Santa Monica's Upcoming Local Kitchen & Wine Bar On Track For October Arrival

Santa Monica first caught a glimpse of what would become Local Kitchen & Wine Bar back in June, when the early details were announced. At the time, the casual Ocean Park option was hoping to arrive by end of summer, but now comes news that a late October debut is much more likely.

That said, the former Marty’s space is just about ready to go, having been completely retooled into something more fitting for the sunny, beach-adjacent area. Tall windows inside give way to brick walls and an open ceiling, where pendant lights hang over the long copper bar and brushed cement floor. There’s seating for 70 spread across 2,500 square feet, complete with a small trellised patio that uses reclaimed wood from an old bridge in Santa Barbara, apparently.

Owner Maire Byrne worked with designer Leslie Hunt on the space, which shares a sensibility with Byrne’s other Santa Monica space: Thyme Cafe and Market. Look for the much-expected small plates format here, with new chef Stephen Paul Murray (formerly from up in Napa) at the helm. Still no menu, but a full 47 license means cocktails to complement the food.

When Local Kitchen & Wine Bar opens at the end of October, expect lunch and dinner hours (11 a.m. to 10 p.m. weekdays), with all-day service on Saturday and Sunday, including a brunch that starts at 9 a.m.

Local Kitchen & Wine Bar
1736 Ocean Park Blvd.
Santa Monica, CA