The Misfit - brand spanking new restaurant in the old Anisette space in Santa Monica

Taking over the space that used to be the popular restaurant Anisette,  The Misfit sits at the edge of the Promenade and was bustling with a fun crowd on it's second night in business last Saturday. Since they don't take reservations, be prepared to order one of their exquisite cocktails while you wait for your table - the basil gimlet is noteworthy! We sampled many items on the menu and everything was good - particularly the burger, mussels, and brussel sprout salad.  You'll recognize some similarities between the menu here and the one at Le Grande Orange (now called M Street Kitchen)  on Main Street - LGO Hospitality group is behind both. The decor is cool, almost entirely left over from Anisette, which is fine by us-- the soaring ceiling and wood paneled walls fuse vintage and modern effectively.  The festive ambiance is in line with the quote on their website, "I'd rather eat in a bar than drink in a restaurant."

Parking in The Promenade area of Santa Monica can be a nightmare, especially on the weekends. They don't have appear to have valet yet, so park in the lot next to Equinox on 2nd street ($6 flat rate for the night, and avoid getting stuck in crazy lines trying to get out).

The Misfit is the cool kid on the block.   A welcome addition to the promenade area which is rather fond of the chain restaurants!  And we're not.