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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Top picks in Santa Monica

Authentic spots

There is a specific comfort in eating a meal prepared exactly the way it is made back at the source.

Based on 850 Opinions
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01
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Spacious Mexican restaurant offers authentic flavors with generous portions and good prices. Stunning design and beautiful decor create a cozy yet lively atmosphere. Soft music and a large screen TV showing NBA games add to the family-friendly vibe.

Food comes out fresh and packed with authentic Mexican flavor. The blend of upscale looks with genuine taste creates a unique dining experience. Generous portions and good prices add to the appeal.

People are saying

"The food here is so flavorful and truly authentic Mexican."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers margarita and taco specials.

2

Santa Monica charges a 10.75% city tax on all bills.

3

The menu features a variety of innovative burritos and tacos.

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Cozy space with lofted seating and unique wall art sets a calm, work-friendly vibe with soft jazz. Breakfast shines with authentic Menemen perfectly seasoned. Atmosphere blends big city classiness and a homey, genuine feel.

Breakfast offers authentic Menemen with perfect seasoning. The atmosphere feels homey and unique, creating a genuine experience.

People are saying

"The staff here is so friendly, they make you feel like family."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required but recommended during peak hours.

2

Expect a wait during weekend brunch hours, especially after 10am.

3

The cafe accepts credit cards and mobile payments, but not personal checks.

03
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Roman-style pizza shines with authentic Italian taste and premium quality dough. Friendly vibe and amazing decor create a warm, inviting space. Both thin and thick crust options satisfy diverse pizza lovers.

Pizzas deliver an authentic Italian taste with a delicious flavor that stands out. The recipes stick closely to traditional methods and ingredients.

People are saying

"The authentic Italian pizza here uses the best quality ingredients."

Good to know

1

Pizza Fling uses premium ingredients imported from Italy, including San Marzano tomatoes.

2

The pizza style is Roman, featuring both thin and thick crust options.

3

There are both indoor and outdoor seating options available.

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Sushi spot offers a cozy atmosphere with authentic ramen and genuine sushi flavors. Spacious seating and a quiet vibe make dining personal and relaxed. Friendly staff enhance the welcoming feel for a top-notch experience.

Dishes combine authentic Japanese flavors with some western touches. Ramen stands out as notably authentic compared to other spots. Sushi also delivers a genuine taste true to traditional styles.

People are saying

"I thought the Japanese food here was delicious and authentic."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers 50% off on all hand rolls until 6 PM.

2

Reservations are required to meet a $50 per person minimum on weekends.

3

Parking is available in a small lot behind the restaurant.

05
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Hundreds of electronic candles create a cozy, intimate vibe filled with history. Talented musicians deliver emotional shows with superb acoustics. Authentic flamenco shines through powerful dance full of passion and love.

Performances feature authentic flamenco with powerful and sensual dance. Shows last about an hour and brim with passion and love.

People are saying

"I experienced an authentic flamenco performance filled with passion."

Good to know

1

Parking is close by, inexpensive, and abundant.

2

The performance lasts one hour, showcasing authentic flamenco.

3

The venue is intimate and has easy access to parking.

06
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Small space with eclectic decor offers a cozy, authentic vibe. Enjoy authentic Turkish cuisine like doner and iskender alongside specialty coffee in a quiet, inviting atmosphere. Perfect for relaxing or catching up with friends.

Authentic Turkish cuisine shines with doner and iskender dishes. The Turkish coffee and overall cultured vibes add to the genuine experience.

People are saying

"It's got such authentic vibes, really cultured compared to other spots."

Good to know

1

Parking is metered and only allows 20 minutes on the same side of the coffee shop.

2

They serve breakfast and drinks only, with an expanded menu on weekends.

3

Seating is limited, so expect a small space if visiting during busy hours.

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Small Mexican spot serves authentic tacos with bold flavors and Spanish decor. Casual vibe with paper plate service keeps it family-friendly and quick. Mexican tunes and local sports on TV add to the welcoming atmosphere.

Flavors hit with authentic Mexican taste in every dish. Spanish phrases on the walls add to the genuine vibe. Tacos and burritos come through as true to Mexico.

People are saying

"I found the food to be authentic Mexican cuisine."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers a 1 plus 1 deal on tacos.

2

Specials are available Monday through Friday with $2 off select items.

3

Street parking is available, but can be hard to find.

08
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Bright space with soaring ceilings and soft jazz sets a calm mood. Handmade pasta offers an authentic Italian taste, especially the rich truffle dish. Outdoor courtyard adds charm, blending elegance with a relaxed vibe.

