Simonette in Culver City: A Perfect Solo Happy Hour for Wine, Oysters, and a Parisian Burger

Simonette — Culver City

Perfect for:

Solo happy hour, oysters and red wine at the bar, a relaxed client dinner, or lingering outside with a cocktail after work.

I personally love dining in Culver City. It feels a bit like a hidden gem in Los Angeles — full of charming restaurants and cozy places to stop for a drink or a good meal. For some reason it still flies a little under the radar, which is probably why I’ve always thought of it as one of my quietly kept secrets. If you’re looking for a great happy hour in Culver City or a relaxed spot for oysters and wine, Simonette is an easy recommendation.

Simonette fits beautifully into that scene. Tucked inside the Palihotel just behind downtown Culver City, this French brasserie-style restaurant offers classic bistro dishes, excellent wine, and a space that feels lively without being overwhelming.

The indoor bar is warm and inviting with wood ceilings and shelves of bottles stacked high behind the counter, while the patio offers woven café chairs and a quiet courtyard feel that works especially well for solo dining. It’s the kind of place where sitting alone with a glass of red feels completely natural.

What to order

• Oysters

•The Parisian Burger

• Tapenade with crostini

• A glass of red wine or one of their cocktails

• The oysters are fresh, the tapenade is bright and salty in the best way, and the Parisian burger is rich, savory, and worth ordering every time.

What to know

Happy hour is where Simonette really shines. The bar fills with locals grabbing a drink after work, but the atmosphere stays relaxed and easygoing. Service is attentive without hovering, which makes it a great spot to settle in for a while.

Valet is available, and street parking around Culver City is usually manageable.

Location

3927 Van Buren Pl

Culver City, CA 90232