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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Santa Monica's best

Soup and salad spots

A bowl of warm soup and a crisp salad are the only things that feel right today.

Based on 702 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
MARU SUSHI AND RAMEN image 1
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Space combines Japanese decor with floral ceilings and a cherry blossom tree at the entrance, creating a cozy, charming atmosphere. Lighting enhances the setting, making it feel warm and romantic, especially on the outdoor terrace. The bar area offers an authentic izakaya vibe with a laid-back, friendly crowd.

Broth in the seafood ramen is rich and flavorful. Miso soup comes with the beef bulgogi bento, pairing well with the meal. Both soups offer good depth and balanced taste.

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

"The ramen soup here is rich with thick bone broth."

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.

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.

Butternut squash soup stands out with its comforting warmth and rich flavor. Tortilla soup offers a perfect spice level that complements the menu well.

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."

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

"The soup here is wonderful, and the servers are friendly."

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
Kafe K image 1
Restaurant

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.

Smooth, refined broccoli soup comes topped with leeks and peanuts and is served with bread. The soup of the day, like cauliflower, offers great flavors and pairs well with sandwiches or quiche combos.

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 salads to be fresh and tasty."

"The broccoli soup was smooth, refined, and had great flavors."

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.

04
Solidarity image 1
Polish restaurant

Polish restaurant offers authentic homestyle decor with private outdoor patios featuring firepits and cozy seating. Atmosphere feels like a friend's home, combining cozy vibes with an elevated dining experience. Bar serves unique cocktails like the Warsaw Mule, creating a lively spot to meet and relax.

Pickle soup stands out as a comfort food and a frequent choice for feeling better. Other soups like split pea and options with lamb dumplings also appear on the menu.

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."

"You have to try the pickle soup; it's shockingly awesome."

"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.

05
Z Garden Mediterranean Cuisine image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

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.

Lentil soup stands out with its bright lemon addition and rich flavor. Soups here are consistently delicious and pair well with dishes like hummus and kabobs.

People are saying

"The Mediterranean food here is fresh, flavorful, and perfectly seasoned."

"You have to try the lentil soup; it's the best I've had."

"The salad here is served with the tender lamb shank."

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.

06
Pita House Inc image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Modern Mediterranean restaurant offers a nice and open space with understated, relaxing decor and visible kitchen setup. Atmosphere feels casual and serene with table service and a trendy vibe. Food is authentic and affordable, featuring standout dishes like beef shawarma and fresh hummus.

Lentil soup stands out as a consistent choice, served warm and flavorful. It pairs well with dishes like beef kofta and mixed kebabs.

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."

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

"I thought the lentil soup was awesome."

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.

07
The Albright image 1
Seafood restaurant

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.

Spicy seafood soup stands out with fresh seafood and bold flavors. Clam chowder comes with an option to add extra shrimp, enhancing its richness.

Salads feature fresh seafood like shrimp and prawns, often in Cobb or Caesar styles. They come out crispy, tasty, and carefully arranged, offering a simple but enjoyable option.

People are saying

"The seafood here is so fresh and delicious."

"This spicy seafood soup is packed with fresh seafood."

"The Cobb salad was crispy, fresh, and carefully arranged."

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.

08
Santa Monica Seafood Market & Cafe image 1

Seafood market combines fresh seafood displays with a lively oyster bar and casual dining space. Atmosphere balances bustling market energy with enough quiet for conversation. Offers a community hub vibe where people shop and eat in one place.

Soups come with rich flavors and large portions. Clam chowder stands out as a must-try option, often paired with soup crackers instead of bread.

Sea-themed salads stand out with options like seaweed salad and Crab Louie. The selection includes various pokes and salads served alongside dishes like fish tacos.

People are saying

"The seafood here is so fresh and delicious."

"The clam chowder soup was a must-try, bursting with rich flavors."

"The seafood in this salad is so fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking is available at the back of the market.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours.

3

Prices for fresh seafood are comparable to upscale restaurants.

09
Kappo Miyabi image 1
Sushi restaurant

Minimalist design blends traditional Japanese elements with modern charm in a serene, elegant space. Open kitchen adds interactive dining energy while booths provide privacy. Atmosphere suits both casual and intimate meals with a calm, authentic vibe.

Miso noodle soup offers a rich, savory flavor. The beef noodle soup comes in a hot stone pot, keeping it warm and enhancing the taste.

