This vibrant counter-serve eatery serves up delicious jerk chicken and Caribbean delights, all in a fun, beach-inspired atmosphere just steps from the ocean.
"You’re almost positive a street magician just killed a bird during his act and now you’ve got a hankering for chicken. The only move is Cha Cha Chicken. The classic order-at-the-window Caribbean jerk spot is one of our favorite casual meals in Santa Monica and home to a patio that’s always on the verge of becoming a full-out party. One of the most lenient BYOB policies in town probably has something to do with that." - brant cox
"Unless you plan on paying a lot of money for a very average meal, Ocean Avenue is basically a restaurant dead zone. Cha Cha Chicken is a little walk from the center of the action, but totally worth it. There’s a huge patio, lots of space if you’re with a group, and some very tasty jerk chicken. Also: it’s BYOB." - sylvio martins, jess basser sanders
"Full-on BYOB restaurants are hard to find in LA, let alone in Santa Monica. So part of the allure at Cha Cha Chicken is that you can bring a six-pack (or a whole handle of tequila) to sip after soaking up some rays down by the ocean. This beach-y shack serves Caribbean dishes with a Latin twist, like ropa vieja, coconut fried chicken, and jerk salmon taco in a tropical setting that's especially great for big group dinners. You can also keep it in mind for early-in-the-game dates or lunches near the Promenade that won't make you cringe when the bill arrives." - brant cox, garrett snyder, sylvio martins
"The 28-year-old Cha Cha Chicken is a Santa Monica beacon for Caribbean dishes from multiple nations, attracting diners from all corners of town. The jerk chicken is consistently very good, as are most of the sides like fried sweet plantains, dirty rice, black beans, and tangy red cabbage slaw. If in need of something more filling, go for the Cuban ropa vieja (shredded beef stew) or coconut fried chicken plate (the slight sweetness on the chicken’s crust is mesmerizing). There’s also a location in Northridge." - Mona Holmes, Matthew Kang, Nicole Adlman
"While we’re on board for anything that starts with the words “cha cha,” not only is the name of this Caribbean restaurant a fun time, they also serve a great jerk chicken at reasonable prices. A single serving (¼ of a chicken) only costs $9.95, but if you’re like us, and trying to meal prep for the week, get the whole chicken. For just $27.75, you’ll get a gigantic meal, smothered in their signature jerk sauce and served with two sides. Oh, to be an entire, whole chicken smothered with jerk sauce. Takeout and delivery available at both locations, Santa Monica and Northridge." - kat hong
