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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Santa Monica's best

Wine spots

A glass of wine that feels like a discovery rather than a predictable choice from a mass-market menu.

Based on 788 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Spumoni Pizza Restaurant image 1
Spumoni Pizza Restaurant image 2
Spumoni Pizza Restaurant image 3
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Italian restaurant

Italian spot boasts a cozy indoor space and a heated outdoor patio perfect for relaxed dining. Wine list is short but offers house red wines with great value. Neighborhood vibe draws casual diners enjoying quiet street views.

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."

"It's a great spot for casual dinners with friends and family."

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.

02
Channel Road Inn, A Four Sisters Inn image 1

Historic inn offers a quiet retreat with private patios and gas fireplaces. Guests enjoy wine hour with homemade cheese scones and fresh baked goods. Surrounding flower gardens and bird song create a peaceful atmosphere for a welcoming stay.

Wine is served at 4 pm alongside savory snacks and cheese hour featuring homemade cheese scones. The pairing includes fresh baked goods and complements coffee and tea offerings.

People are saying

"The staff at this hotel made my experience unforgettable with their kindness."

"I'm telling you, the breakfast here is amazing and so different."

"The afternoon wine and cheese were a pleasant treat."

Good to know

1

The inn is located a short walk from the beach and nearby restaurants.

2

Parking is free, which is a rarity in the area.

3

The evening happy hour offers a charcuterie board and wine.

03
MUSE Santa Monica image 1
Modern French restaurant

Modern French restaurant features art deco decor and an intimate atmosphere. Guests enjoy exceptional culinary craftsmanship with desserts that pair perfectly with dessert wine and sparkling non-alcoholic options.

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

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

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
L&K Market image 1
Grocery store

Small grocery store shines with wide wine selection and knowledgeable staff ready to help. Friendly vibe makes it a true neighborhood hub. Offers European chocolates and snacks at great prices, always well-stocked with essentials.

Great wine selection includes fine wines and a wide variety. Staff offers knowledgeable recommendations to help choose.

People are saying

"I found the wine selection here to be amazing and extensive."

"The staff here at this Local Spot are so friendly and knowledgeable."

"They have a variety of European and Dubai chocolates."

Good to know

1

L&K Market has a wide selection of wines, snacks, and everyday essentials.

2

The store is always clean and well-stocked with a variety of products.

3

Prices at L&K Market are reasonable compared to other local stores.

05
Mรฉlisse Restaurant image 1
New American restaurant

Small dining room with intimate atmosphere offers a cozy yet upscale vibe. Open kitchen and bright lighting create a modern feel while vinyl records add charm. Exceptional wine pairings come with elegant menus, making each meal special.

Exceptional wine pairings accompany each plate, enhancing the dining experience. Guests receive an elegant envelope with the full menu and wine selections as a keepsake.

People are saying

"The intimate tasting menu was a masterclass in balance and flavor."

"The Wagyu service was warm, intuitive, and eager to share stories."

"The wine pairings here were exceptional and worth it."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended due to limited seating.

2

The cost is on the higher side of tasting experiences at $399 per person.

3

Expect a unique performance using an 18th-century press during the meal.

06
Ghisallo image 1
Pizza restaurant

Cozy outdoor seating under olive trees creates a chill vibe perfect for wine lovers. Enjoy a great wine selection paired with tasty pizzas on a super cute patio. Dog-friendly space and lively sidewalk tables add to the relaxed, intimate atmosphere.

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."

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

"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.

07
La Vecchia Cucina image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian spot shines with elegant atmosphere and a heated patio for outdoor dining. Wine lovers enjoy a well curated list that pairs perfectly with the menu. Service is excellent, matching the relaxed yet classy vibe.

Well curated wine list pairs with excellent service and delicious food. The wine selection offers a lovely variety that complements the menu.

People are saying

"Their Bolognese is the best Italian food I've ever had."

"I loved dining on the heated outdoor patio."

"I found the food and wine to be delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant gets quite busy.

2

Happy hour is available at the bar with limited seating.

3

It gets chilly by the sea in the evening; bring a warm layer.

