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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Santa Monica

Brunch and dinner spots

Made for those who refuse to choose between a slow-paced morning meal and a formal evening reservation.

Based on 751 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
The Backyard image 1
The Backyard image 2
The Backyard image 3
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Cocktail bar

Cozy outdoor seating blends with live acoustic music to create a relaxing garden vibe. The atmosphere stays quiet and chill, attracting those seeking a peaceful spot away from tourist crowds. A hidden gem with its own bar and kitchen offers a laid-back, dog-friendly experience.

A lazy brunch just off the beach offers a relaxed vibe. Both breakfast and brunch on weekends come highly recommended with fantastic options.

Dinner service offers a consistent quality on any night. Both dinner and brunch feature fantastic flavors that work well for groups or casual outings.

People are saying

"I thought the burgers here were amazing and flavorful."

"The dinner spots here are fun and the food is great."

"I loved the brunch here; the breakfast burrito was amazing."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers $5 beers on Sundays.

2

The Backyard does not take reservations.

3

Parking is free for guests.

02
Shutters on the Beach image 1

Hotel offers beachfront views and a stylish, romantic atmosphere with live music and evening cocktails. Guests enjoy daily bike rentals and a lounge bar favored for socializing. The setting combines luxury decor with a relaxing vibe despite occasional traffic noise.

Oceanfront tables offer great views during brunch. The atmosphere feels relaxed and inviting on weekends. Location near the beach makes it easy to enjoy a walk after eating.

Dinner happens in a beautiful room upstairs or right off the beach with a stunning atmosphere. Music plays softly during meals, adding to the unique experience.

People are saying

"This hotel's location is great, right on the beach."

"The dinner spots here offer a beautiful atmosphere right on the beach."

"I enjoyed brunch with oceanfront tables and beach views."

Good to know

1

Parking without validation costs $44 for 2.5 hours.

2

The hotel offers a Mon-Thurs Happy Hour at Coast restaurant.

3

Live music is available on Wednesday nights.

03
Le Petit Chez Mimi image 1
French restaurant

Small, well-designed space offers a cozy, intimate atmosphere with charming French bistro vibe and quiet, calm energy. Regulars and locals frequent the venue, enjoying casual, familial setting that feels like dining in a French countryside home. Outdoor patio adds to the warm, inviting ambiance.

Sunday brunch offers a Parisian style with accessible parking on Sundays and at night. The food stands out for its exceptional quality.

Dinner feels like eating at someone's home with an adorable setting. The menu focuses on French cuisine with a cozy, inviting atmosphere.

People are saying

"The French onion soup here is fantastic, not too salty."

"These dinner spots feel like dining at a cozy, charming home."

"The brunch here has outstanding quality, especially the French toast."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is only open for dinners from Tuesday to Sunday and brunch on Sundays.

2

They have a large free parking lot attached, which is a huge bonus in Santa Monica.

3

Dogs are allowed in the outdoor seating area.

04
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.

Brunch features American cuisine with dishes full of flavor and creativity. The crab cake Benedict stands out as a delicious choice.

Dinner here offers a chill but elegant vibe suited for events like rehearsal dinners and corporate team meals. The menu features standout items like potatoes with curry dipping sauce that remain a solid choice.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and fresh."

"The dinner spots here are flavorful and surprisingly fresh."

"The brunch dishes were creative, delicious, and packed with flavor."

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.

05
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.

Bottomless mimosas come at a reasonable price with an entrรฉe. The patio setting suits brunch well. Group events like themed birthday brunches happen here.

Dinner here features excellent food and service with options for both casual seating like couches around the fire pit and private gatherings in an upstairs private room. The spot suits celebrations and group dinners well.

People are saying

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

"Our Brunch server Robert was very attentive and accommodating."

"Our server Rico was so kind and helpful during dinner."

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.

06
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.

Good brunch vibes fill the atmosphere with a relaxed feel. A few brunch specials offer tasty options for family or friends after activities like soccer.

Dinner features a Blackened Salmon with parsnip puree, olive-caper gremolata, charred lemon, and pea shoots. Simple options like hummus and pita also satisfy without fuss.

People are saying

"The outdoor seating has a great vibe and atmosphere."

"The large patio is dog friendly and they even give pups a treat."

"The outdoor patio for Brunch is spacious and clean."

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.

07
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.

Brunch features great options with a family-friendly atmosphere and a Pacific Ocean view that enhances the experience.

A great spot for a romantic dinner with a chance to unwind after a nice meal. Live music plays after dinner, and the bar offers a nice place to visit before or after eating.

People are saying

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

"The dinner spots here are delicious with fresh ingredients."

