Restaurants in Santa Monica
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Best Restaurants
“Always outstanding food and service! We were seated at the table for 2 that's by itself off to the left side when you walk in. It is the most undesirable table in the restaurant.”
“Although I was a little put off by the paper plate table settings… this was by far the most delicious food I’ve had… a wildly unexpected treat! Simple yet brilliant flavors using incredible olive oil… it’s my new favorite place! Highly recommended…”
“Stopped by for dinner to check out the place. We are having an event there in a few weeks. AWESOME EXPERIENCE. Food was wonderful, service was perfect, management went out of their way to be gracious and welcoming. Can't wait to return in a few weeks.”
“Beyond expectations! Best meal & service in at least 10 years. I’ll be back!”
“I recently dined at Milo & Olive and was truly impressed with the experience. Every dish I tried was outstanding — fresh, flavorful, and beautifully prepared. The seasonal menu offered a great variety, and you can really taste the quality in each bite. On top of that, the service was friendly and attentive, which made the whole visit even more enjoyable. I can’t wait to come back!”
Restaurants by Cuisine
“Very good pasta really nice sause we had one dish where the chef came out and poured the sause it was really nice and made it feel super fancy our server ( girl with blackish hair) and the boy seeting us were very nice did a really good job! Food amazing service amazing and the vibe overall super good and chill! It is a first come first serve so you will have to probably wait a bit but it is worth it!”
Restaurants with Delivery
“I recently dined at Milo & Olive and was truly impressed with the experience. Every dish I tried was outstanding — fresh, flavorful, and beautifully prepared. The seasonal menu offered a great variety, and you can really taste the quality in each bite. On top of that, the service was friendly and attentive, which made the whole visit even more enjoyable. I can’t wait to come back!”
“Very good pasta really nice sause we had one dish where the chef came out and poured the sause it was really nice and made it feel super fancy our server ( girl with blackish hair) and the boy seeting us were very nice did a really good job! Food amazing service amazing and the vibe overall super good and chill! It is a first come first serve so you will have to probably wait a bit but it is worth it!”
“Capt. Eddie at the helm of this Bread shop of Kindness!!! Thank you for your suggestions and genuine consideration. Well worth the drive from Pasadena to enjoy clean air, a stroll on Ocean, and see more in this superlatively walkable neck of the woods. Thank you. I will be back”
“Sunday brunch was amazing. the smoked salmon eggs Benedict were some of the best we have ever had. the location is ideal definitely get an ocean facing room. The staff catered our every need. We haven't even checked out yet and I believe we're about to book our next stay.”
“My wife and I went to the Grove in Los Angeles last night and we had dinner at "Sogno Toscana," an it was outstanding. It was perfect in every way; great food, great drinks, outstanding and friendly staff, beautiful location, etc. I love Italian food but I can't think of one Italian restaurant that I like, until "Sogno Toscano." The food was outstanding, and there was so much more we saw go by that we can't wait to go back and try. And the drinks were outstanding. I love martini's and they served the best martini I've ever had. Giacomo was our server and took great care of us. He's from Italy and "Sogno Toscana" brought him to America when they opened their New York restaurant, and now he's in LA for this new restaurant. Although very busy, the entire staff were very fun to be around, and most of them are Italian which is also great.”
“I have travelled to Japan 10x in 2 years, this is on par if not better food wise than any trip to Osaka, Tokyo, Kyoto. The authenticity as it relates to the space, the chefs, even the toilet makes me feel like I’m thousands of miles away. You’d be doing yourself a disservice not coming here.”
“I loved my dining experience there! The decor is warm and special; the service, impeccable, and the food is beautifully presented and delicious. I recommend the lobster spring rolls, the calamari and shrimp salad, and the duck fried rice. If you really like lemongrass, then try the seared scallops!”
“For it being u first timing dining out for Thanksgiving I was worried that the nostalgic feeling of a family gathering would be missing but I was definitely wrong. Everyone in the restaurant was having a great time and you could feel all the love and energy in the air. Started with some sourdough and truffle butter and some mezcal cocktails. Both were amazing. Dinner consisted of a 3 course menu and between our party, we were able to cover all items offered. The appetizers were a choice of scallops, crab cake, or pumpkin ravioli. All 3 were so delicious that we wish we don't want to share haha. The main courses were turkey, osso-bucco, or aJohn Dory fish plate. Again, all 3 were so delectable but the turkey and osso bucco were stars because they came with heaping sides. We paired our dinner with a couple bottles of Pinot noir from France. Dessert had a pumpkin pie, French applie pie, or a dark chocolate ganache tart. The pumpkin pie was probably the best I've had. The apple pie was also very good. The ganache tart was decent but very strong chocolate and orange flavors which I wasn't quite ready for. Service was excellent from all staff members and the decor gave you this feeling like you were at home. I will definitely be coming back to have a regular dinner because everything was on point.”
