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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Santa Monica

Salad spots

A salad that serves as a real meal rather than a sad pile of wilted greens.

Based on 801 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
The Curious Palate image 1
The Curious Palate image 2
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New American restaurant

Open-air seating creates a calm atmosphere perfect for families. Salads shine with fresh, local vegetables and generous portions. Bright, spacious interior invites guests to relax away from noisy spots.

Salads feature fresh, locally sourced vegetables and come in generous portions. Options like the Thai Satay Salad with chicken and the house salad offer a balance of flavors and quality ingredients.

People are saying

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

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

"The spicy kale Caesar salad is a must-try."

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.

02
The Backyard image 1
Cocktail bar

Cozy outdoor seating and live acoustic music create a relaxing garden vibe. Salads like the classic Caesar and perfect wedge are well-prepared and fresh. Quiet, dog-friendly spot offers a hidden gem feel away from crowds.

Salads here include a classic Caesar and a perfect wedge salad. Both come well-prepared and complement the main dishes nicely.

People are saying

"I thought the burgers here were amazing and flavorful."

"The service here is outstanding and super friendly."

"I found it to be an amazing hidden gem just off the main tourist sideshow."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers $5 beers on Sundays.

2

The Backyard does not take reservations.

3

Parking is free for guests.

03
MUSE Santa Monica image 1
Modern French restaurant

Modern French spot offers an intimate vibe with art deco decor and moody lighting. Salads like the roasted beet are light and refreshing, perfect for summer. Enjoy exceptional culinary craftsmanship and memorable desserts in a stylish setting.

Salads here are light and refreshing, featuring options like a garden salad and a roasted beet salad that works well for summer.

People are saying

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

"The staff's attentiveness and warmth made it feel so intimate."

"The beet salad was so nice and refreshing."

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.

04
Shirubฤ“ image 1
Izakaya restaurant

Long, narrow space with intimate bar seating creates a cozy vibe. Salads like daikon salad and tomato ginger offer fresh, crisp flavors. Romantic lighting highlights antique sake cups and skilled chefs, blending minimal decor with thoughtful design.

Salads here include a daikon salad that stands out and a tomato ginger salad that feels simple and refreshing. The cucumber salad also appears alongside other dishes, offering a crisp option.

People are saying

"The sashimi here is incredibly fresh and delicious."

"You have to get the corn ribs; they're amazing."

"I found the tomato ginger salad simple and refreshing."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs all day on Sunday with food and drink specials.

2

Most happy hour menu items are about $5 cheaper than regular prices.

3

They offer both early and late-night happy hour specials.

05
Mikomi Sushi Santa Monica image 1
Japanese restaurant

Spacious interior with modern design and beautiful chandeliers creates a calm, clean atmosphere. Robot waitress Bella adds a unique touch while serving high-quality sushi. Lunch boxes include a ginger dressing salad that complements teriyaki chicken and crunch roll perfectly.

Lunch boxes come with a salad with ginger dressing that pairs well with teriyaki chicken and crunch roll. The udon salad offers a satisfying mix of flavors and textures.

People are saying

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

"The lunch special here is a huge, affordable plate."

"The seaweed salad here is so flavorful and fresh."

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.

06
Spumoni Pizza Restaurant image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian spot offers a cozy indoor space and heated patio with a calm vibe. Salads shine with Goat Cheese and Beet and a Caesar dressing perfect for bread. Neighborhood feel draws casual diners enjoying quiet street views.

Salads feature Goat Cheese and Beet, Mediterranean, and Arugula varieties. Caesar salad dressing stands out for dipping fresh bread. Chopped salad also appears as a starter option.

People are saying

"The wine here is fantastic and the waiter is knowledgeable."

"The warm bread with olive tapenade was phenomenal."

"I thought the salads we ordered were enjoyable."

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.

07
Sirena image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant boasts terrace seating with ocean views and a romantic atmosphere. Salads shine with fresh local ingredients, including a unique Caesar with sardines. Live music and a classy bar complete the elegant yet cozy vibe.

Salads feature fresh local ingredients with a variety of styles. The Caesar salad includes sardines for an authentic touch, while the Georgian chopped salad offers flavorful satisfaction.

People are saying

"The food here is outstanding, fresh, and served hot."

"I loved the outdoor seating with ocean views."

"The Caesar salad was crisp, flavorful, and authentic with sardines."

Good to know

1

Valet parking is available for $20 at the front of the hotel.

2

The restaurant offers a beautiful view of Palisades Park and the beach.

3

Lunch menu options are limited and primarily American cafeteria-style food.

08
Solidarity image 1
Polish restaurant

Polish restaurant feels like a friend's home with cozy seating and private firepit patios. Salad options shine with the Solidarity salad and fresh cucumber salad. Bar offers lively vibes and unique drinks like the Warsaw Mule.

