Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Top picks in Santa Monica

Salad and chill spots

You want a meal that feels light and fresh without the pressure of a formal dining room.

Based on 764 Opinions
+761
User
User
User
Updated
01
MARU SUSHI AND RAMEN image 1
MARU SUSHI AND RAMEN image 2
MARU SUSHI AND RAMEN image 3
View all

Space combines Japanese decor with floral ceilings and a cherry blossom tree at the entrance, creating a cozy, charming atmosphere. Lighting enhances the setting, making it feel warm and romantic, especially on the outdoor terrace. The bar area offers an authentic izakaya vibe with a laid-back, friendly crowd.

Great for a casual meal or catching up with friends. Fits well for a low-key date or a relaxed night out without spending much.

Salads here include a salmon skin salad that is light and crispy with a rich, sweet, and sour sauce. It offers a healthy feel without losing flavor and comes alongside meals like the beef bulgogi bento box.

People are saying

"The salmon skin salad's sweet and sour sauce conquered my taste buds."

"The vibe here is super cute and stylish."

Good to know

1

The bar is open until midnight for late-night drinks.

2

There is a public parking lot nearby with 90 minutes of free parking.

3

The restaurant is open until 12 midnight, making it ideal for late-night snacks.

02
Z Garden Mediterranean Cuisine image 1
Z Garden Mediterranean Cuisine image 2
Z Garden Mediterranean Cuisine image 3
View all

Mediterranean restaurant with a covered patio and comfortable seating, including couches and outdoor options. Atmosphere feels relaxed yet vibrant, with authentic music playing at a moderate volume. Casual setup where guests order and pay at the counter before seating themselves.

Casual atmosphere with plenty of greenery creates a comforting vibe. Staff and service stay kind and chill, making it easy to relax while ordering and paying before seating.

People are saying

"The salad here is served with the tender lamb shank."

"It's so chill and comforting with all the greenery."

Good to know

1

This is a casual restaurant where you order and pay before finding a table.

2

There is free parking outside the restaurant.

3

Z Garden offers catering services at reasonable prices.

03
Tsukiji Sushi Sen image 1
Tsukiji Sushi Sen image 2
Tsukiji Sushi Sen image 3
View all

Small, intimate restaurant with cozy authentic interior and a beautiful terrace creates a warm inviting atmosphere. Locals frequent the lively space, enjoying fresh sushi and smooth sake, while staff add personal touches like singing for celebrations. The vibe suits both date nights and family gatherings.

Cozy and casual vibes create a relaxed atmosphere. It suits a casual night out with a laid-back feel.

Salads here come with a crispy texture and a tasty ginger dressing. The salmon salad feels light and refreshing, and seaweed salad is also available.

People are saying

"The sushi here is so fresh and buttery."

"The salad was crispy with a tasty ginger dressing."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 2 to 5pm with great prices on appetizers and drinks.

2

The restaurant offers a lunch special bento box during happy hour.

3

Seating is available both indoors and outdoors, accommodating larger parties.

04
Library Alehouse image 1
Library Alehouse image 2
Library Alehouse image 3
View all

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.

Casual service and a warm, well-decorated patio create a chill ambiance. Music stays relaxed and the crowd feels happy, making it a good spot to enjoy a quality beer.

Salads show attention to detail even in simple preparations. The Arugula salad stands out as a frequent choice, and the buffalo chicken salad has a European style influence.

People are saying

"It's a chill spot with a warm, inviting vibe."

"The buffalo chicken salad here is delicious."

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.

05
XUNTOS image 1
XUNTOS image 2
XUNTOS image 3
View all

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.

Offers a casual and charming night out. Fits well for a date night or a chill evening with friends.

Salads here are consistently bright and fresh, featuring options like arugula and a notable kale salad. The salad with peach adds a unique, sweet twist to the mix.

People are saying

"The tapas here are so fun, I tried more foods than usual."

"The salads here are bright, fresh, and 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.

06
The Curious Palate image 1
The Curious Palate image 2
The Curious Palate image 3
View all

Restaurant offers open-air seating with a calm, relaxing atmosphere that contrasts with nearby noisy spots. Space feels homey and curated, encouraging guests to unwind in a bright, spacious interior suitable for families.

Great atmosphere creates a unique place to unwind. Casual dining pairs well with a great draft beer selection.

Salads feature fresh, locally sourced vegetables and come in generous portions. Options like the Thai Satay Salad with chicken and the house salad offer a balance of flavors and quality ingredients.

People are saying

"The spicy kale Caesar salad is a must-try."

