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Water Grill

1401 Ocean Avenue, Santa Monica, CA 90401
$$
Steakhouse

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Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)

Water Grill 7.8
Downtown Santa Monica ✓ Verified
While primarily a seafood destination, this iconic restaurant serves exceptional prime steaks with Pacific Ocean views. The luxurious copper bar, live saltwater tanks, and robust daily-changing menu offer surf-and-turf options perfect for special date nights.
Must-Try Dishes: Bone-In Ribeye, Lobster Tail Combo, Oyster Selection
Scores:
Value: 7.2 Service: 8.1 Consistency: 8 Food Quality: 8.4 Atmosphere: 7.9 Cultural Relevance: 7.3
What makes it special: Best surf-and-turf combination with ocean views.
Who should go: Couples who love seafood and steak
When to visit: Sunset for spectacular ocean views
What to order: Ribeye with lobster tail, raw bar selection
Insider tip: Happy hour at the bar has excellent deals
Water Grill 8.5
Ocean Avenue
This iconic King's Seafood Company flagship delivers the first catch of the season with a daily-changing menu featuring pristine oysters, whole fish, and sustainable seafood. The sophisticated dining room overlooking the Pacific combines upscale service with an extensive raw bar program.
Must-Try Dishes: East & West Coast Oyster Selection, Whole Branzino, New England Clam Chowder
Scores:
Value: 7.4 Service: 8.6 Consistency: 8.8 Food Quality: 9 Atmosphere: 8.3 Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: Daily-changing menu based on seasonal catches and market availability
Who should go: Business diners and special occasion celebrants
When to visit: Weekday lunch for power meetings, weekend dinner
What to order: Raw bar tower, seasonal whole fish, cioppino
Insider tip: Ask server about off-menu daily catches from local boats
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet parking $15, self-park in adjacent structure $8-12, street parking scarce especially evenings
Dress code: Business casual to dressy - no shorts or flip-flops, collared shirts preferred for men
Noise level: Moderate to lively - conversation-friendly but energetic during peak hours
Weekend wait: 60-90 min without reservation, bar seating sometimes available in 20-30 min
Weekday lunch: 15-20 min typical, immediate seating before noon
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - 4-5 options including seasonal risotto and pasta dishes
Vegan options: Very limited - 1-2 modified dishes, call ahead recommended
Gluten-free options: Yes - most grilled fish can be prepared GF, dedicated fryer available
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Excellent choice - sophisticated but not stuffy, ocean views create romance, noise level allows conversation, and sharing raw bar items breaks the ice
Can I get a table without a reservation? Weekday lunch usually yes, dinner unlikely - try the bar for full menu or arrive at 5pm opening. Weekend reservations essential, book 2+ weeks ahead
Is it kid-friendly? Better for teens than young children - no kids menu but will do simple grilled fish. High chairs available but atmosphere leans adult, especially dinner service
Best For
Better for: Superior raw bar selection vs competitors, fresher daily catches than chain seafood spots, better business lunch scene than casual beach restaurants
Skip if: You want casual beach dining vibes, need budget-friendly options, or prefer cooked-only seafood over raw preparations