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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Santa Monica's best

Italian dinner spots

Made for those who view an Italian dinner as a deliberate, multi-course commitment to the evening.

Based on 813 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Chelsea Restaurant image 1
Chelsea Restaurant image 2
Chelsea Restaurant image 3
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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.

Sweet corn ravioli and boar ragu stand out, with the ragu leaning very sweet. Dishes like lemon ricotta gnocchi, lobster linguine, and sea bass add variety to the Italian offerings.

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

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 Italian food and service here are excellent."

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
The Curious Palate image 1
New American restaurant

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.

Pasta quality stands out with fresh, light pea pesto pasta loaded with pesto, peas, and sun-dried tomatoes. Salads and pasta offer a fresh and savory taste that impresses even those familiar with Italian food.

Dinner features fresh and local ingredients with options tailored to individual tastes and kids' needs. The spot welcomes families and suits quick meals after a long day.

People are saying

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

"The dinner spots here have amazing handmade dishes with fresh ingredients."

"Their Italian food is handmade, from the pasta to the sauces."

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.

03
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.

Pasta stands out with perfectly cooked ravioli and fluffy homemade gnocchi in creamy vodka sauce. The menu features truffle pasta served with a cheese wheel and a superb burrata with Italian ham.

Offers a fantastic Italian dinner experience with options for both intimate and large group meals. Upstairs space accommodates large surprise birthday dinners comfortably.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious."

"The Italian food here feels so authentic and romantic."

"The dinner spots here are delicious, with authentic Italian flavors."

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.

04
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.

Homemade gnocchi shines with a rich basil pesto that tastes authentic and comforting. Dishes like Pappardelle Bolognese and fried calamari come in solid portions and showcase real Italian flavors.

Offers a relaxed atmosphere for dinner with friends or a partner. Serves full Italian meals and suits quick bites or drinks. Often quiet during early dinner hours.

People are saying

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

"The Italian food's gnocchi is perfectly soft and delicious."

"The meatballs at these dinner spots are tender and flavorful."

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.

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.

Saffron risotto stands out with its aromatic and technically well executed preparation. Tuna tartlets and eggplant pasta add variety with solid flavors.

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.

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 brioche here is the best bread I've ever eaten."

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
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.

Gnocchi and mushroom risotto stand out for their rich flavors. The Wild Boar Papperdelle comes with bread to soak up the bolognese sauce, and the Nonna lasagna is consistently exceptional.

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.

People are saying

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

"Our server Rico was so friendly and gave great recommendations."

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

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
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.

Spicy salami pizza stands out with bold flavors. The menu also features truffle pasta, brie bread, and a notable seafood risotto with complex sauces.

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.

People are saying

"The food here is fantastic and exquisite."

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

"The Italian Food here is amazing, with wine bottles covering the walls."

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.

08
Bruno's Italian Restaurant image 1
Italian restaurant

Small Italian trattoria with classic vintage design and traditional Italian music creates an authentic atmosphere. Outdoor patio overlooks the pier, blending Italian and Californian vibes. Staff speak Italian, enhancing the genuine feel.

Ravioli stands out as a fantastic dish here, paired with fresh, hot fettucine alfredo that tastes authentic. The menu also features great pizza and pasta, along with chicken parmigiana and cannoli.

Soft lighting and elegant decor create a unique Italian atmosphere for dinner. Staff contribute to a welcoming vibe suitable for both romantic evenings and casual meals with friends.

People are saying

"The pasta and gnocchi here are delicious."

"This pizza is fresh, delicious, and perfectly baked."

"The service at these dinner spots was excellent and attentive."

Good to know

1

Expect large portions; sharing is recommended.

2

A $3.60 charge applies for each additional topping on pizzas.

3

They charge extra for protein additions to dishes.

09
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.

Antipasti stands out with a variety worth trying alone. Chicken Parmesan has a crispy breaded chicken breast and light marinara. Pizza options include a meatball slice with balanced flavors and a prosciutto Neapolitan with a crispy crust. The white lasagna and cacio e pepe are notable dishes.

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

People are saying

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

"The Italian food, especially the pizza, has a delicious, flavorful crust."

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

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.

10
Capo image 1
Italian restaurant

Old-world style Italian restaurant with cozy atmosphere and soft lighting creates a warm, inviting space. Walls and windowsills display authentic artwork, enhancing the intimate setting. Lively conversations and an eclectic music playlist keep energy balanced without overpowering.