"The food here is delicious, fresh, and well crafted."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is located on the 3rd floor of the Santa Monica Place Mall.

2

The menu offers a variety of dishes at reasonable prices.

3

There are many vegetarian options available.

07
Le Great Outdoor Restaurant image 1
Le Great Outdoor Restaurant image 2
Le Great Outdoor Restaurant image 3
View all

Outdoor dining area offers a spacious patio with plenty of heaters keeping the space warm and comfortable. Atmosphere blends lively yet calming vibes with the scent of wood smoke, creating an elevated backyard bar feel. Guests enjoy relaxed, leisurely meals in a mellow DIY setting that encourages conversation.

Spacious outdoor seating creates a casual and lovely atmosphere perfect for relaxing with friends or a date. The vibe stays cool and low key while the food remains excellent.

Beet salad stands out as a must-have with fresh, vibrant flavors. Lunch options include salads alongside rice bowls and sandwiches, often paired with chicken skewers for a balanced meal.

People are saying

"The food here is flavorful and creatively prepared, even the vegetables."

"I had the beet salad and it was amazing."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has a huge free parking lot available for guests.

2

Reservations are limited to 90 minutes, so plan accordingly.

3

The restaurant accommodates various dietary restrictions, making it inclusive.

08
Bread Head image 1
Bread Head image 2
Bread Head image 3
View all

Sandwich shop offers a bright, well-designed space with an eclectic gallery wall and Margaritaville-themed bathroom. Atmosphere is loud and lively with a laidback, neighborhood vibe that feels fun and relaxed. Seating is limited but includes a gorgeous curbside patio that adds charm to the setting.

Casual, cool sandwich shop with a chill vibe and easygoing atmosphere. Music and overall feel keep things relaxed and comfortable.

People are saying

"The bread here is perfect, with a beautiful crust."

Good to know

1

The joint is small, so seating is tough.

2

Expect long queues around lunch hour.

3

They don't accept cash, only touchless payment methods.

09
Santa Monica Proper Hotel image 1
Santa Monica Proper Hotel image 2
Santa Monica Proper Hotel image 3
View all

Boutique hotel with warm, comforting vibe and beautiful, charming design offers a rooftop pool oasis and panoramic city views. Spaces range from relaxed rooftop bars to lively restaurants with strong energy. Guests encounter a mix of calm ambiance indoors and vibrant social scenes on the rooftop.

Rooftop pool offers breathtaking views of the city and ocean, perfect for unwinding. Design blends coastal chill with high design, creating a casual and inviting vibe.

People are saying

"The design here blends coastal chill with a warm, inviting atmosphere."

"My friend said the Caesar salad was the best she's ever had."

Good to know

1

Valet service fee is $55, but some guests report being charged $70.

2

Additional $40 per night for amenities not disclosed at check-in.

3

The pool and bar may be closed for private events, impacting guest access.

10
Calabra image 1
Calabra image 2
Calabra image 3
View all

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.

Atmosphere feels casual and relaxed. Overall vibe stays chill and easygoing.

Salads here include a huge lobster salad designed for sharing and a seared ahi tuna salad that holds up well. The watermelon salad pairs nicely with other dishes like latkes, adding fresh contrast.

People are saying

"The vegan salad here is surprisingly delicious and filling."

"The atmosphere here is pretty chill and has a fantastic vibe."

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
Ghisallo image 1
Ghisallo image 2
Ghisallo image 3
View all

Back patio offers cozy outdoor seating under olive trees with quaint lighting, creating a chill and intimate vibe. Sidewalk tables provide a chance for people-watching in a lively neighborhood setting. Dog-friendly space adds to the relaxed atmosphere.

The atmosphere feels super chill and casual. It suits grabbing a hot slice or having a laid-back dinner.

Salads come with a great selection including arugula and beet salad options. Dressing often comes on the side, and the kale salad used to be available.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the great salads and seriously good pizza."

"The sourdough crust here is airy and blistered."

Good to know

1

A $5 per person cake cutting fee applies for birthday celebrations.

2

Expect to pay around $80 for two pizzas and two beers, including tip.

3

Online ordering may not work reliably; consider calling instead.

12
Lazy Daisy - Santa Monica image 1
Lazy Daisy - Santa Monica image 2
Lazy Daisy - Santa Monica image 3
View all

Small corner bistro offers covered outdoor patio with a garden setting and varied seating sizes for groups. Atmosphere stays casual and cozy, creating a calm and inviting vibe. Space suits families and students looking for a quiet breakfast spot.

Atmosphere feels very casual and laid back with a mix of covered and uncovered outdoor seating. The vibe stays low key and unpretentious.

