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Italian food and seafood in Santa Monica

You want a menu that balances the traditions of Italian kitchens with the freshness of the sea.

Based on 776 Opinions
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Updated June 2026
01
Orto Santa Monica image 1
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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.

Shrimp dishes stand out with shrimp ravioli cooked to perfection and a creamy sauce that complements the shrimp and cheese filling. Pasta like linguine di mare comes with al dente noodles and seafood cooked just right.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious."

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

"The shrimp ravioli here is cooked to perfection."

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.

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.

Shrimp po boy stands out with its fresh shrimp and solid flavor. Fish tacos use never frozen fish, adding to their quality.

People are saying

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

"The fish tacos and swordfish sandwich were delicious."

"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
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.

Oysters come pre-dressed with jalapeรฑos and grapefruit, blending spice and citrus. Popcorn shrimp and crostini add variety, while toasts feature vegetables and fish for a fresh mix.

People are saying

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

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

"The seafood here is amazing, especially by the warm fire."

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.

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.

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

Fresh seafood shines with juicy fish that stands out. The menu follows a farm-to-table philosophy using locally sourced ingredients.

People are saying

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

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

"The Seafood here is cooked to perfection, with crispy skin."

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
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.

Uni butter and Spanish clams shine on the Lo Spagnolo Ricco pizza, while the blue fin appetizer and shrimp scampi deliver incredible flavor with high-quality seafood. Scallops and shrimp toast also stand out as phenomenal dishes among the seafood offerings.

People are saying

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

"The seafood specials here are packed with incredible flavor."

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

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 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.

Fish tacos stand out with their delicious flavor and generous portions during Happy Hour. Clams and panko crusted halibut also feature as great seafood options alongside steak.

People are saying

"I thought the burgers tasted excellent."

"The seafood here, especially the salmon and halibut, is better than perfect."

"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.'

07
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.

White shrimp ceviche and ahi tuna wontons stand out for their freshness and flavor, with the tuna being especially notable. Fish tacos also feature as a solid choice among the seafood options.

People are saying

"The outdoor seating has a great vibe and atmosphere."

"The ahi tuna tacos and white shrimp ceviche were amazingly delicious."

"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.

08
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.

Menu features a variety of fish dishes including salmon, white fish, and crudo, plus a lobster option. Starters include an amuse poke and shrimp scampi orzo, though the orzo's price feels high. Sides like mac and cheese use a bรฉchamel base.

People are saying

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

"The seafood here is so tender, you'll be searching for more."

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

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.

09
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.

Fish sandwich stands out with great flavor and quality. Other seafood options like salmon are available, but the fish sandwich is the highlight.

People are saying

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

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

"You have to try the fish sandwich; it's amazing."

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.

10
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.

Shrimp and grits stand out with rich flavors, paired with grilled fish and fresh tuna and salmon starters. Whole fish dishes deliver solid taste, complemented by homemade pasta with truffles.

People are saying

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

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

"The seafood here is excellent; the staff is so attentive."

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.

11
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.

Seafood centers on wood fire grilled preparations with prices reflecting quality, such as fish at $98. The focus lies on delivering excellent seafood that matches the premium cost.

People are saying

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

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

"I found the seafood here to be excellent."

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.

12
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.

Seafood platter and diver scallops match the oysters in quality. The seafood risotto pairs with white wine, but sand in the fish affects the dish's appeal.

People are saying

"The food here is fantastic and exquisite."

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

"The truffle Brie is not to be missed."

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.

13
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.

Seafood noodles and fresh oysters stand out here. Salmon and grilled fish come cooked perfectly, often paired with flavorful vegetables like asparagus and broccolini.

People are saying

"The food here was delicious and high quality."

"The seafood here is outstanding, especially the grilled fish."

"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.

14
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.

White fish stands out with fresh, clean flavors. The seafood pairs well with red wine and finishes with a tiramisu dessert.

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 seafood here is divine, especially the fish."

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.

15
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.

Roasted fish comes flaky and flavorful with a delicate citrus glaze. White fish dishes stand out but often get outshined by the salads and vegetables served alongside.

People are saying

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

"The seafood here is divine and perfectly prepared."

"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.

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Santa Monica, California

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