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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in Santa Monica

Seafood bars

Fresh oysters and a cold glass of wine are the only things that make sense when the craving for the coast hits.

Based on 715 Opinions
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01
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Long, narrow space with open kitchen and intimate bar seating offers a cozy, authentic vibe. Lighting creates a romantic atmosphere that highlights the antique sake cups and skilled chefs at work. The setting feels distinct from typical izakayas, blending minimal decor with thoughtful design.

Intimate bar seating offers a front-row view of skilled chefs preparing Japanese style bar food. The bartenders go above and beyond to accommodate, and the raw fish dishes stand out.

Fish and raw dishes feature incredible freshness and high quality ingredients. The Aburi Shime Saba offers a unique cured flavor, while happy hour includes garlic shrimp with a crunchy chili sauce.

People are saying

"The seafood here is unbelievably fresh."

"The Japanese bar food here is amazing and super tasty."

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.

02
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Frank Gehry-designed space offers a gorgeous architectural setting with chic decor and warm, comfortable vibes. Music from a DJ energizes the atmosphere, creating a lively and busy environment. Outdoor patio features vintage Los Angeles clips, adding a unique touch to the experience.

A chill grown-up spot with a beautiful interior featuring trees and soft lighting. The bar offers fantastic food and excellent service in a relaxed atmosphere.

Shrimp toast stands out as a crave-worthy dish. Fish tacos come in impressive portions and the crab garlic noodles add a solid seafood touch.

People are saying

"The seafood here, especially the shrimp toast, is rich, savory, and addictive."

"The bar's duck tacos and crab garlic noodles are delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers food and drinks for $10.

2

Parking is available, but not validated.

3

The restaurant has a family-style dining option for sharing.

03
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Open air dining with a large, heated patio creates a cozy Italian style atmosphere that invites lingering. The space combines a tasteful interior design with ample outdoor seating and a fire pit, supporting both lively and romantic vibes. A bar area complements the setting, making it suitable for casual drinks or date nights.

Exceptional bar menu curated by Brian Summers features incredible drinks and a raw bar with crudos like kampachi and buttery scallops. Bartenders and bar backs deliver phenomenal service with well-mixed drinks.

Uni butter and Spanish clams shine on the Lo Spagnolo Ricco pizza, while the blue fin appetizer and shrimp scampi deliver incredible flavor with high-quality seafood. Scallops and shrimp toast also stand out as phenomenal dishes among the seafood offerings.

People are saying

"The seafood specials here are packed with incredible flavor."

"The bartenders here make amazing drinks and give great recommendations."

Good to know

1

Reservation is highly recommended during weekends and peak hours.

2

Parking is available in the lot behind the restaurant with two hours of validation.

3

Happy Hour runs from 4 to 5 pm on weekdays.

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Spanish tapas bar offers a cozy art deco interior with soft warm lighting and a down-to-earth yet elegant vibe. The atmosphere ranges from loud and lively to more intimate upstairs seating, attracting those seeking authentic Spanish flavors paired with an extensive vermouth and cocktail selection.

Eating at the bar feels fun and lively with the owner often slicing ham behind the bar. The bar menu sometimes features sliders with crispy jamón that stand out.

Garlic shrimp and scallops in their shells stand out with fresh, rich flavors. The anchovy on brioche pairs salty fish with sweet bread for a unique bite.

People are saying

"The garlic shrimp and scallops were perfectly cooked."

"The bar's tapas, like the sliders and fried eggplant, are delicious."

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.

05
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Gastropub offers a library of craft beers with options like Pliny the Elder on tap and Russian River brews. Back patio features green plants and a quiet, comfortable space with dog-friendly seating. Interior feels warm and inviting but can be loud and crowded due to dense seating arrangements.

A library of craft beers defines the bar's selection, offering a limited but good range for beer lovers. The space includes a beautiful back patio and delivers solid pub food with a local pub vibe.

Fish and chips come in generous portions with a perfectly crispy texture. Fish tacos are crispy and highly praised, while shrimp tacos include a big serving of beans and rice.

People are saying

"The bar has a great selection of regional craft beers."

"I really enjoyed the perfectly crispy and tasty seafood."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm Monday to Friday with great deals.

2

Trivia night is held every Wednesday evening in the back area.

3

Parking can be challenging, but there are usually spots available nearby.

