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Santa Monica's best

Pasta dinner spots

A bowl of pasta is the only thing that feels like a proper dinner. It is the kind of meal that settles the nerves and fills the stomach.

Based on 727 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 and ricotta ravioli stands out with a Thai green curry twist. Corn ravioli appears alongside dishes like boar ragu, adding a unique pasta option.

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 sweet corn ravioli is a must-try pasta dish."

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.

Homemade pasta stands out with dishes like Spinach & Pea Pesto, Coconut Curry, and Cilantro Pasta offering distinct flavors. Quality remains consistently high, making the pasta a highlight of the menu.

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."

"The pasta here is handmade with fresh ingredients."

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.

Cheese ravioli with mushroom sauce stands out with perfect cooking and a unique taste. The truffle pasta served in a cheese wheel offers an amazing, rich flavor that defines the pasta experience here.

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

"The truffle pasta in the cheese wheel is amazing."

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
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.

Eggplant pasta stands out with its rich flavor and tender texture. The menu features eggplant cappelletti and other pasta dishes that pair well with seafood like halibut.

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 pasta here is served by a team that's attentive and warm."

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.

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.

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 pasta here is fresh and the sauces are rich."

"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.

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.

Wagyu spaghetti offers rich, flavorful, perfectly cooked pasta paired with French bread. The Nonna lasagna stands out as exceptional, alongside a notable truffle pappardelle option.

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 gave great recommendations for the pasta."

"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
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.

Macaroni bechamel with shaved truffle stands out as rich and indulgent. The prawn pasta and ravioli also offer elevated flavors that impress beyond basic dishes.

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.

People are saying

"The food at these dinner spots is extraordinary, with layers of flavor."

"The sunset view here is a beautiful, magical show."

"I'm still thinking about that exceptional macaroni dish."

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
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.

Corn truffle ravioli stands out as a perfect dish. The ragu and pasta portions can be ordered as halves to share. The pasta dishes pair well with other courses like steak and dessert.

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 wine list here is amazing and extensive."

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.

09
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.

Pasta dishes include potato gnocchi with ragรน, tomato ravioli, and spaghetti with ragรน, all cooked authentically. The ravioli stands out as a fantastic dish alongside great lasagna and scampi.

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."

"The pasta here is delicious and satisfying."

"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.

10
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.

Seafood pasta dishes include a shrimp pasta with only four shrimp and a fish pasta special. Pasta marinara tastes like canned tomatoes. Kids enjoy the pasta options here.

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 pasta here has a great atmosphere and is a lovely place to eat."

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.'

11
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 linguine with langostino offers a subtle sweetness that complements the dish well.

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 cuisine here is so authentic, it feels like stepping into Italy."

"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.

12
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.

Pasta dishes feature rich flavors like penne vodka and black squid ink tagliolini. Options include spaghetti with Santa Barbara sea urchins and pasta with swordfish and eggplant.

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."

"The pasta here is authentic Italian and utterly perfection."

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.

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. The crab pasta is delicate and the meatballs with pasta are solid.

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 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
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 stands out with generous portions and perfect cooking. Dishes like pasta alla puttanesca and lasagna offer bold flavors and satisfying spice levels.

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."

"I enjoyed the fresh, handmade pasta here."

"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.

15
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.

Pastas come well put together with attention to detail. The lobster pasta stands out as a dish that gets devoured quickly.

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 food and atmosphere at this dinner spot were great."

"The house-made pasta, especially the arrabbiata, is rich and bold."

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.

16
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.

White lasagna stands out with rich flavors. The menu offers a great selection of classic Italian pastas, alongside salads and pizzas.

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 pizza here is excellent and keeps us coming back."

"I thought the pasta was great."

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.

17
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 a unique taste and is highly recommended. The pesto spaghetti also draws attention for its rich flavor.

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 pesto pasta here is to die for."

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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