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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Downtown Santa Monica's best

Dinner spots

The day finally winds down once there is a plate of food in front of you.

Based on 813 Opinions
+810
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Updated May 2026
01
Mikomi Sushi Santa Monica image 1
Mikomi Sushi Santa Monica image 2
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Japanese restaurant

Spacious interior with modern design and beautiful chandeliers creates a calm, clean vibe. Dinner offers three sushi rolls and edamame for a quick, satisfying meal. Unique touch comes from robot waitress Bella delivering food in a cozy setting.

Dinner features three sushi rolls and edamame for a simple, satisfying meal. The spot suits quick dinners and is easy to reach by walk or short drive.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is amazing, especially the fresh, well-prepared sushi."

"The lunch special here is a huge, affordable plate."

"The baked salmon and eel rolls are delicious dinner spots."

Good to know

1

Happy hour features items priced around $5 to $7, with good-sized portions.

2

The lunch special costs $24 for a full plate, including a nice roll and sashimi.

3

The restaurant and bathrooms are clean and well-maintained.

02
Ugo Trattoria image 1
Italian restaurant

Quaint Italian spot offers cozy atmosphere and a lovely patio for dinner. Music plays softly, keeping the vibe calm and inviting. Perfect for relaxed meals or quick bites with friends or partners.

Offers a relaxed atmosphere for dinner with friends or a partner. Serves full Italian meals and suits quick bites or drinks. Often quiet during early dinner hours.

People are saying

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

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

"The meatballs at these dinner spots are tender and flavorful."

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
Desvelados Santa Monica image 1
Mexican restaurant

Spacious Mexican restaurant offers a cozy yet lively atmosphere with beautiful decor and soft music. Perfect for relaxed Saturday night meals, dinner lasts about two hours. Large tables make it ideal for family celebrations and groups.

Dinner here lasts long, often around 2 hours. The food is very good, making it a solid choice for a relaxed Saturday night meal.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here, especially the tacos, is amazing."

"I thought the food was delicious and outstanding."

"I loved the piña colada at this dinner spot; the food was great."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers margarita and taco specials.

2

Santa Monica charges a 10.75% city tax on all bills.

3

The menu features a variety of innovative burritos and tacos.

04
Shirubē image 1
Izakaya restaurant

Long, narrow space with intimate bar seating creates a cozy vibe perfect for dinner. Open kitchen showcases skilled chefs crafting a wide variety of dishes. Romantic lighting highlights antique sake cups, making it ideal for a quiet dinner date.

Dinner here offers a wide variety of choices that suit solo diners and couples alike. The interior feels intimate and cute, making it a solid pick for a quiet dinner date.

People are saying

"The sashimi here is incredibly fresh and delicious."

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

"The dinner spots here are insanely delicious, like a religious experience."

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.

05
XUNTOS image 1
Tapas bar

Spanish tapas bar shines with authentic Spanish flavors and a cozy art deco interior. Perfect for romantic dinners or lively group celebrations, it offers an extensive vermouth and cocktail selection. Upstairs seating adds an intimate touch to the vibrant atmosphere.

Dinner here offers a great interactive experience that suits both romantic evenings and gatherings with friends. The spot handles large celebrations smoothly, making it a solid choice for special dinners with groups.

People are saying

"The garlic shrimp and scallops were perfectly cooked."

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

"The intimate vibes and cute decor make it perfect for a romantic date night."

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
The Curious Palate image 1
New American restaurant

Open-air seating creates a calm atmosphere perfect for families. Dinner uses fresh local ingredients with kid-friendly options. Space feels homey and bright, ideal for quick, relaxing meals after a busy day.

Dinner features fresh and local ingredients with options tailored to individual tastes and kids' needs. The spot welcomes families and suits quick meals after a long day.

People are saying

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

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

"The dinner spots here have amazing handmade dishes with fresh ingredients."

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.

07
Wally's Santa Monica image 1

Walls lined with hundreds of wine bottles set a wine cellar vibe with upscale decor and marble surfaces. Loud music creates energetic vibes perfect for lively gatherings. Four-course dinners with wine tastings suit business meetings well.

