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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Santa Monica's best

Unique food spots

You want a meal that breaks the routine and offers something you cannot find anywhere else.

Based on 801 Opinions
+798
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Updated April 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.

Food here features outstanding dishes like the fillet, veal, and brioche that impress from start to finish. The dessert stands out as unforgettable, complementing the excellent service and atmosphere.

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 food here is exceptional, especially the Vanilla St. Honorรฉ."

"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
Monica Cafe image 1

Cozy space with lofted seating and unique wall art creates an inviting atmosphere. Soft jazz music plays quietly, supporting a calm, work-friendly vibe. The environment blends Midwest/East Coast big city classiness with a welcoming neighborhood feel.

Food features locally sourced, farm-to-table comfort dishes that are fresh and beautifully presented. The menu offers delicious selections with a family-like atmosphere enhancing the overall experience.

Authentic atmosphere creates a feeling of being at home. Art on the walls adds a unique touch. Food feels healthy and fresh, standing out in the area.

People are saying

"The breakfast here is so fresh and delicious."

"The food here is delicious and fresh."

"The food here is amazing, healthy, and truly unique."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required but recommended during peak hours.

2

Expect a wait during weekend brunch hours, especially after 10am.

3

The cafe accepts credit cards and mobile payments, but not personal checks.

03
LOKL HAUS image 1
Coffee shop

Small space with eclectic decor creates a cozy, authentic vibe that feels like a family kitchen. Quiet and inviting atmosphere suits relaxing or catching up with friends. Known for excellent specialty coffee and unique Turkish-inspired dishes.

Authentic Turkish dishes like doner and iskender stand out. The food is consistently amazing and tasty, paired well with specialty coffee in a cozy setting.

Distinctive Turkish coffee offers a truly unique flavor. The cafe operates with a sincere and thoughtful approach.

People are saying

"I loved the rich, distinct flavor of the Turkish coffee."

"The food here is fresh and delicious."

"It's unique how they serve real Turkish Dรถner on Wednesdays and Saturdays after 4 PM."

Good to know

1

Parking is metered and only allows 20 minutes on the same side of the coffee shop.

2

They serve breakfast and drinks only, with an expanded menu on weekends.

3

Seating is limited, so expect a small space if visiting during busy hours.

04
Van Leeuwen Ice Cream image 1
Ice cream shop

Ice cream shop features a cute pink retro decor with a cozy, modern vibe and a lively, loud atmosphere. It offers innovative flavors including many vegan and gluten-free options, attracting a trendy crowd. Seating is limited but inviting for enjoying treats on-site.

Food features delicious flavors and excellent quality consistently. The menu offers really good options that stand out.

Unique flavors stand out across the menu. Seasonal options add distinctive variety to the usual offerings.

People are saying

"The ice cream here is unbelievably creamy and rich."

"The flavors here are so unique and really yummy."

"I found the food here to be delicious."

Good to know

1

The shop is open until midnight, perfect for late-night cravings.

2

Parking is available in the back, making access easy.

3

On Tuesdays, they offer a free topping with any purchase.

05
Petitgrain Boulangerie image 1

Small artisan bakery with an open kitchen showcases authentic French pastries and rustic decor. Warm, cozy atmosphere fills the space with intoxicating smells and a joyous, welcoming vibe. Lines form quickly for exceptional croissants that rival those in Paris.

Food here offers a yummy experience that feels like a mini escape. The amazing flavors connect well with others who love good eats.

Every pastry offers a unique blend of flavors, like the cardamom and fresh strawberry one that stands out. The owner ensures quality products and consistent hospitality throughout.

People are saying

"I thought the pastries here were outstanding and not overly sweet."

"The pastries here are excellent and truly amazing."

"The baked goods here are amazing and made with love."

Good to know

1

Expect long lines, especially during weekends and mornings.

2

The croissants sell out quickly, so arrive early.

3

There are no tables available; it's primarily a grab-and-go bakery.

06
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.

An incredible blend of Middle Eastern flavors shines through in a fine dining setting. Options range from American-style breakfast to Mediterranean lunch and elegant dinner choices.