Pasta dishes stand out with options like Bucatini with Lamb Ragu offering deep flavors and corn truffle ravioli delivering a perfect balance. The menu allows ordering half portions to try more, and the service includes helpful recommendations for pairing dishes.

Dinner here offers amazing meals that stand out for special occasions. The experience includes memorable flavors and a great atmosphere for celebrating.

People are saying

"I loved getting their handmade pasta; it made other Italian restaurants look bad."

"I had one of the greatest dinners of my life here."

"The handmade pasta here is so good, it makes other Italian food look bad."

Good to know

1

Expect high prices; a truffle pasta costs around $250.

2

A mandatory 20% service charge is added to all bills.

3

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

11
Locanda Portofino image 1
Italian restaurant

Elegant Italian dining space offers authentic European charm with warm, inviting atmosphere and classic East Coast energy. Both indoor and outdoor seating create a romantic, moody vibe that feels like dining in an Italian home.

Fresh burrata cheese pairs well with bell peppers, and pasta dishes include sea urchin spaghetti and black squid ink tagliolini. Gnocchi options feature gorgonzola and creamy pesto, while risotto highlights porcini mushrooms. Desserts like torta della nonna and panna cotta finish the meal.

Dinner features a filet paired with truffle gnocchi. The setting suits a romantic evening.

People are saying

"I thought the chocolate dessert was perfect."

"The Italian dinner spots here are authentic and exquisite."

"I thought the Italian food here was authentic and legit."

Good to know

1

Reservations are available for same-day dining, but it's best to call ahead.

2

The restaurant has both indoor and outdoor seating options.

3

Parking can be difficult during busy times, so plan accordingly.

12
Giorgio Baldi image 1
Italian restaurant

Small Italian restaurant offers cozy indoor and outdoor seating, including a patio and parking lot dining areas. Atmosphere ranges from quiet and intimate to loud and cramped, with tables placed very close together. Valet service is available, and the setting includes dimmed lights and a sea view.

Handmade pastas like pumpkin ravioli and corn agnolotti stand out for their freshness and flavor. The langoustine linguine offers a subtle sweetness, while the gnocchi with meat sauce and classic spaghetti deliver solid, delicious options.

Small space with dimmed lights sets a cozy mood for dinner. Booking ahead helps but expect a short wait. Celebrity sightings add a unique touch to the experience.

People are saying

"The pasta portions here are small, but the flavor is fantastic."

"The Italian food here has big flavor but small portions."

"The pasta here is so fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required by phone as the restaurant is usually fully booked.

2

Valet parking costs $17 cash or $20 if paid by credit card.

3

Expect a wait of 15-20 minutes for valet service during busy times.

13
Diner Antonette image 1
American restaurant

Old building hosts an American diner with retro-inspired decor and cozy booths under warm, dim lighting. Atmosphere blends nostalgic charm with modern touches, creating a relaxed vibe. Patio and event spaces offer airy, bright settings for gatherings.

Fresh in-house-made pasta stands out, especially in the lobster and crab dishes. Burrata pairs surprisingly well with peaches, adding a unique twist to the menu.

Dinner features a timeless diner feel with a historic bar setting. The patio offers a marvelous party space suitable for groups up to 25, paired with warm service and delicious food.

People are saying

"The diner's fried chicken is wonderfully spiced and crispy."

"It's a cozy diner with a New York vibe for dinner."

"The homemade pasta here is incredible, better than in Italy."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers half-price drinks before 7 PM on weekdays.

2

Kids meals are available for $5 each.

3

Parking is generally available on the street, but check for meters.

14
The Galley image 1
Steak house

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.

Pasta dishes like shrimp pasta, pasta marinara, and linguine with clams or mussels stand out here. The seafood pasta and steak sandwich also get attention, while the fried shrimp divides opinions.

Steak dinners stand out with options like the tomahawk. The atmosphere feels festive and suits groups well for dinner.

People are saying

"I thought the burgers tasted excellent."

"The steaks here are delicious and prepared just how I like them."

"The Italian food here has a great atmosphere and is a lovely place to meet friends."

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.'

15
Cosetta image 1
Italian restaurant

Open air dining with a large, heated patio creates a cozy Italian style atmosphere that invites lingering. The space combines a tasteful interior design with ample outdoor seating and a fire pit, supporting both lively and romantic vibes. A bar area complements the setting, making it suitable for casual drinks or date nights.

People are saying

"The food here is fantastic, especially the steak and prawns."

"The Italian food, especially the pizzas, had bold, flavorful toppings."

"The pizzas here are flavorful, especially the white-based ones."

Good to know

1

Reservation is highly recommended during weekends and peak hours.

