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Best Neighbourhood Gem Restaurants in Santa Monica

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154 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Tar & Roses restaurant
1. Tar & Roses
4.9
Exceptional(4234)
Price: Expensive
• American • Santa Monica
Booked 49 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 Meat On Ocean restaurant
2. Meat On Ocean
4.7
Exceptional(3431)
Price: Expensive
• Steakhouse • Santa Monica
Booked 68 times today
Meat On Ocean is a meat-centric, modern steakhouse in Santa Monica that offers both a sense of adventure and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. Beyond the offerings of a world-class steakhouse, Meat On Ocean features an artisanal charcuterie bar, an exhibition dry-aging room and a variety of prime beef – from dry-aged domestic cuts to Japanese A-5. Integral to the operation is a highly trained crew of servers and butchers, who communicate directly with Guests about the beef, organically farmed chickens, house made sausages, choice seafood and more.Located on the corner of Ocean and Broadway, Meat On Ocean is steps from the action - including the Santa Monica Pier, shopping and hotels.Starting May 2024, Meat On Ocean is also your headquarters for private dining and events, with customizable spaces that are perfect for social events, corporate meetings, birthday parties, anniversary celebrations, wedding receptions and ceremonies, with full audio/visual connectivity.
A photo of Benihana - Santa Monica, CA restaurant
3. Benihana - Santa Monica, CA
4.0
Excellent(4095)
Price: Moderate
• Japanese • Santa Monica
Booked 90 times today
Welcome to Benihana, a dining experience unlike any other! Our guests are seated at communal tables in groups, where your personal chef will perform the ancient art of Teppanyaki. Watch as we slice and dice, preparing a meal that will dazzle your eyes as well taste buds, whether you choose mouth-watering steak, tender chicken or succulent seafood. You can also enjoy sushi prepared by a talented sushi chef and indulge in a specialty cocktail.
A photo of Orto Santa Monica restaurant
4. Orto Santa Monica
4.7
Exceptional(1100)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Santa Monica
Booked 11 times today
Orto Santa Monica is a neighborhood gem, as described by its customers. With its 'authentic Italian food with great service' and 'excellent food and service', it's a favorite among locals. One reviewer even referred to it as a 'neighborhood gem', praising its 'quiet charm and warm ambiance'. The family-owned and run restaurant also offers a 'cozy environment', making it an ideal place for a 'night out'. Its commitment to local ingredients and sustainable producers adds to its charm, making it a gem of the neighborhood.
A photo of North Italia - Santa Monica restaurant
5. North Italia - Santa Monica
4.4
Awesome(1493)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Santa Monica
Booked 46 times today
Everyone has a favorite dish at North. Every day, our Chefs start from scratch to create handmade pizza and pasta using only the best ingredients to craft inspired dishes from the garden, farm, and sea. North defines the standards for handcrafted Italian. Our menu offers a great selection of antipasti (daily soup, charcuterie, bruschetta), salads full of seasonal ingredients, and a main entrée menu driven by both traditional Italian cuisine and lighter fresh fish dishes. North is a great neighborhood spot for family and friends to meet and share a handcrafted experience. From the food to the service, at North every detail matters. Due to recent current events, we will be only open for to go sales only at this point in time. Thank you for your understanding
A photo of Xuntos restaurant
6. Xuntos
4.8
Exceptional(147)
Price: Expensive
• Tapas / Small Plates • Santa Monica
Booked 14 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 Massilia restaurant
7. Massilia
4.6
Exceptional(823)
Price: Expensive
• French • Santa Monica
Booked 23 times today
Massilia is a neighborhood gem in Santa Monica. Known for its unique blend of French, Italian, Spanish, and North African cuisine, the restaurant has garnered rave reviews for its excellent food and service. Patrons love its relaxed ambiance and the friendly, attentive staff. It's often described as a 'hidden gem' and 'favorite place' that offers a great dining experience.
A photo of True Food Kitchen - Santa Monica restaurant
8. True Food Kitchen - Santa Monica
4.4
Awesome(1534)
Price: Moderate
• American • Santa Monica
Booked 28 times today
True Food Kitchen is a chef-driven restaurant and scratch bar that was founded by Dr. Andrew Weil, the pioneer of integrative medicine, to provide food that tastes great and is good for you. At our table, delicious dining and conscious nutrition go hand in hand, without sacrificing flavor, creativity or indulgence. Our expertly trained chefs craft flavor-forward dishes, handcrafted cocktails and freshly pressed refreshers so you can enjoy epic food experiences that aren’t just good for you, but good to you. Join us in Santa Monica for lunch, dinner, or weekend brunch. New flavors, new combinations, new obsessions. Come see us for something completely new and delicious.
