Enable JavaScript to run this app.
Skip to main content
OpenTable logo
  1. Home
  2. United States
  3. Los Angeles

Best Cozy Restaurants in Santa Monica

Price
Cuisine
Regions
Neighbourhoods
Top Rated
Dining Options
Seating Options
Award-winning
Accessibility

206 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Tar & Roses restaurant
1. Tar & Roses
4.9
Exceptional(4258)
Price: Expensive
• American • Santa Monica
Booked 37 times today
Tar & Roses is a globally inspired culinary experience. Chef Andrew Kirschner has transformed his kitchen into a local and welcoming home, focused on the element of the wood fired oven to bring out the best flavor in our dishes. Coming straight from the visionary mind of our award winning chef, our menu is created with only the highest quality ingredients and fresh, local products. This attention to detail helps makes our food a perfected craft which will inspire you to be adventurous, in the most approachable and delicious way possible. When you step into Tar & Roses, you'll feel like you are coming home. Our entire staff awaits your arrival with warm smiles and thoughtful service ~ please, come share a meal with us!
A photo of Orto Santa Monica restaurant
2. Orto Santa Monica
4.6
Exceptional(1105)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Santa Monica
Booked 7 times today
Orto Santa Monica is often described as cozy with many reviewers highlighting its 'charming atmosphere' and 'intimate setting'. The restaurant is said to have a 'warm ambiance' that makes you 'feel like you're in Italy', creating a cozy and authentic Italian experience.
A photo of Massilia restaurant
3. Massilia
4.5
Awesome(835)
Price: Expensive
• French • Santa Monica
Booked 19 times today
Massilia is a Marseille-inspired brasserie with culinary influences from the South of France, Italy, Spain & North Africa. SUN – THURS Bar open til 11pm / Kitchen open til 10pm | FRI + SAT Bar open til 12am / Kitchen open til 11pm | MON – FRI Enjoy 50% off all craft cocktails & wines by the glass from 11am – 6pm
A photo of Kappo Miyabi Santa Monica restaurant
4. Kappo Miyabi Santa Monica
4.5
Awesome(69)
Price: Very Expensive
• Japanese • Santa Monica
Booked 1 time today
Kappo (かっぽう / 割烹) means cooking food with knives and fire. In simple Japanese terms, means cutting, chopping and cooking food with knife, and so on. And means boiling, cooking food with fire. So the combination of these two Japanese characters are a different expression of cooking with a knife and fire. Kappo is a dish that is improvised by the customer's order and can be enjoyed at the counter or at the table just in front of the kitchen without much formality. From now on, Kappo will be held in Miyabi restaurant, Santa Monica. Miyabi (雅) is one of the traditional Japanese aesthetic ideals, meaning "elegance," "graceful" and "courtliness". There are a lot of complexities of Japanese cuisine, including not only food, but also visitors, music, and order of food. So, there is a burden because of the needlessly cumbersome, expensive, and unnecessary formalities, and we focus on foods that are only used to show off the cooking skills of the chefs and customers.
A photo of Xuntos restaurant
5. Xuntos
4.7
Exceptional(158)
Price: Expensive
• Tapas / Small Plates • Santa Monica
Booked 5 times today
XUNTOS, "together" in Gallego, is a Tapas Bar from Chef Sandra Cordero in the heart of Downtown Santa Monica, serving small plates of things we want you to try: from the farmer's market around the corner to traditional dishes of Galicia, Asturias, Catalunya & the Basque Country, as they're eaten in Spain.The wines follow the food: natural, fun & unrefined–joined at the bar with Spanish twists on classic cocktails, plus vermouths, sherries & cold cervezas.Walk in to the bar for Xuntanza from 5-7pm, Tuesday-Saturday!Please email us for large parties & private dining: hola@barxuntos.comValidated parking is available across the street at 501 Santa Monica Blvd (Enter on 5th St.): $7 for 3 hours.
A photo of The Surfing Fox restaurant
6. The Surfing Fox
4.2
Awesome(105)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Santa Monica
Booked 10 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 AJA Vineyards restaurant
7. AJA Vineyards
4.7
Exceptional(2)
Price: Expensive
• Winery • Santa Monica
Welcome to Santa Monica's first and only wine tasting room! Located two blocks from the iconic Santa Monica Pier, you'll find our elegant and warm wine bar. Our family owned and grown Malibu Coast fruit is as local as it gets. At AJA, we strive to make high quality wines that are rooted in family values and passion. Enjoy our vast selection from our Extra Brut Sparkling wine to our complex, yet approachable, reds at our tasting room. We offer flights, glasses and bottles to enjoy here or take home. Explore the benefits of becoming a wine club member including free tastings, discounted wines, unique experiences and more. We do accept walk ins, but our cozy space has limited seating so we recommend making a reservation. We look forward to welcoming you.
A photo of Ye Olde Kings Head- Santa Monica restaurant
8. Ye Olde Kings Head- Santa Monica
4.6
Exceptional(277)
Price: Moderate
• American • Santa Monica
Booked 6 times today
Ye Olde Kings Head in Santa Monica is a cozy spot known for its warm and inviting atmosphere. One reviewer described it as 'cosy yet happy', and another said 'it feels like home'. The restaurant offers a mix of traditional British dishes and healthier options, which appeals to a wide range of customers. With a fireplace for cooler months and an outdoor heated patio, it's a comfortable and welcoming place to enjoy a meal or a cup of tea.
A photo of Shoreside restaurant
9. Shoreside
(0)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary American • 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 Élephante Santa Monica restaurant
10. Élephante Santa Monica
4.6
Exceptional(1498)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Santa Monica
Booked 277 times today
Élephante is cozy due to its chic ambiance. The restaurant's decor is praised by customers, who appreciate the 'custom furniture and design touches' that envelop them. The stunning ocean views and sunsets also contribute to the cozy atmosphere. Reviews consistently highlight the 'great atmosphere' and 'lovely ambiance,' suggesting a warm, inviting environment.

