The Recess Room

Started by five friends who have known each other since grade school, The Recess Room has its origins on the playground and manages to infuse an element of fun into everything it does. The interior has an industrial feel with iron accents, spinning leather bar stools, and TVs above the bar for watching live sports. You’ll want a photo in the flower archway and porch swing that graces the restaurant’s entrance, but there’s also a pandemic-era tent patio if you prefer to eat outside. Specializing in modern American tapas, choose from options like Baked Fromage Blanc and Jumbo Tiger Shrimp, and wash it down with the Eye of the Tiger, a rum and kumquat marmalade concoction. There are also 24 craft beers on tap, along with a wine selection that highlights the California coast. The Recess Room hosts monthly whiskey tastings and trivia nights—check their calendar for details.
How to book: Walk-ins welcome, reservations via Yelp, and order online for takeout.