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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 751 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
O'Briens Irish Pub image 1
O'Briens Irish Pub image 2
O'Briens Irish Pub image 3
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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 pub has an authentic, welcoming vibe and feels like home."

"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.

02
Cosetta image 1
Italian restaurant

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 food here is fantastic, especially the steak and prawns."

"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.

03
Perry's Café & Beach Rentals - Santa Monica 2400 image 1

Outdoor seating on sand with ocean views and umbrella-covered tables creates a relaxed, beachside atmosphere. Comfortable beach chairs and live music on select days add to the laid-back vibe. The setting features sunset views and casual dining right by the water.

Offers amazing drinks and quick bar service with a beautiful beach view. Features an additional bar with live music on Wednesdays and Fridays during summer.

Fish and chips come out crispy and flavorful, often prompting repeat orders. Shrimp tacos and mahi mahi plates offer fresh, firm grilled fish paired with tasty sides like Greek salad.

People are saying

"I loved watching everything happening on the beach from the cafe."

"It's a great beach bar with a beautiful view."

"The fish and chips here are crispy and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 5pm to 7pm on weekdays.

2

Bikes and beach umbrellas can be rented for $8 per hour.

3

The café closes just before sunset, limiting evening visits.

04
1212 Santa Monica image 1
New American restaurant

Large space with dog-friendly patio and live DJ music creates a loud, fun atmosphere that energizes the evening. Outdoor seating features fire pits enhancing the vibe. Music volume often challenges conversation but adds to the lively environment.

Gorgeous bar interiors create a striking atmosphere. Top-tier service comes from bartenders like Jaun, Hernan, Luciano, and Cameron.

Oysters come pre-dressed with jalapeños and grapefruit, blending spice and citrus. Popcorn shrimp and crostini add variety, while toasts feature vegetables and fish for a fresh mix.

People are saying

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

"The bar staff, especially Santi and Cameron, provide an amazing experience."

"The seafood here is amazing, especially by the warm fire."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with half-price appetizers.

2

All-night happy hour is available on Mondays, offering great deals.

3

Reservations are recommended for special events like the Super Bowl.

05
Chez Jay image 1
Steak house

Small dining room with romantic booths and a bar in the same space creates a lively, sometimes loud atmosphere. Outdoor patio called The Backyard offers live music and a chill vibe. Interior blends old school dive bar charm with a unique, cozy mood.

A small bar with a charming and quaint room featuring romantic booths and a few tables. The interior feels like a sailboat, and the bar serves peanuts that are part of the city's history.

Fresh seafood stands out with perfectly cooked shrimp and a notable shrimp curry. Steaks are heavy and pair well with the first-class fish options.

People are saying

"This bar feels like it hasn't aged a day since the sixties."

"The steaks here are amazing; I've never had better."

"The seafood here is fresh and expertly prepared."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to the small size of the restaurant.

2

Parking is limited, but there is free parking next to the building.

3

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers.

06
Orla by Michael Mina image 1

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 food at these dinner spots is extraordinary, with layers of flavor."

"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.

07
XUNTOS image 1
Tapas bar

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 dinner spots here have amazing taste and fresh ingredients."

"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.

08
Library Alehouse image 1
American restaurant

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

"They have an awesome, wide selection of craft beers."

"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.

09
Edgemar Restaurant + Lounge image 1

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 food here is delicious and fresh."

"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.

10
Diner Antonette image 1
American restaurant

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

"The diner's fried chicken is wonderfully spiced and crispy."

"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.

11
Jameson’s Pub image 1

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 loved the happy hour deals, especially the two-for-one drinks."

"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.

12
Santa Monica Seafood Market & Cafe image 1

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 market has an excellent selection of fresh seafood."

"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.

13
MUSE Santa Monica image 1
Modern French restaurant

Modern French restaurant showcases art deco inspired decor with moody lighting and elegant, inviting atmosphere. Space feels intimate yet stylish, balancing comfort with sophistication. Guests experience exceptional culinary craftsmanship paired with memorable desserts and cocktails.

David shows impressive skills behind the bar. Servers offer helpful suggestions and keep the flow smooth at the bar or tables.

