There’s a particular kind of joy that comes from dedicating an evening solely to adult pursuits—meaningful conversation, exquisite flavors, and that rare blend of relaxed sophistication that only a well-planned, yet effortlessly executed, outing can deliver.
Our recent weekend adventure in Santa Monica was exactly that: a perfectly choreographed experience of taste, ambiance, and responsible indulgence. Accompanied by my husband and a close friend, we set out to savor some of the city’s best culinary offerings—without a single worry about logistics—thanks to the convenience of Waymo. Opting for an autonomous ride meant that every celebratory sip could be enjoyed responsibly, turning transportation into part of the experience rather than a post-dinner concern.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), choosing safe transportation options after drinking isn’t just responsible—it’s essential for preventing impaired driving incidents and ensuring everyone gets home safely. That peace of mind allows you to fully immerse yourself in the moment and focus on what really matters: good company and memorable food.
(Read next: Waymo vs. Uber: Which Ride Service is Best)
What followed was a true masterclass in savoring the present, from the first sparkling pour at a hidden gem of a tasting room to the final, indulgent bite overlooking the Pacific. If you’ve been craving inspiration for your next date night or sophisticated friends’ gathering, this Santa Monica escapade serves as the perfect blueprint for elevating your evening.
(Explore more: Kid-Free Activities for Parents Who Deserve a Night Out)
First Sips: Uncorking New Favorites at AJA Vineyards Tasting Room
Our culinary journey began at the elegant AJA Vineyards Tasting Room in Santa Monica, a refined space that perfectly captures the essence of Malibu’s coastal winemaking. For those unfamiliar, AJA Vineyards is a hidden gem of the Malibu Coast American Viticultural Area (AVA)—a region celebrated for its marine influence and limited-production, artisanal wines. Known for their meticulous small-batch approach, AJA produces wines that authentically express the unique terroir of their hillside vineyards, where ocean breezes and sandstone soils create a distinctive balance of ripeness and minerality.
(Read next: A Gem in Santa Monica: Our Experience at AJA Vineyards)
My husband and I are no strangers to AJA, having previously indulged in their Estate Tasting Flight on two separate occasions. Their dedication to craft and the family’s passion for winemaking are what continually draw us back. According to Wine Spectator, Malibu’s boutique wineries have gained national attention for their “precision viticulture and coastal elegance,” producing wines that rival more established California regions. That’s exactly what you taste in every glass at AJA—a blend of technical excellence and heartfelt artistry.
This visit, however, we decided to step outside our usual selections and explore AJA’s “Whites & Pinks” Tasting Flight. My friend, also a repeat visitor to the tasting room, opted for the Estate Tasting Flight instead. It was the perfect setup—allowing us to compare notes across their broader portfolio and experience the winery’s versatility side-by-side.
Our adventure began with the 2023 Sparkling Wine (Extra Brut), a refreshing revelation that completely redefined my expectations of sparkling wine. I’ve always associated bubbles with sweetness, but this dry and elegant Extra Brut was crisp, clean, and utterly sophisticated. Its bright acidity and fine mousse reminded me that balance, not sugar, is what gives sparkling wine its celebratory charm. As Robert M. Parker Jr. often emphasizes, “The best wine is the one you enjoy,” and this pour was pure enjoyment. It also echoed insights from Wine Enthusiast, which notes that drier sparkling styles like Extra Brut are “surging in popularity among modern wine drinkers seeking finesse over fruitiness.”
We then moved to the 2023 Sauvignon Blanc from Happy Canyon of Santa Barbara, a standout for my husband. While my personal go-to is usually AJA’s 2023 Ed’s Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc (Malibu Coast) for its vibrant, citrusy character, he was captivated by Happy Canyon’s mineral complexity. The terroir here—marked by warm days, cool nights, and gravelly soils—creates Sauvignon Blancs with both structure and freshness. According to research from UC Davis’ Department of Viticulture & Enology, these microclimatic contrasts are what “enable winemakers to develop varietal intensity while preserving acidity,” a hallmark clearly reflected in AJA’s approach.
Next came the 2023 Chardonnay from California’s Central Coast, which showcased how expressive Chardonnay can be when handled with restraint. With subtle oak influence and balanced fruit, it was beautifully harmonious. This was followed by the familiar yet always delightful 2022 Ed’s Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc, a reminder of why this label remains a personal favorite—bright, aromatic, and unmistakably Malibu.
