Ashland Hill
It’s not every day you get a beer garden that is actually based around all things Gin. Ashland Hill, opened by somewhat celebrity chef, Bradly Miller, gives you just that. A small brick storefront, this expansive beer-garden type spot will make you feel like you’ve landed in a cool Scottish pub, but outdoors and with better weather. Located directly off the drag of Main St. on the edge of Santa Monica and Venice, Ashland Hill acts a hub for the local community, feeling like you’re eating dinner in someone’s sweet backyard. Opened in 2016, Ashland Hill is owned by fifth generation Santa Monica locals, the Verge family, and their goal was to bring the local community something the neighborhood didn’t yet have: that outdoor beer garden.
Specializing in gin-focused cocktails, you’ll find a huge selection of gins and even a classic G&T on their happy hour. From 3-6, Monday through Friday, everything falls under the $10 price range, with dishes ranging from a Mac n Cheese to fries, to corn fritters. A small wine collection and rotating beers are also available at Ashland Hill and during their happy hour for $6. Open at 11am on the weekdays and 10am on the weekends, don’t be surprised if your lunch date spills into happy hour. The patio is breezy and easy to stay in for hours. You’ll get a definitely ‘High-Low'‘ experience with the menu items ranging from ‘Chicken N Waffles’ to the ‘Tabit Fattoush Salad’. And it wouldn’t be a pub like experience without a classic fish and chips dish, which they do a great job with. So come for the gin and pub food, stay for the sunny, open backyard patio.