Best Restaurants in Santa Monica

Pacific Coast Highway Travel picks ten of the best restaurants in Santa Monica, including Californian, Asian, vegetarian, Italian, and seafood choices.

The Lobster Restaurant on Santa Monica Pier

Choosing the best restaurants in Santa Monica isn’t easy as there are plenty to pick from, and it also depends on your budget and your mood. Do you want seafood, Italian, vegetarian, or do you want to eat on Santa Monica Pier? In our view, that’s the best location in town. But whichever you want, our list has got you covered.

Best Restaurants in Santa Monica

Rustic Canyon

Sample Dishes at the Rustic Canyon Restaurant in Santa Monica

This cozy and inviting restaurant features a seasonal menu focusing on locally-sourced, sustainable ingredients. The decor is warm and rustic, with exposed brick walls and wood accents. Must-try dishes include the Beet Salad with avocado and pistachio, and the Grilled Pork Chop with polenta and roasted vegetables.

Cuisine: Californian

Address: 1119 Wilshire Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90401

Phone: (310) 393-7050

Website: rusticcanyonrestaurant.com

Cassia

The Chili Crab Dip at the Cassia Restaurant

Cassia offers a vibrant, lively atmosphere with an open kitchen and industrial-chic decor. The menu combines Southeast Asian flavors with French techniques, resulting in unique, flavorful dishes. Signature items include the Vietnamese Pot Au Feu, Charcuterie Fried Rice, and Spicy Coconut Seafood Stew.

Cuisine: Southeast Asian/French

Address: 1314 7th St, Santa Monica, CA 90401

Phone: (310) 393-6699

Website: cassiala.com

The Lobster

Dessert at the Lobster Restaurant on Santa Monica Pier

Located on the Santa Monica Pier, The Lobster offers stunning ocean views and a classic seafood dining experience. The decor is elegant yet casual, with floor-to-ceiling windows and a large outdoor patio. Must-try dishes include the Lobster Roll, Oysters on the Half Shell, and Grilled Whole Branzino.

Cuisine: Seafood

Address: 1602 Ocean Ave, Santa Monica, CA 90401

Phone: (310) 458-9294

Website: thelobster.com

Forma Restaurant and Cheese Bar

Cheese Board at the Froma Restaurant

Forma offers a warm, inviting atmosphere with rustic Italian decor and an extensive cheese selection. The menu features handmade pasta dishes and traditional Italian favorites. Signature dishes include the Chitarra Cacio e Pepe, prepared tableside in a wheel of Parmigiano-Reggiano, and the Raviolo Al' Uovo with ricotta and egg yolk.

Cuisine: Italian

Address: 1610 Montana Ave, Santa Monica, CA 90403

Phone: (424) 231-2868

Website: formasantamonica.com

Elephante

The Elephante Restaurant

This rooftop restaurant offers stunning views of the Santa Monica coastline and a chic, coastal-inspired decor. The menu features Italian dishes with a California twist, focusing on fresh, seasonal ingredients. Must-try items include the Wood-Fired Pizza, Grilled Branzino, and Burrata with grilled peaches and prosciutto.

Cuisine: Italian, Coastal

Address: 1332 2nd St, Santa Monica, CA 90401

Phone: (424) 320-2384

Website: elephantela.com

Chez Jay

Chez Jay Restaurant in Santa Monica

This classic, old-school seafood restaurant has been a Santa Monica staple since 1959. The decor is vintage and nautical-themed, with cozy booths and a lively bar area. Signature dishes include the Clams Casino, Lobster Thermidor, and Sautéed Sand Dabs.

Cuisine: Seafood

Address: 1657 Ocean Ave, Santa Monica, CA 90401

Phone: (310) 395-1741

Website: chezjays.com

The Hive Superfood Eats & Organic Café

The Hive Superfood Eats & Organic Café in Santa Monica

This trendy, all-vegetarian restaurant offers a fresh, innovative menu in a bright, modern space. The decor features colorful accents, plants, and a buzzing, energetic atmosphere. Must-try dishes include the Avocado Toast with watermelon radish and sprouts, Cauliflower Wings with buffalo sauce, and the Impossible Burger.

Cuisine: Vegetarian

Address: 606 Broadway #100, Santa Monica, CA 90401

Phone: (310) 899-6030

Website: thehivesm.com

Chinois on Main

Chinois on Main Restaurant

Chinois offers a fusion of Chinese and French cuisines in a sleek, modern setting. The decor features bold colors, contemporary art, and an open kitchen. Signature dishes include the Shanghai Lobster with curry sauce, Szechuan Beef, and the Curried Oysters with cucumber sauce.

Cuisine: Asian Fusion

Address: 2709 Main St, Santa Monica, CA 90405

Phone: (310) 392-9025

Website: wolfgangpuck.com/dining/chinois-santa-monica

Mélisse

Superb Presentation at the Melisse

This upscale French restaurant has two Michelin stars and offers a refined, elegant dining experience with impeccable service and attention to detail. The decor is sophisticated and understated, with crisp white tablecloths and soft lighting. The menu features classic French dishes with a modern twist, such as the Dover Sole with lemon caper butter, Foie Gras Terrine, and Beef Tenderloin Rossini.

Cuisine: French, Californian

Address: 1104 Wilshire Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90401

Phone: (310) 395-0881

Website: citrinandmelisse.com

Water Grill

Halibut as Served at the Water Grill

Santa Monica's Water Grill offers a classic and elegant ambience with a nautical twist. Think warm woods, iron finishes, and subtle nods to the ocean throughout the dining area. The menu is a seafood lover's dream, featuring fresh catches that change daily. Imagine succulent Chilean sea bass, perfectly cooked Maine lobster, or decadent crab cakes alongside a raw bar selection boasting plump oysters and shellfish.

Cuisine: Seafood

Address: 1500 Ocean Park Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90405

Phone: (310) 452-2555

Website: watergrill.com/sm

Check out this Fodor's guide to Los Angeles, which also covers Santa Monica, Malibu, and Disneyland

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