Santa Monica is a lovely city. There are sandy beaches, tree-lined streets, and a subconscious understanding that you’re never too far from Reese Witherspoon. But behind all the sunny bliss lies a chaotic monster—The Third Street Promenade. 

The three-block-long pedestrian mall in downtown Santa Monica is home to chain restaurants and clothing stores that exist everywhere else in America, and for that reason alone, tourists go crazy for it. And as much as we try otherwise, every Angeleno ends up here at some point. So whether you’re appeasing extended family on vacation or fixing your MacBook, here are some restaurants that’ll make it all (slightly) less excruciating.