I’m quietly optimistic about Downtown Santa Monica.  During the Pandemic, many of the big chain stores and restaurants disappeared overnight.  But there has been a recent uptick in activity, at least as far as restaurants are concerned.  Many new projects are in the works: Trejo’s Tacos, Nick the Greek, Ugo Cafe, SMiZE Cream, Jinky’s Coffee, Winston are all moving in.  And you can add one more name to that list: Practically overnight, a new charming coffee joint set up shop in the former location of Cafe Crepe at 1460 Third St. Promenade.  Cult promises “food.coffee.cocktails” and is on a “mission is to pay homage to the city of Los Angeles, its chefs, dishes, drinks and trends”.  Check out their menu here.  We wish them the best of luck.