Solidarity salad stands out as a favorite with a perfect balance. The cucumber salad is consistently fresh and a reliable choice. Sauerkraut salad also offers a great tangy option.

People are saying

"The food here is authentic, homestyle, and elevated comfort food."

"The outdoor seating feels like a beautiful secret garden."

"I did not want to miss this perfect Salad."

Good to know

1

Parking is tough in that area; street parking is available.

2

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm on weekdays with discounted drinks and appetizers.

3

The outdoor courtyard hosts Yappy Hour on alternate Thursdays, and dogs are always welcome.

09
Orto Santa Monica image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant shines with burrata and beet salad starters and fresh dressings. Bright space with soaring ceilings and soft jazz creates a calm vibe. Outdoor courtyard adds charming setting for relaxed dining.

Starters include a burrata and beet salad that stands out. Salads come with fresh, nice dressing and pair well with dishes like sea bass and scaloppina.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious."

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

"I found the salad to be truly amazing with fresh dressing."

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.

10
Cosetta image 1
Italian restaurant

Open air dining with a heated patio and fire pit creates a cozy Italian vibe. Salads shine with chicory greens and crunchy bacon, dressed in bold flavors like saffron aioli. Bar area suits both casual drinks and romantic nights.

Salads feature interesting greens like chicory and come with well-seasoned dressings and crunchy bacon. Some include unique touches like saffron aioli and puffed rice, adding texture and flavor.

People are saying

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

"The Caesar salad here is generously topped with crunchy bacon."

"It's a romantic spot with a great vibe and modern ambiance."

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.

11
Kafe K image 1
Restaurant

Cozy cafe with warm Eastern European vibes offers fresh, tasty salads like the Mediterranean salad with grilled chicken. Spacious sunny patio and dog-friendly amenities create a calm, friendly atmosphere perfect for work or relaxation with good background music.

Salads come fresh and tasty, often paired with items like quiche or smoothies. The Mediterranean salad with grilled chicken and the spinach salad with Brie toast stand out for their flavors and quality.

People are saying

"The food here is so delicious and awesome."

"I found the coffee here to be rich and flavorful."

"I found the salads to be fresh and tasty."

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.

12
Library Alehouse image 1
American restaurant

Gastropub shines with a library of craft beers including Pliny the Elder. Salads impress with European style touches, especially the buffalo chicken and Arugula options. Back patio offers a dog-friendly, quiet space amid a warm, lively interior.

Salads show attention to detail even in simple preparations. The Arugula salad stands out as a frequent choice, and the buffalo chicken salad has a European style influence.

People are saying

"They have an awesome, wide selection of craft beers."

"I thought the burgers here were the best I ever had."

"The buffalo chicken salad here is delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm Monday to Friday with great deals.

2

Trivia night is held every Wednesday evening in the back area.

3

Parking can be challenging, but there are usually spots available nearby.

13
MARU SUSHI AND RAMEN image 1

Space blends Japanese decor with a cherry blossom tree and floral ceilings for a cozy, charming vibe. Salads like the salmon skin salad offer a light, crispy bite with rich, sweet, and sour sauce. Warm lighting and an outdoor terrace create a romantic atmosphere perfect for relaxing.

Salads here include a salmon skin salad that is light and crispy with a rich, sweet, and sour sauce. It offers a healthy feel without losing flavor and comes alongside meals like the beef bulgogi bento box.

People are saying

"The Japanese Food, especially the bento boxes, had a great variety and large portions."

"The sashimi here is so fresh, it just melts in your mouth."

"The salmon skin salad's sweet and sour sauce conquered my taste buds."

Good to know

1

The bar is open until midnight for late-night drinks.

2

There is a public parking lot nearby with 90 minutes of free parking.

3

The restaurant is open until 12 midnight, making it ideal for late-night snacks.

14
Gelson's Santa Monica image 1

Store blends polished elegance with a fresh sushi bar and wide aisles for comfort. Salad bar features fresh sashimi and pairs well with bread, cheese, and wine. Atmosphere feels inviting and refined, making shopping a pleasant experience.

Seafood and poke shine at the salad bar, featuring some of the freshest sashimi around. Options include a nice variety of salads paired with bread, cheese, and wine.

People are saying

"The staff at this grocery store are so professional and friendly."

"I was impressed by the great wine selection."

"I loved the salad and poke bar."

Good to know

1

Parking and checkout are easy at Gelson's Santa Monica.

2

The store offers a wide variety of high-quality food options.

3

Expect higher prices compared to other grocery stores in the area.

15
Tsukiji Sushi Sen image 1
Authentic Japanese restaurant

Small, intimate spot offers a cozy interior and a beautiful terrace for a warm vibe. Fresh sushi pairs well with smooth sake, making it great for dates or family. Salads shine with crispy texture and ginger dressing, especially the light salmon salad.