Four-course dinners pair with wine tastings that suit business gatherings well. Wine plays a key role in the dining experience, especially for those who value it during fine meals.

People are saying

"The food here is fantastic and exquisite."

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

"The truffle pasta and pizza are amazing dinner spots."

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.

08
LA PUREPECHA COCINA MEXICANA image 1

Small Mexican spot offers family-friendly vibe with quick, casual dining. Warm, inviting space blends modern and traditional styles. Staff serves tortilla chips while you wait, with Mexican tunes playing in background.

Warm and inviting space blends modern and traditional styles. Staff serves tortilla chips while waiting for dinner.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here, especially the tacos, is oozing with flavor and moisture."

"You have to try their thick, homemade tortillas; they're full of flavor."

"The carnitas tacos here are packed with flavor and so tender."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers a 1 plus 1 deal on tacos.

2

Specials are available Monday through Friday with $2 off select items.

3

Street parking is available, but can be hard to find.

09
Orto Santa Monica image 1
Italian restaurant

Bright space with soaring ceilings and soft jazz sets a calm mood. Perfect for intimate dinners or large groups upstairs. Charming outdoor courtyard adds elegance to any meal.

Offers a fantastic Italian dinner experience with options for both intimate and large group meals. Upstairs space accommodates large surprise birthday dinners comfortably.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious."

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

"The dinner spots here are delicious, with authentic Italian flavors."

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.

10
1212 Santa Monica image 1
New American restaurant

Large space with a dog-friendly patio and live DJ music creates a lively vibe. Dinner offers excellent food and service with cozy couches and a private upstairs room. Fire pits add warmth, making it great for celebrations and group dinners.

Dinner here features excellent food and service with options for both casual seating like couches around the fire pit and private gatherings in an upstairs private room. The spot suits celebrations and group dinners well.

People are saying

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

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

"Our server Rico was so kind and helpful during dinner."

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.

11
Santa Monica Seafood Market & Cafe image 1

Seafood market offers fresh seafood displays and a lively oyster bar. Dinner features fresh, flavorful fish perfect for families, dates, or business. Atmosphere blends bustling market energy with quiet spots for conversation.

Seafood dinners stand out with fresh, flavorful fish options. The spot suits families, dates, and business dinners well. Early meals help avoid crowds and secure seating.

People are saying

"The seafood here is so fresh and delicious."

"The market has an excellent selection of fresh seafood."

"I had the freshest, most delicious seafood dinner here."

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.

12
Kappo Miyabi image 1
Sushi restaurant

Minimalist design with traditional Japanese elements creates a calm, elegant space. Open kitchen adds interactive dining energy while booths offer privacy for intimate meals. Varied Japanese dishes and omakase options make it ideal for group dinners and celebrations.

Varied Japanese dishes suit group dinners well. Both lunch and dinner omakase options stand out for romantic or celebratory meals.

People are saying

"The sushi here is so fresh and delicious."

"The food here is a work of art, truly a feast for the senses."

"The fresh seafood at these dinner spots is so tasty."

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.

13
LouLou Santa Monica image 1
French restaurant

Rooftop restaurant offers cool views of water and Ferris wheel with a live DJ and percussionist creating a club-like vibe. Perfect for romantic dinners and lively celebrations like birthdays and anniversaries.

Beautiful location sets a romantic tone for dinner. Attentive service and a rooftop with a live DJ create a perfect Saturday night vibe for celebrations like birthdays and anniversaries.

People are saying

"The food here was delicious and high quality."

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

"The grilled fish and truffle chicken at these dinner spots were outstandingly spots were outstanding."

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.

14
Benihana - Santa Monica image 1
Japanese restaurant

Open hibachi-style setup offers an engaging dining experience with chef performances that turn dinner into a lively show. Dim lighting and cozy decor create a fun atmosphere perfect for celebrations and family outings. A second-level bar adds interactive energy to the venue.

Dinner here turns into a show with the chef’s performance. It suits celebrations well, making dinners memorable and fun with friends or family.

People are saying

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

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

"Chef Pablo's skilled performance made our dinner feel special."

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.

