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Local picks

Lunch and dinner spots in Downtown Santa Monica

Whether it is the middle of the day or the end of the night, a sit-down meal is necessary.

Based on 850 Opinions
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01
Mikomi Sushi Santa Monica image 1
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Spacious interior features modern design and beautiful chandeliers with a calm, clean atmosphere ideal for relaxed dining. A robot waitress named Bella delivers food, adding a unique touch to the experience. The place attracts those seeking high-quality sushi in a cozy, inviting setting.

Lunch offers great deals with large portions that stay affordable. Bento boxes include teriyaki chicken, crunch roll, and ginger salad in a pleasant atmosphere.

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 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.

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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.

Lunch features a burger and fries with a house-made dipping sauce. The spot works well for casual meetups and family lunches with kids.

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

"This lunch spot's food is delicious and prepared 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.

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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.

Offers a quick lunch option with a lobster roll deal that stands out. Works well for a casual meal solo or with friends, especially when arriving early to avoid crowds.

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

"This lunch spot has excellent, fresh seafood and fish."

"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.

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Small Mexican restaurant with spartan interiors and paper plate service offers a super casual and family-friendly vibe. Background music features Mexican tunes while TVs show local sports and events. The atmosphere feels welcoming but leans toward quick dining rather than lingering.

Comfort food remains available for lunch far from home. Friendly service at the counter supports a relaxed lunch date vibe near the beach.

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

People are saying

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

"The tacos at this Lunch Spot are freaking delicious."

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.

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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.

Lunch here comes quickly during a quiet service with few people around. Food tastes very good and can be enjoyed in the sun on the high street.

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 pasta at this Lunch Spot is fresh and homemade."

"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.

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Minimalist design blends traditional Japanese elements with modern charm in a serene, elegant space. Open kitchen adds interactive dining energy while booths provide privacy. Atmosphere suits both casual and intimate meals with a calm, authentic vibe.

Lunch features premium sushi omakase with eight pieces including snowcrab handroll, hamachi, sweet shrimp, salmon, ootoro, kanpachi, halibut, and red snapper. Specials like sushi and sashimi come at a set price and attract repeat visits.

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 and sashimi at this Lunch Spot were fresh and generous."

"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.

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Spacious Mexican restaurant with stunning design and beautiful decor creates a cozy yet lively atmosphere. Music plays softly while a large screen TV shows NBA games behind the bar. The place welcomes families and groups, featuring large tables for celebrations.

Downtown spot offers a perfect lunch with an ambiance suited for both date nights and casual midday meals.

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

"This lunch spot has delicious, authentic Mexican food with generous portions."

"I loved the piรฑa 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.

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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.

A relaxed rooftop with beautiful views sets the scene for lunch. The menu offers good options and the service is attentive.

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

"This Lunch Spot has delicious food that's artfully plated."

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.

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Greek restaurant offers a casual, cozy atmosphere with authentic music enhancing the vibe. Seating includes a nice outdoor area and high chairs for kids, though indoor space can feel warm and smokey. The place fills up during busy times but maintains a low-key, friendly energy throughout.

Offers a quick lunch option with a casual vibe. Serves well for a fast meal during work breaks or casual outings.

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

"It's a great lunch spot for a quick bite."

"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.

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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.

A lunch menu runs alongside a happy hour, drawing a varied crowd. Weekend lunch options show limited variety and quantity.

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 dinner spots here have amazing taste and fresh ingredients."

"This Lunch Spot organized free meals for responders during the fires."

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.

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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.

Lunch features stellar meals served in a hotel restaurant and at Calabra. Both spots offer satisfying options for midday dining.

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

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

"The staff here made my lunch feel so special and memorable."

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.

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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.

Lunch features great specials with standout options like the lunch duet of chicken and shrimp. The service team including the GM, server, and chef contribute to a memorable dining experience.

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

People are saying

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

"The staff at this Lunch Spot are so attentive and friendly."

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.

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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.

Lunch offers delicious sandwiches like jackfruit and brisket specials with two sides. Prices stay reasonable, making it a solid choice for midday meals.

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

"The brisket at this lunch spot is the best I've had."

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.

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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.

Trendy, chic vibe defines the lunch experience here. Express lunch offers great prices and Sundays bring a lively brunch and lunch scene.

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

"The food at this lunch spot is fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented."

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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