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 food here is delicious and truly enjoyable."

"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.

07
Kavahana image 1
Coffee shop

Indoor bar counter and large outdoor patio create distinct seating options. Atmosphere stays relaxing and wholesome with a chill vibe, though seating comfort varies. Extensive board game collection encourages socializing and casual hangouts.

Food comes with great presentation and suits those who enjoy kava as well as those who do not. The overall quality of food, service, and venue earns high marks.

Ancient inspired beverages like kava nectar offer an earthy and relaxing taste. Drinks feature unique flavor profiles with high-quality ingredients and blend fun cocktails with traditional Kava.

People are saying

"The outdoor seating offers a peaceful, grounding vibe perfect for unwinding."

"The kava drinks here are great for relaxing."

"It's a unique, clean chill that leaves you feeling calm and clear."

Good to know

1

Trivia night happens every Tuesday at 8pm with a $5 entry fee.

2

Karaoke starts at 10pm on Thursdays with a two-drink minimum.

3

Open mic night is every Tuesday, showcasing local talent.

08
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.

Food features homemade dishes crafted from local produce including beer. Quality consistently rates as outstanding with delicious flavors and excellent service.

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."

"This Local Spot's fresh, from-scratch cooking uses local 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.

09
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.

Food shows a commitment to quality and flavor with each dish crafted carefully. An exceptional bar menu curated by Brian Summers adds a unique touch to the dining experience.

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 Caesar salad here is generously topped with crunchy bacon."

"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.

10
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.

Food features authentic Indian flavors with a modern twist and an elevated presentation. Dishes deliver a delicious and fancy dining experience.

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.

11
Poom Thai Cuisine image 1
Thai restaurant

Plants grow wild inside, filling every inch of wall space alongside customer scribbles and art, creating a cozy, intimate atmosphere. The space feels homey and cluttered, with limited seating that suits a takeout-focused vibe. Music from a portable record player adds to the unique, soulful energy of the place.

Food arrives hot and fresh with authentic Thai flavors and generous portions. Dishes offer a good balance of spice and freshness, consistently delivering delicious and plentiful meals.

Cozy ambiance with plants growing wild and friends playing records on a portable record player creates a unique atmosphere.

People are saying

"The food at this Late Night Spot is delicious, fresh, and plentiful."

"It's a cozy spot with a warm, homey ambiance."

"I found the Thai food here to be authentic and delicious."

Good to know

1

They are open until 1:00am for late-night dining.

2

Place your order on Grubhub or call 30 minutes ahead.

3

There is limited sit-down space in the restaurant.

12
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.

Cuisine features hamachi, agnolotti, calamari, and a tomahawk steak on the bone. Food quality is consistently excellent with attentive service.

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 food here is amazing, truly one of the best meals I've ever had."

"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.

13
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.

Spanish dishes arrive quickly and showcase authentic flavors that match dining in Spain. The menu offers a quality tapas experience that stands out among local options.

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 food here is delicious, flavorful, and authentically Spanish."

"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.

14
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.

Food here stands out for its exceptional quality and consistently exceeding expectations. The dishes pair well with the amazing ambience and service to create a memorable dining experience.

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 beet and berry salad was a definite highlight."

"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.

15
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.

Food includes delicious dishes, complemented by wonderful wine and a surprise dessert. The bar offers excellent drinks alongside the meals.

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 food here is fresh, creative, and truly memorable."

"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.

16
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.

Food here features a very good menu with outstanding dishes and drinks. The team is welcoming, adding to the dining experience just steps from the pier.

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 food and drinks here are delicious."

"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.

17
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.

Food here shows flawless execution and well-balanced flavors in every dish. The intimate 14-seat dining room adds to the immersive dining experience.

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 food here is superb, with flawless execution and balanced flavors."

"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.

18
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.

Generous portions of fresh and perfectly prepared food come with multiple courses. The menu offers interesting, tasty dishes at reasonable prices in a casual, cozy setting with shared outdoor dining.

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."

"It's a great spot for a date night with its lovely outdoor atmosphere."

"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.

19
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.