Outdoor Dining
“Thank goodness for Offhand! A much-needed natural wine bar for the west side. While there are always people here, you can always find a spot to sit no problem. They do a great job of rotating and featuring natural wine, most of which are from California/the west coast — through them, I learned that my hometown has a natural winemaker I’d never known about! Definitely order the grilled cheese, it’s simple yet delicious.
( Also since I always check reviews for happy hour info — theirs is from 5-7 Monday through Saturday :) )”
“I loved my dining experience there! The decor is warm and special; the service, impeccable, and the food is beautifully presented and delicious. I recommend the lobster spring rolls, the calamari and shrimp salad, and the duck fried rice. If you really like lemongrass, then try the seared scallops!”
“The Fig Restaurant is located in the Fairmont Hotel. The service was excellent, the food outstanding. The overall atmosphere was lovely. My photo is of the beautiful fig tree that stands at the hotel entrance. That alone is worth a visit for some :) We’ll be happy to come back.”
“The Baseline: For a seafood fast casual restaurant the fish/seafood needs to be fresh, the presentation of the food should be comforting and respect the delicacy of the seafood, and there must be a selection of accompanying offerings.
Food: The lobster is high quality here and the preparation is excellent. The Lobster Roll sampler is really good to try the different preparations. The full lobster roll is meaty and filling. The chips are nice but wish I had fries. The soda selection is awesome (got a Maine Blueberry soda). The price is what you get when you order the lobster.
Service: Counter order deliver to your table service. Good and efficient.
Ambiance: The restaurant is really well presented and has good decor. The bathroom was clean. The seating was well laid out and the lighting was good in the restaurant. Unfortunately, the outside is Santa Monica 2025 and is sketchy at night (not the restaurant’s fault)”
“For it being u first timing dining out for Thanksgiving I was worried that the nostalgic feeling of a family gathering would be missing but I was definitely wrong. Everyone in the restaurant was having a great time and you could feel all the love and energy in the air. Started with some sourdough and truffle butter and some mezcal cocktails. Both were amazing. Dinner consisted of a 3 course menu and between our party, we were able to cover all items offered. The appetizers were a choice of scallops, crab cake, or pumpkin ravioli. All 3 were so delicious that we wish we don't want to share haha. The main courses were turkey, osso-bucco, or aJohn Dory fish plate. Again, all 3 were so delectable but the turkey and osso bucco were stars because they came with heaping sides. We paired our dinner with a couple bottles of Pinot noir from France. Dessert had a pumpkin pie, French applie pie, or a dark chocolate ganache tart. The pumpkin pie was probably the best I've had. The apple pie was also very good. The ganache tart was decent but very strong chocolate and orange flavors which I wasn't quite ready for. Service was excellent from all staff members and the decor gave you this feeling like you were at home. I will definitely be coming back to have a regular dinner because everything was on point.”
“Been going here for over 35 years. Only slight changes have been made to update the building but the food is always good, especially the biscuits and gravy. I miss the crew that was there years ago but the crew now is true to the history of Rae's. See you next time!”
“Best bagels in LA. Always hit the spot. I love the plain bagels with cream cheese but they also have so many cool specialty bagels I feel like you can't get anywhere else in LA. It's usually somewhat busy but I preorder most of the time which makes the whole process much easier so I recommend doing that. The staff is always super friendly and helpful. I recommend Layla for anyone who wants a delicious bagel that keeps you full!”
“I finally tried this burger spot, and while it wasn’t the best burger on earth or even in all of LA, it was still damn good. Pricey? A bit. Worth it? Yeah, I’d say so. The patty was tender and juicy, and the mix of cheeses with those tangy balsamic onions and peppery arugula hit just right. And here’s the kicker: this was my first burger ever without ketchup… and I didn’t even miss it. That says a lot.”
“Best steak and service . Say hi to Hillary she is the best !!!”
Online Reservation Available
“The chef's restaurant is upscale but cozy, with only 5 tables, all across from the open air kitchen. The chef and waiter collaborate to serve you each dish, telling you the ingredients that go into each dish... like little stories. Such a special experience!”
“The Georgian Hotel lobby hosts the best bar that last minute desert or after dinner cocktail after a birthday meal. The door staff is fun and well cast for high energy and upbeat customer service. The chocolate sufleè is a must and the ambiance is classic with a touch of seaside whimsy.”