How is content generated

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • AdamVIP
    Minneapolis - St. Paul •81 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    Very nice venue- lots of good energy. Had the extremely tasty and moderately spicy Thai Fish and Shellfish entree.. friends split the whole fish, which was also delicious and presented nicely.. mashed potatoes were a solid B, but the Brussels sprouts were great.. service was energetic and a good sense of humor..
    More info
    Tar & RosesPrice: Expensive• American• Santa Monica
    •
    4.9
  • AaronVIP
    Los Angeles •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on Feb 15, 2025
    Love this place. It was a wonderful Valentines Day. And is also great on a random week night too.
    More info
    MassiliaPrice: Expensive• French• Santa Monica
    •
    4.5
  • Lorrin
    Los Angeles •5 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Feb 15, 2025
    We’ve been to Xuntos several times before and knew what to expect. Xuntos did not disappoint. We went on Valentine’s day and had the special Valentine menu with wine pairings. The menu was a delight. I think everything was new to the menu. We particularly enjoy the wine pairings with every meal and Scott, the sommelier, came over to explain what we were drinking and where it came from. The red quickly filled and it was a bit noisy when it was full. Service was exemplary. It’s one of our favorite restaurants.
    More info
    XuntosPrice: Expensive• Tapas / Small Plates• Santa Monica
    •
    4.7
  • Antoinette
    Los Angeles •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on Jan 19, 2025
    LOVED ORTA and staff!!! Amazing dining experience! A MUST!!!
    More info
    Orto Santa MonicaPrice: Expensive• Italian• Santa Monica
    •
    4.6
  • Martha
    Orange County •5 reviews
    4.0
    Dined on Jan 2, 2025
    Very good food, everything tastes great. Food is freshly made and came out quick as we went during downtime. This little gem never disappoints! Must try!
    More info
    Kappo Miyabi Santa MonicaPrice: Very Expensive• Japanese• Santa Monica
    •
    4.5

Discover best cozy restaurants in Santa Monica

Discover the charm of cozy dining in Santa Monica, where each restaurant offers a unique blend of comfort and style, perfectly complementing the laid-back vibe of Los Angeles' Westside. From beachside spots with stunning views to intimate settings with artful decor, these restaurants capture the essence of coziness, making them ideal for both casual outings and special occasions. Whether you're craving Mediterranean delights, traditional British fare, or authentic Italian cuisine, Santa Monica's cozy restaurants promise an inviting atmosphere and delectable dishes. The dining scene here is renowned for its diverse culinary offerings and warm, welcoming environments, ensuring an unforgettable experience for every diner. With options ranging from scenic outdoor patios to elegant indoor settings, each establishment strives to provide not only excellent food but also a truly comfortable and enchanting dining experience. Embrace the cozy charm of Santa Monica's restaurants, where every meal is served with a dash of local flavor and a heartwarming ambiance.

Explore OpenTable

Discover
OpenTable
  • About Us
  • Blog
  • Careers
  • Press
More
Our sites
Businesses
  • Delight more diners
  • Open for Business Blog
Join us on
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Use
  • Cookies and Interest-Based Ads
  • Cookie Preferences
Copyright © 2024 OpenTable, Inc. 1 Montgomery St Ste 500, San Francisco CA 94104 - All rights reserved.
OpenTable is part of Booking Holdings, the world leader in online travel and related services.
Booking Logo
Priceline Logo
KAYAK Logo
Agoda Logo
OpenTable Logo