Amanda is the best! I cannot state how on it she is. We're here during the England x Ghana game and this woman is juggling multiple drunk tables and not only remembers every order but checks in, makes sure we're all hydrated and even made sure to notate that the tip was included. That being said, we added an additional tip because she was so outstanding. Don't sleep on this spot or Amanda read more

We have been to Kings Head so many times and I have forgotten to review them. We have dined there at least 10 times and for the first time we just called out order in and picked it up. The place has been around for years and most of their food is just great. It has a full bar and a separated bar area which is so cute, but gets super crowded and loud. Eat in the dinning room. The place is older and could use a refresh, but it is cute and always super clean. The service is very nice. They will take good care of you. They have a nice selection of beer on tap. They are open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Their breakfast is really tasty and they make great eggs. I don't care for black pudding so I never get it. They have great hot and cold sandwiches and wonderful salads. They are famous for their fish and chips. They are some of the best. They are perfectly deep fried and the chips are great. I also get a side of mashed because it is so good. I also had a pasty, which is not on the menu, and I was super disappointed, so I won't do that again. They used to be great. I love their hot beef sandwich and often get that for lunch. There is something for everyone here. Parking is a bear, but you might find a place on the street or their is a paid lot across the street. You can walk to the Santa Monica Pier from here or to the beach. We will be back again and again. read more

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I absolutely love this place ... being a Brit it reminds me of home ... Right next door is the British shop ... always end up buying from there read more

We sat at a nice outdoor table, perfect for people watching and our service was good. I hadn't been here for 30+ years and recently saw a list of the best fish and chips in the country and they were on it so we went. The batter was extremely salty and it seemed like the oil wasn't fresh. Disappointing! I had a pint of Kilkenny on nitro and it had off-flavors but my second pint, Smithwick's was very good. I was hoping for a better experience. read more

Ye Olde Kings Head - Fish and chips...disappointing - Pubs Near Me - Santa Monica, California

The Bottom Line 4 stars: Good quality British food with a diverse menu, a full bar and a souvenir store next door. Recommended! Location 3 stars: Busy downtown Santa Monica, on Southwest corner of Santa Monica Blvd and the 2nd and 3rd Street. Metered street parking is possible but hard to find. There are plenty of paid parking lots. I used the 2nd Street city-owned parking structure 4, for $4. It is a few blocks from the restaurant. No valet. Venue 3.5 stars: Large, older venue, consisting of a British-themed Food and Souvenir store, a bar, and a restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating. Service 4 stars: Friendly, attentive and helpful. Billing 2 stars: They suggest the tipping amount by calculating it AFTER TAX, which is incorrect and misleading, and it inflates the amount. Tipping is customarily calculated as a percentage of the total before discounts and before tax. See the pic that I have attached. Drinks 4 stars: Full bar. Reasonable prices. Food 4 stars: Huge menu of British appetizers, soups, salads, main courses and desserts. We had the Sausage Rolls and the Potato Samosas as appetizers, and the Steak, Guinness & Mushroom Pie, the Cornish Pastie, the Chicken Tikka Masala, and the Irish Beed Stew (available on Saturdays only) as our main courses. All were delicious and highly recommended. We did not have dessert this time but the menu looked good. read more

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This is my neighborhood dive bar! It's a great mix of locals and tourists, which gives it a fun, laid-back atmosphere. On certain nights they host karaoke, and there's also a dartboard if you're feeling competitive. They serve beer, wine, and cocktails, and based on my random drink requests, they can make just about anything. If you're looking for a cozy spot with quaint vibes in Santa Monica, this is a great place to kick off your night or wind down at the end of it. read more

I went to the store that's it. I live here and have for years but never do the tourist stuff, it's fun sometimes tho. No clue who thought of this as I don't think to get British souvenirs in LA but whatever. The sausage roll was hot and I got a free British newspaper. This sausage roll is like a way better version of a hot dog on a bun btw. There's a few thingamajigs in here but of course it's expensive cuz of SaMo. Customer service was very British lol. Don't expect a friendly Starbucks smile is all read more

