unique Mexican plates, and craft cocktail...

Tacos 1986 Tacos 1986
135 Colorado Avenue
Santa Monica, 90401

Trejo's Tacos Trejo's Tacos
316 Santa Monica Boulevard
Santa Monica, 91401

El Pollo Loco El Pollo Loco
1906 Lincoln Boulevard
Santa Monica, 90405

Famous Fire-Grilled Chicken. Cooked slow. Served fast. And always cut-to-order.

Benny’s Tacos and Rotisserie Chicken Benny’s Tacos and Rotisserie Chicken
915 Wilshire Boulevard
Santa Monica, 90401

Tocaya Organica Tocaya Organica
507 Wilshire Boulevard
Santa Monica, 90401

Modern Mexican restaurant - featuring tacos, salads, burritos, and bowls for non-vegans and vegans al

Cabo Cantina 3rd St Promenade Cabo Cantina 3rd St Promenade
1240 3rd Street Promenade
Santa Monica, 90401

Chipotle Mexican Grill Chipotle Mexican Grill
2025 Wilshire Boulevard
Santa Monica, 90403

Gilbert's El Indio Diablo Sauce Gilbert's El Indio Diablo Sauce
2526 Pico Boulevard
Santa Monica, 90405

Just about the greatest salsa verde/hot sauce ever. Homemade and always a little different depending on who's making it, this is a must have during any visit at Gilbert's El Indio ...

Socalo Socalo
1920 Santa Monica Boulevard
Santa Monica, 90404

A California canteen and Mexican pub from award-winning chefs Susan Feniger & Mary Sue Milliken. Free underground parking available.

El Cholo El Cholo
1025 Wilshire Avenue
Santa Monica, 90401