8 hour layover in LA this Saturday...what to eat in Santa Monica/Venice Beach area?

[ab_nyc]

I have from 2 p.m. to 10 p.m between flights....although probably more like 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. after customs. A friend suggested going to Santa Monica because it's close to the airport...hoping to get an hour of sunlight on the beach and then eat and drink some delicious things before heading back to LAX. Ideas?! I like everything (veg, meat, ethnic, booze)...maybe just a bit on the lighter side as I'll be heading into a week of serious Thanksgiving eating.

[Chez Coop]

Got to go to Hinanos bar on Washington Blvd. to have a great Burg and a few beers in one of the last great dive bars in Venice/Marina.. Then you will be set for the plane ride to your next destination.. Get a double Burg. Cheers.

[Johnny L]

+1 for MB Post, get the cheddar biscuits!

[Ciao Bob]

I would either do Tasting Kitchen or MB Post for some of the best of what is Modern LA, meaning: market-to-table, young-chef-with-great-ideas, cal-med-asian-informed food.
If you are a fan of something more "ethnic" and Mexican seafood appeals, make quick trip to the beach then eat at Coni's Seafood. In between pick-up beer or pre-made margaritas (as it is BYO.) Very close to airport. Fantastic ceviches, aguachiles, grilled pescado, shrimp dishes.

[J.L.]

Just make sure to call ahead and ask if Sergio is cooking.

[westsidegal]

1-310-672-2339

[ipsedixit]

Lobster.

Food may not be the best, but it is more than passable and sometimes very good, and you'll get an amazing view of the sunset if you get there at 5.

[wienermobile]

I love MB POST just 3 miles from LAX (10 minute taxi ride) & one block from Manhattan Beach Pier and the beach. Great seasonal California small plates cuisine. One of LA's best.
http://eatmbpost.com

Here are some older links that will help....Welcome to LA.
http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/830047
http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/820164
http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/864003
http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/765760

If you have more questions just ask.

[Servorg]

Try Axe (Ashay) http://www.axerestaurant.com/ or the Tasting Kitchen http://www.thetastingkitchen.com/ or Gjelina http://www.gjelina.com/ - all on Abbot Kinney in Venice.

[westsidegal]

i love gjelina, but be aware that from 3pm to 5:30 they serve only an abbreviated menu of pizza and charcuterie.
also, if you are planning to go at 6pm or later, you will NEED a reservation.

[Servorg]

"...be aware that from 3pm to 5:30 they serve only an abbreviated menu of pizza and charcuterie."

Well, they did say "I like everything (veg, meat, ethnic, booze)...maybe just a bit on the lighter side" so an abbreviated menu could work.

[westsidegal]

maybe so.