Handmade pasta and quality ingredients create a truly authentic Italian experience. The truffle pasta stands out with its rich, creamy flavor that feels fresh and genuine.

People are saying

"I found the food to be amazing and authentic Italian."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm on weekdays with discounted drinks.

2

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

3

Expect a 20% service charge for large parties of six or more.

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Small sushi bar offers authentic Japanese ambience with fresh, high-quality fish served in generous portions. Intimate and cozy, it stays relaxed and friendly even when crowded. Chefs prepare sushi traditionally, ensuring a true taste experience.

Authentic Japanese ambience sets the tone with authentic Japanese chefs working the sushi counter. Sushi offers authentic Japanese sushi made with high quality ingredients.

People are saying

"The sushi here is so authentic, it feels like you're in Japan."

Good to know

1

Reservations are strongly advised due to high demand.

2

Sushi King tends to be quite crowded, especially on weekends.

3

Expect long wait times if you arrive without a reservation.

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Cozy spot with family-owned vibe and a colorful wall mural sets a warm tone. Menu shines with authentic Oaxacan dishes like birria tacos and tlayuda, delivering genuine flavors. Clean design and good music create a standout fast casual Mexican experience.

Vibrant Oaxacan dishes like tlayuda and authentic tacos deliver a truly traditional Mexican taste. The food offers an authentic Oaxacan vibe that feels genuine and satisfying.

People are saying

"I loved the authentic Oaxacan food, especially the flavorful mole."

Good to know

1

There are no restrooms available at SaMo’s Oaxaca.

2

Parking is a little dense in that small strip mall.

3

A simple burrito costs almost twenty dollars with a can of soda.

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Small, cozy spot offers authentic Oaxacan flavors with fresh, well-seasoned dishes like mole. Family-run vibe shines through casual, relaxed atmosphere despite loud juice machines. Outdoor seating includes a dog-friendly table, perfect for pet owners.

Food features authentic Oaxacan flavors with dishes like mole that are hard to find elsewhere. Every item is impeccably seasoned and fresh, delivering genuine Mexican breakfast and traditional meals.

People are saying

"The authentic Mexican breakfast food here is delicious and filling."

Good to know

1

Yagul Cafe is a family-owned establishment known for its authentic Oaxacan cuisine.

2

The cafe seats around 30 people, making it an intimate dining experience.

3

Expect to pay around $20 for chicken enchiladas, which may be considered small in portion.

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Small artisan bakery offers authentic Parisian pastries with a true French texture in croissants. Warm, cozy atmosphere and rustic decor create a joyous vibe. Lines form quickly for exceptional croissants rivaling those in Paris.

Croissants here have a true French texture and flavor. The bakery showcases a beautiful display window filled with authentic Parisian pastries.

People are saying

"I missed my daily bread and croissant fix; it's so authentic French."

Good to know

1

Expect long lines, especially during weekends and mornings.

2

The croissants sell out quickly, so arrive early.

3

There are no tables available; it's primarily a grab-and-go bakery.

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Spanish restaurant blends authentic tapas with a romantic atmosphere featuring live guitar and soft lighting. Wine choices like red sangria enhance the genuine flavors, making it perfect for quiet dates and savoring true Spanish tastes.

Spanish dishes feature authentic flavors true to Spain. Imported manchego cheese adds rich, genuine taste to several plates. Tapas offer a classic, authentic experience hard to find elsewhere.

People are saying

"I found authentic Spanish tapas, it was hard to find."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to secure a table, especially on weekends.

2

Happy hour runs from 5:00 pm to 6:30 pm with good deals on food and drinks.

3

Parking is available in lot 11, a short walk from the restaurant.

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Elegant Italian dining blends authentic flavors with a warm, inviting atmosphere. Indoor and outdoor seating create a romantic vibe that feels like an Italian home. Classic East Coast energy adds to the genuine charm of the experience.

Food offers authentic Italian flavors with a strong European influence. Dishes consistently deliver delicious and genuine tastes that are hard to find elsewhere.

People are saying

"The food here is incredible and authentic Italian."

Good to know

1

Reservations are available for same-day dining, but it's best to call ahead.

2

The restaurant has both indoor and outdoor seating options.

3

Parking can be difficult during busy times, so plan accordingly.

15
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Cozy art deco space offers authentic tapas with true Spanish flavors. Warm lighting sets a lively yet intimate vibe upstairs. Extensive vermouth and cocktail selection complements the genuine experience.