“If you want to go to a bar with perfect seating, great airflow, excellent drinks, flawless service l, a fantastic DJ, a parking lot, a nyc vibe, no one rushes you and you can even reserve a table for drinks…go to the Chestnut Club. My favorite new bar. 14th & Santa Monica Blvd @TheChestnutClub same owners as scopa and black market liquor!”
“What an AMAZING place. Went for dinner last night. Beautiful intimate vibe, nice staff (owner was there too, super nice and takes a lot of pride in their food), and delicious food. Got the lentils, risotto and trout -- all were great -- American with an Indian twist. Happy I found it. Will definitely be back”
“XUNTOS is one of those great neighborhood gems. It's a perfect mix of intimate and lively. The staff is so friendly and welcoming you feel like you're at home. The food is excellent and they have a great selection of wine. It's a perfect date night spot or a place to celebrate a special occasion.”
“My husband and I have been enjoying the best quality & freshest seafood at the Santa Monica Seafood Market & Cafe for over a decade or so . Whenever we feel like having seafood the only place that comes to mind is this establishment . The best oysters , and the Cioppino is superb !!!
The Crab Louie salad is divine. One of the best fish and chips in town . For your next seafood outing make reservations and go to the Santa Monica Seafood Market & Cafe !!!”
“Sunday brunch was amazing. the smoked salmon eggs Benedict were some of the best we have ever had. the location is ideal definitely get an ocean facing room. The staff catered our every need. We haven't even checked out yet and I believe we're about to book our next stay.”
24 Hour Restaurants
“The sashimi at Shirube is absolutely top-notch — incredibly fresh and beautifully presented, with a level of care and attention to detail in every single piece.
Our server, Rozabelle, was exceptionally kind and attentive. She went above and beyond to make our dining experience truly special.
Highly recommend this spot for anyone looking for outstanding Japanese cuisine paired with warm, thoughtful service!”
Takeout Restaurants
“Best cookies around honestly. My coworkers and I have made this our go-to for office treats. The cookies are always delicious - love how flavors change depending on the season while keeping a couple staples consistent. The staff is always super sweet.
Highly recommend!”
“First discovered musabi’s in Hawaii and was excited to find this spot in Santa Monica. The shop is small with no seating, but the food is the real draw. Great selection, fresh and flavorful, and perfect for a quick snack. Love the Santa Monica vibe, a fun place to grab a bite before heading to the beach”
“Fun Saturday brunch in Santa Monica. The endless mimosas are the bomb and the food was delicious and nicely presented. The Lobster Benedict was amazing and then I finished it off with the French Toast served with bourbon whipped cream, candied pecans and crumbled bacon. Enjoyable time in a rustic environment. Vote for “Pedro” our amazing waiter who kept our glasses full.”
“The Fig Restaurant is located in the Fairmont Hotel. The service was excellent, the food outstanding. The overall atmosphere was lovely. My photo is of the beautiful fig tree that stands at the hotel entrance. That alone is worth a visit for some :) We’ll be happy to come back.”
“Always a great experience and meal at Orto, strongly recommended!”
Drive-Thru Restaurants
“We went on a rainy day and with our pet. They accommodated us on the side patio that was covered and away from other guests. The service was very smooth and the food was excellent. We were checked in on periodically and not too often. Exactly as it should be. The dishes we ordered came our very well prepared and tasty! We would definitely return in the future.”
“Bodega Wine Bar has truly become my third place since moving here. Whether it’s daytime coffee or wine bar evenings, the staff consistently go out of their way to make it a welcoming, comfortable spot. Kelsey and Zack in particular stand out — they bring not just professionalism and great service, but a genuine warmth that makes every visit feel personal.
Here’s a little secret: underneath the excellent customer service, they’re just genuinely kind and caring people. That says a lot about a place, and it’s why Bodega isn’t just another bar or café — it’s a community. On top of that, it’s hands down the best coworking space I’ve ever had. I can’t recommend it enough.”
“My fiancé and I absolutely love this place! Every time we come in the area we drive 3 1/2 hours and this is our first stop every time! We were recently in town and we ate here twice between two days. The food is always consistent and so flavorful! It may look like a hole in the wall, but it is the best food around!”
“Asian-fusion brunch?! Yes!!!
There's a long list of dishes that I want to try. This morning, the 3 of us shared several dishes.
My favorite was the BACON sampler and mocha waffle. The eggs Benedict with bacon was okay. So was the egg scrambled. Just okay.
