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Best Californian Restaurants in Santa Monica

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94 restaurants available nearby

A photo of The Surfing Fox restaurant
4.2
Awesome(104)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Santa Monica
Booked 2 times today
The Surfing Fox is a chilled-out gathering spot serving up coastal California cuisine on a plate (or in a glass!) with a generous side of good times and vibes. Whether you're spending the day hanging ten or hanging out, come take it easy with us from dawn to dusk.
A photo of Tar & Roses restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(4249)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Santa Monica
Booked 18 times today
Tar & Roses in Santa Monica offers an exquisite Global, International dining experience that will captivate your taste buds. Chef Andrew Kirschner's culinary artistry shines through with a menu that draws inspiration from around the world, meticulously crafted using a wood-fired oven to enhance flavors. Guests rave about the "divine" octopus skewers and "sensational" fried red snapper, showcasing the restaurant's ability to blend creativity with authenticity. With "outstanding food and amazing culinary variety," Tar & Roses promises an unforgettable dining adventure. The warm ambiance and attentive service make every visit feel like coming home. Discover why it's a favorite for both locals and visitors alike!
A photo of Loulou Rooftop Restaurant and Lounge restaurant
4.4
Awesome(859)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Santa Monica
Booked 15 times today
Nestled on a rooftop in the heart of Santa Monica, Loulou Rooftop Restaurant and Lounge brings a vibrant fusion of French Mediterranean flavors with a quintessential Californian twist. The restaurant shines by embracing local organic produce and artisanal ingredients, crafting a menu that is both innovative and authentic. As one diner exclaimed, "Everything we ordered...was awesome!" This exceptional dining experience is complemented by a carefully curated wine list featuring the best of both California and France, ensuring every meal is a celebration. With rave reviews hailing its "amazing ambiance" and "fantastic service," Loulou truly stands out as a culinary gem in the Californian food scene.
A photo of Shoreside restaurant
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Santa Monica
Coming Soon this Fall! Welcome to Shoreside Santa Monica, where we offer the quintessential indoor-outdoor coastal dining experience, seamlessly capturing the relaxed ambiance and sun-soaked charm of Southern California. Indulge in the flavors of Southern California with our locally inspired menu crafted with the freshest ingredients. This coastal haven effortlessly blends timeless charm with contemporary California cool. A destination to savor cocktails poolside, gather with friends for a delicious meal, or socialize into the evening hours in our cozy lobby lounge. Join us to experience the locally inspired menu of SoCal rich flavors and premium drink selections against the backdrop of Santa Monica's coastal scene.
A photo of Ivy at the Shore restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(3554)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Santa Monica
Booked 13 times today
Ivy at the Shore in Santa Monica is a seafood lover's paradise that promises an exceptional dining experience. Known for its vibrant ambiance and ocean views, this iconic restaurant serves a seafood menu that's as fresh as it is flavorful. Guests rave about the "incredibly fresh and flavorful" Stone Crab, perfectly chilled and paired with a tangy mustard sauce, underscoring the restaurant's dedication to quality seafood. The service is impeccable, with attentive staff ensuring every detail is perfect. Whether it's a leisurely lunch or a special occasion, Ivy at the Shore offers "an unforgettable dining experience" with its standout seafood dishes.
A photo of Melisse restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(2006)
Price: Very Expensive
• Californian • Santa Monica
Booked 1 time today
Melisse in Santa Monica redefines American cuisine with its exquisite blend of flavors and meticulous attention to detail. This Michelin 2-Star gem, helmed by Chef Josiah Citrin and Chef Ken Takayama, offers an unparalleled dining experience that has diners raving. Guests are treated to a culinary journey that expertly combines classic and modern techniques, as they are guided through an 8-course tasting menu featuring the finest ingredients from California’s farms. Reviewers describe Melisse as "one of the best dining experiences" they've ever had, highlighting the "exceptional service" and "creative, flavorful dishes." For an unforgettable celebration, Melisse truly stands out.
A photo of Calabra at Santa Monica Proper restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(1586)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Santa Monica
Booked 10 times today
Calabra at Santa Monica Proper is a beacon of Californian cuisine, celebrated for its "exceptional" culinary offerings and breathtaking rooftop views. Situated atop the Santa Monica Proper Hotel, this One MICHELIN Key 2024 recipient showcases a perfect blend of Californian flavors with Mediterranean flair, offering dishes that are both innovative and authentic. Guests rave about the "amazing atmosphere and great food," citing the quality and creativity of the menu items. The ambiance is described as "immaculate," making it an ideal spot for both casual and celebratory dining. With its stunning ocean backdrop and stellar service, Calabra offers a truly unforgettable California dining experience.
A photo of Palma at Santa Monica Proper restaurant
4.5
Awesome(282)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Santa Monica
Booked 4 times today
Palma at Santa Monica Proper is a shining gem for Italian cuisine, celebrated for its authenticity and seasonal inspirations. Nestled in an inspiring, art-filled space, it offers a culinary journey that captures the essence of Italy. One reviewer raves, "The food and ambiance are always fantastic," highlighting how the experience transcends mere dining. With a One MICHELIN Key 2024 award, the restaurant stands out not only for its exquisite dishes but also for its exceptional service and cozy, intimate atmosphere. From expertly crafted cocktails to delightful Italian flavors, Palma ensures every visit is a memorable culinary delight.
A photo of 1212 Santa Monica restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(1788)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Santa Monica
Booked 11 times today
1212 Santa Monica is a standout gem of New American cuisine, nestled in the lively Third Street Promenade of Santa Monica. This restaurant masterfully captures the diverse flavors of SoCal, offering a menu that truly embodies authentic American culinary excellence. Guests rave about the "delicious food" and "amazing service," making every dining experience memorable. The atmosphere is "spectacular" with a perfect blend of live music and stylish decor, enhancing the overall vibe. Popular for its all-night happy hour and lively bottomless brunch, 1212 Santa Monica promises a delectable and vibrant American dining experience that will leave you eager for more.
A photo of Wally's Santa Monica restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(114)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Santa Monica
Booked 3 times today
Wally's Santa Monica is a beacon of exceptional French cuisine, offering an "absolutely incredible" dining experience that has captivated locals and visitors alike. Nestled in the heart of Santa Monica, this restaurant stands out with its "amazing service" and a menu that is both "sophisticated and delicious." Diners revel in the exquisite offerings such as the "best Diver scallops EVER," paired with an extensive wine selection that is "out of this world." The ambiance is "fantastic," making it the perfect spot for any occasion. With a dedication to high-quality ingredients and authentic French flavors, Wally's truly delivers a remarkable culinary journey.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Shayne
    Seattle / Eastern Washington •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    As a service industry person I am very particular in regards to a great dining experience. It was our first time to dine at Tar and Roses and I cannot find one area of improvement. The food was amazing and I feel like it’s hard to find good service these days. The service was impeccable. We will definitely be back!
    More info
    Tar & RosesPrice: Expensive• American• Santa Monica
    4.9
  • Hratch
    Los Angeles •2 reviews
    4.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    The experience was super beautiful, Food was incredible,service amazing but this time they didn’t have any extra entertainment like the times before. (No fans,no roses,no balloons etc…
    More info
    Loulou Rooftop Restaurant and LoungePrice: Expensive• French• Santa Monica
    4.4
  • Joris
    Los Angeles •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    I recently dined at Mélisse, and it was an incredible experience! The waitresses, Mia and Scarlet, were outstanding—so knowledgeable and attentive. The food was simply fantastic, especially the duck; it was cooked to perfection. I highly recommend Mélisse to anyone looking for a special dining experience! (Much love for the Cesar salad ❤️)
    More info
    MelissePrice: Very Expensive• Californian• Santa Monica
    4.9
  • Dan
    Orange County •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 7 days ago
    Food was excellent. Bartender was fantastic (normally works Tuesdays).
    More info
    The Surfing FoxPrice: Moderate• Californian• Santa Monica
    4.2