Tapas here are excellent and very authentic, closely matching traditional Spanish flavors. The food consistently delivers a genuine Spanish experience.

People are saying

"I found the Spanish food here to be very authentic."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on busy evenings.

2

Happy hour is available on weekdays with a limited menu.

3

The restaurant adds a 4% employee benefits fee to the bill.

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Modern Mediterranean spot offers authentic Palestinian dishes like hummus and toum in a casual, serene atmosphere with visible kitchen action. Food is affordable and the space feels trendy yet relaxing.

Hummus, baba ghanoush, and toum stand out as authentic Palestinian dishes here. The food feels genuine and brings a strong sense of home with its traditional flavors.

People are saying

"The food here is so authentic, it feels like home."

Good to know

1

Pita House Inc is halal and kosher, making it suitable for diverse dietary needs.

2

Expect a wait time during peak hours, especially on weekends.

3

The food is affordable, with prices generally under $20 per meal.

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Outdoor seating in a local courtyard sets a chill vibe for casual hangs. Gelato offers authentic Italian flavors with generous portions in cute waffle cones. Busy street location adds lively energy while keeping a relaxed feel.

Gelato here has a very good, authentic taste with high quality ingredients. It matches the authentic Italian ice cream experienced in Italy.

People are saying

"I loved the authentic Italian gelato here."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited; free street parking is available a few blocks away.

2

You cannot sit inside; outdoor seating is available.

3

Three scoops cost $7.50, and they charge extra for 'premium flavors'.

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Large interior with authentic Mexican aesthetic offers a casual, warm vibe. Tacos bring authentic flavors with generous portions. Plenty of seating and vegetarian options make it welcoming for all.

Tacos here deliver authentic Mexican flavors with generous portions. The food feels genuine and not gentrified, capturing classic tastes well.

People are saying

"I thought the Mexican food here was great and very authentic."

Good to know

1

Street parking is the only option available, with limited metered spots.

2

The restaurant offers a variety of vegetarian choices on the menu.

3

Expect a busy atmosphere, but wait times are generally short.

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Quaint Italian spot offers a cozy atmosphere with a lovely patio and soft music. Food shines with authentic flavors, especially the fresh bruschetta. Enjoy a calm, relaxed dining experience without loud noise or crowds.

Food captures the heart of authentic Italian cuisine with excellent quality and genuine flavors. The bruschetta stands out as fresh, flavorful, and truly authentic.

People are saying

"The food here is authentic Italian, bursting with fresh flavors."

Good to know

1

Happy hour features Italian beer like Peroni on tap.

2

An automatic 20% gratuity is added to all bills.

3

The restaurant charges $5 for card payments.

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Space blends Moroccan vibe with authentic Thai massage techniques, creating a calm, otherworldly atmosphere. Guests enjoy an infrared sauna and aromatic bubble baths while relaxing with complimentary tea and fruit. Rooms use curtains for a shared yet tranquil setting.

Treatments offer authentic Thai massage techniques with quality care that feels genuine. The spa maintains a soulful atmosphere reflecting true tradition.

People are saying

"I found the Thai massage treatments to be truly authentic and soulful."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for couples' treatments.

2

Parking is available in front of the spa for $4 with a 3-hour limit.

3

The spa does not have a steam room; instead, they soak you in a tub for 15-20 minutes.

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Tiny diner from the 1950s shines with authentic decor and classic tunes. Calm vibe invites quiet chatter and singing staff. Outdoor seating features a gazebo-covered patio and bar seats for solo diners.

Decor and music create an authentic American diner vibe. The venue offers a genuine diner food experience with a classic atmosphere.

People are saying

"The diner experience here feels so authentic."

Good to know

1

They now accept card and Google Pay for payments.

2

On Sunday at 10:30 am, the wait for two was not bad.

3

The pricing is very reasonable with good serving sizes.

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Traditional Korean decor sets a cozy atmosphere with lacquered tables and Raden walls. Hearty dishes like seolleongtang and bibimbap offer authentic flavors true to Korean soul food. Space feels roomy but lively, perfect for casual dining with generous portions.

Hearty dishes like seolleongtang, galbi-tang, and bibimbap deliver authentic Korean soul food. Portions are generous and flavors stay true to traditional recipes.

People are saying

"I found authentic Korean soul food here."

Good to know

1

Expect a 30-minute wait during peak dinner hours on weekends.

2

Parking is available in a small lot behind the building.

3

Prices are higher than average for Korean food in the area.