A photo of Gjelina restaurant
9. Gjelina
4.7
Exceptional(2306)
Price: Expensive
• American • Venice
Booked 213 times today
Gjelina is a restaurant specializing in New American cuisine. Open every day from 8 a.m. until 11pm, serving breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner. For breakfast, try 9 grain pancakes with butter and maple syrup or warm banana buckwheat loaf with butter and jam of the day. Brunch options include Moroccan baked eggs and 7 grain porridge. Gjelina offers a variety of oysters, crudo, charcuterie and salad options to start at lunch and dinner. Main courses include pizzas from our wood fired oven and entrees like duck confit, house made pastas and roasted organic half chicken.*Only ADA certified animals are allowed in Gjelina*A 20% Mandatory Service Charge is added to your check. Our belief is that every hourly Gjelina employee contributes to your service and 100% of the MSC will be distributed amongst them.
A photo of The Penthouse Restaurant restaurant
10. The Penthouse Restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(4315)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary American • Santa Monica
Booked 30 times today
The Penthouse Restaurant is a neighborhood gem, known for its exceptional dining experience, as described by one reviewer as a 'beautiful restaurant with a great view'. With its upscale, fun, chic ambiance and locally sourced, farm-to-table menu, it's a favorite among locals. Reviews rave about the fabulous food, great service, and wonderful atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for celebrations or casual dining. The spectacular ocean views, beach cabanas, and open sky enclaves add to the uniqueness of the place.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • AlissaVIP
    New York City •40 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Perfect dinner experience! Food, wine& service all wonderful!
    More info
    Tar & RosesPrice: Expensive• American• Santa Monica
    •
    4.9
  • Iris
    Los Angeles •6 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    We were there around 3 pm on Christmas day and the young lady at the front desk was warm, welcoming, and efficient. After checking in early, we only waited a short time for our table. Our server was Joseph and he was also very welcoming and efficient. He made us feel like our business was valuable. He asked numerous times if we needed anything and was prompt to bring whatever was requested. Our chef was Nmemon (spelling??) and he did an excellent job in preparing our food. We come to Benihana's frequently and will continue to do so with employees like Joseph and the front desk hostess. Thanks for an outstanding Christmas dinner.
    More info
    Benihana - Santa Monica, CAPrice: Moderate• Japanese• Santa Monica
    •
    4
  • Shalimar
    Los Angeles •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Sofia, our server, was friendly and helped make our dinner experience lovely.
    More info
    North Italia - Santa MonicaPrice: Moderate• Italian• Santa Monica
    •
    4.4
  • Todd
    Los Angeles •13 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Fourth consecutive Christmas Eve dinner with family. Warm ambiance, staff, and overall great experience. Food is consistently good with outstanding service.
    More info
    Meat On OceanPrice: Expensive• Steakhouse• Santa Monica
    •
    4.7
  • JoelleVIP
    Jackson Hole / Wyoming •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    This place is terrific! Very quaint and lovely ambience… The food was terrific! Especially the chicken scallopini alimony, which was delicious! Everything was wonderful and the owner is very charming and provided great service! Strongly recommend this place especially for locals!
    More info
    Orto Santa MonicaPrice: Expensive• Italian• Santa Monica
    •
    4.7

Discover best neighborhood gem restaurants in Santa Monica

Discover the charming neighborhood gems of Santa Monica, where each restaurant offers a unique culinary experience that caters to a diverse palette. From the sandy shores of the Westside to the bustling streets of Los Angeles, Santa Monica is home to a variety of dining spots acclaimed for their originality and local flair. These eateries are celebrated for their exceptional service, innovative cuisine blending Mediterranean, British, and Californian influences, and atmospheres that range from sophisticated to cozy. Patrons frequently praise the restaurants for their beautiful locations, whether it's beachside views or artful, intimate settings. The dining scene in Santa Monica is vibrant and eclectic, making it a prime destination for food lovers seeking a memorable meal in a neighborhood gem. Each establishment embodies the spirit of the community, making them beloved by both locals and visitors alike. Whether you're in the mood for a luxurious Italian dinner, a traditional English breakfast, or a fresh Californian brunch by the ocean, Santa Monica's neighborhood gems provide unparalleled dining experiences that are sure to delight.

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