08
Offhand Wine Bar image 1

Modern interior and vinyl DJs create a stylish vibe perfect for early evening hangouts. Natural wines from California, especially the skin contact wine, impress with unique flavors. Simple, tasty food complements the welcoming community atmosphere.

A strong focus on natural wines from California and the west coast shapes the selection here. Staff show deep knowledge and passion, often recommending unique wines from small producers with sustainable farming. The skin contact wine stands out as a phenomenal choice.

People are saying

"I loved their natural wine selection, especially the skin contact options."

"It's a cool, chill spot to hang out with friends."

"The American Food here, especially the grilled cheese, is so tasty."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 5-7 PM, Monday through Saturday.

2

There is ample street parking available nearby.

3

The wine list features mostly California natural wines.

09
Trader Joe's image 1
Grocery store

Large, bright grocery store offers ample parking and a relaxed atmosphere. Half the space is for liquor and wine, featuring cheap Italian wine and a helpful Sommelier. Fresh produce and specialty items come at affordable prices.

Cheap wine options stand out, including an Italian wine that looks plain but tastes great. Half the store focuses on liquor and wine, and a Sommelier is available to help pick bottles.

People are saying

"I found the parking available to be easy and convenient."

"I found their unique products to be incredibly affordable for the quality."

"I found the wine here to be super cheap and excellent."

Good to know

1

Parking is free and easy to access, but can fill up quickly during peak hours.

2

Expect limited availability of fruits and vegetables after 7 pm.

3

The store layout can be confusing, especially with a large liquor section.

10
Manchego image 1
Spanish restaurant

Spanish restaurant offers a romantic atmosphere with live guitar and ambient lighting. Wine choices like Albariรฑo shine, especially with desserts. Waiters provide expert wine advice, making it perfect for date nights and quiet talks.

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."

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

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

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.

11
Locanda Portofino image 1
Italian restaurant

Elegant Italian dining offers authentic European charm with a warm, inviting atmosphere. Fine Italian wines like white Vermentino from Sardinia pair well with dishes. Indoor and outdoor seating create a romantic, moody vibe that feels like dining in an Italian home.

Fine Italian wines, including a white Vermentino from Sardinia, complement the food well. The wine list offers good variety and staff assist with pairing choices.

People are saying

"I thought the chocolate dessert was perfect."

"The food here is perfection, especially the amazing pasta."

"The wine here is authentic Italian, just like the food."

Good to know

1

Reservations are available for same-day dining, but it's best to call ahead.

2

The restaurant has both indoor and outdoor seating options.

3

Parking can be difficult during busy times, so plan accordingly.

12
1 Pico image 1
Californian restaurant

Upscale dining spot boasts gorgeous ocean views and a romantic atmosphere perfect for sunset meals. Extensive wine list features varied selections with expert staff ready to guide your choice. Relaxed energy draws those who value both setting and fresh seafood.

An extensive wine list offers a wide variety of wines by the glass, including non-local options. Staff provide knowledgeable guidance to help select wines that match your taste.

People are saying

"I loved the gorgeous ocean views, especially at sunset."

"The wine list here is amazing and has a great variety."

"I'd skip the pasta dishes; they're fine but not worth the price."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

2

Expect entrees to range from $50 to $100, excluding sides.

3

The restaurant offers a variety of vegan options on the menu.

13
Bob's Market image 1
Grocery store

Small grocery store offers a meat market aroma and tight aisles for a cozy feel. Staff know names, adding to the charm. An extensive wine selection pairs perfectly with fresh cuts. Outdoor seating with stools lets you enjoy hot food quickly.

An extensive wine selection stands out here, especially for a small grocery store. The variety pairs well with their meat offerings, making it easy to grab a bottle alongside fresh cuts.

People are saying

"It's a charming neighborhood market with a real community feel."

"The hot food here is great for a quick and delicious meal."

"I was surprised by the extensive wine selection."

Good to know

1

Parking at Bob's Market is usually a challenge and can be confusing.

2

Bob's Market accepts EBT for purchases.

3

Expect large groups of elementary school students around 3-4 pm on weekdays.