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Small sushi spot serves authentic sushi in a cozy atmosphere with friendly staff. Fresh fish shines in top-tier nigiri and unique rolls. Prices stay affordable, making it a great casual choice.

Sushi here offers authentic sushi in a small restaurant environment. Prices stay affordable compared to other spots.

People are saying

"I found the sushi here to be authentic and affordable."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers 30% off on most items, except Sundays.

2

Street parking is easily available near the restaurant.

3

The portion sizes are large, often enough for one person.

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Spacious sushi spot offers an authentic Japanese vibe with fresh, traditional sushi. Retro Showa decor and classic wood finishes create a cozy atmosphere. Modern jazz music adds a relaxing touch for casual or special dinners.

Spacious interior creates an authentic Japanese atmosphere. Sushi is fresh and prepared in a simple, traditional style.

People are saying

"The sushi here is so fresh and authentic."

Good to know

1

Noma Sushi does not accept reservations and is walk-in only.

2

The restaurant has a system for managing the waiting list.

3

Parking is limited, but there is a large parking area behind the restaurant.

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Vibrant indoor/outdoor seating and Mexican music create a lively vibe. Halal birria tacos offer authentic flavors with rich, traditional taste. Stunning artwork and pretty lights add to the cozy atmosphere that stays busy but chill.

Halal options include authentic birria tacos and burritos with rich, traditional flavors. Mexican street food offerings deliver genuine taste and a delicious, authentic experience.

People are saying

"I found the authentic tacos to be incredible and flavorful."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is 100% halal.

2

There is no restroom available for customers.

3

Four street size tacos with avocado cost $22.

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Mexican restaurant shines with authentic home-cooked flavors and a huge covered patio warmed by propane heaters. Walls show historical photos, adding a family vibe. Seating is tight, making the lively atmosphere noisy and casual.

Food here delivers authentic home-cooked Mexican flavors with every dish. The menu features flavorful, pocket-friendly options that reflect Central American culinary traditions.

People are saying

"I found the Mexican food here to be authentic and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in the back and on the street.

2

The restaurant gets really busy on weekends, expect longer wait times.

3

Indoor seating is limited, especially during peak hours.

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Cozy Mexican spot offers authentic flavors with fast, expressive service. Open-air front and traditional music create a warm vibe. Perfect for relaxed meals or casual drinks before the beach with a charming atmosphere.

Authentic Mexican food shines with comforting flavors and a genuine atmosphere. Service stays expressive and fast, matching the mid- to high-end vibe.

People are saying

"I loved the authentic Mexican food and atmosphere."

Good to know

1

An 18% gratuity is automatically added to bills for parties of two or more.

2

Prices are higher than average, with meals costing around $95 for two.

3

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers; check the timing.

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Minimalist design with traditional Japanese elements creates a serene, elegant space. Open kitchen adds interactive dining energy while booths offer privacy. Menu features high-quality izakaya dishes with authentic flavors, perfect for casual or intimate meals.

Elegant and serene ambience creates an immersive setting with authentic Japanese elegance and modern charm. The menu offers high-quality izakaya dishes true to traditional flavors.

People are saying

"The sushi here is so fresh and bursting with flavor."

Good to know

1

The Omakase experience offers a curated selection of sushi and sashimi.

2

A 22% service charge is automatically added to the bill.

3

Expect to pay around $35-$50 for udon dishes.

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Small, cozy spot with homemade Indian cuisine and Bengali specialties offers a relaxing, intimate vibe. Decor blends antique pictures and Bengali culture paintings with a slight industrial touch. Perfect for quiet dates and meeting locals.

Food tastes like homemade Indian cuisine with each plate made individually. Dishes are flavorful and authentic, including Bengali specialties prepared with care.

People are saying

"I found the Indian food here to be the best I'd tried in LA."

Good to know

1

The restaurant does not have restrooms available for customers.

2

There is no parking available at this location.

3

The medium spice level is on the spicier side, so adjust your order accordingly.

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Long, narrow space with intimate bar seating offers a cozy, authentic vibe. Romantic lighting highlights antique sake cups and skilled chefs, creating a genuine flavor experience. Minimal decor blends with thoughtful design for a distinct, traditional touch.

Cozy atmosphere creates an authentic dining experience with genuine flavors and traditional touches.

People are saying

"I found the Japanese food here to be truly authentic and unlike anything else."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs all day on Sunday with food and drink specials.

2

Most happy hour menu items are about $5 cheaper than regular prices.

3

They offer both early and late-night happy hour specials.

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