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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in Santa Monica

Cool dinners

Made for those who demand that their dinner spot possesses a distinct and undeniable sense of cool.

Based on 678 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.

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

A chill vibe sets the tone here, making it a cool little spot to hang out. The great cocktails add to the relaxed atmosphere.

People are saying

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

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

"The vibe here is so cool and chill."

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
Mikomi Sushi Santa Monica image 1
Japanese restaurant

Spacious interior features modern design and beautiful chandeliers with a calm, clean atmosphere ideal for relaxed dining. A robot waitress named Bella delivers food, adding a unique touch to the experience. The place attracts those seeking high-quality sushi in a cozy, inviting setting.

Dinner features three sushi rolls and edamame for a simple, satisfying meal. The spot suits quick dinners and is easy to reach by walk or short drive.

Robot waitress Bella adds a unique touch to the vibe. A robot cat delivery brings a cool, futuristic feel to the experience.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is amazing, especially the fresh, well-prepared sushi."

"The baked salmon and eel rolls are delicious dinner spots."

"The robot waitress, Bella, was super cool!"

Good to know

1

Happy hour features items priced around $5 to $7, with good-sized portions.

2

The lunch special costs $24 for a full plate, including a nice roll and sashimi.

3

The restaurant and bathrooms are clean and well-maintained.

03
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.

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.

A relaxed, cool vibe fills the beautiful space with classic films like Dorothy Dandridge and Harry Belafonte playing on the screen above during meals.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and fresh."

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

"The ambiance here is so cool, with a relaxed, elegant vibe."

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.

04
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.

Dinner features great steak and first-class fish with a casual vibe. The patio at night offers a cool spot for dinner or cocktails.

The atmosphere offers a very cool, unique, and fun experience with incredibly friendly staff. The patio and the Backyard provide cool spots for dinner and after-dinner drinks.

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 vibe here is so cool and retro."

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.

05
Shirubฤ“ 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.

Dinner here offers a wide variety of choices that suit solo diners and couples alike. The interior feels intimate and cute, making it a solid pick for a quiet dinner date.

Flaming the mackerel right in front of you adds a cool visual touch. The sharing menu features some unique items. The window display and the staff vibe also stand out as cool.

People are saying

"The sashimi here is incredibly fresh and delicious."

"The dinner spots here are insanely delicious, like a religious experience."

"I thought the window display was pretty cool."

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.

06
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.

Dinner here features elevated Indian food with dishes like Dahi Kachori, Eggplant Kulcha, and Jackfruit & Chestnut Korma. Desserts include Gulab Jamun Crรจme Brulรจe and Paan Ice Cream, paired with masala chai for a complete meal.

A cool ambience sets the tone here, with a young vibe that feels fresh and inviting. The staff add to the atmosphere with their laid-back, friendly style.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and beautifully presented."

"The service at these dinner spots is attentive and thoughtful."

"The food here is amazing, with beautiful presentation and fun ingredients."

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.

07
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.

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.

High quality food pairs with a laidback vibe and a cool back bar. Outdoor seating shines on a cool night.

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 food here is amazing, especially the chicken sandwich."

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.

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.

Dinner here suits various occasions like happy hour, late afternoon meals, or casual nights out. Portions like the $20 dinner salad tend to be smaller than expected, closer to a side salad size.

Cozy, relaxed vibe creates a laid back and classy atmosphere. Friendly setting adds to the overall cool feel.

People are saying

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

"They have a solid selection of craft beers on tap."

"I loved the happy hour dinner deals here."

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
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.

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.

A rooftop bar offers cool views and a creative drinks menu. The atmosphere feels really cool and inviting.

People are saying

"The food here was delicious and high quality."

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

"The atmosphere here is so cool and relaxed."

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
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.

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.

Atmosphere feels very cool with a nice ambiance. Music adds to the cool vibe during brunch and dinner.

People are saying

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

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

"The atmosphere here is really cool and nice."

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.