I think I'll come back and try more of the Asian-fusion items that's unique to this place. Pricey ($$$) because of the prime location on the corner Ocean & Olympic, just south of the 10 fry and the SM Pier. But a great place to entertain and impress.”
“My husband and I have been enjoying the best quality & freshest seafood at the Santa Monica Seafood Market & Cafe for over a decade or so . Whenever we feel like having seafood the only place that comes to mind is this establishment . The best oysters , and the Cioppino is superb !!!
The Crab Louie salad is divine. One of the best fish and chips in town . For your next seafood outing make reservations and go to the Santa Monica Seafood Market & Cafe !!!”
“The chef's restaurant is upscale but cozy, with only 5 tables, all across from the open air kitchen. The chef and waiter collaborate to serve you each dish, telling you the ingredients that go into each dish... like little stories. Such a special experience!”
Fine Dining
“Excellent service, amazing lobster 🦞 with crab rice. I just wish I was given the prices before agreeing on the upgrade. I ordered a family for 2 and CJ server offered to make it 3ppl. I was kinda surprised with my bills and how the restaurant dictate the gratuity %….Overall, I love dining in this restaurant because we were welcome and were given a great and warm reception. Thank you to the staff who made us feel special especially to CJ she was amazing. Indeed, the most expensive meal I have eaten lol it’s worth it.”
“I will like to give a shout out to the chef. I think his name is Shawn or Sean. When we got to Santa Monica, we looked up restaurants to go have our 26 year anniversary dinner, we stayed at Hotel Delmar right across the street. We googled the restaurant menu, and decided what we were going to have. when we got there, and they brought out the menus, all what we decided to have was not on there. I was crushed. Because I had my mind set on the Halibut. I said it's ok I will just have the Ribeye, mind you I had a ribeye steak the night before. When the waiter came back, my wife asked if it's possible to get the Halibut and he said let me check with the chef. He came back later and said the chef said it's no problem. I was blown away. That was the best Halibut ( besides mine) that I have ever had. Thank you chef Shawn. From one chef to another, thank you. you made my night.”
“Had an incredible experience this evening at BOA. Mr. Ousley seated our party in the best seats! My server Mark was outstanding and his service was spot on. Clay and his whole team were On Point. The whole vibe and atmosphere was just perfect. I think I just had the best steak of my life right here in Santa Monica.”
“This rundown will ensure you enjoy the greatness of Capo. Start with the Filet Tartare accompanied by the grilled Ceaser. Move on to a split pasta plate of the Ragu and Corn Ravioli with truffles. Finish up with the Veal Scallopini while knocking back the last few sips of the incredible Grenache. Yes. I recommend Capo.”
“I have travelled to Japan 10x in 2 years, this is on par if not better food wise than any trip to Osaka, Tokyo, Kyoto. The authenticity as it relates to the space, the chefs, even the toilet makes me feel like I’m thousands of miles away. You’d be doing yourself a disservice not coming here.”
Cheap Eats
“Such yummy food and chill atmosphere. The only problem is the close at 8pm when it’s still light outside?!? I’ve seen them turn away several customers many many times. I think it was a covid thing originally so hopefully they go back to more normal hours. At least stay open until 9pm please 🙏🏻!”
“I write for a music and coffee blog called Crooners In Coffeeshops, in which I interview local musicians at local coffeeshops. My writeup reflects the positive experience that I encountered at Caffe Luxxe on our interview date. L.A. based small batch coffee roaster Caffe Luxxe is wonderful example of what can grow from the powerful bond of friendship, specifically one that spans decades like that of owners Mark Wain and Gary Chau. Taking the chance to quit their corporate jobs in 2006, they’ve been able to fuel their business from their personal relationship and their love for European luxury caffe culture. A fun fact, Caffe Luxxe is the first of its kind in L.A. for artisan coffee preparation, and boy golly, it is not one to miss at any of its So Cal locations. The coffee world is your oyster when picking your beverage of choice from their delectable menu of drips, pour overs, and a unique variety of Bevande Di Caffe (including a chocolate-y shaken Caffe Shakerato, a sparkling espresso Caffe Frizzante, and a spiced citrus Caffe Nico). If seasonal specials are your thing, have no fear, because they’ve got those covered too! What more could you ask for?”
