10 of the best restaurants in Santa Monica

Sarah Merle

Sarah is one of the creative minds behind the Le Petit Chef blog. With her authentic and approachable style, she enjoys sharing all kinds of experience-based activities.

Santa Monica is famous for its pier, its breathtaking sunsets, and also for its diverse restaurant options.

From cafés and creative street food to culinary experiences, this city offers everything. And often even with an ocean view. Here are our tips for the best restaurants in Santa Monica.

Tip #1:  Tar & Roses

One of our top 10 restaurants in Santa Monica is Tar & Roses.

Here, you can expect high-quality and creative dishes from Californian cuisine. It is especially great for a social evening, as the dishes are meant to be shared. In addition, the wine list is very appealing for all lovers.

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Tip #2: Water Grill

Typical food in Santa Monica: seafood. And the best you can get at the restaurant Water Grill.

With a view of the Pacific and just a few minutes from the Santa Monica Pier, it is ideally located for your perfect dinner. Especially the window seats with a view of the sunset are popular, so you should definitely make a reservation before your visit.

Enjoy a wide selection of fresh dishes!

Tip #3: BOA Steakhouse

One of the best places to enjoy a good steak in Santa Monica is BOA Steakhouse. The menu offers, among other things, premium steaks, Wagyu options, and dry-aged New York strip. In addition, there are various seafood dishes and delicious side dishes.

The outdoor terrace has an ocean view, and the atmosphere is elegant and stylish.

Tip #4: UOVO Santa Monica

One of the best Italian restaurants is UOVO Santa Monica. This restaurant specializes in fresh pasta that is prepared with ingredients from Italy.

Here, Italian cuisine is brought to life in a traditional way. From a delicious lunch to an elegant dinner, everything is possible here.

Tip #5: The Misfit Bar & Restaurant

The Misfit Restaurant + Bar is a trendy restaurant and bar in Santa Monica.

With the lively atmosphere, it is ideal for dinner and drinks. The kitchen serves you classic comfort food in an American way. This includes sandwiches, burgers, Mac & Cheese, and not to forget the creative cocktails.

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Continue reading to find out how Le Petit Chef will turn your next evening into an extraordinary experience you’ll be talking about for years to come.

Tip #6: LouLou Santa Monica

At LouLou Santa Monica, there is French-Mediterranean cuisine and that with great rooftop vibes.

At the Santa Monica Shopping Center, good taste in food and drinks meets an incredible view. There are different menu offerings for brunch, lunch, and dinner. A visit is especially worthwhile when an event with a live DJ takes place.

Tip #7: Sweet Maple

A very popular restaurant for breakfast and brunch in Santa Monica is Sweet Maple.

Here, American and Asian flavors are combined and served creatively. In addition to bacon, French toast, and croffles, there are also specialty lattes and refreshing drinks. It is near the Santa Monica Pier, making it a perfect spot for your break during a day at the beach.

Tip #8: Blue Plate Taco

Blue Plate Taco is a Mexican restaurant directly on Ocean Avenue in Santa Monica. Here, there is a selection from tacos, salads to quesadillas.

Everything is freshly prepared, and the dishes are light, making it perfect for the warm summer days in Santa Monica. The restaurant is very popular among locals, so a real insider!

Tip #9: Pier Burger

A true classic on the Santa Monica Pier is Pier Burger. It is a popular burger stand, where besides burgers, hot dogs, fries, and milkshakes are sold. True soul food for Americans.

The price, the location, and the taste come together perfectly and complement each other.

Tip #10: Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.

Here comes a special tip, because Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. is inspired by the world-famous film Forrest Gump.

The restaurant took inspiration from the film character Bubba, who talks about shrimp businesses. That’s why everything here revolves around shrimp dishes and other delicious seafood. The interior design also reflects the film’s look, making everything feel very authentic.

Our selection of restaurants is based, among other things, on the editorial team’s individual preferences and on reviews on the internet. Please contact the respective provider directly for information on reservations and prices. The pictures come from the restaurants listed. All Information is provided without guarantee!