Discover best Californian restaurants in Santa Monica

Discover the vibrant Californian dining scene in Santa Monica, a culinary hotspot that showcases an array of restaurants offering a fusion of local and international flavors tailored to the Californian palate. Each venue in this coastal city brings its own unique twist to Californian cuisine, incorporating fresh, locally-sourced ingredients that reflect the region's rich agricultural bounty. From the laid-back, health-conscious offerings at Tiato Kitchen + Garden, which blends classic Vietnamese with Californian touches, to the sophisticated blend of Californian and Italian dishes at Fia, Santa Monica's restaurant scene is diverse and innovative. Santa Monica's dining establishments pride themselves on creating memorable experiences that go beyond just food. Many restaurants, such as Lunetta and 1212 Santa Monica, emphasize the importance of ambiance and service, ensuring a holistic dining experience that complements their mouth-watering dishes. The city's commitment to sustainability is also evident, with places like Papille Gustative championing a farm-to-table approach and zero-waste policies. Whether you’re in the mood for the Mediterranean-inspired dishes from Calabra, perched with stunning ocean views, or the unique Californian-Mexican fusion at Socalo, Santa Monica offers culinary adventures that cater to all tastes. This rich dining environment not only highlights the creativity and quality of Californian cuisine but also makes Santa Monica a must-visit destination for food lovers seeking variety and excellence in every meal.

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