2

Parking is available in the lot behind the restaurant with two hours of validation.

3

Happy Hour runs from 4 to 5 pm on weekdays.

16
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.

Shrimp Pasta stands out with strong flavors. The tiramisu tastes sour and old, and costs $25 for two pieces.

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.

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 short rib bucatini here is so flavorful and cooked perfectly al dente."

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.

17
MARELLE Santa Monica image 1

Restaurant offers indoor and outdoor seating with ocean and pool views and a breezy coastal charm. Outdoor area features live DJ sets and heaters, creating a relaxed and inviting atmosphere. Space suits both casual meals and large events, blending Tulum-style design with a beach-front vibe.

Lemon mushroom rigatoni stands out with a surprising flavor. The crab cake also adds a notable touch to the menu.

Dinner features a prix fixe menu with occasional guest chefs. The ambiance suits special occasions well. Cocktails and dishes come out consistently amazing.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and totally worth it."

"The Italian food here, like the calamari with saffron marinara, is to die for."

"The dinner here was amazing, fresh, and perfectly made."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted, and the restaurant is usually not busy at night.

2

Parking validation is available for $10 off valet parking.

3

The restaurant has both indoor and outdoor seating options.

18
Fia Restaurant image 1
Californian restaurant

Outdoor garden with fire pits and seating under a pine tree creates a cozy, magical atmosphere. Space heaters and blankets help manage a chilly, intimate setting. The vibe suits modern American brunch and dinner, with a unique, beautiful indoor-outdoor design.

Spicy arrabbiata pasta stands out with its rich, fiery flavor and boldness. All pastas are made in house and well put together, with tortellini and Caesar salad also notable.

Dinner here suits celebrations with options for a private room and a modern American menu. The vibe fits well for date nights or group dinners.

People are saying

"The brunch here is amazing, especially the chilaquiles."

"The pasta here is rich, fiery, and unapologetically bold."

"The food and atmosphere at this dinner spot were great."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for brunch, especially on weekends.

2

Brunch for four people costs around $460, so plan your budget accordingly.

3

Happy hour is available from 4:30 to 5:30 PM on weekdays.

19
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.

Freshly baked focaccia bread offers a perfect balance of softness and crispness with just the right amount of olive oil. Spaghetti comes perfectly al dente, dressed in a light tomato sauce that is both delicious and zesty.

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 service at dinner spots was amazing and attentive."

"The Italian food, especially the pasta, was so good I wanted more."

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.

20
Rustic Canyon image 1
Californian restaurant

Rustic, chic design with hardwood interiors and close seating creates an intimate but loud atmosphere filled with music and chatter. Small, open space includes a back patio that offers a charming outdoor experience. The vibe blends upscale yet laid-back energy, welcoming casually dressed diners.

Gnocchi stands out as a well-presented and delicious dish that appeals even to young kids.

Dinner offers a memorable culinary experience with dishes that impress consistently. The setting suits both casual and business dinners, making it a versatile spot for evening meals.

People are saying

"The food here is outstanding, highlighting fresh, local ingredients."

"The Dinner Spots here are exceptional, especially the salads and vegetables."

"The Italian food here, especially the gnocchi, is delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

2

Expect a 30-45 minute wait for tables during peak hours.

3

A 4% health charge is added to the subtotal before tax.

21
Spumoni Pizza Restaurant image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant offers cozy indoor space and heated outdoor patio with a calm, relaxed vibe. Neighborhood feel attracts casual diners and small groups, often with quiet street views through clean windows.

Fresh homemade pasta and ravioli stand out with perfect cooking and generous portions. Pasta alla puttanesca offers a flavorful, spicy experience, complemented by a delicious homemade marinara sauce.

Fresh pasta and generous portions define the dinner offerings. An outdoor patio adds a casual vibe, and a Monday night deal offers 50% off food from 5 to 9 PM.

People are saying

"The wine here is fantastic and the waiter is knowledgeable."

"The Italian food here is really tasty and delicious."

"The fresh pasta here is cooked to perfection for dinner."

Good to know

1

Monday night offers 50% off food from 5 PM to 9 PM.

2

Seating is available without a reservation on Sundays at 6 PM.

3

Metered street parking is available nearby.

22
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.

Lobster pasta stands out with thick savory sauce and generous chunks of lobster, paired with black noodles for a unique twist. Family-style dishes include squash blossoms, hamachi, pizzas, steak, branzino, linguine, and carbonara, all served with excellent quality.

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.

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 Italian food here is amazing, and the service is so attentive."

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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