Food includes sushi and cooked dishes with nice sized portions and well presentation. Quality stays consistent and prices remain reasonable for the setting.

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 food here is delicious and fresh."

"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.

20
Downtown Santa Monica image 1

Wide sidewalks lined with palm trees and bright storefronts create a playful, creative space filled with live street performances and ocean views. The atmosphere shifts from lively and vibrant during the day to quiet and peaceful at night. Plenty of benches and outdoor games invite relaxation amid a mix of shoppers and families.

Food options cover a wide range of tastes with full of culture flavors. The selection includes many local spots offering delicious dishes alongside great views.

Downtown Santa Monica offers a unique look and feel with a variety of unique stores and a mix of beautiful and unique people. Activities include grabbing a bite, shopping, and enjoying the vibe.

People are saying

"The beach here is beautiful, wide, and sandy."

"There are so many food options and places to get drinks."

"I found the downtown district to have a very unique look and feel."

Good to know

1

Public Parking Structure 6 offers 99 minutes of free parking.

2

Parking is often difficult to find in Downtown Santa Monica.

3

The area is generally safe and cheerful for visitors.

21
Bread Head image 1
Sandwich shop

Sandwich shop offers a bright, well-designed space with an eclectic gallery wall and Margaritaville-themed bathroom. Atmosphere is loud and lively with a laidback, neighborhood vibe that feels fun and relaxed. Seating is limited but includes a gorgeous curbside patio that adds charm to the setting.

Food features homemade fresh bread that boosts quality and tastes tasty and fresh. Service is quick and friendly, keeping wait times under 10 minutes even when busy.

Sandwiches feature unique flavors and exciting options. The bread and tuna sandwich stand out with their incredible taste.

People are saying

"I thought the sandwiches here were fantastic."

"The sandwiches here are hearty, fresh, and balanced."

"The bread and flavors here are unique and incredible."

Good to know

1

The joint is small, so seating is tough.

2

Expect long queues around lunch hour.

3

They don't accept cash, only touchless payment methods.

22
Holey Moley Golf Club Santa Monica image 1

Miniature golf course features unique themed holes spread over several floors with a great bar and live magician entertainment. Atmosphere is loud and crowded, with karaoke music playing openly and tight spaces causing frequent bumping. The vibe suits energetic nights out rather than quiet, relaxed play.

Corn bites and corn ribs stand out as spectacular dishes. Pizza and a pesto dish also feature, with staff like Elvis and Marissa providing attentive service to ensure food and drinks arrive smoothly.

Mini golf holes feature wicked designs with fun and unique themes on every level. The course offers a creative and packed experience despite limited space.

People are saying

"The mini golf here is amazing fun and super creative."

"The food here was awesome and delicious."

"The mini golf holes here have such unique and wicked designs."

Good to know

1

Events can cost over $1000 for limited time slots, so plan accordingly.

2

No kids are allowed after 8pm, so check age restrictions before visiting.

3

The venue lacks air conditioning, making it very hot during summer visits.

23
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.

Food preparation handles allergies perfectly with consistent quality. Dining offers amazing food paired with exceptional service for a reliable experience.

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."

"Marlon made my daughter's birthday a night to remember."

"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.

24
Santa Monica Beach image 1

Beach features a long, well-maintained boardwalk and an iconic pier with a Ferris wheel and amusement park rides. Atmosphere shifts from quiet and peaceful to lively with street performers and music, attracting people for sports, walking, and relaxing. Coastal bike and walking path connects to nearby areas, enhancing active and social experiences.

Food options spread across many stalls and restaurants near the pier. Expect a wide variety of choices with fun rides and shops nearby.

Amusement park rides and games create a unique charm that stands out. This theme park offers a distinctive attraction that makes visits memorable.

People are saying

"I found the beach beautiful, wide, and clean with amazing views."

"There were so many food options and rides to discover."

"It's got a unique, vibrant atmosphere with a lively, diverse crowd."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $12 for beachside lots, which can be crowded.

2

Swimming is not recommended due to water quality issues after recent rains.

3

Expect large crowds on weekends, making it less relaxing.

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