Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Santa Monica

Fine dining dinner spots

Made for those who demand white-tablecloth service and a formal atmosphere for their evening meal.

Based on 702 Opinions
+699
User
User
User
Updated May 2026
01
Chelsea Restaurant image 1
Chelsea Restaurant image 2
Chelsea Restaurant image 3
View all

Upscale restaurant with trendy decor and intimate vibe offers a quiet, sophisticated atmosphere suited for date nights or casual outings. Comfortable booths and a nearly full dining room create a lively yet relaxed energy. Inventive cocktails and gourmet menu complement the hip South London Indian influence.

Dinner here offers a pleasant atmosphere for gatherings with friends. The meals provide a satisfying dining experience that fits well for evening outings.

Menu offers gourmet dishes without pretension. Ambiance feels trendy and upscale, fitting for a romantic dinner or girls' night out.

People are saying

"This place is perfect for a romantic dinner or a casual night out."

"The cocktails here are expertly crafted and super inventive."

"The Fine Dining here is a culinary journey, with creative and flavorful dishes."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant can get busy quickly.

2

Valet parking is available for $15, but street parking is also plentiful.

3

Dress code is business casual; avoid flip flops and shorts.

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.

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.

Modern twist on classic Indian flavors defines the menu. Ambience blends a cocktail bar vibe with upscale food presentation.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and beautifully presented."

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

"The fine dining here is inventive, flavorful, and beautifully presented."

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
Desvelados Santa Monica image 1
Mexican restaurant

Spacious Mexican restaurant with stunning design and beautiful decor creates a cozy yet lively atmosphere. Music plays softly while a large screen TV shows NBA games behind the bar. The place welcomes families and groups, featuring large tables for celebrations.

Dinner here lasts long, often around 2 hours. The food is very good, making it a solid choice for a relaxed Saturday night meal.

Upscale looks combine with authentic Mexican food to create a bold dining experience. The ambiance and service feel upscale, and prices match the atmosphere without being excessive.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here, especially the tacos, is amazing."

"The food and atmosphere here feel upscale."

"I loved the piรฑa colada at this dinner spot; the food was great."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers margarita and taco specials.

2

Santa Monica charges a 10.75% city tax on all bills.

3

The menu features a variety of innovative burritos and tacos.

04
Wally's Santa Monica image 1

Walls lined with hundreds of wine bottles create a wine cellar atmosphere with high ceilings and marble surfaces. Loud music fills the space, generating energetic vibes where people gather around the bar and dining areas. The setting combines upscale decor with a chilly temperature, offering shawls for warmth.

Four-course dinners pair with wine tastings that suit business gatherings well. Wine plays a key role in the dining experience, especially for those who value it during fine meals.

Upscale atmosphere blends with an inviting vibe, featuring great wine, cheese, and charcuterie. The food pays a fantastic homage to truffle, and attentive service enhances the fine dining experience.

People are saying

"The food here is fantastic and exquisite."

"I enjoyed the massive wine selection and delicious food."

"The truffle pasta and pizza are amazing dinner spots."

Good to know

1

Weekly tequila tasting events occur every Saturday, offering a fun experience.

2

Happy hour features discounted drinks and appetizers, making it a popular time to visit.

3

Live performances take place on Monday nights, adding to the venue's atmosphere.

05
MUSE Santa Monica image 1
Modern French restaurant

Modern French restaurant showcases art deco inspired decor with moody lighting and elegant, inviting atmosphere. Space feels intimate yet stylish, balancing comfort with sophistication. Guests experience exceptional culinary craftsmanship paired with memorable desserts and cocktails.

Dinner offers a world-class experience with dishes that stand out in quality and flavor. Celebrations and special occasions often center around the amazing meals served here.

Interior design channels an upscale 1930s vibe. Cuisine matches the setting with extraordinary dishes priced between $400 and $500.

People are saying

"The French food here is amazing, with such attentive and friendly service."

"The lamb chops and brioche at these dinner spots are must-haves."

"The fine dining here offers tremendously fresh flavors and perfectly cooked dishes."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to limited seating at the restaurant.

2

Valet parking is suggested as parking is limited in the area.

3

Expect to spend between $400 and $500 for two people, including drinks.

06
Mรฉlisse Restaurant image 1
New American restaurant

Small dining room with only five tables offers an intimate atmosphere and close-up view of the open kitchen. Bright lighting contrasts with the sleek, modern design and vinyl records playing softly in the background. Staff create a relaxing, comfortable vibe that complements the upscale yet cozy setting.

Dinner here is very expensive with a Michelin-level dining experience. Meals start promptly at the reservation time, serving all guests each course together.

An upscale yet cozy chef's dining room hosts only five tables facing an open-air kitchen. Staff deliver exceptional service without any pretentiousness.

People are saying

"The intimate tasting menu was a masterclass in balance and flavor."

"The dinner spots here have incredible flavor profiles and seamless pairings."

"This fine dining experience was truly remarkable."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended due to limited seating.

2

The cost is on the higher side of tasting experiences at $399 per person.

3

Expect a unique performance using an 18th-century press during the meal.

07
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.

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.

Blends Middle Eastern flavors with an upscale Mediterranean style in a fine dining setting. Offers a variety of options from American-style breakfast to Mediterranean lunch and elegant dinners.

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 Fine Dining here was just fine, nothing special."

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.

08
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.

Upscale vibe with an open bar and gourmet food defines the fine dining experience here. Prices match other local spots but the late Saturday hours add a unique touch.

People are saying

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

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

"The food here is amazing and top-notch."

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.

09
pasjoli image 1
French restaurant

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.

Dinner features remade menus for large groups with a variety of dishes. The duck dinner stands out as a notable option. Meals often come across as delicious and memorable.

French fine dining comes with warmth and polish here. The ambiance feels upscale, elegant, and slightly cozy, offering a casual yet fun experience without pretension.

People are saying

"The French food, especially the steak frites, is delicious and perfectly seasoned."

"You should reserve the duck dinner for special occasions."

"The pressed duck is a decadent, dramatic, and unforgettable tableside spectacle."

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.

Discover more

Santa Monica, California

Area guide
Loading Map...