Born & raised in Santa Monica...these are my go-to restaurants. Execellent experience every time.
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Santa Monica Restaurants
Santa Monica Restaurants
Pine room salad, mushroom meatloaf, crispy chicken sandwich, dip duo
R+D Kitchen
Cool “speak easy” vibe. Diner setting with gorgeous bar and comfy booths. Fried brussel sprouts, burger-OMG, roasted garlic app. So good. Cute gift shop too.
Diner Antonette
Our family favorite for over 30yrs. Quick, reliable, delish Mexican food. Plato’s de Carnitas, super mule with chicken, and chicken tostada are favorites. Good margs too.
Gilbert's El Indio Restaurant
It’s weird how a place can be elegant and casual at the same time. Roast Beef French dip is a fav. Grilled artichoke…YUM!!! Get a reservation STAT!!
Hillstone
We love to start with a variety of the crostini. The grilled peach burata salad is fabulous. Wood fire pizza is perfect combo of crusty and chewy crust. Love the outdoor seating on a warm breezy evening.
The Courtyard Kitchen
Must have a reservation as the views are spectacular…and everyone knows it. Parking across ther street or valet. Get a table closest as possible to the ocean side railing.
Élephante
Hard to get to BUT worth it for the views. If youre a tourist this is a must…just to be sitting overlooking the SM pier is the best.
The Lobster
Top of the Proper Hotel. Outdoor dining in the ocean breeze…no ocean view but I kinda feel like a celebrity when I go here as it feels exclusive.
Calabra Restaurant
Super romantic and cozy. Great Italian food. I got engaged right up the street over looking the ocean views after going to this restaurant.
Caffé Delfini
All the celebs hang out here…Beyonce, Justin Beiber. Hard to get a reservation and valet parking only, but very private and romantic. Food is excellent.
Giorgio Baldi
The BEST seafood…so fresh. Restaurant is in the market and a bit pricey…but you're getting quality fresh fish.
Santa Monica Seafood Market & Café
Beautiful setting and higher end meals. Great location and we love to sit outside. After dinner we walk the street to window shop Montana Ave.
TerraTorry
This place does a great business. Been here for ages and always popular. Great happy hour.