Every great date night has that little spark—something that makes it feel different from the usual dinner-and-a-movie routine. Sometimes it’s the place, sometimes it’s the food, and sometimes it’s simply trying something new together. On our most recent evening out, we found that spark in three unexpected places: a futuristic Waymo self-driving car, a refined wine tasting at AJA Vineyards Wine Tasting Room, and an indulgent dessert discovery at Turn Dough in Santa Monica.
What started as an ordinary Sunday night idea turned into one of our most memorable date nights ever. Here’s how it unfolded—and why we recommend this trifecta for couples looking to elevate their own Santa Monica evening.
The First Ride: Discovering Waymo
Our night began not at a restaurant, but with a ride. Instead of calling an Uber or Lyft, we booked our very first Waymo. We’d heard the buzz about these self-driving cars, but until you sit inside one, it’s hard to grasp how different the experience really is.
A Car That Feels Like the Future
The Waymo rolled up looking sleek and futuristic, cameras and sensors subtly dotting the roof. Sliding into the back seat, we realized this was going to be an entirely new kind of ride. No driver in the front, no music we didn’t choose, and no forced small talk. Just us, the hum of the road, and the soft voice of the car’s AI giving us gentle instructions.
It felt private, safe, and strangely luxurious—not in a “stretch limo” kind of way, but in the sense that the focus was entirely on our experience. We could talk, laugh, and relax without distraction.
What Made It Stand Out
- Comfort: Spotless interior, plenty of legroom, and that “brand-new car” smell.
- Privacy: No driver meant we could chat freely or simply sit in companionable silence.
- Safety: The car drove smoothly, followed every rule, and actually felt more predictable than many human drivers.
By the time we arrived in Santa Monica, we were already buzzing. Waymo didn’t just get us from point A to point B—it set the tone for the night, making transportation part of the adventure.
✅ Culinary Passages Tip: First time using Waymo? Set up the app in advance. Once you’re ready, booking is seamless. It’s currently available in select areas, so check if your neighborhood is included.
AJA Vineyards Wine Tasting: Malibu in the City
Our Waymo dropped us at AJA Vineyards Wine Tasting Room, nestled in Santa Monica but deeply connected to Malibu’s wine country roots. Unlike massive wineries or bustling restaurants, AJA’s tasting room has a boutique feel: intimate, stylish, and perfect for couples.
The Estate Tasting Flight
We chose the Estate Tasting Flight, which offered a curated sample of AJA’s best. Each pour told a story of Malibu’s unique terroir—sun-kissed hillsides, cool coastal breezes, and family-driven passion for winemaking.
The standout for me was the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon. Bold yet smooth, with rich layers of dark fruit and just the right amount of oak, it was the kind of wine that makes you stop mid-conversation just to savor the sip.
Since I’m a member of Alec’s Wine Club, our tasting was complimentary—a perk that made the experience feel even more special.
Small Plates That Shine
Wine is always better with food, and AJA didn’t disappoint. We ordered a few shareable bites:
- Honey Mustard Pretzels: Addictive little twists of sweet and salty goodness.
- Truffle Potato Chips: Decadent without being over-the-top, and surprisingly perfect with a crisp Chardonnay.
- Chef’s Board “Classico”: A classic charcuterie board with artisanal cheeses, cured meats, and seasonal accoutrements.
- Cacio e Pepe Pizza from North Italia: Yes, they actually partner with the restaurant across the street. Warm, cheesy, peppery perfection.
The combination of flavors and textures elevated the wine and created that wonderful “just us” vibe we crave on date night. We have been here before. Check out our previous experience at AJA.
✅ Culinary Passages Tip: Join the Wine Club if you plan to return. Complimentary tastings and access to limited releases quickly pay for themselves.
Sweet Discovery: Turn Dough in Santa Monica
After the tasting, we weren’t quite ready to call it a night. On the way in, we had noticed a spot called Turn Dough, its storefront glowing with playful signage and people leaving with towering ice cream creations. Curiosity won.
Chimney Cake Dreams
Turn Dough specializes in Ice Cream Chimney Cakes—Hungarian-inspired pastries that look like a cross between a churro and a cone. The chimney cake is warm, golden, and rolled in sugar before being filled with creamy soft-serve gelato.
We ordered one to share, topped with sprinkles, caramel drizzle, and a waffle cookie. It was almost comically large—definitely a dessert made for photos—but the flavor matched the presentation. The warmth of the pastry against the cold gelato created a contrast that was indulgent and comforting at the same time.
At $15+ per cone, it’s not an everyday treat. But it’s an experience. One cone is easily enough for two (or even three), and the novelty makes it worth every bite.
✅ Culinary Passages Tip: Don’t over-order here. One cone is plenty for sharing, and it’s rich enough to satisfy even the biggest sweet tooth.
Reflections: Why This Date Night Worked
On the Waymo ride home, we replayed the evening in conversation. What struck us wasn’t just that each stop was enjoyable—it was that together, they created something greater.
- The Waymo made transportation feel like an experience, not an inconvenience.
- AJA Vineyards offered romance, sophistication, and a chance to slow down and savor.
- Turn Dough brought whimsy, indulgence, and a playful finale.
Each piece added a layer of novelty, adventure, and delight. More importantly, it reminded us that you don’t have to travel far to create a memorable night. Sometimes, it’s about saying “yes” to something new right in your own city.
Why You Should Try This Trio
If you’re looking to plan a date night in Santa Monica that balances romance, indulgence, and fun, this combination is a winner. Here’s why:
- Waymo: Transforms a simple ride into an exciting part of the evening.
- AJA Vineyards: Offers boutique charm and world-class wines without the drive to Malibu.
- Turn Dough: Provides a sweet, Instagram-worthy finale you’ll be talking about long after the last bite.
It’s a night that feels both elevated and approachable, perfect for couples who want to mix a little adventure with their indulgence.
Culinary Passages Recommendations
- Book your Waymo in advance to avoid any delays, especially if you’re on a schedule.
- Reserve AJA tastings for peak hours, as the room fills quickly on weekends.
- Order shareables at AJA, not full meals—you’ll want room for dessert later.
- Plan Turn Dough as your finale. It’s best enjoyed after wine, when you’re in the mood for something playful.
- Make it a tradition. Santa Monica is full of gems. Try this trio once, then swap in another new spot for next time.
Final Thoughts
This date night—Waymo rides, AJA wine flights, and a dessert surprise—reminded us why it’s important to keep exploring together. It wasn’t just about the food or the drinks. It was about the spirit of discovery, the joy of trying new things, and the laughter that came with each shared surprise.
Sometimes, the best nights aren’t the ones you plan weeks in advance. They’re the ones where you take a small leap—whether it’s stepping into a self-driving car, tasting a bold new Cabernet, or biting into a chimney cake for the first time—and let the evening unfold from there.
For us, it turned out to be one of the most memorable nights we’ve had in Santa Monica. And for you, it might just be the inspiration you need to plan your own unforgettable evening.