“Got the breakfast burrito with the hot sauce on the side and a brown sugar latte. The burrito is so good. A thoughtful amount of avocado, cheese, bacon, hash browns, and pico. I should have had it with the hot sauce inside. The hot sauce is like a smokey, vinegar base sauce, just enough spice to taste everything and not too overwhelming at all. For those with heartburn, get it inside the burrito, you can thank me later. They didn't open right up at 8 but it was such a nice morning, I didn't mind a leisurely start to the day. Very friendly staff, other customers waiting were kind as well. Once the workout classes in the gym get started, you get to jam out. Dog friendly picnic area just watch out for the exercise class cuz they do run through their shared entrance. Overall great spot, highly recommend!”
“If you are looking for halal Mexican food, that's the right address. I always take my guests to any of the Papi restaurants if they want to try Mexican cuisine - but I like the Santa Monica vibes more. Definitely recommended! And don't skip their beverages, each of them is an authentic gem.”
“The Baseline: For a seafood fast casual restaurant the fish/seafood needs to be fresh, the presentation of the food should be comforting and respect the delicacy of the seafood, and there must be a selection of accompanying offerings.
Food: The lobster is high quality here and the preparation is excellent. The Lobster Roll sampler is really good to try the different preparations. The full lobster roll is meaty and filling. The chips are nice but wish I had fries. The soda selection is awesome (got a Maine Blueberry soda). The price is what you get when you order the lobster.
Service: Counter order deliver to your table service. Good and efficient.
Ambiance: The restaurant is really well presented and has good decor. The bathroom was clean. The seating was well laid out and the lighting was good in the restaurant. Unfortunately, the outside is Santa Monica 2025 and is sketchy at night (not the restaurant’s fault)”
“The Library Alehouse is fantastic! A great all-American pub in Santa Monica with a beautiful back patio space, a great selection of food, and Russian River craft beers!”
“Thank goodness for Offhand! A much-needed natural wine bar for the west side. While there are always people here, you can always find a spot to sit no problem. They do a great job of rotating and featuring natural wine, most of which are from California/the west coast — through them, I learned that my hometown has a natural winemaker I’d never known about! Definitely order the grilled cheese, it’s simple yet delicious.
( Also since I always check reviews for happy hour info — theirs is from 5-7 Monday through Saturday :) )”
“Asian-fusion brunch?! Yes!!!
There's a long list of dishes that I want to try. This morning, the 3 of us shared several dishes.
My favorite was the BACON sampler and mocha waffle. The eggs Benedict with bacon was okay. So was the egg scrambled. Just okay.
I think I'll come back and try more of the Asian-fusion items that's unique to this place. Pricey ($$$) because of the prime location on the corner Ocean & Olympic, just south of the 10 fry and the SM Pier. But a great place to entertain and impress.”
“Wow! What an awesome dining experience! The ravioli sampler was exquisite! We couldn’t decide which was our favorite as they were all uniquely delicious and delicate. A romantic atmosphere. Really glad we found this restaurant while visiting LA!”
“Great Mexican food!
We love their octopus and sugar cane filets. Very authentic tastes. Only one downside is the kids salmon is a bit too salty. Other than that everything is great with Sol Agave! Recommend this place if visiting Santa Monica!
Tip: REMEMBER to validate your parking ticket to get 90 minutes free parking.
Kid-friendliness: Yes”
“Fantastic food and really great beer on tap! We had salad and pizza and it was all amazing. Staff were fantastic. I had a toddler with me and they were fun and engaging and helpful with him. Would highly recommend going here.”
“Delightful little Restaraunt, a half a block from the three sisters in, with wonderful housemaid, pastas and other Italian dishes. Curated wine list. Excellent service. Had a wonderful meal! ”
“Had a wonderful time dining here! ⭐️ The wrapped prawns were absolutely delicious; definitely the star of the meal! The steak 🥩 and eggs 🍳 were decent, nothing too special but still enjoyable. Service overall was fantastic — friendly and attentive”
“Fun Saturday brunch in Santa Monica. The endless mimosas are the bomb and the food was delicious and nicely presented. The Lobster Benedict was amazing and then I finished it off with the French Toast served with bourbon whipped cream, candied pecans and crumbled bacon. Enjoyable time in a rustic environment. Vote for “Pedro” our amazing waiter who kept our glasses full.”
“We had three different types of pasta and all of if them were delicious. Our son has picked this restaurant and it was a very good choice.
Towards the end we had a very nice chat with the boss and she gave us also great tips for our future journey.”
“10/10 Recommend. When I’m in the area, I always gravitate to this spot. I love everything on the menu.”
“Sat down in an outdoor patio for a quick glass of wine and bruschetta Saturday afternoon. Pleasant and helpful wait staff, relaxing environment, definitely recommend!”
