Rae's Restaurant

When it comes to old-school diners, options in Santa Monica are as sparse as our mini-fridge in college. But at least there’s Rae’s. Eating at this neighborhood treasure feels like a brain massage at 9am. Your butt sinks into a comfy leather booth that probably hasn’t been reupholstered since the ‘60s, they’re quick with coffee refills, and the cooks behind the counter flip pancakes in paper hats. Rae’s menu is big, as are the portions of hearty diner staples, like soft, housemade biscuits covered in hearty gravy, giant fresh-baked cinnamon rolls, and a simple fried egg sandwich on sourdough that doesn’t skimp on mayo.