06
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Irish pub offers loud, lively atmosphere with many TVs showing sports and a heated outdoor patio. The vibe feels authentic and welcoming, filled with locals chatting and laughter. Noise levels rise late at night, creating a raucous energy especially on the patio.

Offers an authentic Irish pub experience with a lively, unpretentious vibe. Features cold Guinness, good food, and multiple TVs for watching sports like the Champions League.

Fish and chips come out crispy and golden without being greasy. Cod fish and chips vary but often hit the mark alongside salmon and wings.

People are saying

"This bar has so many TVs, it's great for watching games."

"The fish and chips here are crispy, golden, and not greasy."

Good to know

1

Trivia night happens every Wednesday at 7pm with a $5 entry fee.

2

The pub quiz on Mondays fills up quickly, so arrive early.

3

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

07
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Tiered flooring and panoramic ocean views create an elegant, inviting atmosphere with high ceilings and a large bar. Music from a DJ blends into the background, supporting a vibrant yet conversational vibe. Spaces range from lively patio areas to quiet, segregated rooms for intimate talks.

A large bar anchors the space with a charming sun room nearby. The atmosphere shifts from a dark back room to an airy, buzzy bar area, though service can be slow during busy times.

Fish dishes like Alexandria Fish and Branzino come out cooked to perfection. The salad and bread service complement the seafood well, and wine pairings match the fish nicely.

People are saying

"The bar's Mediterranean fare and dishes were perfection."

"The seafood here is cooked to perfection, especially the fish."

Good to know

1

Valet parking costs $25 if validated inside.

2

A mandatory 20% service charge is added to all bills.

3

Reservations are recommended to guarantee a spot, especially for outdoor seating.

08
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Seafood market combines fresh seafood displays with a lively oyster bar and casual dining space. Atmosphere balances bustling market energy with enough quiet for conversation. Offers a community hub vibe where people shop and eat in one place.

Oyster shucking happens right at the bar, which features a year-round oyster selection. The bar offers raw bar favorites like Mexican White Shrimp Cocktail and Purple Peruvian Scallops alongside wine and clam chowder.

Freshness stands out with consistently fresh fish and succulent seafood meals. The oysters and jumbo shrimp cocktail rank among the most notable dishes.

People are saying

"The seafood here is so fresh and delicious."

"The raw oyster bar is fun, lively, and perfect for oyster lovers."

Good to know

1

Parking is available at the back of the market.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours.

3

Prices for fresh seafood are comparable to upscale restaurants.

09
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Large outdoor patio offers an airy, dog-friendly space with heaters and warm fires for chilly nights. Smooth jazz music plays, creating a peaceful and warm vibe that suits groups and families. A special bar room in the back hosts celebrations, adding to the cozy atmosphere.

A lively bar area offers a lowkey vibe with a special room in the back for celebrations. The space feels super cute and tucked away near an airfield.

White shrimp ceviche and ahi tuna wontons stand out for their freshness and flavor, with the tuna being especially notable. Fish tacos also feature as a solid choice among the seafood options.

People are saying

"The drinks and beers at this bar are great."

"The ahi tuna tacos and white shrimp ceviche were amazingly delicious."

Good to know

1

Free parking is available on the premises.

2

Reservations are required for outdoor seating.

3

Happy hour, called social hour, offers special deals.

10
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Rooftop restaurant offers cool views of water and Ferris wheel with a club-like vibe created by a live DJ and percussionist. Atmosphere suits large groups and blends beachy elegance with lively energy.

Rooftop bar offers phenomenal drinks and a charming, relaxed setting. Outdoor lounge vibe pairs well with great entertainment during brunch.

Seafood noodles and fresh oysters stand out here. Salmon and grilled fish come cooked perfectly, often paired with flavorful vegetables like asparagus and broccolini.

People are saying

"The seafood here is outstanding, especially the grilled fish."

"The bartender Enrique was super friendly and made exceptional drinks."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers great deals on food and drinks, making it worthwhile.

2

Expect long wait times during busy events, like Valentine's Day.

3

The restaurant turns into a lively party after 9 pm with dancing.

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Irish pub with big screens and plenty of TVs creates a lively sports bar atmosphere. Space includes a large patio and room for games like pool, supporting a boisterous crowd during events. Energy stays high with loud noise levels and a mix of easy-going and spirited vibes.

Offers a solid Irish pub atmosphere with TVs for sports and a large draft beer selection. Staff are friendly, and the kitchen stays open late with better-than-expected bar food including a notable chili.

