Best Southwest American Restaurants in Mid-City

200 restaurants available nearby

1. Gjelina

4.7

Exceptional(2295)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • Venice

Booked 179 times today

Gjelina in Venice stands out as a beacon of Italian culinary excellence, where traditional flavors meet the vibrancy of New American cuisine. Known for its wood-fired pizzas and house-made pastas, Gjelina consistently delivers an authentic Italian dining experience. Guests rave about the "fantastic food," highlighting the "amazing flavors" and "great veggie options." The restaurant's ambiance is praised as well, with one reviewer noting, "If you have not been there, you haven’t been to LA." From the scrumptious pomodoro pizza with burrata to the delectable butterscotch pot de crème, each dish is crafted with care and respect for seasonal ingredients. This Venice gem is a must-visit for anyone seeking a true taste of Italy in a lively and welcoming setting.

2. Tar & Roses

4.9

Exceptional(4227)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • Santa Monica

Booked 36 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 Javier's - Century City restaurant

3. Javier's - Century City

4.7

Exceptional(3067)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • Century City

Booked 139 times today

Javier's presents a rich heritage of elevated Mexican cuisine in a friendly and captivating ambiance. Enjoy hand-shaken margaritas, rare tequilas, craft cocktails and a vast selection of beer and fine wines. Dine with us in the main dining room, in one of our private dining rooms, or at the exquisite bar with one of the largest selections of the world's finest tequilas on west coast.All guests must be present to be seated. The minimum per person is $20, , no split checks or personal checks. Javier's does not accept contactless payment. Parties of 6 or more a 20% gratuity will be included on the bill. In order to accommodate all guests Javier's dining experience is limited to 2 hours. As a safety precaution Javier's does not allow strollers. Multiple reservations will be treated as separate reservations and will not be accommodated together. We do not allow pets in our establishments.Modifications are not recommended and will not be refunded.

A photo of Water Grill - Santa Monica restaurant

4. Water Grill - Santa Monica

4.7

Exceptional(5996)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • Santa Monica

Booked 57 times today

At Water Grill Santa Monica, the essence of fine cuts cuisine is elevated to new heights, where each dish celebrates the purity and freshness of the sea. Nestled on Ocean Ave, with breathtaking views of the Pacific, this restaurant is a sanctuary for seafood lovers. Patrons rave about the "delectably fresh Spiny lobster and King crab legs" and the "art-like presentation of Wild Rosa Chilean Sea Bass and Wild Eastern Sea Scallops." The chef's commitment to pristine, boat-to-table seafood is evident, making every bite a testament to quality and craftsmanship. Reviews consistently highlight the restaurant's "top-notch service and fantastic food," making it a must-visit for anyone seeking the best fine cuts in Santa Monica.

A photo of The Courtyard Kitchen restaurant

5. The Courtyard Kitchen

4.7

Exceptional(120)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • Santa Monica

Booked 33 times today

The Courtyard Kitchen in Santa Monica has firmly established itself as a premier destination for breakfast enthusiasts seeking a blend of classic charm and contemporary flavors. Praised as the "best breakfast spot in Santa Monica ALL day long," this restaurant offers a delightful culinary experience in its picturesque setting. Diners rave about the "consistently delicious" food, which includes a variety of breakfast favorites crafted from fresh, high-quality ingredients. The ambiance, reminiscent of a cozy Parisian café, along with "attentive and friendly" service, enhances the dining experience, making every breakfast here not just a meal, but a memorable event. Whether it's for the classic omelets or the innovative Day In Cuba cocktail, The Courtyard Kitchen is a true gem that promises a breakfast worth savoring.

A photo of The Penthouse Restaurant restaurant

6. The Penthouse Restaurant

4.6

Exceptional(4310)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • Santa Monica

Booked 19 times today

The Penthouse Restaurant in Santa Monica is a crown jewel of Mediterranean cuisine with a Californian twist, offering a dining experience that is as spectacular as the panoramic ocean views it provides. Nestled on the 18th floor, this rooftop culinary paradise boasts dishes that are both "spectacular" and "delicious," according to glowing reviews. The fresh oysters, buttery lobster agnolotti, and divine rib eye showcase the authenticity and quality of the Mediterranean flavors, expertly blended with local ingredients. As guests rave about the "incredible environment" and "amazing staff," it's clear that The Penthouse isn't just a meal; it's a Mediterranean feast for the senses. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or just treating yourself, this Santa Monica gem promises a memorable dining experience with every visit.

7. Ivy at the Shore

4.7

Exceptional(3528)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • 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.

8. AOC - Brentwood

4.5

Awesome(3341)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • Brentwood

Booked 40 times today

At AOC - Brentwood in Los Angeles, the melding of French American cuisine with a Californian twist is nothing short of spectacular. Chef Suzanne Goin’s masterful approach to seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients, combined with Mediterranean influences, creates dishes that are both innovative and comforting. Patrons rave about the "sweet and fresh Watermelon salad" and the "stunning Wagyu brisket," highlighting the restaurant's commitment to quality and flavor. The ambiance is described as "warm" with "excellent service," making AOC a must-visit for anyone seeking an exceptional dining experience. The thoughtful curation of organic, biodynamic, and sustainable wines by Caroline Styne further enhances the dining experience, ensuring every meal is perfectly paired. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or just in for a delightful meal, AOC - Brentwood stands out as a beacon of exquisite French American dining in the heart of Brentwood.

9. 1212 Santa Monica

4.5

Awesome(1782)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • Santa Monica

Booked 12 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.

10. Citrin

4.6

Exceptional(197)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • Santa Monica

Booked 21 times today

Citrin, nestled in the heart of Santa Monica, stands as a beacon of American culinary excellence, under the masterful guidance of Chef Josiah Citrin. Celebrated as a Michelin 2023 awardee, Citrin offers a modern Californian twist to American cuisine, delivering dishes that are both innovative and deeply satisfying. Diners rave about the "phenomenal egg caviar" and proclaim it a place where "every dish was perfect." The restaurant's commitment to quality and service shines, with reviewers noting the "superb" service and memorable experiences like the "best chicken I’ve ever eaten." Citrin is not just a meal; it's a culinary journey that continues to evolve and impress, making every visit uniquely delightful.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

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Best Southwest American Restaurants in Mid-City

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200 restaurants available nearby

1. Gjelina

2. Tar & Roses

3. Javier's - Century City

4. Water Grill - Santa Monica

5. The Courtyard Kitchen

6. The Penthouse Restaurant

7. Ivy at the Shore

8. AOC - Brentwood

9. 1212 Santa Monica

10. Citrin

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