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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Downtown Santa Monica's best

Food and dessert spots

Made for those who prioritize a balanced diet of savory sustenance and sugar-forward rewards.

Based on 813 Opinions
+810
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Updated May 2026
01
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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.

Food here stands out for its excellent quality and fantastic flavors. Service complements the meals well, creating a solid dining experience.

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.

02
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Italian restaurant

Quaint Italian restaurant with a cozy atmosphere and lovely patio. Music plays softly, creating a calm, inviting vibe without loud noise or crowds. The setting feels warm and simple, offering a relaxed dining experience.

Food features authentic Italian flavors with dishes that taste exactly like traditional recipes. Meals offer great value for money in an area known for higher prices.

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 food, especially the gnocchi, is simple, comforting, and executed flawlessly."

"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.

03
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.

Authentic Italian flavors shine through every dish. The food shows high quality and is consistently well executed.

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.

04
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.

Food here shows flawless execution and well-balanced flavors in every dish. The intimate 14-seat dining room adds to the immersive dining experience.

People are saying

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

"The food here is superb, with flawless execution and balanced flavors."

"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.

05
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Restaurant

Rooftop setting offers stunning views and outdoor heaters that keep the space comfortable despite the breeze. Atmosphere blends casual enjoyment with a sexy, entertaining vibe, attracting a lively crowd. Accessibility features include elevator access and wheelchair-friendly seating.

Food arrives quickly and looks as good as it tastes. Drinks and service match the consistently great quality of the dishes.

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.

06
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Barbecue restaurant

Brick walls and concrete floors frame a space filled with multiple TVs showing sports and a full bar serving distinctive cocktails. The atmosphere is friendly and casual with an easygoing vibe despite occasional loudness from busy take-out orders. The place draws a crowd that appreciates authentic barbecue and lively energy.

Delicious food stands out with consistently great flavors. Service quality complements the meals, enhancing the overall dining experience.

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."

"I found the food here to be delicious."

"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.

07
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Izakaya restaurant

Long, narrow space with open kitchen and intimate bar seating offers a cozy, authentic vibe. Lighting creates a romantic atmosphere that highlights the antique sake cups and skilled chefs at work. The setting feels distinct from typical izakayas, blending minimal decor with thoughtful design.

Japanese style bar food features authentic flavors and dishes mostly under $25. The Saba stands out for its quality and careful preparation, paired with warm, thoughtful service.

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."

"The food here is so fresh and full of flavor."

"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
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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.

Spanish dishes arrive quickly and showcase authentic flavors that match dining in Spain. The menu offers a quality tapas experience that stands out among local options.

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 food here is delicious, flavorful, and authentically Spanish."

"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.

09
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Japanese restaurant

Open hibachi-style setup offers an engaging dining experience with chefs performing theatrical grilling shows at each table. Dim lighting and cozy decor create a fun, lively atmosphere suited for date nights and family outings. A second-level bar adds to the venue's entertaining vibe and interactive energy.

Food preparation handles allergies perfectly with consistent quality. Dining offers amazing food paired with exceptional service for a reliable experience.

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.

10
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.

French cuisine shines with delicious dishes and amazing flavors. Service matches the food quality, creating a very good dining experience.

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.

11
Citrin Restaurant image 1

Dining space feels elegant but cramped with loud music creating a bar-like atmosphere when busy. Outdoor patio offers a romantic and quiet setting ideal for dates. Interior blends new yet dated decor with veneers and cheaper materials.

Food here is beautifully prepared and consistently delicious. Presentation stands out alongside the Michelin-level quality.

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.

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