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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Top picks in Downtown Santa Monica

Dinner spots for steak

Made for those who define a high-quality dinner by the precision and preparation of their steak.

Based on 788 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
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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.

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.

Wagyu steak stands out with its rich flavor and tenderness. Other meat dishes like meatballs and jidori also impress with quality and taste.

People are saying

"The sashimi here is incredibly fresh and delicious."

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

"The wagyu steak here is a standout dish."

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.

02
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New American restaurant

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.

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.

Steak comes out very juicy and rich in flavors. It pairs well with sides like curried cauliflower and parmesan fries, or fresh salads like kale and pecan or watermelon salad.

People are saying

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

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

"The steak here is so juicy and rich in flavors."

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.

03
Wally's Santa Monica image 1

Walls lined with hundreds of wine bottles create a wine cellar atmosphere with high ceilings and marble surfaces. Loud music fills the space, generating energetic vibes where people gather around the bar and dining areas. The setting combines upscale decor with a chilly temperature, offering shawls for warmth.

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.

Steaks come out perfectly cooked, juicy, and tender with rich flavor. The Tomahawk steak and steak frites stand out for their quality and taste.

People are saying

"The food here is fantastic and exquisite."

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

"The steak frites are a must-try, perfectly cooked and flavorful."

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.

04
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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.

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.

Steak and eggs delivers a flavor explosion with every bite. The filet mignon stands out as exceptionally tender and flavorful.

People are saying

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

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

"Our server was so friendly and attentive."

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
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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.

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

Filet mignon stands out with its tender and juicy texture, cooked perfectly every time. Steaks come out consistently flavorful and well-prepared.

People are saying

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

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

"The chefs here are hilarious and make the steak experience so fun!"

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.

06
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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.

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

Steaks come grilled to perfection, especially the filet and veal chop with mushrooms. The NY strip and Entrecôte alle erbe New York steak stand out for their flavor and quality.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious."

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

"I had the best steak I ever had."

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.

07
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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.

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.

Wagyu steak comes with papas bravas and stands out for its rich flavor. Other options include a well-prepared steak paired with dishes like arugula salad and rabano crudo.

People are saying

"The garlic shrimp and scallops were perfectly cooked."

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

"The steak here was just okay, nothing special."

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.

08
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.

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

A5 Wagyu comes with a ramp-stuffed Morel mushroom and can be paired with wine and fresh truffle. The wagyu sometimes arrives with over-sauce, which can overwhelm its flavor.

People are saying

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

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

"This steak was a truly remarkable dining experience."

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.

09
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.

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.

Steak dishes include steak skewers and steak frites cooked perfectly with rich flavor. Both chicken and steak options come out exquisite and well-prepared.

People are saying

"The food here was delicious and high quality."

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

"The steak frites were phenomenal and perfectly cooked."

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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