14
Orla by Michael Mina image 1

Tiered flooring and panoramic ocean views create an elegant space with high ceilings and a large bar. Expert sommelier offers thoughtful wine pairings that enhance dishes like fish. Vibrant patio and quiet rooms support both lively and intimate talks.

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 sunset view here is a beautiful, magical show."

"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.

15
Wally's Santa Monica image 1

Walls lined with hundreds of wine bottles create a wine cellar atmosphere with upscale decor and marble surfaces. Loud music fuels energetic vibes as guests enjoy wine tastings paired with cheese and truffle dishes. Chilly air calls for provided shawls to stay warm.

One of the largest wine selections in California pairs with a beautiful interior resembling a wine cellar. The spot offers wine tastings with food pairings like cheese, charcuterie, and truffle dishes in an upscale setting.

People are saying

"The food here is fantastic and exquisite."

"I enjoyed the massive wine selection and delicious food."

"The upscale ambiance here feels inviting and matches the menu."

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.

16
Lady & Larder image 1
Cheese shop

Compact cheese shop offers fine cheeses and charcuterie boards with a great wine selection. Grab-and-go sandwiches and jams complement the experience. Enjoy the cute patio seating and occasional cheese samples.

A great wine selection pairs perfectly with fine cheeses and charcuterie board fixings. The shop offers a well curated assortment of wines, cheeses, jams, and snacks that complement each other.

People are saying

"I had the best sandwich Iโ€™ve had in such a long time."

"The sandwiches here are amazing, especially the creative spread."

"I loved the creative sandwich menu and the sweet hint."

Good to know

1

The shop offers a variety of charcuterie board fixings, wines, and sandwiches.

2

Lady & Larder features products from local and independent artisans.

3

They accommodate dietary restrictions when curating gift baskets.

17
Orto Santa Monica image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant shines with soaring ceilings and soft jazz music for a calm vibe. Incredible wine selection pairs perfectly with dishes. Outdoor courtyard adds a charming setting for a bright, elegant experience.

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 Italian food here feels so authentic and romantic."

"The staff gave excellent wine and food recommendations."

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.

18
Santa Monica Proper Hotel image 1

Boutique hotel boasts a rooftop pool oasis with panoramic city views and a warm, comforting vibe indoors. Guests enjoy a complimentary bottle of wine for special occasions, enhancing meals with thoughtful surprises. Spaces blend calm ambiance and lively social scenes perfectly.

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 rooftop offers breathtaking ocean views and smart cocktails."

"The wine service was outstanding and truly exceptional."

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.

19
XUNTOS image 1
Tapas bar

Spanish tapas bar shines with authentic flavors and a cozy art deco interior. Scott the sommelier guides you through an eclectic wine selection that pairs perfectly with dishes. Atmosphere shifts from lively downstairs to intimate upstairs seating.

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."

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

"Their Spanish wine selection is excellent and authentic."

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.

20
Le Great Outdoor Restaurant image 1

Spacious patio with plenty of heaters keeps guests warm while they enjoy a lively yet calming atmosphere scented with wood smoke. Wine lovers appreciate the good wine selection with affordable glasses and bottles. Friendly service adds to the relaxed, backyard bar vibe.

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."

"It's a great spot for a date night with its lovely outdoor atmosphere."

"I loved tasting the wine selection before deciding."

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.

21
1212 Santa Monica image 1
New American restaurant

Large space with a dog-friendly patio and live DJ music creates a loud, fun vibe. Outdoor fire pits add warmth and style. Staff like Theresa and Nick offer excellent wine pairings that complement meals perfectly.

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."

"Our Brunch server Robert was very attentive and accommodating."

"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.

22
The Ambrose Hotel Santa Monica image 1

Boutique hotel offers intimate elegance and quiet atmosphere with spacious rooms featuring decks and fireplaces. Enjoy complimentary wine happy hours from 5 to 7 pm in a cozy lounge with snacks. Convenience shines with a courtesy car service and a well-equipped gym.

Happy Hour runs from 5 to 7 pm with complimentary wine and beer tastings. Guests can enjoy drinks in a nice lounge area alongside snacks.