Ye Olde Kings Head - Pubs Near Me - Santa Monica, California

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Another enjoyable and tasty meal here! Sarah our server was great as always. Her personality and efficiency are admirable. It was soccer World Cup weekend and lots of fans. Even with the games it wasn't overly noisy or crowded. Still highly recommend this place! read more

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Super cute small British-owned business in the heart of Santa Monica! Passed this place so many times and never went in until recently, but they have so many cute unique gifts, snacks, and trinkets that are internationally imported. Found some really nice smelling soap bars, tea, and European snacks. Would definitely recommend checking out! read more

Ye Olde King's Head - A Charming British Escape in Santa Monica~~~ If you're looking for a delightful British afternoon, Ye Olde King's Head is a must-visit. Located right by the beach, they offer traditional staples like fish and chips, mushy peas, and shepherd's pie. The atmosphere is fun and rowdy, with a wall of fame featuring photos of stars like Gordon Ramsay, David Beckham, and David Hasselhoff. We had tea service in the back--a vivid red room decorated with royal portraits and history. It was incredibly intimate and quiet. For $45 a person (including champagne), we enjoyed a tiered tray with clotted cream, jam, warm buttery scones, and savory sandwiches. The miniature puff pastry sausage rolls were a standout--so flavorful and meaty! A few tips for your visit: The Tea: My friend's pot had fresh tea leaves while mine used a bag, so be sure to request the fresh leaf tea for the best experience. The Food: The cucumber and Marmite sandwiches were great, though I'd love to see them swap the canned salmon for fresh smoked salmon to cut down on the "fishy" taste. The Shop: Don't miss the British gift shop next door for unique imports (though they are a bit pricey). Logistics: Parking is available on the street or in nearby paid structures. Plus, you can walk right down to the beach afterward! I would love to return to try out their famous Sticky Toffee Pudding~~~ read more

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A restaurant that serves traditional pub food and drinks. Close to the Santa Monica Pier and 2nd street parking it's a must go to place. They have a store next to it that sells British foods and souvenirs. The fish and chips is the best with lightly breaded white fish that is sooo good. Sunday's is the day for roast beef or lamb dinner. My favorite is the bangers and mash which I ordered. Hubby had the lamb that includes Yorkshire pudding. This is a must go to place when you are in Santa Monica. read more

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We enjoyed the foods sitting out on the comfortable shaded patio, but the services were hardly there. We had to flag a server several times as she served dishes between customers. I felt for her. There were few servers trying to serve many customers due to the World Cup soccer games. But charging 20% automatically added into the bill was disappointing. I do not mind paying for a good service but hardly any service due to lack of servers said something about the management's team. read more

Came with a large group on a weekend, and to my delight, the place was not yet packed. Phew! I had two dogs with me and we were so grateful that they were beyond helpful in seating us outside to accommodate forth pups. We ended up taking a few tables just to have more space, and the staff was very gracious in ensuring that we were comfortable and had what we needed! I ordered the bowl of clam chowder and unfortunately it took a while to get served, even though everyone got their food way before! Still, service was great and all the meals looked delicious. Yes, it may be a tourist trap and prices are a bit on the higher side but oh well. I definitely recommend sitting outside - enjoy the Santa Monica sunshine and cool breeze! read more

Ye Olde Kings Head - Bowl of clam chowder - Pubs Near Me - Santa Monica, California

Food was great! Our waitress Kim was a pleasure. The atmosphere of this place is fun. I tried two different beers that I have never heard of. Both beers were a hit. Our table ordered an assortment of sides and some entrees. I would go back here for the atmosphere, drinks and food. The $28 for the fish and chips is pretty steep for what they provided. This would be one thing I wouldn't get here again. read more

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You can never go wrong popping in for a pint of something. Whether we're here for a meal, catching up with friends or here to watch the game. This place is alway fun. Both the restaurant and the bar area is quite nice. Both has patio seating which is perfect for when the suns out and people watching. We stopped by after lunch for a little refresher. It was quite mellow on both the restaurant and bar side. If there's a game on, you better believe that's it's going to be busy. Trying to get a seat would be pretty hard. This visit, a nice afternoon out with a nice cold glass of cider. Patio seating perfect for people watching. Service is always great as all the staff are always sweet. No food today but if you're looking for something British, look no further. There's two bar on site. The main one and a smaller one towards the back of the restaurant. Also do check out the store on the corner. There you have all the fun British goods. Also a bakery with fresh made items. A nice browse where you'll always end up leaving with something good. read more

