Santa Monica restaurant The Brixton was recommended by a friend. It was a Sunday evening. I was with a group of about ten people who had just attended an art opening at Blue 7 Gallery on Pico Boulevard, a few blocks east of the Brixton.

They wanted to continue the party, so several friends went ahead to see if the restaurant could accommodate us. By the time the rest of the group arrived the earlier group had procured a communal table where a couple invited us all to join. The couple said they frequented the restaurant and offered menu recommendations. Brixton offers an eclectic menu, but the draw that brought all of us there was its Happy Hour. The restaurant prominently advertises on its website “7 days a week – 7 items – 7 dollars off”

Several orders were taken for the Fried Chicken & Biscuits (honey, carrot aji amarillo hot sauce) and another all American favorite – Mac & Cheese. This was nothing like ordinary mac and cheese. It featured elaborate ingredients such as bacon and crab, along with tomato, chives, smoked mozzarella, smoked gouda, swiss, and bread crumbs.

I ordered the Grilled Veggie Flatbread, (herbed tomato sauce, mushrooms, cauliflower, asparagus, mozzarella, arugula), which was much larger than expected and delicious…the crust was light with just enough crunch.

Another one from our group ordered Short Rib Poutine (braised short rib, house made fries, cheese curds, gravy, chives) which looked fantastic. He gave it a great review. The full menu was available as well – one of the diners ordered a non-happy hour dish, due to her dietary restrictions. She reported that her Mahi Mahi Lettuce Wraps (peperonata, peppadew pepper puree, guacamole, mango salsa) were quite tasty).

I also shared some of the Fish and Chips, (beer battered cod, lemon caper tartare sauce, and housemade french fries) – a huge portion for such a great price. The fish was fresh and flaky inside with a hearty delicious battered crust. Other popular menu items include Ahi Tuna Tartare, The Burger, Reuben, Tuscan Baby Kale Salad, Caesar Salad.

If you are looking for a delicious deal, stop into The Brixton. This happy hour offers hearty generous portions – for seven dollars off of seven items…you can’t beat it. There is also a happy hour on cocktails, wine and beer.

The Brixton is located at 2827 Pico Boulevard, Santa Monica, CA, 90405; (310) 449-4567; Hours: Monday – Thursday 11:30am – 10pm; Friday 11:30am – midnight; Saturday 9:30am – midnight; Sunday 9:30am – 10pm; Happy Hour runs every day from 3:30pm – 7:30pm;  https://www.thebrixtonsm.com