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Best Californian Restaurants in Santa Monica

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96 restaurants available nearby

A photo of The Surfing Fox restaurant
1. The Surfing Fox
4.3
Awesome(100)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Santa Monica
Booked 11 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
2. Tar & Roses
4.8
Exceptional(4204)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Santa Monica
Booked 48 times today
Tar & Roses in Santa Monica offers a globally inspired culinary adventure that is highly celebrated. Chef Andrew Kirschner, an award-winning chef, crafts a menu that highlights the best of international flavors using high-quality, locally sourced ingredients. The wood-fired oven is a central element, infusing dishes with deep, smoky undertones that elevate the global fare to extraordinary levels. Reviewers rave about the authenticity and innovation, noting dishes like the "best duck I've had outside Paris" and the vibrant yellowtail crudo. The atmosphere is described as warm and inviting, akin to "coming home," making Tar & Roses not just a meal, but an experience praised for its "outstanding food and service." This gem is a must-visit for anyone seeking a taste of the world expertly served on a plate.
A photo of Loulou Rooftop Restaurant and Lounge restaurant
3. Loulou Rooftop Restaurant and Lounge
4.3
Awesome(832)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Santa Monica
Booked 36 times today
Loulou Rooftop Restaurant and Lounge in Santa Monica is a dazzling gem that epitomizes the spirit of Californian cuisine with a delightful French twist. Celebrated for its "unique, one-of-a-kind destination" vibe, Loulou offers a culinary experience that features locally sourced organic produce and artisanal ingredients, ensuring each dish not only tastes exquisite but also honors California's rich agricultural heritage. Guests rave about the "delicious food" and the vibrant atmosphere, where the merging of music and gastronomy creates unforgettable dining experiences. Whether it's the praised salmon plate or the vibrant brunch scenes, Loulou stands out as a must-visit for authentic and innovative Californian dining.
A photo of Shoreside restaurant
4. Shoreside
(0)
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 Melisse restaurant
5. Melisse
4.9
Exceptional(1996)
Price: Very Expensive
• Californian • Santa Monica
Booked 2 times today
Melisse in Santa Monica is a shining beacon of Californian cuisine, where Chef Josiah Citrin’s magic has earned it two Michelin stars. This intimate 14-seat venue offers a unique 2.5-hour culinary journey through an 8-course tasting menu that highlights the freshest ingredients sourced from California farms "from San Diego to Napa Valley." Reviewers have lauded the experience, with one guest sharing, "This dining experience ranks among the top three I have ever had," while another says, "Each dish was delightful both in flavor and presentation." At Melisse, the blend of sophisticated service, exquisite local ingredients, and innovative Californian dishes promises an unforgettable dining adventure.
A photo of Ivy at the Shore restaurant
6. Ivy at the Shore
4.7
Exceptional(3518)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Santa Monica
Booked 37 times today
Ivy at the Shore in Santa Monica stands out as a beacon of Contemporary American cuisine, offering a delightful dining experience that consistently impresses. Nestled near the iconic Santa Monica Pier, the restaurant garners praise for its "excellent food" and "fantastic atmosphere," making it a must-visit for both locals and tourists. With dishes that blend creativity with comfort, diners rave about the "lobster scramble and eggs benedict" and the "grilled vegetable salad," each dish showcasing the fresh, vibrant flavors that define great American cooking. The service is repeatedly noted as "professional and friendly," ensuring a memorable culinary journey. Ivy at the Shore embodies the spirit of Southern California dining with its beautiful setting and high-quality fare, making every meal a special occasion.
A photo of Calabra at Santa Monica Proper restaurant
7. Calabra at Santa Monica Proper
4.8
Exceptional(1565)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Santa Monica
Booked 66 times today
Calabra at Santa Monica Proper offers a quintessential Californian dining experience that is both authentic and enchanting. Nestled on the rooftop of the Proper Hotel in Santa Monica, it boasts breathtaking ocean views and an atmosphere rich with Mediterranean and Californian flavors. Awarded One MICHELIN Key in 2024, Calabra provides an unparalleled dining ambiance. Patrons consistently praise its offerings: "Every plate was delicious," and the service is routinely highlighted as "impeccable." The restaurant offers a perfect blend of high-quality, fresh ingredients and innovative Californian cuisine, making every meal a memorable event. Whether it's the mezze platter or the uniquely crafted cocktails, Calabra ensures a vibrant and sophisticated culinary journey.
