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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Santa Monica

Cool salad spots

A crisp, refreshing meal is the only thing that sounds right when the heat starts to settle in.

Based on 678 Opinions
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01
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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.

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.

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

People are saying

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

"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.

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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.

People are saying

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

"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.

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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.

Salads here include a daikon salad that stands out and a tomato ginger salad that feels simple and refreshing. The cucumber salad also appears alongside other dishes, offering a crisp option.

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

"I found the tomato ginger salad simple and refreshing."

"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.

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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.

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.

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

"The food here is fresh and delicious."

"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.

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Polish restaurant offers authentic homestyle decor with private outdoor patios featuring firepits and cozy seating. Atmosphere feels like a friend's home, combining cozy vibes with an elevated dining experience. Bar serves unique cocktails like the Warsaw Mule, creating a lively spot to meet and relax.

Solidarity salad stands out as a favorite with a perfect balance. The cucumber salad is consistently fresh and a reliable choice. Sauerkraut salad also offers a great tangy option.

Outdoor patio offers a cool vibe for hanging out. Servers bring a warm, unpretentious energy, matching the nostalgic feel of an Eastern-European aunt's spot with stronger vodka and better lighting.

People are saying

"The pierogi here are a comforting taste of authentic Polish food."

"I did not want to miss this perfect Salad."

Good to know

1

Parking is tough in that area; street parking is available.

2

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

3

The outdoor courtyard hosts Yappy Hour on alternate Thursdays, and dogs are always welcome.

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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.

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.

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

People are saying

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

"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.

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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.

Caesar salad comes somewhat deconstructed with lettuce you cut yourself. The house dressing stands out and is a reason to try the salad. Salads pair well with other dishes but are not large enough to be a main course.

Dark lighting and multi-colored lights create a cool vibe inside. The bar looks cool and the staff adds to the atmosphere.

People are saying

"The atmosphere here is really cool and relaxed."

"You have to try their amazing salad dressing."

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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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.

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

People are saying

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

"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.

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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.

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.

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 vegan salad here is surprisingly delicious and filling."

"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.

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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.

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.

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

"The vibe and atmosphere here are really cool."

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.

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Outdoor seating fills driveway and backyard with a quiet courtyard and pleasant patio featuring heaters. Atmosphere stays chill and cool, inviting relaxed hangouts without indoor dining. Menu highlights include crispy, juicy chicken and creative sandwiches praised for freshness and flavor.

Salads come with over 14 chopped ingredients and feel fresh and substantial. Dressings cover about one-third of the salad, and chicken toppings are often tiny and extremely fried.

The patio offers a super cool vibe. Overall, the spot feels chill and cool throughout.

People are saying

"I found the chicken tenders here to be pretty amazing."

Good to know

1

Only outdoor seating is available, so dress appropriately for the weather.

2

They only accept card payments; no cash is accepted.

3

You can bring your pets onto the patio, which is a nice touch.

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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 vibe shines through with a unique muffaletta sandwich rarely seen outside the south. The spot stands out as a laid-back sandwich shop on Montana.

People are saying

"The sandwiches here are delicious and perfect."

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.

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Traditional Italian deli combines market, café, and quick-stop in a bustling, cozy atmosphere with authentic Italian grocery offerings. Outdoor seating includes stone picnic tables for enjoying sandwiches. The vibe recalls Little Italy in Manhattan with a quaint, small-town charm.

Chicken salad features fresh white meat with no gristle, combined with crisp onions, peppers, and herbs in mayo. Potato and cucumber salads also appear, with salads tasting homemade and fresh.

Small market offers almost everything needed with a super cool vibe. Employees stay friendly and the deli feels authentic with quality products.

People are saying

"The Godmother sandwich was mouth watering."

"I thought the sandwiches were perfect."

Good to know

1

They accept only cash and debit card.

2

You need to grab a ticket with a number and wait until they call out the numbers.

3

Expect long wait times, especially during peak hours.

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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.

Freshness stands out with the green salad here. The salad tastes quite good overall.

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 green salad here is so fresh."

"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.

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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.

Fresh and flavorful ginger salad starts the meal alongside a tasty onion soup. Both dishes keep the pace steady and drinks topped off.

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

"The chef's entertaining performance made the salad worth the visit."

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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Santa Monica, California

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