11
Rae's Restaurant image 1

Tiny diner from the 1950s offers an authentic old-fashioned atmosphere with classic decor and neon sign. Calm vibe features quiet chatter and classic tunes with employees singing along. Outdoor seating includes a gazebo-covered patio and bar seats for solo diners.

Classic American dinners come with a 50s vibe and great counter seating. The food is straightforward, delivering a solid dinner food experience.

Old-school diner vibe stands out with a cool, retro atmosphere. The setting feels authentic and laid-back, making it a favorite spot for casual dinners.

People are saying

"I loved the classic diner experience and ambiance here."

"This place is a cool, old-school diner that feels like time travel."

"The dinner spots here have really good food."

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.

12
Kappo Miyabi image 1
Sushi restaurant

Minimalist design blends traditional Japanese elements with modern charm in a serene, elegant space. Open kitchen adds interactive dining energy while booths provide privacy. Atmosphere suits both casual and intimate meals with a calm, authentic vibe.

Varied Japanese dishes suit group dinners well. Both lunch and dinner omakase options stand out for romantic or celebratory meals.

Pork broth makes the Seafood Udon mouth-watering and soothing in cool evening weather. The place has a cool modern interior and an authentic atmosphere.

People are saying

"The sushi here is so fresh and delicious."

"The fresh seafood at these dinner spots is so tasty."

"The sushi here is top quality and incredibly fresh."

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.

13
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.

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 ocean view from our suite was breathtaking."

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

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.

14
Ghisallo image 1
Pizza restaurant

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.

Walking here leads to a great spot for dinner with a friend. The place offers a friendly atmosphere suited for casual evening meals.

Patio offers a cool spot to hang out. Location feels close to everything, adding to the cool vibe.

People are saying

"I thought the pizza had a delicious, fluffy, and crunchy sourdough crust."

"The pizza here is excellent and keeps us coming back."

"The pizza here is thin, cheesy, and has a stellar crust."

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.

15
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.

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

A super cool rooftop bar with a central bar and heat lamps all around. A DJ plays in the pool area early on, adding to the cool vibe before leaving.

People are saying

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

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

"It's a cool spot with a great 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.

16
Le Great Outdoor Restaurant image 1

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.

Dinner feels like eating in a friend's backyard in France with a relaxed, intimate vibe. The menu offers great outdoor dining options that suit brunch, lunch, and dinner well.

A buzzy, trendy vibe fills the space, blending casual and fancy elements effortlessly. The atmosphere stays low key and fun, fitting for dates or groups.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and great."

"The food at these dinner spots is fantastic and delicious."

"The food here is fresh and delicious."

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.

17
Santa Monica Proper Hotel image 1

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 dining offers panoramic city views and a beautiful sunset backdrop. The spot serves dinner alongside drinks, creating a nice setting for celebrations.

People are saying

"This hotel's design is beautiful, stylish, and incredibly comfortable."

"The dinner spots here are beautifully designed and spectacular."

"The vibe here is modern, relaxed, and effortlessly cool."

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.

18
The Albright image 1
Seafood restaurant

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.

Dinner options include a nice late meal with prices that suggest better value exists outside the pier. Some find it worth stopping by for dinner, while others recommend choosing different spots.

The atmosphere feels relaxed and cool, with a vibe that suits drinks well. The ambience resembles a sea shack with lots of wooden furniture, creating a laid-back setting.

People are saying

"The seafood here is so fresh and delicious."

"The vibe and atmosphere here are really cool."

"The dinner spots here are amazing and delicious."

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.

19
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.

Dinner here turns into a show with the chefโ€™s performance. It suits celebrations well, making dinners memorable and fun with friends or family.

Staff like Larry and Harry show cool tricks and kindness, making the experience lively. The dinner show and Chef Fabian's creative touches add to the cool vibe.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and full of flavor."

"Chef Pablo's skilled performance made our dinner feel special."

"The chefs here are so cool and entertaining while they cook."

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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