A photo of 1212 Santa Monica restaurant
8. 1212 Santa Monica
4.6
Exceptional(1771)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Santa Monica
Booked 47 times today
Nestled in the vibrant heart of Downtown Santa Monica, 1212 Santa Monica epitomizes the essence of Californian cuisine with its innovative New American menu that celebrates the diversity and freshness of SoCal ingredients. Guests rave about the "wonderful singers," "great food," and the lively "house music and early 2000 jams" that complement the dining experience. The standout dishes like gnocchi, lasagna, and the much-applauded oysters are consistently praised. One diner exclaimed, "The crostinis were lit!" while another cherished the "bottomless mimosas" that make their brunch truly special. With its commitment to quality and a vibrant ambiance, 1212 Santa Monica is a must-visit for anyone seeking an authentic Californian dining experience.
A photo of Palma at Santa Monica Proper restaurant
9. Palma at Santa Monica Proper
4.6
Exceptional(267)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Santa Monica
Booked 10 times today
Discover the essence of Californian cuisine at Palma at Santa Monica Proper, a MICHELIN Key 2024 recognized gem nestled in the vibrant heart of Santa Monica. Esteemed for its "above and beyond" food quality and service, Palma captures the spirit of California with its "trendy ambience and beautifully decorated" interiors and a menu that celebrates local flavors. Diners rave about the "best breakfast burrito in the US" and the "elevated" afternoon tea offerings, with the raspberry scone earning special accolades. Enjoy a dining experience where every detail is curated to perfection, from the "excellent variety of sandwiches and desserts" to the "innovative, calming" atmosphere that complements the authentic Californian fare. Whether it's a casual brunch or a special treat, Palma at Santa Monica Proper promises a culinary journey that's "truly wonderful" and distinctly Californian.
A photo of SELINE restaurant
10. SELINE
(0)
Price: Very Expensive
• Californian • Santa Monica
Booked 3 times today
*OPENING DECEMBER 3, 2024*Join James Beard award-winning Chef Dave Beran at his 38-seat fine dining restaurant in Santa Monica, where the kitchen is seamlessly integrated with the dining room. The menu, comprising 15-18 courses, showcases Chef Dave's deeply thoughtful approach to storytelling, inviting guests to embrace the experience & embark on a memorable culinary journey featuring the many inspirations of Southern California.At Seline, the focus is on connection, with every aspect of the restaurant— from the design to the custom plateware—built on fostering meaningful relationships. Wine Director Matthew Brodbine presents two beverage pairing options to complement your menu. The wine pairing showcases selections from innovative, forward-thinking winemakers across various regions worldwide. The non-alcoholic pairing features a unique collection of house-made and curated beverages designed to align with the menu's progression. A carefully curated wine list is also available.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Nicolavip
    Los Angeles •51 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Server was remarkably knowledgeable about the food, where it comes from, ingredients, how prepared, etc. very interesting cocktails. Great ambiance and setting. Was very impressed as I generally don’t like hotel restaurants.
    More info
    The Surfing FoxPrice: Moderate• Californian• Santa Monica
    •
    4.3
  • Jasmine
    Los Angeles •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Food was Great! customer service awesome will go back any day. I will be in town for a few days big possiblity of going back .
    More info
    Loulou Rooftop Restaurant and LoungePrice: Expensive• French• Santa Monica
    •
    4.3
  • Hannah
    Los Angeles •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on Nov 15, 2024
    We had a delicious dinner at the nicest table by the windows. The menu is very well done with the small to large portions which was perfect as my guests were very full from a large lunch. We enjoyed a nice bottle of wine and my guests visiting from the UK were so impressed with the delicious items we ordered. The crab cake, oxtail dumplings, cauliflower and ricotta gnocchi were all very good. Definitely recommend this spot and will be back again.
    More info
    Tar & RosesPrice: Expensive• American• Santa Monica
    •
    4.8
  • ValerieM
    Montreal / Quebec •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Nov 12, 2024
    We were there for my sons 14th birthday and everything was perfect! We also were lucky to have two chefs and the dishes couldn’t be more delightful! Thank you.
    More info
    MelissePrice: Very Expensive• Californian• Santa Monica
    •
    4.9

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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