Fried clams stand out with a crispy texture and strong flavor. Fish and chips vary, sometimes overcooked or soggy, but often fantastic and well-prepared.

People are saying

"It's a great Irish pub with a solid atmosphere."

"I brought my daughter, daughter-in-law, and granddaughters for the seafood."

Good to know

1

The kitchen stays open until 9 pm for late-night snacks.

2

Expect a 5% surcharge for credit card payments, noted in fine print.

3

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

12
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Irish pub with authentic decor and many TVs creates a lively sports bar atmosphere. Live music and karaoke add to the energetic vibe, while indoor and outdoor spaces offer a beachside feel without sand. The crowd varies from chill on weekdays to busy and spirited on weekend nights.

Lively spot with a very good selection of beer and other drinks and friendly, attentive service. The atmosphere feels cozy and nostalgic, with live music adding to the vibe every day of the week.

Fish tacos stand out as exceptional and highly praised. The fish and chips feature a great batter and come with a large helping of plank fries.

People are saying

"It's a lively bar with a fun, energetic atmosphere."

"I found the fish tacos to be amazing seafood."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3pm to 7pm with 2-for-1 drink specials.

2

A cover charge applies after 10 PM on Saturday nights.

3

The pub can get very crowded during football season.

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Old building hosts an American diner with retro-inspired decor and cozy booths under warm, dim lighting. Atmosphere blends nostalgic charm with modern touches, creating a relaxed vibe. Patio and event spaces offer airy, bright settings for gatherings.

Inventive and terrific drinks stand out at the bar, which has a historic and timeless diner feel. It serves lunch, dinner, and drinks with warm service, making it a popular spot for Friday night outings.

Fish sandwich stands out with great flavor and quality. Other seafood options like salmon are available, but the fish sandwich is the highlight.

People are saying

"It's a cozy bar with a timeless diner feel."

"You have to try the fish sandwich; it's amazing."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers half-price drinks before 7 PM on weekdays.

2

Kids meals are available for $5 each.

3

Parking is generally available on the street, but check for meters.

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Beachfront restaurant offers breathtaking ocean views and comfortable outdoor seating that creates a relaxed, casual atmosphere. Soft live music enhances the peaceful vibe while diners enjoy the scenic patio setting.

Beautiful bar design creates a pleasant spot to sit. Service at the bar runs slower than expected.

Fish and chips stand out as a favorite, often paired with lobster rolls and seafood plates. Oysters come highly recommended, especially with a glass of wine and a beach view.

People are saying

"The seafood here is excellent, with great oysters."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to the restaurant's popularity.

2

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers during specific hours.

3

Valet parking is available for $20 on weekends.

15
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Oceanfront setting offers unmatched beach views and a lively atmosphere with loud music and a DJ at night. The space includes a game room nook and TVs showing sports, attracting groups who enjoy social and energetic vibes. Outdoor seating on terraces enhances the experience with sunset views and a bar-focused environment.

About 15 different beer taps offer a solid variety of draft options. The bar features a cool setup with a dance floor nearby and friendly service that sets a high standard.

Fish and chips stand out with a crispy texture and fresh taste. The menu features lobster rolls, crispy fish tacos, and coconut shrimp, all prepared with a seafood-forward approach.

People are saying

"The seafood, especially the fish and chips, was delicious."

"The food at this bar is delicious and beautifully presented."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-5pm with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Karaoke night, called terry-oke, happens every Monday at 9pm.

3

Parking is available nearby through SpotHero for convenience.

16
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Small, cozy sushi bar offers authentic Japanese ambience with an intimate feel and local vibe. Atmosphere stays relaxed and friendly despite often being crowded. Sushi features fresh, high-quality fish served in generous portions with traditional preparation.

Fish arrives in generous portions and tastes clean and fresh. Shrimp heads get a crispy twist with tempura batter for a unique touch.

People are saying

"The seafood here is so fresh, it just melts in your mouth."

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.

17
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Open hibachi-style setup offers an engaging dining experience with chefs performing theatrical grilling shows at each table. Dim lighting and cozy decor create a fun, lively atmosphere suited for date nights and family outings. A second-level bar adds to the venue's entertaining vibe and interactive energy.

Upstairs bar offers quick eats and good drinks during happy hour with a personable bartender who helps pass the time. The bar top provides a welcoming spot for dining and snacks with helpful staff.