“So friendly! So great! So yummy! The Spicy Cold Tofu special is amazing! �����”
“XUNTOS is one of those great neighborhood gems. It's a perfect mix of intimate and lively. The staff is so friendly and welcoming you feel like you're at home. The food is excellent and they have a great selection of wine. It's a perfect date night spot or a place to celebrate a special occasion.”
“They are by far the best steak I have ever had. We went there on a whim and they were booked but found a cute table for us by the fire. It was the most memorable meal with my husband. We are eternally grateful for the experience and service we received.”
“What a fantastic plate of oysters. The horseradish was hand grated. Has a lobster roll as well with thin fries with old bay. Service was great food was super fast.”
“Always great times! Wonderful people, fabulous world class live music & sweet vibes. A real community feel. Filled with music lovers. Definitely a staple LA hott spot. Keep Supporting live music! 🔥🎶”
“Best steak and service . Say hi to Hillary she is the best !!!”
“Bodega Wine Bar has truly become my third place since moving here. Whether it’s daytime coffee or wine bar evenings, the staff consistently go out of their way to make it a welcoming, comfortable spot. Kelsey and Zack in particular stand out — they bring not just professionalism and great service, but a genuine warmth that makes every visit feel personal.
Here’s a little secret: underneath the excellent customer service, they’re just genuinely kind and caring people. That says a lot about a place, and it’s why Bodega isn’t just another bar or café — it’s a community. On top of that, it’s hands down the best coworking space I’ve ever had. I can’t recommend it enough.”
“Incredible experience - The staff were so accommodating and the food was genuinely the best Chinese I've ever had.
I had the soup dumplings which were so good I ordered seconds, followed by the pork belly bun which was recommended to me and I couldn't have been more happy!
I'm annoyed I only came across this place on the last day of my trip in LA or I would've come multiple times
HIGHLY RECOMMEND!”
“I love the vibe in this restaurant! Very surfer chic. I ended up coming here two days in a row for brunch. I had the breakfast sandwich and the breakfast burrito. Both was solid. I would be interested in coming back to check out their dinner or happy hour menu”
“If you want to go to a bar with perfect seating, great airflow, excellent drinks, flawless service l, a fantastic DJ, a parking lot, a nyc vibe, no one rushes you and you can even reserve a table for drinks…go to the Chestnut Club. My favorite new bar. 14th & Santa Monica Blvd @TheChestnutClub same owners as scopa and black market liquor!”
“I'm a huge fan of cheese, and was looking for an opportunity to try some new ones. They had a very bold Parmesan that wasn't overly salty. The 10 year aged cheddar melted in my mouth. The coconut Gouda from Holland was a surprise hit with the table. But my personal favorite was the french triple cream. I'm going to have to see if I can find some when I fly home.”
“I finally tried this burger spot, and while it wasn’t the best burger on earth or even in all of LA, it was still damn good. Pricey? A bit. Worth it? Yeah, I’d say so. The patty was tender and juicy, and the mix of cheeses with those tangy balsamic onions and peppery arugula hit just right. And here’s the kicker: this was my first burger ever without ketchup… and I didn’t even miss it. That says a lot.”
“The Baklava when I first saw it made my mouth water. When I ate it, it was a world of waterfalls. I had flashbacks of traveling in summer to Europe. I bought one for all my friends as a surprise, the table was quiet with smiles.”
“I have been coming to Kanpai for over 15 years. They finally opened up a location in Santa Monica. The most important Takeaway about this restaurant is the wide variety of exotic Japanese sushi sashimi. They have incredible seasonal type shellfish, and a variety of fish that you will not ordinarily get at any other sushi restaurant. I highly recommend this restaurant to the real Japanese sushi enthusiast.”
“I recommend the Bbq chicken, Rack of Ribs and Brisket overall everything I ordered was delicious.”
“Excellent food and highest recommendation! Francis was a great server! When I return back to Santa Monica I will return back here and try other items.”
“Great sushi place. Did one of the several course tasting options.”
“Excellent food!! SO good and such great selections on the menu! Service was over the top! Wish there was one in the OC. We will be back!”
“We went on a rainy day and with our pet. They accommodated us on the side patio that was covered and away from other guests. The service was very smooth and the food was excellent. We were checked in on periodically and not too often. Exactly as it should be. The dishes we ordered came our very well prepared and tasty! We would definitely return in the future.”
“Brusselse spruitjes waren heerlijk! De ober dacht mee over de verdeling van onze gerechten en stelde voor om vooraf de spruiten en de pesto cheese knobs te nemen. Goede keus!”
