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Relaxing dessert spots in Santa Monica

A dessert that feels like a slow exhale rather than a sugar-fueled rush.

Based on 715 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
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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.

Burnt Basque cheesecake stands out with its rich flavor. Tiramisu offers a pleasant balance, not too sweet. Brownies and cheesecake also appear as solid dessert choices.

Outdoor seating next to the airport offers a calm atmosphere with a steady ocean breeze. It suits relaxing afternoons and quiet family dinners.

People are saying

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

"The outdoor seating here is a relaxing spot with a great ocean breeze."

"You've got to try the cheesecake for dessert; it's 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.

02
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.

Galub dessert stands out as a 10 out of 10 and a must-have along with the gulab Jamun. Crรจme brรปlรฉe gets special attention for its unique preparation, making desserts a strong finish here.

Soft lighting and stylish decor create a beautiful and inviting ambiance. The space feels thoughtfully designed for a relaxed atmosphere suitable for casual evenings or family meals.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and beautifully presented."

"The desserts here were a failure, sadly."

"It's a beautiful, inviting spot with thoughtful decor for a relaxed meal."

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.

03
Dr. T House image 1
Bubble tea store

Bubble tea shop offers a cozy, calm atmosphere with cute decor featuring plants, stickers, and cat merchandise. Seating is available both inside and outside, with WiFi and outlets supporting study or work. The vibe is welcoming and peaceful, making it a relaxing spot to enjoy drinks and snacks.

Impressive desserts include keto friendly options that cater to different dietary needs. Sweet choices stand out for variety and quality.

Cute decor and relaxing music create a calm atmosphere. It works well as a spot to relax and enjoy a drink with friends.

People are saying

"I found the Thai tea here to be really good."

"It's such a cozy and inviting spot to relax."

"I loved the peach tea; it was the best I ever had."

Good to know

1

You can order ahead and have it ready for pickup.

2

There is free parking in the small strip mall.

3

There are tables inside for seating and a bathroom with a keypad lock.

04
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.

Olive oil cake, chocolate cake, and banana bread come with scoops of ice cream. Desserts stand out alongside the top tier atmosphere and crew.

Spacious outdoor seating surrounded by plants creates a relaxing and inviting atmosphere. The mellow DIY space encourages leisurely meals and conversation in a wholesome setting.

People are saying

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

"You have to try their olive oil cake with ice cream for dessert."

"The outdoor patio is a relaxing spot, surrounded by plants."

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.

05
Ugo Trattoria image 1
Italian restaurant

Quaint Italian restaurant with a cozy atmosphere and lovely patio. Music plays softly, creating a calm, inviting vibe without loud noise or crowds. The setting feels warm and simple, offering a relaxed dining experience.

Desserts include a Tiramisu served in a chocolate cup and a trilogy dessert. Cold desserts take about 15 minutes to arrive, longer than expected.

Casual and calm ambiance creates a relaxed atmosphere with no loud noise or crowd. Friendly and easygoing service supports a comfortable dining experience for two or with friends.

People are saying

"The food here is authentic Italian, bursting with fresh flavors."

"The food here is so fresh and flavorful."

"The desserts here are tasty and reasonably priced."

Good to know

1

Happy hour features Italian beer like Peroni on tap.

2

An automatic 20% gratuity is added to all bills.

3

The restaurant charges $5 for card payments.

06
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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.

Chocolate lava cake and bread pudding stand out as dessert choices. Staff often bring out birthday desserts spontaneously, adding a personal touch.

Warm and comfortable atmosphere with fireplaces and relaxing live music creates a welcoming vibe. The outside patio offers a relaxed family setting perfect for enjoying a good drink or meal.

People are saying

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

"The desserts here are amazing, especially the birthday surprise!"

"The service here is so attentive and friendly, it makes it a truly relaxing spot."

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.

07
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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.

Cheese Tofu stands out as a unique dessert and deserves a spot on the dessert menu. Desserts here are consistently wonderful and worth ordering.

A relaxed atmosphere sets the tone here. It offers a perfect place to unwind while enjoying great food.

People are saying

"The sashimi here is incredibly fresh and delicious."

"It's a cozy and authentic atmosphere here."

"The ube cheesecake is spectacular and not too sweet."

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.

08
Orto Santa Monica image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant offers a smallish space with soaring ceilings and lots of windows, creating a bright and pleasant atmosphere. Soft jazz music keeps noise levels low, making it easy to have conversations. The outdoor courtyard adds a charming setting that complements the elegant interior.

Coppa dellโ€™Orto stands out among desserts. The chocolate dome with hot caramel sauce and strawberries comes with a brandy cream. Homemade tiramisu also features as a delicious option.

A relaxing atmosphere makes it easy to feel comfortable and at ease. It suits a low-key date night or a family gathering with good quality Italian food.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious."

"This relaxing spot has delicious, authentic Italian food and a personal touch."

"I loved their delicious homemade tiramisu dessert."

Good to know

1

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

2

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

3

Expect a 20% service charge for large parties of six or more.

09
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.

Olive oil cake stands out among the desserts. The Baklava offers a unique twist compared to typical versions. A small dessert of berries and chocolate mousse sometimes accompanies special occasions.

Rooftop lunches come with beautiful views and a relaxed atmosphere. The hotel feels both relaxed and refined.

People are saying

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

"The rooftop atmosphere here is mellow and welcoming."

"You have to try the Baklava for dessert; it's 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.

10
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.

Complimentary desserts often come with drinks or special occasions. The chef and owner sometimes offer dessert comping for feedback or celebrations.

A relaxed, cool vibe fills the space, blending beautiful decor with hip atmosphere. Service matches the mood, making it a perfect spot to unwind while enjoying a meal.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and fresh."

"The food and drinks here are delicious and creative."

"The desserts here were amazing, truly 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.

11
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.

Basque cheesecake stands out as a popular dessert option, noted for being good but not highly unusual. Servers sometimes offer free desserts and bring the check quietly after dessert finishes.

Beautiful views create a relaxing vibe with a quiet atmosphere. The setting feels elegant and calm, ideal for unwinding during dinner.

People are saying

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

"The food here is delicious, fresh, and perfectly balanced."

"Erik brought us a free dessert; the service was exceptional."

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.

12
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.

Desserts feature pear in wine sauce with vanilla ice cream and Tarte Tartin offered by the waitress. They carry an authentic taste that matches the rest of the menu.

Outdoor lounge offers a charming and relaxed setting with rooftop seating that provides beautiful views and a lively yet calm vibe. The atmosphere feels polished and chill, blending Mediterranean ambiance with a West Coast feel.

People are saying

"The food here was delicious and high quality."

"It's a relaxed vibe, perfect for a calm, comfortable meal."

"I thought the desserts were very delicious and authentic."

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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Santa Monica, California

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