We ended our tasting with the 2023 Wildflower Rosé (Paso Robles)—a wine that simply radiated summer. Its pale hue and delicate strawberry notes made it instantly lovable, earning a place beside the Extra Brut as one of my new top picks.
While I loved exploring these lighter selections, I’ll admit my heart still belongs to the Estate Tasting Flight. There’s something profoundly satisfying about AJA’s flagship wines—the ones that embody both the ruggedness and elegance of Malibu’s coastal terroir. Still, this “Whites & Pinks” flight was a reminder of what makes AJA truly exceptional: range, craftsmanship, and a commitment to creating wines for every kind of enthusiast, whether you’re an adventurer or a loyalist.
(See also: Fall Club Members-Only Harvest Party at AJA Vineyards)
From Vine to Dine: An Unforgettable Feast at Elephante, Santa Monica
After stimulating our palates at AJA Vineyards, we took a short, sun-kissed stroll to our next stop—Elephante in Santa Monica. I’d heard glowing whispers about this rooftop destination, but nothing could have prepared me for the vibrant energy and coastal elegance that awaited us. From the moment we stepped in, I was captivated.
Elephante isn’t just a restaurant—it’s an experience. The space hums with life, music, and the ocean breeze, blending chic design with the laid-back sophistication that defines California’s coastal dining culture. As Forbes Travel Guide observes, modern luxury restaurants succeed not just through food but by “crafting an atmosphere where design, service, and emotion converge.” Elephante delivers exactly that—a sensory immersion that transforms a simple dinner into a memorable event.
(Explore more: Restaurants Without Kids)
We were fortunate enough to secure a coveted table in the Sunset Room, a breezy, semi-open terrace that overlooks the Pacific. Picture dining beneath a canopy as the sky melts into shades of coral and gold, the air warm with sea salt and soundtracked by clinking glasses. Every detail, from the placement of tables to the rhythm of service, was orchestrated to perfection. Despite a full house—a testament to its popularity—the staff remained poised, friendly, and efficient. As the Michelin Guide notes, impeccable service is one of the defining traits of world-class dining, and Elephante embodies that philosophy effortlessly.
Reservations open only three weeks in advance, and prime time slots vanish almost immediately. That level of demand speaks volumes about Elephante’s reputation as one of Santa Monica’s most sought-after destinations, blending coastal views with cosmopolitan flair.
🌊 A Culinary Symphony: The Food Experience
Each dish at Elephante was an expression of balance—vibrant, comforting, and meant for sharing. The menu draws inspiration from coastal Italian and Mediterranean traditions, celebrating freshness and simplicity, two cornerstones of global gastronomy.
We began with the Whipped Eggplant, a dish so transcendent it could convert any skeptic into a believer. Its creamy, smoky texture and subtle seasoning showcased how restraint in technique can yield extraordinary depth. According to the Journal of Culinary Science & Technology, flavor perception is often enhanced by the contrast of texture and aroma—something this dish mastered flawlessly.
Next came the Big Eye Tuna Tartare, a bright, refreshing plate that balanced clean flavors of tuna with citrus and herbs, followed by Elephante’s signature Meatballs—tender, savory, and layered with the comforting richness of a slow-simmered sauce.
Then came the showstopper: Tagliatelle Tartufo. We splurged on the fresh truffle addition, and it was worth every decadent bite. The earthy perfume of truffle enveloped the table, and each forkful of perfectly al dente pasta felt like pure indulgence. Bon Appétit describes truffles as “one of the most sensory-charged ingredients in gastronomy,” and I couldn’t agree more. This was luxury you could taste, smell, and feel.
To round out the meal, we shared a side of Broccolini, lightly charred and kissed with garlic—an ideal counterpoint to the richness of our pasta. It offered balance, texture, and just enough freshness to complete a near-perfect culinary arc.
Sweet Endings: Desserts & Drinks
No upscale meal is complete without a grand finale, and Elephante’s dessert menu did not disappoint. We chose two distinct options to round out our meal. The Pavlova was truly unique and wonderfully refreshing. Its delicate meringue base, crisp on the outside and marshmallowy within, was topped with fresh fruit and cream, offering a delightful textural contrast and a light, sweet finish. It’s a dessert that truly shines in its simplicity and elegance, embodying the lightness often sought after in Mediterranean cuisine.