“Yum! I have to admit, I did not realize it was vegetarian when I walked in. I decided to give it a try anyway. I ordered the mato monster. The flavor was amazing! I couldn’t tell if all of that flavor was coming from the bread or the sauce on the sprouts…but it was amazing. Service was great too.”
“A friend and I visited Il Forno Trattoria last Saturday. After we left, my friend realised she had lost her grandmother's ring, of great sentimental value. We telephoned the restaurant even though it had already closed for the night, and the team immediately invited us back to search. When we arrived, the staff were cleaning up but had already started to look for the ring and helped us look through the restrooms and, kitchen. At least three or four employees actively helped, including providing gloves and helping us go through the trash to ensure it was lost in a restroom trash can. It was clear that everyone was genuinely concerned and willing to do whatever they could. Although the ring was not found, their professionalism, empathy, and willingness to stay late and actively help without question have left a lasting impression. I mustn’t forget the meal itself had been excellent: well‑prepared dishes, attentive yet unobtrusive service, and a well‑chosen wine list. Taken together with the staff’s extraordinary support, the experience showed Il Forno Trattoria at its best. It is the epitome of excellent service. Whether you are looking for quality Italian cuisine or a restaurant where the team truly cares about its guests, I cannot recommend Il Forno Trattoria highly enough.”
“Had an incredible experience this evening at BOA. Mr. Ousley seated our party in the best seats! My server Mark was outstanding and his service was spot on. Clay and his whole team were On Point. The whole vibe and atmosphere was just perfect. I think I just had the best steak of my life right here in Santa Monica.”
“Excellent service, amazing lobster 🦞 with crab rice. I just wish I was given the prices before agreeing on the upgrade. I ordered a family for 2 and CJ server offered to make it 3ppl. I was kinda surprised with my bills and how the restaurant dictate the gratuity %….Overall, I love dining in this restaurant because we were welcome and were given a great and warm reception. Thank you to the staff who made us feel special especially to CJ she was amazing. Indeed, the most expensive meal I have eaten lol it’s worth it.”
“What an AMAZING place. Went for dinner last night. Beautiful intimate vibe, nice staff (owner was there too, super nice and takes a lot of pride in their food), and delicious food. Got the lentils, risotto and trout -- all were great -- American with an Indian twist. Happy I found it. Will definitely be back”
“The cold platter was fantastic! Love the atmosphere. Love the decor. Great experience!”
“Tu Madre was a perfect pick for our team dinner. They accommodated a party of nine with zero hassle, seated us quickly, and kept the service smooth and attentive all night. The menu has great variety, the mezcal margaritas were spot-on, and every taco we tried was excellent. Do not skip the truffle guacamole—it’s a must. Ambiance was lively but comfortable, with lounge-y music at just the right volume so we could actually talk. All around, great experience for large groups.”
“Fabulous hyper-farm-to-table food by a creative chef, on Main St in Santa Monica. I’ve tried the Gazpacho, the many Danish Rye toasts with what is fresh that day: eggs, salmon roe, avocado or ....? They also have baristas that make all type of drinks. My fab place to indulge healthy and fresh”
“I love it here because it’s old fashion great table service because management excels in traffic patterns with cross trained wait staff and bidders. No server leaves the kitchen empty handed and the vibe is to make their customers happy with continuous even flow table service. Disney please take note! I am not of of millennial restaurants where stand at a cash register and pay the tip upfront then assigned a number & number holder then fend & elbow for a table. This is old school service upgraded with innovative traffic management to expedite cuisines & cocktails. I love the intimacy of the raised railroad car booths where I can actually hear my guest’s conversation and speak to wait staff at eye level. And the bathrooms are so modern and spotless! The observation window to see the cooking staff hard at work is as much fun as a cooking show! Chocolate chip cookies are warm but melt in your mouth! Gavin Glynn Productions FOX Walt Disney International”
“Amazing little spot in Santa Monica! Came here a few days ago thinking I must give this a 5 stars defo. Super fresh and authentic sushi and food, cozy vibe, and really friendly staff. Prices are great too, highly recommend!”
Latest Reviews
“Normally, I love this Starbucks BUT today I left feeling disrespected. Every day, I order 1 or 2 triple espressos with 1/4"milk and extra foam. It was not crowded, no rush, and I ordered espresso with only foam to make it easier. But one barista, who knows me, said things were changing with the new CEO, my drink took too long to make and would stop, and it wasn't fair to other customers. What??? I sympathized with him the other day when there was a wrong order (not mine) and he got frazzled. As for my order, if someone can't measure 1/4 milk and just eyeballs it, that's not my fault. The crew that has been there is tops and this was a mistake. I don't think it's the vib that the new Speedbucks is supposed to send out. Cathy”
Most Popular Restaurants
“Asked for a view in a 3/4 empty room, was told 2 people couldn't have the corner seat. Was offered an inferior view so we left. Bad business to turn away a couple over seat preferences. We have never been to a Bubba Gump Shrimp restraunt before, will never return either. Too bad. Went across the pier to Seaside on the pier and have an excellent view.”
