INTRODUCTION
Whether you’re strolling down the Promenade, exploring beachside views, or searching “best restaurants near me in Santa Monica, CA,” this guide helps you find the top-rated, highly reviewed places near your location — complete with ratings, addresses, popular dishes, and why locals love them. Corner
Top 10 Restaurants near me in Santa Monica, CA
1. Tar & Roses near me in Santa Monica, CA
- Category: Californian
- Price Range: $$–$$$
- Address: 602 Santa Monica Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90401
- Phone: (310) 656-6800
- Google Rating: ⭐ 4.7/5 (Top Local Pick)
Popular Dishes: Wood-roasted chicken, seasonal tartines, burrata
Why Choose: Known for creative SoCal cuisine, farm-to-table freshness, and cozy ambiance — a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Service: Dine-in, Takeout, Delivery (DoorDash/Uber Eats)
Parking: Street / Nearby Garages
2. 1212 Santa Monica near me in Santa Monica, CA
- Category: New American
- Price Range: $$
- Address: 1212 3rd Street Promenade, Santa Monica, CA 90401
- Phone: (310) 393-9722
- Google Rating: ⭐ 4.5/5
Popular Dishes: Seasonal small plates, pastas, local fish
Why Choose: Casual yet refined local favorite on the Promenade — ideal for lunch or dinner by the shops.
Service: Dine-in, Takeout, Delivery
Parking: Promenade Structures / Street
3. UOVO Santa Monica near me in Santa Monica, CA
- Category: Italian
- Price Range: $$
- Address: 1320 2nd St Ste A, Santa Monica, CA 90401
- Phone: (310) 458-9667
- Google Rating: ⭐ 4.6/5
Popular Dishes: Burrata, pappardelle, wood-oven pizza
Why Choose: Highly rated Italian spot with fresh pasta and coastal chic vibe.
Service: Dine-in, Takeout, Delivery
Parking: Street / Nearby Lots
4. The Misfit Bar & Restaurant near me in Santa Monica, CA
- Category: American
- Price Range: $$
- Address: 225 Santa Monica Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90401
- Phone: (310) 451-3000
- Google Rating: ⭐ 4.5/5
Popular Dishes: Burgers, lobster roll, craft cocktails
Why Choose: Classic beachside American brasserie with great energy, happy hour, and outdoor seating.
Service: Dine-in, Takeout, Delivery
Parking: Street / Paid Lots
5. BOA Steakhouse near me in Santa Monica, CA
- Category: Steakhouse
- Price Range: $$$$
- Address: 101 Santa Monica Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90401
- Phone: (310) 395-1299
- Google Rating: ⭐ 4.6/5
Popular Dishes: Prime steaks, seafood platter, truffle mac & cheese
Why Choose: Upscale steakhouse with premium cuts and polished service — perfect for special occasions.
Service: Dine-in
Parking: Valet / Paid
6. Water Grill near me in Santa Monica, CA
- Category: Seafood
- Price Range: $$$
- Address: 1401 Ocean Ave, Santa Monica, CA 90401
- Phone: (310) 395-5808
- Google Rating: ⭐ 4.4/5
Popular Dishes: Oysters, Chilean sea bass, clam chowder
Why Choose: Classic seafood gem with fresh catches and beach views — a must for seafood lovers.
Service: Dine-in, Takeout
Parking: Nearby Garages
7. The Lobster near me in Santa Monica, CA
- Category: Seafood
- Price Range: $$$$
- Address: 1602 Ocean Ave, Santa Monica, CA 90401
- Phone: (310) 395-5808
- Google Rating: ⭐ 4.3/5
Popular Dishes: Lobster tail, crab cakes, mesclun salad
Why Choose: Iconic oceanfront dining with panoramic views — iconic Santa Monica experience.
Service: Dine-in
Parking: Valet / Nearby Lots
8. Sol Agave near me in Santa Monica, CA
- Category: Mexican
- Price Range: $$
- Address: 1733 Ocean Ave, Santa Monica, CA 90401
- Phone: (310) 862-3835
- Google Rating: ⭐ 4.6/5
Popular Dishes: Carne asada, tacos, guacamole
Why Choose: Vibrant Mexican with ocean breezes and outdoor seating — top local pick for brunch and dinner.
