Ocean Avenue Indian Grill and Lounge plans themed dinners, live music, and specials.
Fitoor Santa Monica will mark its first anniversary with a week of food and entertainment programming culminating in a major Holi festival in Redondo Beach.
The Indian grill and lounge, located at 1755 Ocean Ave., opened last year on Santa Monica’s Ocean Avenue as the Southern California outpost of Rivaaz Hospitality, the Bay Area group behind Michelin-recognized ROOH Progressive Indian. “Fitoor,” which translates to “passion” in Hindi, presents contemporary interpretations of regional Indian cuisine, with an emphasis on fire-driven cooking techniques and a seafood selection tailored to its beachside setting.
The restaurant’s design leans into opulent, maximalist décor, while its cocktail program draws inspiration from the natural elements — water, fire, earth, wind, and space — reinforcing an immersive dining concept that blends modern Indian flavors with a high-energy lounge atmosphere.
Anniversary programming runs Monday, March 2, through Saturday, March 7, and includes nightly specials and themed events.
Throughout the week, guests can order a $5 anniversary specialty cocktail, also available as a zero-proof option, along with daily featured dishes. A complimentary champagne toast will be offered at 6:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, and the restaurant will debut a new happy hour menu.
The celebration begins March 2 with a first anniversary Monday Night Supper featuring a three-course prix-fixe menu. Diners may add a wine bottle pairing.
March 3 is designated “Neighborhood Love Night,” offering Santa Monica residents one complimentary appetizer or cocktail with proof of local ZIP code. The evening also welcomes hospitality workers and creatives, with an industry perk that includes either a complimentary cocktail or a food and beverage discount with proof of employment.
On March 4, coinciding with Holi, the restaurant will present a limited-time Holi-inspired menu and host a guided belly dancing experience during happy hour in the bar and lounge. The 20- to 30-minute interactive sessions will be available on a first-come basis.
Live music will accompany dinner service on March 5.
An official anniversary party is scheduled for March 6, featuring a DJ-led dinner service, festive décor, and a champagne toast for seated guests.
The week concludes March 7 with Holi & The Beach at Seaside Lagoon in Redondo Beach, where Fitoor Santa Monica will serve as the premier food and beverage vendor. The outdoor festival, produced by Radio5 Events, is billed as one of the largest Holi celebrations in the country and is expected to draw more than 5,000 attendees.
Organizers describe the event as a daylong beachside celebration featuring celebrity DJs, color powder play, food vendors, photo booths, and interactive activations. The 2026 edition will debut an expanded music stage and additional experiences.
Tickets for Holi & The Beach start at $15 and are available at holiandthebeach.com.