“the service is phenomenal lovely atmosphere, very clean, cleanliness is the next thing to Godliness. the staff is friendly, the waitresses are really nice just all around lovely place the view is off the chain thank you penthouse for a lovely breakfast and God bless yours truly Michael and Jeannie.”
“First time here. Enjoy our dinner, super yummy food and the great customer service from the bar manager . She was great at recommending and explaining our drink had an old fashioned with tequila, she even came back to ask how we liked it. We Never had an old fashioned with tequila and it was really good. The ambience of the place, didn’t have to wait to be seated. Highly recommend this place.”
“My wife and I went to the Grove in Los Angeles last night and we had dinner at "Sogno Toscana," an it was outstanding. It was perfect in every way; great food, great drinks, outstanding and friendly staff, beautiful location, etc. I love Italian food but I can't think of one Italian restaurant that I like, until "Sogno Toscano." The food was outstanding, and there was so much more we saw go by that we can't wait to go back and try. And the drinks were outstanding. I love martini's and they served the best martini I've ever had. Giacomo was our server and took great care of us. He's from Italy and "Sogno Toscana" brought him to America when they opened their New York restaurant, and now he's in LA for this new restaurant. Although very busy, the entire staff were very fun to be around, and most of them are Italian which is also great.”
New Restaurants
“Coffee is amazing, specifically the hojicha and the lattees. Pastries are delicious as well. Some are vegan and ask for some butter with your order.
The staff is super awesome, they remember your name and are super friendly.
For lunch the steak bah mi is my go to and it doesn't disappoint. It comes with a small broth to dip in and its delicious.
Highly recommend this spot.
Special shout out to Eli, dulce, Arlan!!”
“Coffee is incredible! We came almost everyday of our vacation in Santa Monica because of the amazing lattes and the wonderful owners, who explained the art that goes into making all of their products. The blueberry latte was my particular favorite but they were all delicious!!”
“I am Din Tai Fung’s biggest fan and the today went to the Santa Monica location located inside Santa Monica Place :) Stunning location and recommend sitting outside: the views are immaculate!! I got to try the new matcha jasmine latte which was a 10/10 for me. I appreciate the ceremonial grade matcha comes unsweetened and the jasmine milk tea is sweetened so it’s the perfect blend. Some of my personal favorites: shrimp fried rice, string beans, & crab xiao long bao, & cucumber salad :) Sam was our server today and he was an absolute gem!!’ So professional and nice!! I can tell this location has a great and strong management team. The way all the employees present themselves shows structure and genuineness. Can’t wait to be back again”
“Yum! I have to admit, I did not realize it was vegetarian when I walked in. I decided to give it a try anyway. I ordered the mato monster. The flavor was amazing! I couldn’t tell if all of that flavor was coming from the bread or the sauce on the sprouts…but it was amazing. Service was great too.”
“In a city drowning in “elevated” this and “inspired” that, Holy Basil Santa Monica stands out by being deeply personal, wildly flavorful, and completely itself. The room has a warm glow, and the whole experience feels like being invited to the chef’s house on a night they’re only cooking for people they genuinely like.
Nothing here tiptoes. The Tom Yum risotto shows up with crab, heat, and zero apologies. The Nam Tok beef broth is a full architectural feat—layered, balanced, and bold. Even the small plates overperform like they’re auditioning for Chef’s Table.
There are no substitutions because, honestly, the dishes are already dialed in. You’re here to trust them, not negotiate.
The vibe lands somewhere between casual neighborhood hang and dinner at your impossibly cool friend’s place—the one who drops “Bangkok” into conversation the way other people mention Trader Joe’s.
In short: Holy Basil Santa Monica serves Thai with swagger, heat, and confidence—the kind usually reserved for surfers who can actually surf.”
“I love stopping here for a treat anytime I’m walking down Main or want to grab a quick coffee or snack to enjoy by the beach. Destiny is always so helpful and friendly, and makes my day extra bright (and also cappuccinos are top-tier! Even with almond milk the foam is always perfect).”
Recommended


“Excellent food and fantastic service😊”