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As much as I lived on the Westside for 20 years, I have never went inside the store. I finally went in because I love trying imported snacks and drinks. Staff were OK friendly I mean, giving the usual smile but not really attentive. It is what it is. They have wise selection of food, snacks, drinks and a small deli in the back. I got a few Cadbury chocolate bar that's directly from England. It does taste different than the ones that are made here by Hershey. I also got a small bag of chips that says potatoes from the Great Britain. Also taste different from the ones that I made here. Would I go back? , probably not on purpose, but if I pass by and wanted a chocolate bar, sure I'll stop by and grab one. read more

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We got the bangers and mash and Irish stew. English sausages taste very different than American sausages. I can't describe it, I prefer the English ones which are nostalgic for me. Very good. Irish stew had that homemade taste to it, also good. Overall 7/10 read more

Ye Olde Kings Head - Bangers and Mash - Pubs Near Me - Santa Monica, California

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ABSOLUTE BEST FISH 'N CHIPS in the city! It's hard to believe that I haven't written a review for Ye Olde Kings Head yet but then I live 30 miles away and I don't often find myself in Santa Monica anymore. But! YOKH is absolutely worth whatever drive you have to get the best fish 'n chips around. It's even worth the pain in the butt parking situation. Actually, there is a lot right across the street, so that is handy but I believe it is higher priced than the parking garages lining the 3rd Street Promenade so we parked in one of those nearby and the walk wasn't terrible. Once you step foot inside, you're transported to a regular pub in Merry Old England. The staff working on Saturday the 17th might not have been the most friendly but they were efficient. And who really cares because....those fish 'n chips! My son and I shared a King Size ($28) and it was perfect to share. The fish is coated in like a cobwebby batter that is so light and crisp; man, I want more NOW. I always have an internal battle with myself because while I love the crispiness of the fish; I end up dousing it with malt vinegar because I love the flavor of that with it. But then the fish gets a little soggy and in between bites, I'll find that perfect bit of crisp again...and then I usually don't like tartar sauce but I sneak a few dips in because it, too, is really great tartar sauce...and then I feel guilty because I've just put (essentially) MAYO on my freakin' fried fish AND I've also had a good amount of perfect fries (also drenched in malt vinegar)... And well, at least we have that walk back to the parking garage to walk some of that off! I also ordered a Kilt Lifter Amber Ale ($9) because it is absolutely essential to drink an English beer while eating English fish 'n chips...well, except for my 13 year old son. If the calorie explosion of fried food and tartar sauce wasn't enough, we added insult to injury and ordered the trifle ($10) for dessert. I haven't had trifle in years, I mean, I've had lots of trifles but not the dessert kind. OY. It was quite good but quite different from those I'vce had before. The texture was amazing, especially topped off with perfect cream. But I didn't taste any brandy. The boy loved it (it was his first time trying trifle) and I, well, I liked it enough. The bar attached to the restaurant is also a lot of fun. One of my wife's besties practically lived here in the late '90s, early 2000's and dated several Brits the type of whom regularly frequent the establishment. The boy and I played several rounds of darts before leaving. HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!! read more

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My husband and I have been talking about fish and chips for several weeks and recently received a recommendation to check out Ye Olde Kings Head. We found ourselves in Santa Monica a few weeks ago, so we decided to stop by for a late lunch. We were surprised to see how big the place was. Between the restaurant, bar/pub, and shop, the establishment took up almost an entire block! The inside was themed perfectly. We felt like we had been transported to some of our favorite spots when we visited London. Upon entering the restaurant, we were promptly sat by a friendly woman in a suit. Although the other ladies around were also very nice to chat with, we can't say that the service throughout the meal was great. Two of the women were sitting down for a majority of the time we were there just chatting with each other, and when other diners in our area would try to flag either of them, they would preface the response to the request with, "I'm not your server, but let me see what I can do." Then, after about 30 minutes of this, they just stood up, announced they were clocking out, and left. Only one woman was left there to serve the entire restaurant: inside and outside. She barely even checked on us and we couldn't get any requests in. Toward the end of our meal, the busser ended up helping with requests, but at that point, we were already trying to get the check to pay and leave. It was such a frustrating experience which is a shame because we actually loved the fish and chips! We ordered it King Size (2 pieces) in the original style. So good and cooked to perfection! Also, generous size fish. We're hoping this was an off occurrence and would likely give them another try in the future if we're in the area, but wouldn't make a special trip just to revisit. The fish and chips were so good and we would be interested to try more off of their menu if and when the next time may occur. read more

