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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in Santa Monica

Salad spots with wine

A crisp salad paired with a glass of wine that feels like a proper evening out, not a compromise.

Based on 801 Opinions
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Updated June 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.

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

Sparkling non-alcoholic wine offers a nice toast option. Desserts pair well with dessert wine for a sweet finish.

People are saying

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

"The wine here is phenomenal, perfectly complementing every delicious dish."

"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.

02
Spumoni Pizza Restaurant image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant offers cozy indoor space and heated outdoor patio with a calm, relaxed vibe. Neighborhood feel attracts casual diners and small groups, often with quiet street views through clean windows.

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.

Short but decent wine list offers house red wines with good value. Prices stay reasonable while pairing well with food choices.

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.

03
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.

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.

A large wine selection pairs with a wide variety of beers. Wine sells at 50% off with a class at the Gourmandise School.

People are saying

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

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

"They had a great wine selection and local brew options."

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.

04
Orto Santa Monica image 1
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.

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.

An incredible wine selection pairs well with the food. The top notch wine stands out in the intimate ambience.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious."

"The staff gave excellent wine and food recommendations."

"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.

05
Manchego image 1
Spanish restaurant

Spanish restaurant offers indoor and outdoor seating with a relaxed, romantic atmosphere highlighted by live Spanish guitar music and ambient lighting. The vibe suits date nights and quiet conversations, with a mix of trendy sounds and cozy spaces. Wine selections, including red sangria and Albariรฑo, complement the experience.

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.

Albariรฑo white wine pairs well with desserts like tiramisu. Waiters show good wine knowledge to help with selections.

People are saying

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

"I found my new favorite wine, especially the albariรฑo."

"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.

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.

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.

Wine pairings receive expert attention from the sommelier, matching dishes like fish with precise selections. The menu features thoughtful wine recommendations that complement each course well.

People are saying

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

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

"The wine pairings for each course were spot on."

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
Ghisallo image 1
Pizza restaurant

Back patio offers cozy outdoor seating under olive trees with quaint lighting, creating a chill and intimate vibe. Sidewalk tables provide a chance for people-watching in a lively neighborhood setting. Dog-friendly space adds to the relaxed atmosphere.

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.

Wines come with great selection and knowledgeable recommendations. The quality stays consistent alongside tasty pizzas and appetizers, all enjoyed easily on a super cute patio.

People are saying

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

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

"The wine here is amazing, friendly, and attentive."

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.

08
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.

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.

Exceptional food and wine pairings create a memorable experience. The team offers wine and cocktail tastings to help select the perfect drinks for the menu.

People are saying

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

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

"The wine here is wonderful and exceptional."

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.

09
Gelson's Santa Monica image 1

Store combines polished elegance with wide, comfortable aisles and a clean, spacious layout. Atmosphere feels inviting and refined, with meticulously displayed produce and an elegant prepared foods section. Self-serve poke bar and fresh sushi add a distinctive touch to the shopping 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.

A great selection of wine offers a range that reads like a syllabus in oenological sophistication. Helpful wine and checkout teams support a smooth experience alongside cheese and bread options.

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.

10
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.

Management offers a complimentary bottle of wine to celebrate special occasions. Guests receive wine alongside meals and surprise desserts, adding a thoughtful touch to the experience.

People are saying

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

"The wine service was outstanding and truly exceptional."

"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.

11
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.

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.

Good wine selection features glasses priced around $14 to $15 and bottles under $60. Mike knows his wines well and shows clear passion for the food.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and great."

"I loved tasting the wine selection before deciding."

"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.

12
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.

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.

Eclectic wine selection pairs well with tapas and food. Scott the sommelier offers detailed descriptions and suggests better options to enhance the experience.

People are saying

"The garlic shrimp and scallops were perfectly cooked."

"Their Spanish wine selection is excellent and authentic."

"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.

13
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.

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.

Patrick, the sommelier, offers knowledgeable and attentive service. The wine list is great and impressive, pairing well with the food and cocktails.

People are saying

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

"The chopped salad here is huge and amazing."

"The wine here is amazing and delicious."

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.

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.

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

Waitstaff offer knowledgeable guidance on wine pairings that complement the farm-to-table menu. The wine list features a strong selection by the glass alongside well-crafted cocktails.

People are saying

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

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

"The wine here is outstanding, perfectly complementing the flavorful dishes."

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
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.

Salads feature well-seasoned proteins like salmon and blackened chicken. Dressings are light, and ingredients stay fresh and flavorful.

A nice selection of wines pairs well with meals here. Staff like Theresa and Nick offer solid knowledge and make excellent recommendations for wine and food pairings.

People are saying

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

"The server made excellent recommendations for the salad."

"The wine recommendations here are excellent and paired perfectly with our meals."

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.

16
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.

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.

Reasonably priced wine pairs well with oysters and raw clams served at the bar. Bottles and fresh seafood are available to take home for cooking or snacking.

People are saying

"The seafood here is so fresh and delicious."

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

"The wine here is great and fairly priced."

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.

17
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.

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

A great wine list pairs well with dishes like pressed duck served tableside with a cognac red wine sauce. Staff keep wine glasses discreetly refilled and clear tables smoothly between courses.

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."

"The pressed duck was unforgettable, its juices pressed into a cognacโ€“red wine sauce."

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.

18
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.

Salads come fresh and delicious, including a Maine Lobster salad priced at $40 with a solid rating. They pair well with soups and pastas, making for a well-rounded meal.

An exceptional wine list features a standout Italian wine called Dreams. The best wine selection comes from Giorgio, offering a variety worth exploring.

People are saying

"The pasta portions here are small, but the flavor is fantastic."

"The wine here is delicious and perfectly balanced."

"The salad here is delicious and fresh."

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.

19
Bruno's Italian Restaurant image 1
Italian restaurant

Small Italian trattoria with classic vintage design and traditional Italian music creates an authentic atmosphere. Outdoor patio overlooks the pier, blending Italian and Californian vibes. Staff speak Italian, enhancing the genuine feel.

Salads here include a house salad with burrata, a flavorful antipasto salad, and a classic Caesar salad. Each offers fresh ingredients and solid Italian flavors.

Offers a fine selection of Italian wines that pair well with dishes. Chianti and other options enhance meals, complementing flavors like soup and main courses.

People are saying

"The pasta and gnocchi here are delicious."

"The wine here was delicious."

"The house salad here is perfect."

Good to know

1

Expect large portions; sharing is recommended.

2

A $3.60 charge applies for each additional topping on pizzas.

3

They charge extra for protein additions to dishes.

20
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.

A wide selection of French wines appears on a separate drinks menu. Ordering a bottle of wine or champagne saves money, especially for groups. Choosing a rosรฉ from Aix en Provence suits wine enthusiasts well.

People are saying

"The food here was delicious and high quality."

"The salads here are amazing, with attentive and friendly service."

"The wine here feels like St Barths with a DJ and tequila time."

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.

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Santa Monica, California

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