Salads here come with a crispy texture and a tasty ginger dressing. The salmon salad feels light and refreshing, and seaweed salad is also available.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is so fresh and delicious."

"It's a cozy, sweet neighborhood spot with a relaxing, inviting atmosphere."

"The salad was crispy with a tasty ginger dressing."

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.

16
Monica Cafe image 1

Cozy space with lofted seating and soft jazz sets a calm, work-friendly vibe. Fresh, satisfying salads like chicken salad pair well with strong espresso and smooth lattes. Midwest and East Coast styles blend for a classy yet welcoming feel.

Fresh and satisfying salads come with options like chicken salad and dishes paired with Turkish eggs. Salads serve as a healthy, light lunch choice alongside strong espresso and smooth lattes.

People are saying

"The breakfast here is so fresh and delicious."

"The staff here are so welcoming, it makes you feel appreciated."

"I loved their fresh, flavorful chicken salad."

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.

17
Orla by Michael Mina image 1

Tiered flooring and panoramic ocean views set a stylish scene. Greek salad shines as a fresh starter, paired well with lamb kebabs and chops. A DJ spins tunes that keep the vibe vibrant yet conversational across lively patios and quiet rooms.

Greek salad appears often and stands out as a fresh starter. Hummus and lobster salad with stacked portions offer unique textures and presentation. Lamb kebab and lamb chops complement the salads well.

People are saying

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

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

"The Greek salad was a highlight of the meal."

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.

18
Simply Salad image 1
Salad shop

Salad shop serves super fresh ingredients with many toppings like beans and meats. Atmosphere is quiet and clean with a modern look and street views. Prices are reasonable and portions generous, making it a great spot for quick, healthy meals.

Salads come with super fresh ingredients and a variety of toppings like multiple beans, meats, and cheeses. Prices hover around 10 dollars for a well-served bowl, and the atmosphere stays clean and inviting.

People are saying

"The salads here are so fresh and delicious."

"I found the healthy foods here to be delicious and fresh."

"The service at this lunch spot is so proactive and personal."

Good to know

1

Simply Salad offers healthy and affordable options for quick meals.

2

Prices are around $10 for a well-served salad bowl.

3

Parking on 2nd street can be tricky.

19
Manchego image 1
Spanish restaurant

Spanish restaurant offers a romantic atmosphere with live guitar and ambient lighting. Salads shine with phenomenal olives and fresh beets. Wine choices like red sangria enhance the cozy, trendy vibe perfect for date nights.

Salads feature perfectly dressed greens with phenomenal olives and standout beets. Freshness shines in the spinach and mushroom croquetas and the vinagre de jerez salad.

People are saying

"The tapas here are outstanding and authentic Spanish food."

"It's a great spot for a romantic date night."

"The beets salad was full of amazing flavors."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to secure a table, especially on weekends.

2

Happy hour runs from 5:00 pm to 6:30 pm with good deals on food and drinks.

3

Parking is available in lot 11, a short walk from the restaurant.

20
Pita House Inc image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Modern Mediterranean spot offers a casual vibe with an open kitchen and serene decor. Salads shine with fresh romaine and tasty balsamic dressing, including Greek and falafel bowls. Authentic dishes like beef shawarma keep prices affordable and flavors bold.

Salads feature fresh romaine lettuce and a tasty balsamic dressing. Options include Greek, Caesar, fattoush, and falafel bowls with grilled vegetables and chicken.

People are saying

"This Mediterranean food is fresh, flavorful, and perfectly cooked."

"The food here is so authentic, it feels like home."

"I loved the fresh, tasty salads with generous portions."

Good to know

1

Pita House Inc is halal and kosher, making it suitable for diverse dietary needs.

2

Expect a wait time during peak hours, especially on weekends.

3

The food is affordable, with prices generally under $20 per meal.

21
Ugo Trattoria image 1
Italian restaurant

Quaint Italian spot offers a cozy atmosphere with a lovely patio for relaxed dining. Penne and Caesar Salad are standout dishes, though salads can take up to 30 minutes. Soft music keeps the vibe calm and inviting without loud noise or crowds.

Penne and Caesar Salad stands out as a go-to meal. The Mediterranean salad is also good, but salads take a long time to arrive, sometimes up to 30 minutes.

People are saying

"The food here is authentic Italian, bursting with fresh flavors."

"The Italian food's gnocchi is perfectly soft and delicious."

"I found the Mediterranean salad to be good."

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.

22
MIXT Salads image 1
Salad shop

Bright, airy space offers a cozy atmosphere perfect for casual dining. Salads boast fresh organic ingredients with many vegan options and large portions. Relaxed vibe complements a healthy meal with a generous variety of fresh and cooked vegetables.

Salads feature fresh organic ingredients with many vegan options. Portions are large and filling, including options like Mediterranean and elote special salads with a wide variety of fresh and cooked vegetables.

