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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Top picks in Downtown Santa Monica

Kid-friendly lunch spots

You need a place where your kids are genuinely welcome, and you refuse to sacrifice a decent lunch to make that happen.

Based on 801 Opinions
+798
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Updated May 2026
01
Mikomi Sushi Santa Monica image 1
Mikomi Sushi Santa Monica image 2
Mikomi Sushi Santa Monica image 3
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Japanese restaurant

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.

Simple avocado rolls with giant, fresh pieces appeal to kids. A prize wheel offers chances to win a $20 gift card, creating excitement for children.

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

People are saying

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

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

"It's so kid friendly, my daughter won a gift card!"

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
Nick The Greek image 1
Greek restaurant

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.

Staff listen carefully to special needs and customize meals accordingly. Kids meals come well seasoned and perfectly put together. High chairs are available for seating.

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

People are saying

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

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

"The kids' meals are well-seasoned and delicious."

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.

03
The Curious Palate image 1
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.

Menus adjust to both adult and kids' tastes. The spot balances a kid-friendly vibe with a setting suitable for date nights.

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

People are saying

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

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

"The kids menu was awesome and had very affordable prices."

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.

04
Benihana - Santa Monica image 1
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.

Kids get special souvenirs and enjoy interactive entertainment. Hosts take extra steps like photo keepsakes to make birthdays memorable.

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.

People are saying

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

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

"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.

05
Santa Monica Proper Hotel image 1

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.

Staff provide personalized attention, remembering kids' names and suggesting quiet spots for families. The pool offers a fun space where kids can enjoy themselves.

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

People are saying

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

"The staff remembered my daughter's name, making it feel kid friendly."

"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.

06
1212 Santa Monica image 1
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.

Staff handle food allergies carefully, confirming details with the kitchen. Kids enjoy dishes like the cheeseburger and fries and perfectly cooked salmon with charred broccolini.

Lunch offers a prix fixe menu around $18 with attentive and friendly service. It serves as a reasonably priced spot for a midday meal or happy hour.

People are saying

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

"The servers here are so attentive and friendly, making it feel Kid Friendly."

"The service at this Lunch Spot was so attentive and friendly."

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.

07
Downtown Santa Monica image 1

Wide sidewalks lined with palm trees and bright storefronts create a playful, creative space filled with live street performances and ocean views. The atmosphere shifts from lively and vibrant during the day to quiet and peaceful at night. Plenty of benches and outdoor games invite relaxation amid a mix of shoppers and families.

Lots of open space lets kids run and play freely. The area suits walking with kids and pets comfortably.

Plenty of space allows for al fresco lunch seating. Options include dining at Benihana and Barny's Beanery for a relaxed midday meal.

People are saying

"The beach here is beautiful, wide, and sandy."

"It's a nice area to walk with kids and pets."

"I could relax and have a quiet lunch here."

Good to know

1

Public Parking Structure 6 offers 99 minutes of free parking.

2

Parking is often difficult to find in Downtown Santa Monica.

3

The area is generally safe and cheerful for visitors.

08
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.

Kids enjoy the calamari and Kobe beef here. The atmosphere suits family celebrations like birthdays.

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

People are saying

"The food here was delicious and high quality."

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

"The calamari here is above and beyond, and my kids approved."

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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