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Unique dinner spots in Santa Monica

You want a dinner that feels like an event rather than just another meal out.

Based on 702 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
MUSE Santa Monica image 1
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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.

Design stands out with a unique and beautiful style. Cocktails offer a well-balanced and captivating experience.

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 food here is spectacular and cooked perfectly."

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.

02
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.

Vegetable dishes deliver incredible unique flavors. The Egyptian chili crunch on the table adds a distinct, flavorful touch that complements every dish. Staff efforts create a special and memorable experience.

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've never had hummus this good before."

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.

03
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.

Food shows baffling originality with unique takes on classic Indian dishes. Presentation stands out with unique fusion like the avocado burrata balancing creaminess and spice.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and beautifully presented."

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

"I loved the unique Indian food, it was a wonderful journey."

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.

04
XUNTOS image 1
Tapas bar

Spanish tapas bar offers a cozy art deco interior with soft warm lighting and a down-to-earth yet elegant vibe. The atmosphere ranges from loud and lively to more intimate upstairs seating, attracting those seeking authentic Spanish flavors paired with an extensive vermouth and cocktail selection.

Dinner here offers a great interactive experience that suits both romantic evenings and gatherings with friends. The spot handles large celebrations smoothly, making it a solid choice for special dinners with groups.

Galecian empanada and anchovy on buttered brioche toast offer unique flavors with salty, savory, buttery, and slightly crusty notes. The bartender creates a custom wine flight tailored to personal taste, enhancing the sensorial experience.

People are saying

"The garlic shrimp and scallops were perfectly cooked."

"The dinner spots here have amazing taste and fresh ingredients."

"The lamb skewers were the best I have ever tasted."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on busy evenings.

2

Happy hour is available on weekdays with a limited menu.

3

The restaurant adds a 4% employee benefits fee to the bill.

05
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.

Clams served on the side add a unique twist to the dishes. Mozzarella sticks come with lively seasoning, and the dumpling salad features a chili onion crunch in every bite.

People are saying

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

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

"The Caesar salad's crunchy croutons and tasty ingredients are unique."

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.

06
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.

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.

Menu items feature unique twists and interesting ingredients that give each dish a distinct flavor. The atmosphere feels homespun despite the mall setting, with creative takes on standard dishes.

People are saying

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

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

"The food here has unique flavors and interesting 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.

07
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.

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.

A very unique atmosphere sets the tone here. Cocktails and food blend fresh, local flavors in ways that feel both comforting and unlike anything else, with dishes like crudo featuring unexpected ingredients such as strawberries and mint.

People are saying

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

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

"The food and drinks here are unique and beautifully presented."

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.

08
Mikomi Sushi Santa Monica image 1
Japanese restaurant

Spacious interior features modern design and beautiful chandeliers with a calm, clean atmosphere ideal for relaxed dining. A robot waitress named Bella delivers food, adding a unique touch to the experience. The place attracts those seeking high-quality sushi in a cozy, inviting setting.

Dinner features three sushi rolls and edamame for a simple, satisfying meal. The spot suits quick dinners and is easy to reach by walk or short drive.

A robot waitress named Bella delivers sushi rolls directly to tables, adding a high-tech touch to the dining experience. This feature stands out compared to typical sushi spots.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is amazing, especially the fresh, well-prepared sushi."

"The baked salmon and eel rolls are delicious dinner spots."

"The robot waitress, Bella, adds a unique tech twist to the dining experience."

Good to know

1

Happy hour features items priced around $5 to $7, with good-sized portions.

2

The lunch special costs $24 for a full plate, including a nice roll and sashimi.

3

The restaurant and bathrooms are clean and well-maintained.

09
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.

Dinner offers an oceanfront setting with memorable meals. The Georgian Room serves a lifetime experience for evening dining.

Unique design and art create a distinct atmosphere. Staff offer a level of service that stands out. Dining at the Georgian Room delivers a unique experience.

People are saying

"The hotel staff were so polite and helpful with everything."

"The service at dinner spots was amazing and attentive."

"It's a unique Art Deco treasure, like stepping back into Old Hollywood glamour."

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.

10
The Pierside Santa Monica image 1

Hotel offers mesmerizing water views and a swanky surfer vibe with luxurious rooms featuring king beds and sectional sofas. Heated pool area provides a quiet retreat despite nearby freeway noise. Guests can enjoy free rentals like surfboards and skateboards, enhancing the beachside experience.

Dinner happens at the attached restaurant and bar, The Surfing Fox, which serves a wide range of options including cocktails and dinner. The spot offers a spectacular dining experience downstairs.

Swanky surfer vibe sets this hotel apart. The lobby features a unique drink selection in coolers. The Surfing Fox restaurant adds a distinct concept.

People are saying

"This hotel's location is amazing, just steps from the pier and restaurants."

"The service at dinner spots here is phenomenal and friendly."

"It's uniquely dog friendly, with special menu items for pups."

Good to know

1

The hotel is located just a 2-3 minute walk to Santa Monica beach.

2

Expect a $40 daily amenity fee, even if amenities are limited.

3

The hotel is undergoing renovations, so the pool and gym are unavailable.

11
Santa Monica Proper Hotel image 1

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.

Rooftop dining offers panoramic city views and a beautiful sunset backdrop. The spot serves dinner alongside drinks, creating a nice setting for celebrations.

Spectacular design and unique art pieces shape the interiors with warm tones and natural materials. Responsive guest services add to the memorable experience.

People are saying

"This hotel's design is beautiful, stylish, and incredibly comfortable."

"The dinner spots here are beautifully designed and spectacular."

"Its design is a unique blend of modern and bohemian luxury."

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.

12
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.

Impeccable food meets thoughtful presentation and a unique ambiance. Ingredients come from exclusive California farms, creating a fun and distinct experience.

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."

"It's a unique, intimate dining experience with only a few tables."

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.

13
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.

Dinner feels like eating in a friend's backyard in France with a relaxed, intimate vibe. The menu offers great outdoor dining options that suit brunch, lunch, and dinner well.

Outdoor seating offers a unique dining experience with shared dishes. The menu includes distinctive offerings that change the usual pace, though the food itself lacks standout uniqueness.

People are saying

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

"The food at these dinner spots is fantastic and delicious."

"I loved the unique outdoor dining with shared dishes."

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.

14
Benihana - Santa Monica image 1
Japanese restaurant

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.

Dinner here turns into a show with the chefโ€™s performance. It suits celebrations well, making dinners memorable and fun with friends or family.

A truly unique dining experience unfolds with interactive cooking right at the table. The atmosphere blends fun and engagement with great food.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and full of flavor."

"Chef Pablo's skilled performance made our dinner feel special."

"The chef's theatrical grilling show was a unique performance."

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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