Freshness stands out with the green salad here. The salad tastes quite good overall.

People are saying

"The sushi here is so fresh and delicious."

"The green salad here is so fresh."

"The mushroom soup here is $35, which is quite expensive."

Good to know

1

The Omakase experience offers a curated selection of sushi and sashimi.

2

A 22% service charge is automatically added to the bill.

3

Expect to pay around $35-$50 for udon dishes.

10
pasjoli image 1
French restaurant

French fine dining unfolds in an elegant yet warm space with cozy bar, rich layered decor, and tableside pressed duck spectacle. Atmosphere balances casual and upscale vibes, creating a polished but inviting energy. Guests enjoy attentive service alongside classic French furnishings and artwork.

Small portions of French Onion Soup deliver rich flavor without overwhelming. The soup stands out alongside a tart appetizer version, offering a unique twist on the classic.

Salad features duck prepared three ways, including in the salad itself, paired with gougรจres. Cod also stands out alongside the salad.

People are saying

"The French food, especially the steak frites, is delicious and perfectly seasoned."

"The Endive Salad was mostly pear, but still very good."

"I might go back just for the burger and red wine."

Good to know

1

A mandatory 15% service charge is added after tax.

2

Appetizers and sides cost between $25 and $30, with main dishes over $50.

3

The early menu is available from 5 to 6 PM.

11
Thai Dishes Wilshire image 1
Thai restaurant

Modernized interior offers a clean and spacious setting with fast service and a no-frills vibe. The atmosphere stays relaxing and welcoming, suited for casual dining or private events. Authentic Thai dishes feature unique menu items rarely found outside Thailand.

Soups here deliver perfect balance of spice and tang with rich, flavorful broths. The Tom Yum and Wonton soups stand out for their comforting and exceptional taste.

Salads here include Larb chicken salad with plenty of cilantro and green papaya salad that is fresh and classic. Squid salad and papaya salads also appear among the options.

People are saying

"The Thai food here is so aromatic and perfectly balanced."

"I loved the papaya salad and the spicy coconut soup."

"The Tom Yum soup is perfectly spicy and sour."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in a small lot behind the restaurant.

2

Lunch specials are offered Monday through Friday from 11 am to 3 pm.

3

The restaurant accommodates private events for up to 35 people.

12
San Sai Japanese Grill image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small, self-serve sushi spot offers budget-friendly prices and generous portions with a salad bar included. Atmosphere feels cozy with holiday decorations adding subtle charm. Food quality matches the price, featuring standout dishes like poke bowls and tempura plates.

Dumpling soup stands out with its rich flavor, while miso soup offers a lighter option. Soups here complement other dishes like teriyaki combos and salads.

Spicy sashimi and oriental salads stand out with fresh, bold flavors. Combo plates include two salads and rice, plus a salad bar offers variety alongside teriyaki dishes.

People are saying

"The poke bowl here is so fresh and delicious."

"The soup here is delicious and affordable."

"I found the teriyaki chicken salad to be not bad."

Good to know

1

San Sai Japanese Grill is a self-served restaurant.

2

The combo cost about $13 and includes two salads and rice.

3

The portion sizes are generous for the price.

13
Maria Sol image 1
Mexican restaurant

Ocean-facing patio offers breathtaking views and warmth from scattered heating lamps. Live music from street artists creates a lively atmosphere with a touristy vibe. Fresh, locally sourced seafood and exceptional margaritas complement the energetic seaside setting.

Chicken tortilla soup stands out with its rich flavor and generous portions, sometimes served in a bowl even when a cup is ordered. The soup generally tastes good but can lack the crispy tortilla bits mentioned on the menu.

Salads feature grilled chicken with a good amount of meat even in smaller portions. The Sombrero Salad stands out with sour cream, guacamole, and cotija cheese. Adding verde salsa boosts the flavor.

People are saying

"The Mexican Food here is served with quick, friendly, and welcoming service."

"The chicken tortilla soup was easily the best I ever had."

"The chicken salad was delicious with lots of sour cream and guacamole."

Good to know

1

Check your bill carefully as extra charges may be added.

2

Expect a reasonable cost of about $50 for two entrees and drinks.

3

Outdoor seating is available, but the upper level may be closed.

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Santa Monica, California

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