Best Food in Santa Monica
Food & Drink
Dining in Santa Monica, CA is more than a meal, it’s an experience. Both visitors and locals come seeking the best food in Santa Monica and find renowned restaurants and top-notch chefs’ spreads throughout the city. Santa Monica restaurants are so appealing to master chefs and cooks because of the city’s prime location, proximity to Los Angeles, adventurous clientele and the access to the freshest ingredients at the top-rated farmers market. And, of course, the year-round sunshine and temperate climate mean outdoor dining is always on the menu.
Top restaurants in Santa Monica
With so many restaurants to choose from, including casual eateries, fine dining, seafood restaurants and everything in between, you will have no problem finding a great place to eat. Whether overlooking the ocean on an outdoor patio, stumbling upon an unbeatable happy hour or brunch or embarking on a highly recommended foodie tour, have fun finding your next favorite meal.
See What’s Cooking in Santa Monica
California Fusion
Santa Monica isn’t just a good eating town, it’s an international dining destination and reputed birthplace of “California” and “fusion” cuisine – marked by an artistic blend of culinary styles and the freshest of organic ingredients. Tar & Roses is a perfect example of the effortless melding of fresh ingredients and sophisticated recipes, while Lunetta ensures they are using the freshest ingredients available through their seasonal menu.
Farm-to-Table
Santa Monica was on the vanguard of the local foods movement long before it became mainstream, and the use of sustainable, organic ingredients is central to the cooking approach of the leading chefs around town. Santa Monica’s close ties to California farmers have resulted in many amazing farm-to-table restaurants. Michael’s ingredients commonly incorporate produce from the farmers market.
Healthy Alternatives
It’s no secret that healthy living in Southern California is popular; however, it’s not limited to yoga on Santa Monica’s beaches. There are an abundance of healthy dining options throughout the city. You’ll find innovative restaurants that use locally sourced organic ingredients in vegetarian and vegan dishes, proving that what’s good for you can taste good, too. Be sure to check out Margo’s, Sugar Palm, Tu Madré and Papille Gustative, which all serve up vegetarian and vegan options.
Location is everything
Because of Santa Monica’s compact size, you will rarely require a car to move between hotels, restaurants and other attractions. Most of the city’s hotels are located within walking distance to restaurants, bars, attractions and to Santa Monica Neighborhoods. Santa Monica’s proximity to the beach creates a relaxed and approachable restaurant scene—there are no restaurants in Santa Monica where a coat and tie are required.
Most of the well-known and popular restaurants in Santa Monica are located in or around our main streets and neighborhoods. Explore some of the more popular restaurant hotspots: