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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Top picks in Santa Monica

Lunch spots with outdoor space

Made for those who insist on eating their lunch in the open air regardless of the season.

Based on 924 Opinions
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01
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Cozy cafe with warm Eastern European vibes and a spacious sunny patio offers a calm, friendly atmosphere with good background music and a mix of locals and visitors. Seating suits quiet moments or casual chats, and the place is dog-friendly with amenities for pets. The setup encourages an elevated state of mind for working or relaxing without crowds or trendy distractions.

Lunch options include original and generous dishes. The spot suits a quick lunch or a relaxed meal.

Spacious and sunny patio offers plenty of room to relax. A shady patio extends into the street, creating a cute outdoor seating area.

People are saying

"Nino was a charming host with a foreign accent."

"The service at this Lunch Spot was so friendly and efficient."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait of 30-45 minutes during peak brunch hours.

2

Payment is made at the counter; no servers for outdoor seating.

3

They offer gluten-free options, but vegan choices are limited.

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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.

Offers a convenient location near the airport with easy walking access. Serves lunch with a friendly ambiance suitable for meeting friends. Functions well for brunch, lunch, or dinner options.

Large outdoor patio offers plenty of tables and many heaters. This setup keeps outdoor dining comfortable even in chilly weather with ample outdoor space.

People are saying

"The outdoor patio has a great vibe and lots of space."

"This lunch spot's large patio is dog and kid friendly."

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.

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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.

Offers a mix of American-style breakfast and Mediterranean lunch options with a fine dining touch. The sun room provides a bright, relaxed spot ideal for lunch meetings or casual gatherings.

The patio offers beautiful views of the ocean, pool, and pier. It maintains a perfect warm temperature on cool nights, making outdoor seating enjoyable even when it's cool.

People are saying

"The outdoor space has a beautiful view of the ocean and pier."

"This lunch spot felt like uncovering something secret and magical."

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.

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1940s-style diner with vintage decor and original bar stools creates a nostalgic atmosphere. Cozy indoor booths and a dog-friendly patio with private dividers offer varied seating. Intimate space fills with lively energy, blending classic charm with relaxed outdoor vibes.

A historic spot with a throwback vibe offers counter seating and a menu featuring a notable burger. Parking is usually easy even on Main Street during lunch.

Two levels of outdoor seating offer a dog-friendly and relaxed patio experience. Dividers create a sense of privacy while dining outdoors.

People are saying

"The patio seating here is dog-friendly and has dividers for privacy."

"This lunch spot has such a cute diner charm."

Good to know

1

Parking is usually easy to find in the neighborhood behind the restaurant.

2

The menu features a diverse selection of traditional American diner dishes.

3

Daily specials and fresh juices are offered regularly.

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Rooftop setting offers stunning views and outdoor heaters that keep the space comfortable despite the breeze. Atmosphere blends casual enjoyment with a sexy, entertaining vibe, attracting a lively crowd. Accessibility features include elevator access and wheelchair-friendly seating.

A relaxed rooftop with beautiful views sets the scene for lunch. The menu offers good options and the service is attentive.

Rooftop seating offers a mountain view and has heaters to keep the space warm. The outdoor area feels inviting yet intimate and creates a nice atmosphere for evenings.

People are saying

"This Lunch Spot has delicious food that's artfully plated."

"The outdoor rooftop vibe and atmosphere made the evening."

Good to know

1

Reservations are almost required due to high demand.

2

A $5 non-refundable reservation fee is charged per person.

3

Valet parking is available and convenient.

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Small, intimate restaurant with cozy authentic interior and a beautiful terrace creates a warm inviting atmosphere. Locals frequent the lively space, enjoying fresh sushi and smooth sake, while staff add personal touches like singing for celebrations. The vibe suits both date nights and family gatherings.

Lunch features happy hour prices on special bento boxes, appetizers, and beer. Bento boxes serve as a solid choice for a midday meal with friends.

Cozy patio offers a peaceful and romantic vibe with beautiful decorations. Dog friendly space suits both family gatherings and special occasions.

People are saying

"The outdoor seating area is cozy and beautifully decorated."

"This Lunch Spot has fresh, delicious sushi."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 2 to 5pm with great prices on appetizers and drinks.

2

The restaurant offers a lunch special bento box during happy hour.

3

Seating is available both indoors and outdoors, accommodating larger parties.

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Small corner bistro offers covered outdoor patio with a garden setting and varied seating sizes for groups. Atmosphere stays casual and cozy, creating a calm and inviting vibe. Space suits families and students looking for a quiet breakfast spot.

Quiet street location suits a quick breakfast or lunch. Menu offers multiple options for both meals, making it a solid spot for midday dining.

Spacious patios offer both covered and uncovered seating with plenty of shade. Outdoor areas include a garden and allow for a nice breeze, making dining comfortable and casual.

People are saying

"This lunch spot's French toast and huevos rancheros are amazing."

"The outdoor patio is spacious, shaded, and surrounded by greenery."