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Come here for all the England games, what a vibe! As a Brit in la, it really is like a piece of home. Breakfasts are so tasty and authentic, had bangers and mash and fish and chips there too, all amazing! 5 stars though is really for the service, they work their butts off to food and drinks come quick, all while navigating a rowdy crowd with humor and fun. Can't wait for the next game, wouldn't watch anywhere else! read more

Always a pleasant experience when I go to Ye Olde Kinds Head! I work in SM so usually go get breakfast or dinner before my shift. Service is great, kind staff. Great food. Proper pub feel and plenty of seating. I had the English breakfast which was good. Of course not as good as if you had it in the UK (with black pudding) but, no complaints. Big Fan of the HP sauce and their scotch eggs (although a little in the dry side). read more

Ye Olde Kings Head - Coffee - Pubs Near Me - Santa Monica, California

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Yummy food (don't sleep on the Irish beef stew!) and fantastic service (thanks, Amanda, for taking care of us and making some great recommendations). This place has been a staple in Santa Monica forever, for good reason. Fish & chips is solid. The tartar sauce is very tasty and you can choose from either original or beer batter for the fish. Irish beef stew is a special and very comforting with its chunks of tender beef, carrots, onions, mushrooms, and celery in a rich brown sauce that's smothering a large portion of creamy mashed potatoes. Even their coffee is good! Rounded off the evening with a bread & butter pudding (warm, satisfying, and not too sweet). It's a drive out here, but well worth it. read more

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Taken out by my sister for a birthday lunch, and this was quite tasty. I'm glad we did....I've been at the adjoining shop many times, so finally had the opportunity to dine here. We ate outside on a nice day. The setting allows us to people watch with a nice ocean breeze. Our server was polite.... although I could have used a refill (she never came back). My fish and chips were perfect. The chips were perfectly British style...thick and crispy on the outside, hot on the inside. The fish was crispy and also very hot....fully enjoyable. I also ordered a Scotch egg....tasty, but the egg was overly "hard boiled," and would have preferred it softer. My sister's been here before a few times, and enjoyed here pasty today, as she always have. If you want a British pub with good grub, I'd recommend you try it out. Cheers! read more

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The best (vegetarian) english breakfast in all of LA!! Don't miss out on all the UK treats at the shop next door read more

Ye Olde Kings Head - Queen Size English Breakfast - Pubs Near Me - Santa Monica, California

It is very casual dining. The service was very attentive. The food was good. The beer was nice and cold and quite a few choices. But I wish the restaurant was a little cleaner. read more

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This review is for afternoon tea only: I had a lovely time having afternoon tea here with some friends. Service was great and I didn't realize that they have special themed events some weekends. The tea space is really cute. We enjoyed the tea, sandwiches and desserts. I would go back. read more

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This place absolutely rules! World Cup vibes are insane! The staff are some cool people. Check them out

If you are looking for old English pub vibes, this is the spot! I got the chicken and mushroom puff pastry and was delighted to discover big juicy strips of chicken ! The mashed potatoes tasted powdery and a bit sour. It was not my favorite. The ice coffee was surprisingly not bad. There is a happy hour menu until 7pm. My partner got the bangers (sausages) and mash, and he had no complaints. Service was fine and a bit slow at times. Our server was friendly though. This restaurant is close to 3rd street promenade in Santa Monica and one block away from the beach. It's fun to sit outside and people watch . read more

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Kings head is one of those places that is an establishment here in Santa Monica. They have great English food and it's the place to go if you want to watch a football match. They're going above and beyond during this World Cup and their efforts are noticed!! read more

Dive into the traditional pub like you stepped into London, England! The bar with variety of beer on tap. Big screen TVs all over for the sports pub experience! Great original food feels like it's imported from Great Britain! Next door a classic store filled with goodies from Uk from tea time items to chocolate and of course chips! Good stop! read more

favorite pub in LA. Immaculate vibe and they can pour a proper Guinness. Lovely workers.