15
Nick The Greek image 1
Greek restaurant

Greek restaurant has a cozy atmosphere with authentic music and a nice outdoor area. Quick dinner baskets focus on French fries and fried chicken, fitting casual dining. Seating includes high chairs for kids, making it family-friendly.

Offers a quick dinner option with a casual vibe. Meals come in baskets mainly for French fries or fried chicken, not large dinner portions.

People are saying

"The Greek food, especially the gyros, is delicious."

"I loved the Mediterranean food, especially the amazing falafel pita."

"It's a great, easy spot for a casual dinner."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times during lunchtime, especially on weekends.

2

Online ordering is recommended to avoid long wait times.

3

The restaurant has limited seating, so plan accordingly.

16
Calabra image 1
Restaurant

Rooftop setting delivers stunning views and cozy outdoor heaters. Dinner impresses with fantastic dishes perfect for groups or solo guests. Accessibility shines with wheelchair-friendly seating and elevator access, all wrapped in a sexy, lively vibe.

Dinner offers a fantastic experience with dishes that impress guests consistently. The atmosphere supports a wonderful evening for groups and individuals alike.

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."

"The service for dinner spots here is so friendly and 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.

17
Mélisse Restaurant image 1
New American restaurant

Small dining room with intimate atmosphere offers a close-up view of the open kitchen. Dinner is Michelin-level and very expensive, with meals served promptly to all guests. Bright lighting and vinyl records create a relaxing vibe in a sleek, modern setting.

Dinner here is very expensive with a Michelin-level dining experience. Meals start promptly at the reservation time, serving all guests each course together.

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 dinner spots here have incredible flavor profiles and seamless pairings."

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.

18
Bludso's BBQ image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Brick walls and concrete floors set a casual scene with multiple TVs showing sports and a full bar serving distinctive cocktails. Family-style BBQ offers delicious smoked meats that bring comfort and celebration. Friendly, lively energy makes it great for relaxed dinners.

Dinner features family-style BBQ with delicious smoked meats served in a casual setting. Meals often bring a sense of celebration and comfort, fitting for special occasions or relaxed evenings.

People are saying

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

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

"The dinner spots here have delicious, fall-off-the-bone tender ribs."

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.

19
Santa Monica Proper Hotel image 1

Boutique hotel blends warm vibe with panoramic city views from its rooftop pool and dining area. Dinner here shines with sunset backdrop and lively energy, perfect for celebrations. Indoors offers a calm ambiance contrasting the vibrant rooftop scene.

Rooftop dining offers panoramic city views and a beautiful sunset backdrop. The spot serves dinner alongside drinks, creating a nice setting for celebrations.

People are saying

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

"The rooftop offers breathtaking ocean views and smart cocktails."

"The dinner spots here are beautifully designed and spectacular."

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.

20
Casa Martin | 3rd St Promenade image 1

Mexican restaurant offers live Mariachi music and a cozy atmosphere with outdoor seating. Dinner serves generous portions that satisfy hunger. Some guests find service inconsistent during evening meals.

Dinner fills you up with enough food to leave satisfied. Service can be a challenge, with some rude waitstaff noted during evening meals.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here, especially the fish tacos, is fantastic."

"The seafood, especially the garlic shrimp, was delicious."

"The dinner here is decent, leaving you full."

Good to know

1

Expect an 18% automatic service charge on your bill.

2

Happy hour offers better value with a 2 taco special.

3

The average entree costs around $25.

21
Palma image 1
Restaurant

Stylish interiors with deep couches set a relaxed mood for dinner and work. Music can be loud, affecting conversation. Dinner costs range from 500 to 1500 dollars, reflecting a high-end dining experience with unique seating like low lounges and cane chairs.

Dinner seating includes very deep couches around a coffee table, creating a relaxed vibe. Spending ranges from 500 to 1500 dollars for dinners for two, indicating a high-end dining experience.

People are saying

"The breakfast service here is so attentive and friendly."

"The Plant Burger food here is vegan with a tangy, creamy aioli."

"The dinner spots here are mostly deep couches, not tables."

Good to know

1

Expect higher prices than the menu indicates; verify before ordering.

2

Brunch menu offers a variety of flavorful options, but limited overall.

3

Cocktails are priced steeply; budget accordingly for drinks.

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