Fresh seafood shines with juicy fish that stands out. The menu follows a farm-to-table philosophy using locally sourced ingredients.

People are saying

"The French food here is amazing, with such attentive and friendly service."

"The food here is spectacular and truly a triumph."

"The Seafood here is cooked to perfection, with crispy skin."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to limited seating at the restaurant.

2

Valet parking is suggested as parking is limited in the area.

3

Expect to spend between $400 and $500 for two people, including drinks.

14
Sonny McLean's Irish Pub image 1

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 place to catch a game with TVs and beers on tap."

"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.

15
The Galley image 1
Steak house

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

"I thought the burgers tasted excellent."

"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.'

16
LouLou Santa Monica image 1
French restaurant

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 food here was delicious and high quality."

"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.

17
Terrazza image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean restaurant offers gorgeous beach views and a garden setting that suits romantic evenings and first dates. Live music with piano and vocals enhances the spectacular ambiance and decor. Valet parking adds convenience to the experience.

Gorgeous dining room and bar create a welcoming vibe. Bartenders at the cosy bar offer a great selection of drinks and friendly service.

Pink salmon comes with a very unusual sauce that enhances the seafood without overpowering it. Shrimp appears in perfectly cooked spaghetti and fish tacos, while short rib pasta called Busiate adds a unique twist to the seafood options.

People are saying

"The food here is spectacular, with fresh ingredients and balanced flavors."

"The bar and dining room are gorgeous with spectacular ocean views."

"The seafood here, like the fish tacos, is awesome."

Good to know

1

Valet parking costs $20 if validated, increasing to $40 after three hours.

2

Reservations are not required for dinner at 5 pm, and seating is available by the window.

3

The restaurant closes from 3 to 5 pm, which coincides with sunset.

18
The Cloverfield image 1
American restaurant

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 outdoor seating has a great vibe and atmosphere."

"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.

19
Britannia Pub image 1

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."

"The pub staff were really friendly and helpful."

"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.

20
The Whaler Santa Monica image 1

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 live sports here are great, with friendly and attentive service."

"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.

21
Shirubē image 1
Izakaya restaurant

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 sashimi here is incredibly fresh and delicious."

"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.

22
Benihana - Santa Monica image 1
Japanese restaurant

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 food here is amazing and full of flavor."

"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.

23
Wally's Santa Monica image 1

Walls lined with hundreds of wine bottles create a wine cellar atmosphere with high ceilings and marble surfaces. Loud music fills the space, generating energetic vibes where people gather around the bar and dining areas. The setting combines upscale decor with a chilly temperature, offering shawls for warmth.

The bar offers a full bar alongside a wine-focused selection. The space has a cocktail and wine bar vibe where people gather around the bar counter.

Seafood platter and diver scallops match the oysters in quality. The seafood risotto pairs with white wine, but sand in the fish affects the dish's appeal.

People are saying

"The food here is fantastic and exquisite."

"The wine bar has an amazing, extensive wine list."

"The truffle Brie is not to be missed."

Good to know

1

Weekly tequila tasting events occur every Saturday, offering a fun experience.

2

Happy hour features discounted drinks and appetizers, making it a popular time to visit.

3

Live performances take place on Monday nights, adding to the venue's atmosphere.

24
FITOOR image 1
Modern Indian restaurant

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 food here is delicious and beautifully presented."

"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.

25
Vamos. Vamos. image 1
Restaurant

Small restaurant with a super relaxed atmosphere and fun musical background featuring 90s tunes. Vibe shifts from casual and welcoming to a more trendy, dimly lit setting in the evening. Friendly staff create a warm, inviting energy without feeling too busy.

Bar service is consistently slow across multiple visits. This issue stands out during busy times like sports games.

Fish tacos stand out with their tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture. California and fish burritos also deliver strong, flavorful bites.

People are saying

"The Mexican Food here is served by the friendliest, most welcoming staff."

"I thought the seafood tacos were very good."

"The Hatch Chilli Burger and pork were spectacular."

Good to know

1

Prices have increased since the management change, making it a bit pricey.

2

The menu has been pared down to a few items, losing some previous favorites.

3

Salsa is not included with tacos and must be purchased separately.

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