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Rusty's Surf Ranch
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Rusty's Surf Ranch
7.5
This beachside bar and grill delivers hearty BBQ baby back ribs alongside live music and ocean breezes. Since 1996, they've mastered the art of smoky ribs paired with craft cocktails, creating a laid-back surf shack vibe that captures Santa Monica's beach culture.
Must-Try Dishes:
BBQ Baby Back Ribs, Surf & Turf Combo, Coconut Shrimp
Scores:
Value: 7.2
Service: 7.3
Consistency: 7.5
Food Quality: 7.4
Atmosphere: 8.1
Cultural Relevance: 7.5
What makes it special: Live weekend karaoke meets BBQ on the pier
Who should go: Beach crowd seeking ribs and drinks
When to visit: Friday nights for live music
What to order: Full rack ribs, loaded fries, mai tai
Insider tip: Happy hour 11am-5pm weekdays for deals
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Pier lot $8-15 depending on season, fills by noon on weekends. Street parking on Ocean Ave 10-min walk
Dress code: Beach casual welcomed - flip flops to sundresses all work. Come as you are from the beach
Noise level: Loud during live music and games - expect to raise your voice. Quieter on the patio before 7pm
Weekend wait: 60-90 min for pier-side tables, 30 min for bar area. No reservations taken
Weekday lunch: Walk right in before 5pm, even during summer
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - veggie burger, salads, grilled portobello sandwich
Vegan options: Very limited - house salad and fries only, ask for no butter on corn
Gluten-free options: Ribs are GF but no dedicated prep. Can modify salads and sides
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for 3rd+ dates - it's loud, messy eating, and super casual. Great if you both love beach vibes and don't mind getting sauce on your fingers
Can I get a table without a reservation? They don't take reservations - it's all first-come. Grab a drink at the bar while waiting, or come before 5pm weekdays to skip the wait
Is it kid-friendly? Yes until 9pm - kids menu, high chairs, and pier activities nearby. Gets rowdier late night with the bar crowd
Best For
Better for: Ocean views with your ribs, day-drinking on the pier, and combining beach day with dinner. No other BBQ spot has this location
Skip if: You want authentic Texas/Carolina BBQ or intimate dining. Hit up Bludso's or Wood Ranch for more serious BBQ without the party atmosphere
Rusty's Surf Ranch
7.8
Beach shack vibes meet nacho fries innovation at this pier staple since the 1970s. Their loaded fries come topped with house-made sauces and creative toppings that transform the humble spud.
Must-Try Dishes:
Loaded Nacho Fries, Beach Shack Fries, Coconut Shrimp Basket
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 7.2
Consistency: 7.5
Food Quality: 7.9
Atmosphere: 8.4
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Creative loaded fry options with ocean views
Who should go: Groups seeking pier entertainment
When to visit: Weekend evenings for live music
What to order: Nacho fries, beach burger, craft beer
Insider tip: Happy hour fries are half price weekdays
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Pier lot $8-15 depending on season, fills up by noon on weekends. Street parking on Ocean Ave 10-min walk
Dress code: Beach casual - flip flops, shorts, tank tops all welcome
Noise level: Loud during games and live music - tough conversation after 8pm weekends
Weekend wait: 30-45 min for tables, bar seating usually available
Weekday lunch: No wait, grab any open picnic table
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - regular fries, sweet potato fries, veggie loaded options
Vegan options: Limited - plain fries and house salad, ask about dairy-free toppings
Gluten-free options: Fries are gluten-free but shared fryer with breaded items
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for casual third dates - it's loud, messy eating, and very laid-back. Great if you both love sports or want low-pressure pier fun
Can I get a table without a reservation? They don't take reservations. Show up before 6pm weekdays or grab bar seats. Weekends expect 30+ minute waits after 6pm
Is it kid-friendly? Very - kids menu, high chairs, outdoor seating where they can be loud, plus pier attractions nearby. Gets rowdy during evening games though
Best For
Better for: Best loaded fries variety on the pier, unbeatable ocean breeze seating, and consistent happy hour deals that beat other pier spots
Skip if: Want a quiet meal, need extensive healthy options, or looking for upscale beachfront dining - try The Albright instead