Rosie was ABSOLUTELY fantastic. during the world cup, completely packed and her service was still absolutely impeccable. couldn't have asked for better service honestly. food and drinks were great! read more

Rosie you are one of the greatest people alive, amazing service and once in a lifetime atmosphere. COME ON ENGLAND!!

Just delicious! We ordered the fish and chips but when you order you have options: portion size king or queen or 1 or 2 pieces; original or beer battered. I got the original queen fish and chips and was sooo satisfied. The fries were fresh, hot, crispy yet soft inside. The fish coating was crispy not oily and fish inside light and flakey. Service was prompt and friendly. There's ample seating both inside and outside. Definitely nothing fancy just good food. There's an adjacent market that has a lot of European/UK treats. read more

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First time guest for England World Cup match. I'll NEVER return. Waaay too much pressure to order, then mystery unannounced "surcharges" added to bill for $10 draft beer (two). So a burger and two beers and a coke was $80. World Cup Rip off extraordinaire. read more

I ordered the fish and chips, the fish was mostly batter, very little fish. Years ago it was good, no longer. read more

Background On Ye Olde Kings Head: Established in 1974. Over five decades and numerous expansions later, Ye Olde King's Head British Pub, Restaurant and Gift Shoppe is one of the top ten lists of places to visit whilst in Santa Monica, California. Many hearty libations have been consumed here, plus many weddings, funerals, soccer games, and darts matches. We are world-famous for our food, drink, and conversation. One newspaper put it best: "Ye Olde King's Head is like the Statue of Liberty on the West Coast." Have a look at the slideshow to view Ye Olde King's Head and see just a few of the many famous faces that have visited us. Credit Cards: They're accepted. Restrooms: They do have restrooms Location/Parking: Located on the SE corner of Santa Monica and 2nd St.. Meter parking can be found along 2nd St.. You can also park in the nearby parking structures. The first 90 minutes is free. Ambiance/Decor: Neat ambiance with pretty neat decor through out the restaurant. Entertainment: In the bar area, you can play darts. You can also check out their events page (https://www.yeoldekingshead.com/events) that has their ongoing events and events for the month. Lastly, you can check out their gift shoppe where they have british snacks and merch for sale. Service: Service was good. All the staffers were were attentive, friendly, and offered great suggestions. What was also neat was that most of the staffers had a english accent. Food came out at a decent time. Food Of Choice: 1) Sausage Rolls (comes with 4 rolls): Very delicious! Couldn't have enough of them. You should definitely try them with the HP sauce. 2) Irish Beef Stew: Stew is served with mash! So hearty... So yum... and will put you to sleep like a little baby. Ye Olde Kings Head For Though: Definitely coming back to try their other items on their menu. One day, I would also like to try their afternoon tea. read more

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Recently went back for tea and already made another reservation for Christmas tea! Can't wait! read more

Ye Olde Kings Head - Afternoon tea selection - Pubs Near Me - Santa Monica, California

We were wandering along the coastline in Santa Monica and looked for an eatery nearby. Kings Head was open, and we hadn't had fish & chips in a while, so walked over. Very pleasant place - pub atmosphere inside and some sidewalk patio seating. We were promptly seated, and our server was attentive. We ordered the side salad and two piece fish & chips to share. If you're not a big eater, it would be easy to share the two piece. The pieces are (seriously) the size of small burritos, and you get a pile of fries. The salad was mid-sized and nice. The photo posted gives you a pretty good idea of portion sizes. I would definitely recommend this place - and will keep it in mind when we're in the area! read more

Ye Olde Kings Head - Guinness - Pubs Near Me - Santa Monica, California

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I have been past this place my whole life, and finally got a chance to dine there. I was with a bigger group, so we were able to try quite a few options. The fish and chips were a bit pricey but were very good. The shepherd's pie was delicious, and the samosas were tasty. They do allow dogs on the patio, however, the seating is too small for groups. read more