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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Downtown Santa Monica

Desserts

Made for those who view sugar as a primary food group and refuse to end their day without a deliberate indulgence.

Based on 653 Opinions
+650
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Updated May 2026
01
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Bakery offers gluten-free options in a calm, dark space with custom wedding cakes that look like art. Goat cheese raspberry macarons provide a unique blend of savory and sweet, making them a dessert highlight at gatherings.

Goat cheese raspberry macarons blend subtle savory notes, tang, and a hint of sweetness, resembling a charcuterie board of desserts. These treats often become the highlight at dinners and holiday gatherings.

People are saying

"This cake was so delicious, guests were raving about it."

"The bakery's cookies and cupcakes are delicious and beautifully decorated."

"I'm obsessed with their amazing desserts; they're the best!"

Good to know

1

The cake costs $77 for the smallest size.

2

Booking a wedding cake tasting requires weeks in advance.

3

The bakery uses quality ingredients, especially butter.

02
Bludso's BBQ image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Brick walls and concrete floors set a casual vibe with multiple TVs showing sports and a full bar serving distinctive cocktails. Fans of authentic barbecue enjoy lively energy here, while banana pudding offers a sweet finish to the savory menu.

Banana pudding stands out as a sweet finish here. Desserts complement the savory menu and invite trying more options.

People are saying

"The American Food here, especially the brisket, is so juicy and tender."

"The cornbread was amazing, sweet without being overly sweet."

"I saved room for dessert because it was delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $5, but the lot is small and spaces are compact.

2

Dinner plates are large enough to share, but they are expensive.

3

A pound of rib tips costs $38, which is on the higher side.

03
Mélisse Restaurant image 1
New American restaurant

Small dining room with only five tables offers an intimate atmosphere and close-up view of the open kitchen. Bright lighting contrasts with the sleek, modern design and vinyl records playing softly in the background. Staff create a relaxing, comfortable vibe that complements the upscale yet cozy setting.

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 desserts here are elevated, elegant, and perfectly sweet."

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.

04
1212 Santa Monica image 1
New American restaurant

Large space with dog-friendly patio and live DJ music creates a loud, fun vibe. Outdoor fire pits add warmth and style. Desserts like chocolate lava cake shine, with staff often surprising guests with birthday treats.

Chocolate lava cake and bread pudding stand out as dessert choices. Staff often bring out birthday desserts spontaneously, adding a personal touch.

People are saying

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

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

"The desserts here are amazing, especially the birthday surprise!"

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.

05
XUNTOS image 1
Tapas bar

Spanish tapas bar shines with authentic flavors and a cozy art deco interior. Almond cake with honey whipped cream offers a notable dessert. Extensive vermouth and cocktail selection adds to the lively atmosphere.

Drinks and dessert pair well here, making for a quick aperitif option. The almond cake with honey whipped cream stands out as a notable dessert choice.

People are saying

"The garlic shrimp and scallops were perfectly cooked."

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

"You have to try the stuffed dates and artichoke hearts."

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.

06
Ugo Trattoria image 1
Italian restaurant

Quaint Italian spot offers a cozy atmosphere with a lovely patio for relaxed dining. Soft music keeps the vibe calm and inviting. Desserts shine with a Tiramisu in chocolate cup, though cold sweets take about 15 minutes to arrive.

Desserts include a Tiramisu served in a chocolate cup and a trilogy dessert. Cold desserts take about 15 minutes to arrive, longer than expected.

People are saying

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

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

"The desserts here are tasty and reasonably priced."

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.

07
Shirubē image 1
Izakaya restaurant

Long, narrow space with intimate bar seating creates a cozy vibe. Unique Cheese Tofu dessert shines on the menu. Romantic lighting highlights antique sake cups and skilled chefs, blending minimal decor with thoughtful design.

Cheese Tofu stands out as a unique dessert and deserves a spot on the dessert menu. Desserts here are consistently wonderful and worth ordering.

People are saying

"The sashimi here is incredibly fresh and delicious."

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

"The ube cheesecake is spectacular and not too sweet."

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.

08
Orto Santa Monica image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant shines with soaring ceilings and soft jazz music for a calm vibe. Outdoor courtyard adds charm. Desserts like Coppa dell’Orto and homemade tiramisu offer sweet finishes.

Coppa dell’Orto stands out among desserts. The chocolate dome with hot caramel sauce and strawberries comes with a brandy cream. Homemade tiramisu also features as a delicious option.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious."

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

"I loved their delicious homemade tiramisu dessert."

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.

09
Calabra image 1
Restaurant

Rooftop setting offers stunning views and cozy outdoor heaters. Desserts shine with olive oil cake and a unique baklava twist. Space feels lively and sexy, welcoming all with wheelchair-friendly seating and elevator access.

Olive oil cake stands out among the desserts. The Baklava offers a unique twist compared to typical versions. A small dessert of berries and chocolate mousse sometimes accompanies special occasions.

People are saying

"The food here was incredible, especially the slow-roasted chicken."

"The Rooftop staff, especially Juan and Paul, are so attentive and friendly."

"You have to try the Baklava for dessert; it's amazing."

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.

10
Citrin Restaurant image 1

Dining space feels elegant but cramped with loud music creating a bar-like vibe. Outdoor patio offers a romantic and quiet setting perfect for dates. Desserts shine with a sweet crepe and a decadent dark chocolate option for a rich finish.

Desserts include a crepe that offers a sweet finish and a decadent dark chocolate option for a rich ending.

People are saying

"The food here is phenomenal and beautifully presented."

"The service here is top-notch and attentive."

"The tasting menu was a wonderful and amazing experience."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required well in advance for prime weekend seating.

2

The meal typically takes about 2.5 hours to complete.

3

A 4% opt-out service charge is added to the bill.

11
Benihana - Santa Monica image 1
Japanese restaurant

Open hibachi-style setup offers theatrical grilling shows that engage diners. Dim lighting and cozy decor create a fun, lively atmosphere perfect for dates and family outings. Desserts include creative fried banana options with birthday songs adding a special touch.

Desserts feature creative flavors and include options like a fried banana dessert. Celebrations get a special touch with a birthday song and dessert.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and full of flavor."

"Marlon made my daughter's birthday a night to remember."

"The desserts here are sweet and fun, just like the staff."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to avoid long wait times, especially on weekends.

2

Happy hour runs from 4-6 PM with discounted drinks and appetizers.

3

The staff celebrates birthdays with a special song and treat.

12
LouLou Santa Monica image 1
French restaurant

Rooftop restaurant boasts cool water views and a live DJ for a club-like vibe. Desserts like pear in wine sauce offer authentic flavors. Perfect for large groups seeking beachy elegance with lively energy.

Desserts feature pear in wine sauce with vanilla ice cream and Tarte Tartin offered by the waitress. They carry an authentic taste that matches the rest of the menu.

People are saying

"The food here was delicious and high quality."

"The DJ played awesome international music and took requests."

"I thought the desserts were very delicious and authentic."

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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Downtown, Santa Monica

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