People are saying

"The beds are super comfortable with lovely linens."

"It's a quiet and peaceful place to stay."

"They offer a complimentary wine happy hour from 5-7 pm."

Good to know

1

The hotel offers a free Sip Happy Hour Wine and Beer Tasting with snacks from 5-7pm.

2

Happy Hour runs daily from 5-7 PM with complimentary drinks.

3

Parking costs $30 or $40, and street parking is difficult.

23
Fia Restaurant image 1
Californian restaurant

Outdoor garden with fire pits and cozy seating under pine trees sets a magical scene. Patrick, the sommelier, offers expert wine pairings that complement the modern American menu. Space heaters and blankets keep the intimate vibe warm and inviting.

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

"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.

24
Gelson's Santa Monica image 1

Store blends polished elegance with wide aisles and a clean layout. Wine selection is oenologically sophisticated, paired well with cheese and bread. Fresh sushi and a self-serve poke bar add a distinctive touch to the refined atmosphere.

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 thought the tuna poke was the best I've ever had."

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.

25
Capo image 1
Italian restaurant

Old-world style Italian restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere with soft lighting and authentic artwork. Extensive wine list features special bottles for unique tastes. Lively conversations and eclectic music create a balanced energy that feels inviting.

A huge selection of wines fills the list, offering many options. The list is extensive and includes special bottles for unique tastes.

People are saying

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

"I had one of the greatest dinners of my life here."

"The wine list here is amazing and extensive."

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.

26
Michael's image 1
New American restaurant

Open air patio and back garden create a romantic atmosphere perfect for quiet moments. Outstanding wines shine with a beautiful wine list featuring three champagnes and smart pricing. Multi-generational guests enjoy a tasteful setting near the coast with a classy, low key vibe.

Outstanding wines feature prominently with a beautiful wine list that includes plenty of options and three champagne choices. The list is well priced, reflecting smart collaboration between the chef and wine producer.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be unbelievably great."

"I found it to be a great happy hour spot."

"The wine list here was beautiful and well priced."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

2

Happy hour features daily specials like oyster Wednesday and martini pitcher Thursday.

3

The happy hour menu offers great deals and is popular among locals.

27
The Curious Palate image 1
New American restaurant

Open-air seating creates a calm atmosphere perfect for families. Bright, spacious interior invites relaxation away from noise. Enjoy a large wine selection with 50% off during wine classes, plus a wide variety of beers.

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."

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

"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.

28
Andrew's Cheese Shop image 1

Space feels stark with white surfaces and minimal staff diversity, creating a clean but clinical vibe. Shop offers artisan cheeses and American-made products with expert recommendations. Unique wine pairings complement gourmet foods, all at premium prices.

Selection includes unique wines paired with cheeses, cured meats, and gourmet foods. Recommendations highlight new and interesting wines alongside cheeses and meats.

People are saying

"Andrew's recommendations for wine and cheese were amazing."

"I found the grilled cheese and beer at the event to be very tasty."

"I found interesting cheeses, meats, and wines recommended by the staff."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for special events like grilled cheese and beer nights.

2

The cheese of the month club offers curated selections with detailed information.

3

Expect a premium price for all products at this specialty shop.

29
Cosetta image 1
Italian restaurant

Open air dining with a heated patio offers a cozy Italian vibe. Exceptional food and wine pairings elevate the experience. A fire pit and bar area create a lively yet romantic setting perfect for drinks or date nights.

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.

30
Santa Monica Brew Works image 1

Huge space with big patio and indoor seating buzzes with live bands and sports on screens. Dogs roam freely, adding to the lively vibe. Enjoy an extensive selection of on-tap brews alongside highly regarded pizza and a nice variety of wines and ciders.

A nice selection of beverages includes mostly beers, with some wines and ciders available. The wine offerings complement the variety of drinks well.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the great beer selection here."

"The brewery staff here is so friendly and welcoming."

"The wine selection is great, with ample indoor and outdoor seating."

Good to know

1

You must be 21 or older to enter the brewery.

2

There is a mandatory 18% service charge on all bills.

3

The brewery does not accept cash payments.

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