The Tiramisu, while not my absolute favorite interpretation of the classic, was still undeniably good. It delivered on the rich coffee and mascarpone flavors, providing a comforting and familiar conclusion to our meal. Sometimes, even when a dish doesn’t hit your personal “top five,” its quality and execution are still commendable.
For drinks, we indulged in their “Secret Garden” cocktail. While the exact ingredients remain a delightful mystery, its refreshing profile and artful presentation perfectly complemented the lively ambiance and rich flavors of our meal. The mixologists at Elephante clearly possess a high degree of expertise in crafting beverages that are both innovative and perfectly balanced.
Saving with Smart Choices: The inKind App
Before I delve into our relaxing journey home, I must share a fantastic tip that enhanced our Elephante experience: we used the inKind app and managed to save $50 off our meal! This app is a game-changer for frequent diners, offering credits and discounts at a curated selection of upscale restaurants. It’s an excellent way to enjoy premium dining experiences while being smart about your spending. I highly recommend looking into it for your next culinary adventure. (Internal Link: inKind App)
A Seamless Return: The Waymo Experience
As our incredible evening drew to a close, the thought of navigating traffic or searching for a ride was completely off our minds, thanks to Waymo. Hopping into our autonomous vehicle for the journey home was a breeze. The ride was incredibly relaxing, allowing us to continue our conversations, reflect on the evening’s delights, and simply enjoy the smooth, quiet journey without any distractions. This seamless transition from a bustling restaurant back to the comfort of home truly underscored the value of responsible and convenient transportation for an adult night out. The ability to completely de-stress and focus solely on the company and the experience is, in itself, a luxury. (Internal Link: A Futuristic Ride: Great Food, Wine, and Dessert)
The Verdict: An Unforgettable Santa Monica Soiree
Our Santa Monica evening was a masterclass in modern sophistication—a seamless blend of fine wine, ocean views, and meaningful connection. From the refined tasting flights at AJA Vineyards to the coastal vibrancy and exquisite flavors of Elephante, every detail came together in perfect harmony. The panoramic vistas from the Sunset Room, paired with attentive service and thoughtfully crafted dishes, elevated the experience from memorable to truly unforgettable.
According to Forbes Travel Guide, the hallmark of contemporary luxury dining lies in “personalized experiences that stimulate all the senses,” and that’s exactly what this night delivered. Each moment—whether it was swirling a glass of AJA’s Sauvignon Blanc or savoring truffle-laden pasta—captured the essence of mindful indulgence.
Whether you’re planning a romantic date night or an intimate evening with close friends, this itinerary embodies what the National Restaurant Association identifies as a growing trend in hospitality: experiences that merge high-quality food, atmosphere, and community. You can’t go wrong here. Every element—from transportation to table—is curated for comfort, style, and discovery.
Beyond the flavor and ambiance, this evening reaffirmed what Travel + Leisure has long highlighted about Santa Monica: it’s one of California’s most dynamic culinary destinations, where coastal calm meets cosmopolitan creativity. This kind of thoughtful planning, paired with a willingness to explore new tastes and textures, transforms an ordinary weekend into a story worth retelling.
So gather your loved ones, book those reservations early, and let Santa Monica sweep you into an evening of ocean breezes, elegant wines, and conversations that linger long after the last bite. Nights like these remind us that grown-up adventures aren’t just indulgent—they’re essential.
❓ FAQ: Planning the Perfect Adult Night Out in Santa Monica
Q: What’s the best time to book a reservation at Elephante?
A: Book exactly three weeks in advance. Prime Sunset Room tables fill within hours.
Q: Is AJA Vineyards Tasting Room open to the public?
A: Yes, reservations are encouraged, especially on weekends. Club members often enjoy exclusive releases and private events. (Read: AJA Fall Harvest Party)
Q: How does the inKind app work for dining savings?
A: You pre-purchase dining credit, often with bonus value. When you dine, your check is covered using those credits—instant savings at premium restaurants.
Q: Why use Waymo instead of traditional ride-share?
A: Waymo offers fully autonomous rides with no driver, ensuring privacy, safety, and a smooth return home after wine tastings or cocktail dinners.
Q: Are there other adult-only dining experiences nearby?
A: Yes—see our guides to Restaurants Without Kids and Kid-Free Activities in LA for more curated ideas.
