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Best Neighborhood Gem Restaurants in Santa Monica

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127 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Meat On Ocean restaurant
1. Meat On Ocean
4.7
Exceptional(3466)
Price: Expensive
• Steakhouse • Santa Monica
Booked 36 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 Tar & Roses restaurant
2. Tar & Roses
4.8
Exceptional(4262)
Price: Expensive
• American • Santa Monica
Booked 40 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 Benihana - Santa Monica, CA restaurant
3. Benihana - Santa Monica, CA
3.8
Excellent(4127)
Price: Moderate
• Japanese • Santa Monica
Booked 51 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 Massilia restaurant
4. Massilia
4.5
Awesome(837)
Price: Expensive
• French • Santa Monica
Booked 14 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 North Italia - Santa Monica restaurant
5. North Italia - Santa Monica
4.3
Awesome(1512)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Santa Monica
Booked 18 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 Orto Santa Monica restaurant
6. Orto Santa Monica
4.3
Awesome(1108)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Santa Monica
Booked 8 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 Xuntos restaurant
7. Xuntos
4.7
Exceptional(163)
Price: Expensive
• Tapas / Small Plates • Santa Monica
Booked 15 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 Gjelina restaurant
8. Gjelina
4.7
Exceptional(2381)
Price: Expensive
• American • Venice
Booked 197 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 Ivy at the Shore restaurant
9. Ivy at the Shore
4.8
Exceptional(3565)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Santa Monica
Booked 31 times today
Escape to Paradise at Ivy at the Shore Nestled near the iconic Santa Monica Pier, Ivy at the Shore offers a quintessential LA dining experience with stunning ocean views and a vibrant atmosphere. Indulge in fresh seafood like signature crab cakes, swordfish tacos, and Icelandic salmon. Explore Californian cuisine with classic dishes such as the Ivy Caesar salad, juicy burgers, and flavorful pasta. Immerse yourself in a tropical paradise with lush greenery, vibrant decor, and a spacious outdoor patio overlooking the ocean. Enjoy the renowned hospitality of The Ivy, with attentive staff ensuring a memorable dining experience. Perfect for special occasions, celebrate a romantic date night with breathtaking sunset views or enjoy family gatherings in a lively atmosphere. Impress clients with sophisticated business lunches. Make your reservation today and escape to paradise at Ivy at the Shore.
A photo of Lunetta restaurant
10. Lunetta
4.7
Exceptional(2205)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Santa Monica
Booked 43 times today
Chef Raphael Lunetta and Emilio Cuyuch chef driven neighborhood diner with rustic California dining room and bar. Lunetta serves great food paired with locally roasted coffee options, classic cocktails, large selection of craft beer and delicious wines that we enjoy drinking with our family & friends.We buy the freshest ingredients we can find. We cook seasonally because that’s what is fresh and best. We support local farmers and businesses whenever we can, because the best flavor naturally follows. Menus for Lunetta are locally sourced and responsibly grown, using seasonal ingredients based on the abundant product available on the California Coast. Our full bar features classic as well as craft cocktails using the finest in artisan spirits, mixers and seasonal fruits and vegetables. Our comprehensive wine list highlights small California producers and artisan winemakers from around the world.

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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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