Seafood dishes feature fresh shrimp cooked perfectly alongside other items. Every dish, including seafood, shows tender texture and flavorful preparation.

People are saying

"The seafood chefs put on an entertaining show right at your table."

"Leo the bartender made my bar experience the best."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to avoid long wait times, especially on weekends.

2

Happy hour runs from 4-6 PM with discounted drinks and appetizers.

3

The staff celebrates birthdays with a special song and treat.

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Small sushi bar with U-shaped counter seating creates a casual, lively atmosphere where diners sit side by side facing chefs. The space feels intimate but tight, with limited room and fixed stools. Energy stays upbeat with dim lighting and background music enhancing the informal vibe.

Fish stays fresh and cold while the rice is served warm and piping hot. Nori comes out super crispy, adding a nice texture contrast to the seafood.

People are saying

"The seafood here is incredibly fresh."

Good to know

1

The restaurant charges a flat 16% fee and does not accept tips.

2

Expect a wait time of around 30 minutes during peak hours.

3

The seating area is small, which can be uncomfortable during busy hours.

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Rustic steakhouse with nautical-themed decor and Christmas lights creates a unique, intimate vibe. Large, heated patio offers a relaxed, easygoing atmosphere with fun staff and a late-night menu. The setting blends dive bar charm with high-quality steaks and casual social energy.

Offers a dive bar vibe with better service and food than typical spots. Food quality stands out as solid bar fare.

Fish tacos stand out with their delicious flavor and generous portions during Happy Hour. Clams and panko crusted halibut also feature as great seafood options alongside steak.

People are saying

"The seafood here, especially the salmon and halibut, is better than perfect."

"The bar here has a lively, energetic atmosphere."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 5-7pm with discounted drinks.

2

The restaurant offers late-night food service until 1am.

3

Expect some menu items to be marked as 'market price.'

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Huge space with contemporary decor and a full bar anchors the atmosphere. Live belly dancers provide subtle entertainment without distraction. Outdoor patio welcomes pets and stays comfortable with effective heaters.

A beautiful bar stands as the centerpiece with bag hangers adding thoughtful detail. The space has a cocktail bar vibe paired with upscale food and a good atmosphere.

Shrimp stands out as a delicious choice here. The alleppey prawn and curry fish dishes show careful cooking, with fish cooked perfectly every time.

People are saying

"The seafood curry and curry leaf prawns were very delicious."

"The food here is amazing, flavorful, and delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking is available on the street and in a nearby lot, but it's limited.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends to avoid long wait times.

3

Happy Hour offers limited menu items on Fridays from 4-6pm.

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Outdoor garden with fire pits and seating under a pine tree creates a cozy, magical atmosphere. Space heaters and blankets help manage a chilly, intimate setting. The vibe suits modern American brunch and dinner, with a unique, beautiful indoor-outdoor design.

The outdoor patio and bar create a magical atmosphere with a full bar offering a wide range of liquor options. Noise from the bar can get loud when crowded, and there have been sightings of roaches on the bar.

Shrimp and grits stand out with rich flavors, paired with grilled fish and fresh tuna and salmon starters. Whole fish dishes deliver solid taste, complemented by homemade pasta with truffles.

People are saying

"The seafood here is excellent; the staff is so attentive."

"The full bar offers amazing liquor options."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for brunch, especially on weekends.

2

Brunch for four people costs around $460, so plan your budget accordingly.

3

Happy hour is available from 4:30 to 5:30 PM on weekdays.

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Pub offers multiple seating areas including a backyard patio, balcony, and sidewalk patio, creating a spacious feel. Atmosphere mixes British and Philadelphia Eagles themes with loud music and a lively crowd during games. Features include pool tables, many TVs for sports, and a DJ energizing the space.

A true Merseyside family runs this British bar, creating a welcoming vibe with a rockstar doorman and attentive management. It plays Philadelphia Eagles games with game sound and a DJ hyping the crowd, making it a standout spot for sports fans.

Fish and chips come in three small pieces that taste delicious and arrive quickly. Happy hour offers $7 specials on fish and chips alongside affordable beer options.

People are saying

"This bar is the perfect find for watching the Eagles game."

"I had delicious fish and chips."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour runs from 4 to 7 pm, Monday to Friday.

2

Karaoke night happens on weekends with no cover charge.

3

The pub offers $7 fish and chips during Happy Hour.

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