People are saying

"I was obsessed with these brilliant salads; I could eat them for every meal."

"The staff here is so friendly and helpful with the healthy foods."

"The falafel bowl was exceptional and outstanding."

Good to know

1

Prices for salads start around $15, including tax.

2

The restaurant offers a large variety of salads and allows customization.

3

Portion sizes are generous, making salads a filling meal option.

23
Chinois On Main image 1
Asian fusion restaurant

Asian fusion spot blends vintage charm with an upmarket setting and lively, cozy vibe. Salads shine with fresh ingredients and crisp textures, like the standout calamari arugula salad. Unique artwork and tile work add distinct character.

Salads here feature fresh ingredients and crisp textures. Options include a Chinese chicken salad and a calamari arugula salad that stands out for its flavor.

People are saying

"The Chinese chicken salad is fresh, flavorful, and perfectly crunchy."

"The Chinese Food here is amazing, and the staff are so kind."

"The miso glazed sea bass was the best dish I ordered."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for special events like birthday parties.

2

Dietary restrictions can be accommodated, but confirm with staff upon arrival.

3

Chinois On Main offers a unique French/Chinese fusion menu.

24
Le Great Outdoor Restaurant image 1

Outdoor dining shines with a spacious patio warmed by heaters. Beet salad offers fresh, vibrant flavors perfect for lunch. Atmosphere blends lively yet calming vibes with wood smoke, making it a great spot for relaxed meals and good conversation.

Beet salad stands out as a must-have with fresh, vibrant flavors. Lunch options include salads alongside rice bowls and sandwiches, often paired with chicken skewers for a balanced meal.

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 had the beet salad and it was amazing."

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.

25
Rustic Canyon image 1
Californian restaurant

Rustic, chic design with hardwood interiors creates an intimate, lively space filled with music and chatter. Beet and tomato salads offer freshness and complexity that stand out. A small back patio adds a charming outdoor experience to the upscale yet laid-back vibe.

Beet and tomato salads stand out with freshness and complexity. The tomato variety salad offers a refreshing and layered taste.

People are saying

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

"The beet and berry salad was a definite highlight."

"The cocktails here are unique and 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.

26
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.

People are saying

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

"The rooftop offers breathtaking ocean views and smart cocktails."

"My friend said the Caesar salad was the best she's ever had."

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.

27
Fia Restaurant image 1
Californian restaurant

Outdoor garden with fire pits and cozy seating under pine trees sets a magical mood. Seasonal salads burst with herbs and citrus, perfect for vegetarians. Modern American brunch and dinner shine in a unique indoor-outdoor design that feels intimate and warm.

Vegetarian options shine with roasted cauliflower and seasonal salads full of herbs and citrus. The Italian chopped salad and Caesar salad offer fresh, flavorful choices.

People are saying

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

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

"The chopped salad here is huge and amazing."

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.

28
Ghisallo image 1
Pizza restaurant

Back patio offers cozy outdoor seating under olive trees with quaint lighting, perfect for a chill vibe. Salads feature arugula and beet options with dressing on the side. Sidewalk tables invite people-watching in a lively, dog-friendly neighborhood.

Salads come with a great selection including arugula and beet salad options. Dressing often comes on the side, and the kale salad used to be available.

People are saying

"I thought the pizza had a delicious, fluffy, and crunchy sourdough crust."

"The back patio seating is super cute and charming."

"I enjoyed the great salads and seriously good pizza."

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.

29
XUNTOS image 1
Tapas bar

Spanish tapas bar shines with authentic flavors and a cozy art deco vibe. Salads stand out for their bright freshness and a peach twist that adds sweetness. Cocktails and vermouth offer a perfect match to the lively yet elegant atmosphere.

Salads here are consistently bright and fresh, featuring options like arugula and a notable kale salad. The salad with peach adds a unique, sweet twist to the mix.

People are saying

"The garlic shrimp and scallops were perfectly cooked."

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

"The salads here are bright, fresh, and delicious."

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.

30
Calif Chicken Cafe image 1
Chicken restaurant

Chicken spot offers quick take-out with no seating, perfect for fast meals. Salads shine with massive portions and fresh ingredients, especially the Chinese chicken salad. Affordable prices and healthy options make it a smart choice for busy days.

Salads come fresh daily and serve up massive, crunchy portions packed with flavor. The California Chicken Salad with extra green goddess dressing and the Chinese chicken salad stand out as solid, highly recommended choices.

People are saying

"I loved their massive, flavorful salads."

"These wraps are so fresh and delicious, you can't go wrong."

"I loved their rotisserie chicken takeout; it was phenomenal."

Good to know

1

The cafe has a take-out window only; no dine-in options available.

2

Customers need to order at the window or ahead of time.

3

This place is cashless, so bring your card for payment.

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