Good to know

1

Patrons often waited over an hour for their food during peak hours.

2

Parking is limited in the small lot, but street parking is available nearby.

3

The website states they open at 7:30 AM, but they actually open at 8:00 AM.

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Outdoor seating fills driveway and backyard with a quiet courtyard and pleasant patio featuring heaters. Atmosphere stays chill and cool, inviting relaxed hangouts without indoor dining. Menu highlights include crispy, juicy chicken and creative sandwiches praised for freshness and flavor.

Quick and healthy lunch options stand out here. Outdoor seating adds a relaxed vibe for a midday break.

Patio welcomes fur babies for company while dining outdoors. Fries served nearby have a creamy inside and crisply seasoned outside.

People are saying

"The outdoor seating is pleasant and a chill spot to hang out."

"The chili dog at this Lunch Spot has fantastic, thick chili."

Good to know

1

Only outdoor seating is available, so dress appropriately for the weather.

2

They only accept card payments; no cash is accepted.

3

You can bring your pets onto the patio, which is a nice touch.

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Hotel offers beachfront views and a stylish, romantic atmosphere with live music and evening cocktails. Guests enjoy daily bike rentals and a lounge bar favored for socializing. The setting combines luxury decor with a relaxing vibe despite occasional traffic noise.

Lunch happens right on the beach with ocean views and a relaxed vibe. The spot suits casual meals and business lunches alike, offering a solid menu for midday dining.

Outdoor areas include a nautical-themed patio with seating that feels inviting and a boardwalk with added outdoor seating. The pool and spa area features a beach bar and is well maintained.

People are saying

"I had a lovely lunch spot on the beach."

"The outdoor space offers amazing, panoramic views of the ocean and pier."

Good to know

1

Parking without validation costs $44 for 2.5 hours.

2

The hotel offers a Mon-Thurs Happy Hour at Coast restaurant.

3

Live music is available on Wednesday nights.

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Seaside restaurant on a pier offers huge outdoor deck with scenic views and patio seating where dogs are welcome. Atmosphere stays chill and cozy with Bob Marley music and heaters keeping the space warm. Counter service uses buzzers for orders, creating a casual, relaxed vibe.

Lunch offers fresh seafood with a great ocean view. Outdoor seating lets you enjoy a beachside vibe while eating.

A huge, lovely outside deck and an outdoor patio offer plenty of space. Sitting on the pier provides a better view and shaded spots make eating outside nicer than inside.

People are saying

"The outdoor space has a lovely atmosphere with an ocean view."

"This Lunch Spot's seafood is so fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is wheelchair accessible.

2

Expect long lines around noon; arrive early to secure a table.

3

Prices are effectively 10% higher due to a hidden fee.

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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.

Lunch features a $22 plate topped with fresh herbs and flowers. The spot works well for a midday meal with a pleasant setting.

Spacious outdoor seating offers a picturesque patio with many heaters for warmth. The atmosphere feels lively yet calming, enhanced by the smell of wood smoke from the fire.

People are saying

"The outdoor space is lovely, with great food and service."

"This Lunch Spot's food is fantastic and delicious."

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.

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Small, cozy restaurant with a family-run feel and casual atmosphere. Outdoor seating includes two small tables, one suitable for dogs. Loud juice machine and blenders near dining area affect the otherwise relaxed vibe.

Offers a quick lunch option with a menu suitable for both breakfast and lunch. Serves consistently good meals that fit well for a casual brunch or lunch stop.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious; every bite is amazing."

Good to know

1

Yagul Cafe is a family-owned establishment known for its authentic Oaxacan cuisine.

2

The cafe seats around 30 people, making it an intimate dining experience.

3

Expect to pay around $20 for chicken enchiladas, which may be considered small in portion.

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Mediterranean restaurant with a covered patio and comfortable seating, including couches and outdoor options. Atmosphere feels relaxed yet vibrant, with authentic music playing at a moderate volume. Casual setup where guests order and pay at the counter before seating themselves.

Offers quick lunch options with a Mediterranean menu suitable for daily visits. Serves as a reliable spot for a decent, fast meal on the go.

Outdoor seating includes a patio with authentic music playing. The space offers a nice vibe that encourages sitting outside and relaxing.

People are saying

"The food at this Lunch Spot is delicious, especially the chicken shawarma."

"The outdoor seating vibe is really nice."

Good to know

1

This is a casual restaurant where you order and pay before finding a table.

2

There is free parking outside the restaurant.

3

Z Garden offers catering services at reasonable prices.

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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.

Lunch features a burger and fries with a house-made dipping sauce. The spot works well for casual meetups and family lunches with kids.

Outdoor seating offers a lovely spot to enjoy meals. It suits days with perfect weather.

People are saying

"This lunch spot's food is delicious and prepared with fresh ingredients."

"The food here is delicious and freshly prepared."

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.