Chicken salad features apple and candied walnuts for a sweet crunch. Salads come as sides, like with the tuna melt, and appear on an all-day menu alongside breakfast and sandwiches.

People are saying

"It's a very chill and laid-back place to hang out."

"The service here is friendly and professional."

Good to know

1

Patrons often waited over an hour for their food during peak hours.

2

Parking is limited in the small lot, but street parking is available nearby.

3

The website states they open at 7:30 AM, but they actually open at 8:00 AM.

13
The Albright image 1
The Albright image 2
The Albright image 3
View all

Seaside restaurant on a pier offers huge outdoor deck with scenic views and patio seating where dogs are welcome. Atmosphere stays chill and cozy with Bob Marley music and heaters keeping the space warm. Counter service uses buzzers for orders, creating a casual, relaxed vibe.

Lively yet casual atmosphere sets a relaxed tone. The vibe stays chill even with the pier's buzz nearby.

Salads feature fresh seafood like shrimp and prawns, often in Cobb or Caesar styles. They come out crispy, tasty, and carefully arranged, offering a simple but enjoyable option.

People are saying

"It's a pretty chill atmosphere with a great view of the ocean."

"The Cobb salad was crispy, fresh, and carefully arranged."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is wheelchair accessible.

2

Expect long lines around noon; arrive early to secure a table.

3

Prices are effectively 10% higher due to a hidden fee.

14
pasjoli image 1
pasjoli image 2
pasjoli image 3
View all

French fine dining unfolds in an elegant yet warm space with cozy bar, rich layered decor, and tableside pressed duck spectacle. Atmosphere balances casual and upscale vibes, creating a polished but inviting energy. Guests enjoy attentive service alongside classic French furnishings and artwork.

An elegant yet casual French bistro atmosphere sets a chill tone. The place feels bustling yet relaxed, blending fine dining with a casual vibe through its open kitchen.

Salad features duck prepared three ways, including in the salad itself, paired with gougรจres. Cod also stands out alongside the salad.

People are saying

"The duck menu here is $350 for two people."

"The Endive Salad was mostly pear, but still very good."

Good to know

1

A mandatory 15% service charge is added after tax.

2

Appetizers and sides cost between $25 and $30, with main dishes over $50.

3

The early menu is available from 5 to 6 PM.

15
Holy Cow BBQ - Santa Monica image 1
Holy Cow BBQ - Santa Monica image 2
Holy Cow BBQ - Santa Monica image 3
View all

Small space with cozy, upscale design and warm lighting creates an inviting atmosphere. Barbecue aroma fills the air, complementing a menu that balances meat lovers and vegetarian options. The vibe stays unassuming and neat, with a quieter pace than typical barbecue spots.

Casual but clean interior creates a relaxed vibe. It suits a casual date night well.

Salads come in fresh and vibrant varieties like brisket and southern chicken with ranch on the side. Potato salad and coleslaw also appear, though quality can vary depending on who prepares them.

People are saying

"The brisket was melt-in-your-mouth good."

"I found the salads here to be fresh and vibrant."

Good to know

1

Customers must stand in line to order and pay before receiving their food.

2

Parking costs outside the restaurant can be high.

3

The website for placing orders is user-friendly and efficient.

16
LouLou Santa Monica image 1
LouLou Santa Monica image 2
LouLou Santa Monica image 3
View all

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.

An oasis of relaxed chill-out with a Mediterranean vibe from the South of France. The ambiance stays not too loud and not too wild, perfect for casual appetizers and happy hour.

People are saying

"The salads here are amazing, with attentive and friendly service."

"The vibe here is pretty chill, not too loud."

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
Nick The Greek image 1
Nick The Greek image 2
Nick The Greek image 3
View all

Greek restaurant offers a casual, cozy atmosphere with authentic music enhancing the vibe. Seating includes a nice outdoor area and high chairs for kids, though indoor space can feel warm and smokey. The place fills up during busy times but maintains a low-key, friendly energy throughout.

Casual atmosphere keeps things low key and relaxed. The vibe is super chill without any fuss or formality.

Greek salads come with fresh cucumbers and classic toppings. Options include a side Greek salad that pairs well with pitas and falafel. Salads are part of combo meals with fries and drinks.

People are saying

"I loved their delicious salads and bowls."

"It's a super chill and low-key place, perfect for a quick lunch."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times during lunchtime, especially on weekends.

2

Online ordering is recommended to avoid long wait times.

3

The restaurant has limited seating, so plan accordingly.

Discover more

Santa Monica, California

Area guide