Service: Dine-in, Takeout, Delivery
Parking: Street / Paid
9. Forma Restaurant & Cheese Bar Santa Monica near me in Santa Monica, CA
- Category: Italian / Cheese Bar
- Price Range: $$
- Address: 1610 Montana Ave, Santa Monica, CA 90403
- Phone: (310) 393-1651
- Google Rating: ⭐ 4.5/5
Popular Dishes: Cheese board, pastas, pizza
Why Choose: Montana Avenue favorite with artisanal cheeses and vibrant atmosphere.
Service: Dine-in, Takeout
Parking: Street
10. The Curious Palate near me in Santa Monica, CA
- Category: New American
- Price Range: $
- Address: 395 Santa Monica Pl 3rd Floor, Santa Monica, CA 90401
- Phone: (310) 822-3600
- Google Rating: ⭐ 4.7/5
Popular Dishes: Gourmet sandwiches, seasonal salads
Why Choose: Hidden gem with creative menus and excellent value.
Service: Dine-in, Takeout
Parking: Promenade Garages
📊 Compare the Top Restaurants Near You
| Restaurant | Category | Price | Rating | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tar & Roses | Californian | $$–$$$ | ⭐ 4.7 | Creative Dining |
| 1212 Santa Monica | New American | $$ | ⭐ 4.5 | Casual Dinner |
| UOVO Santa Monica | Italian | $$ | ⭐ 4.6 | Pasta & Pizza |
| Misfit Bar | American | $$ | ⭐ 4.5 | Brunch & Cocktails |
| BOA Steakhouse | Steakhouse | $$$$ | ⭐ 4.6 | Special Occasions |
| Water Grill | Seafood | $$$ | ⭐ 4.4 | Fresh Seafood |
| The Lobster | Seafood | $$$$ | ⭐ 4.3 | Ocean Views |
| Sol Agave | Mexican | $$ | ⭐ 4.6 | Outdoor Dining |
| Forma | Italian | $$ | ⭐ 4.5 | Cheese & Wine |
| Curious Palate | New American | $ | ⭐ 4.7 | Quick Bites |
FAQs — Best Restaurants Near Me in Santa Monica, CA
1. What are the best restaurants near me in Santa Monica, CA?
The top spots include Tar & Roses, 1212 Santa Monica, UOVO, Water Grill, BOA Steakhouse, and Sol Agave — all highly rated on Google and Yelp. Corner
2. Where can I find casual dinner near my location in Santa Monica?
Try 1212 Santa Monica or The Misfit Bar & Restaurant for casual but top-rated meals. Restaurant Guru
3. What’s the best seafood restaurant near me?
Water Grill and The Lobster are local favorites for fresh seafood and ocean views. Restaurant Guru
4. Which restaurants in Santa Monica are great for a date night?
BOA Steakhouse, Tar & Roses, and Sol Agave offer romantic settings and excellent cuisine. Corner
5. Are there good restaurants with outdoor seating near me?
Yes! Sol Agave and many Promenade eateries offer outdoor dining. Tripadvisor
6. Where can I get Italian food near me?
UOVO Santa Monica and Forma Restaurant & Cheese Bar serve standout Italian dishes. Restaurant Guru
7. What’s the rating for top restaurants near Santa Monica Pier?
Water Grill and The Lobster both consistently earn excellent reviews near the Pier. Tripadvisor
8. Which spot is best for brunch near my location?
Sol Agave and 1212 Santa Monica are popular brunch choices. Tripadvisor
9. Are these restaurants good for takeout near me?
Many — including UOVO, The Misfit, and Curious Palate — offer takeout and app delivery. Restaurant Guru
10. Can I find award-winning fine dining near me in Santa Monica?
Absolutely — BOA Steakhouse and Tar & Roses give elevated dining experiences. Corner
11. Are there kid-friendly restaurants near me?
Yes — family-friendly casual spots like 1212 Santa Monica are great for kids. Tripadvisor
12. What’s a local hidden gem near me in Santa Monica?
The Curious Palate is beloved for its creative menu and excellent value.