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Halal restaurant offers a warm and inviting atmosphere with industrial/hipster decor and limited indoor seating complemented by outdoor tables along the sidewalk. The vibe stays friendly and upbeat, creating a welcoming space for casual dining or working on a laptop.

A really chill spot great for a quick lunch with friends or family. It works well for both lunch and dinner occasions.

Nice outdoor seating offers a relaxed spot to eat. Tables outside provide a pleasant option for dining in the open air.

People are saying

"The burgers here are juicy, flavorful, and absolutely amazing."

"This lunch spot's skillet burgers and crispy tots are fantastic."

Good to know

1

Urban Skillet is 100% Halal.

2

The restaurant served halal beef and chicken.

3

Urban Skillet is open later than other local burger places.

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Traditional Italian deli combines market, café, and quick-stop in a bustling, cozy atmosphere with authentic Italian grocery offerings. Outdoor seating includes stone picnic tables for enjoying sandwiches. The vibe recalls Little Italy in Manhattan with a quaint, small-town charm.

Ordering online helps skip the wait during lunch. The Godmother sandwich stands out, alongside potato and cucumber salads and a chicken salad option for next-day meals.

Sunny outdoor seating offers a fun environment to enjoy sandwiches. Free parking makes it easy to grab food and eat right outside the store.

People are saying

"I thought the Godmother sandwich was the best I had ever had."

"You can grab a sandwich and eat it in the sunny outdoor seating area."

Good to know

1

They accept only cash and debit card.

2

You need to grab a ticket with a number and wait until they call out the numbers.

3

Expect long wait times, especially during peak hours.

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Greek restaurant offers a casual, cozy atmosphere with authentic music enhancing the vibe. Seating includes a nice outdoor area and high chairs for kids, though indoor space can feel warm and smokey. The place fills up during busy times but maintains a low-key, friendly energy throughout.

Offers a quick lunch option with a casual vibe. Serves well for a fast meal during work breaks or casual outings.

Outdoor seating includes a nice sitting area. Efficient takeout options complement the space. Some outdoor seating is currently unavailable but was present before.

People are saying

"It's a great lunch spot for a quick bite."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times during lunchtime, especially on weekends.

2

Online ordering is recommended to avoid long wait times.

3

The restaurant has limited seating, so plan accordingly.

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Oceanfront setting offers unmatched beach views and a lively atmosphere with loud music and a DJ at night. The space includes a game room nook and TVs showing sports, attracting groups who enjoy social and energetic vibes. Outdoor seating on terraces enhances the experience with sunset views and a bar-focused environment.

Lunch offers a chance to enjoy shrimp cocktail with a tangy kick and join in on Taco Tuesday specials. Outdoor seating lets you watch people while having a beer and a meal.

Outdoor seating offers great views of the Santa Monica Pier and waterfront. The patio captures the setting sun, creating a pleasant atmosphere for dining outside.

People are saying

"This Lunch Spot's food is tasty, well-seasoned, and beautifully presented."

"The outdoor seating has a great view of the Santa Monica Pier."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-5pm with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Karaoke night, called terry-oke, happens every Monday at 9pm.

3

Parking is available nearby through SpotHero for convenience.

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Frank Gehry-designed space offers a gorgeous architectural setting with chic decor and warm, comfortable vibes. Music from a DJ energizes the atmosphere, creating a lively and busy environment. Outdoor patio features vintage Los Angeles clips, adding a unique touch to the experience.

Triple cooked wedge potatoes come with an insanely good curry dipping sauce. Wontons and Beet Poke are popular choices that make great leftovers for lunch.

A small patio offers outdoor seating with clips of old Los Angeles and the movie Island in the Sun playing. The food aroma carries out to the street, adding to the outdoor vibe.

People are saying

"The Lunch Spot's curry dipping sauce for the potatoes is insanely good."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers food and drinks for $10.

2

Parking is available, but not validated.

3

The restaurant has a family-style dining option for sharing.

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Mexican restaurant with vibrant indoor/outdoor seating and constant Mexican music creates a fun and lively atmosphere. The space features stunning artwork and pretty lights, offering a cozy and clean environment. The vibe stays busy but chill, attracting those who appreciate halal Mexican food.

Busy but not loud atmosphere defines lunch here, with efficient and friendly service handling the rush smoothly.

Outdoor seating offers a sunny patio with pretty lights that create a clean and pleasant atmosphere. The space is fairly small but works well in good weather.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and packed with flavor."

"The birria tacos at this Lunch Spot are unforgettable."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is 100% halal.

2

There is no restroom available for customers.

3

Four street size tacos with avocado cost $22.

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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.

Lunch features stellar meals served in a hotel restaurant and at Calabra. Both spots offer satisfying options for midday dining.

Openable windows offer fresh air and views. Heated outdoor pool and rooftop areas provide relaxing spots. Lobby and pool deck support remote work outside rooms.

People are saying

"The outdoor space here is beautifully designed and truly amazing."

"The staff here made my lunch feel so special and memorable."

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.

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