"The brunch views of the Pacific Ocean are gorgeous."

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.

08
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.

Offers a great experience that encourages repeat visits. Serves as a perfect spot for brunch with loved ones and friends.

Dinner offers a high-end Mediterranean experience with an American influence. The setting suits special occasions like anniversaries and impresses groups with its fine dining atmosphere.

People are saying

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

"The sunset view here is a beautiful, magical show."

"The brunch food here is amazing, especially the baklava sundae."

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.

09
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.

Buffet-style brunch on Sundays offers a very good and fun experience. The brunch is often described as well worth it and suits special occasions like birthdays.

Beautiful location sets a romantic tone for dinner. Attentive service and a rooftop with a live DJ create a perfect Saturday night vibe for celebrations like birthdays and anniversaries.

People are saying

"The food here was delicious and high quality."

"The brunch vibe here is so fun and welcoming."

"The grilled fish and truffle chicken at these dinner spots were outstandingly spots were outstanding."

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.

10
Calabra image 1
Restaurant

Rooftop setting offers stunning views and outdoor heaters that keep the space comfortable despite the breeze. Atmosphere blends casual enjoyment with a sexy, entertaining vibe, attracting a lively crowd. Accessibility features include elevator access and wheelchair-friendly seating.

Rooftop setting offers a solid spot for brunch and day drinking with friends. Drinks include beer cocktails, juices, and smoothies, paired with a variety of dishes and attentive service.

Dinner offers a fantastic experience with dishes that impress guests consistently. The atmosphere supports a wonderful evening for groups and individuals alike.

People are saying

"The food here was incredible, especially the slow-roasted chicken."

"The Rooftop staff, especially Juan and Paul, are so attentive and friendly."

"The service for dinner spots here is so friendly and amazing."

Good to know

1

Reservations are almost required due to high demand.

2

A $5 non-refundable reservation fee is charged per person.

3

Valet parking is available and convenient.

11
Fia Restaurant image 1
Californian restaurant

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.

Weekend brunch offers bottomless mimosas and margaritas with attentive service that keeps drinks topped off. The courtyard setting creates a relaxing, tranquil vibe ideal for celebrations and casual gatherings.

Dinner here suits celebrations with options for a private room and a modern American menu. The vibe fits well for date nights or group dinners.

People are saying

"The brunch here is amazing, especially the chilaquiles."

"The pasta here is rich, fiery, and unapologetically bold."

"The food and atmosphere at this dinner spot were great."

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.

12
MARELLE Santa Monica image 1

Restaurant offers indoor and outdoor seating with ocean and pool views and a breezy coastal charm. Outdoor area features live DJ sets and heaters, creating a relaxed and inviting atmosphere. Space suits both casual meals and large events, blending Tulum-style design with a beach-front vibe.

Bright and airy setting suits a morning brunch well. Offers reasonably priced options and accommodates special arrangements for occasions.

Dinner features a prix fixe menu with occasional guest chefs. The ambiance suits special occasions well. Cocktails and dishes come out consistently amazing.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and totally worth it."

"The brunch food here is amazing and perfectly cooked."

"The dinner here was amazing, fresh, and perfectly made."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted, and the restaurant is usually not busy at night.

2

Parking validation is available for $10 off valet parking.

3

The restaurant has both indoor and outdoor seating options.

13
Coast image 1
Californian restaurant

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.

Brunch offers high quality fresh ingredients with options for both sit-down and grab and go. Outdoor seating on the patio adds a relaxed vibe to the meal.

Dinner features a fantastic service with no rush, even during busy weekend hours. The menu includes a wagyu burger and other options that invite return visits for a full meal.

People are saying

"The food at this beach spot is outstanding, especially the lobster roll."

"I loved the ocean view from the outdoor seating."

"I loved dining outside with an ocean view."

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.

14
The Georgian Hotel image 1

Hotel offers oceanfront views with rooms featuring vintage glamour and spacious suites. Atmosphere stays bustling day and night, blending charm with lively energy. Amenities include a speakeasy bar, secret library, and terrace restaurant with live music.

Brunch features eggs benedict, omelettes, and a breakfast burrito. The menu offers a solid variety for a satisfying morning meal.

Dinner offers an oceanfront setting with memorable meals. The Georgian Room serves a lifetime experience for evening dining.

People are saying

"The hotel staff were so polite and helpful with everything."

"The service at dinner spots was amazing and attentive."

"The Art Deco design makes brunch feel so stylish and vibrant."

Good to know

1

The hotel has a speakeasy opening this summer.

2

The Georgian Room will open in about a month.

3

Check-in is available as early as 11 AM.

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Santa Monica, California

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