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BOA Steakhouse
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
BOA Steakhouse
8.8
This seductively stylish steakhouse reinvents the traditional American steakhouse experience with 40-day dry-aged New York strips and A5 Japanese Wagyu. The ocean-view patio and vibrant bar scene create an alluring ambiance that matches the exceptional cuisine.
Must-Try Dishes:
40-Day Dry-Aged NY Strip, A5 Japanese Wagyu Flight, Tableside Caesar Salad
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 8.6
Consistency: 8.9
Food Quality: 9.1
Atmosphere: 9.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: The only steakhouse offering ocean views with 40-day dry-aged steaks.
Who should go: Couples seeking upscale romantic dining
When to visit: Friday evenings for sunset views and energy
What to order: Dry-aged ribeye, lobster, wagyu flight
Insider tip: Request patio seating for prime ocean views
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet $15, limited street parking fills by 6pm on weekends
Dress code: Smart casual to business - dark jeans acceptable but lean upscale
Noise level: Lively but manageable - patio quieter than main dining room
Weekend wait: 60-90 min without reservation, bar seating sometimes available
Weekday lunch: 15-20 min max, often immediate seating
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - 4-5 creative options beyond salads
Vegan options: Limited - 2 dishes can be modified, call ahead recommended
Gluten-free options: Yes - marked menu items, knowledgeable staff
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Perfect for first dates if you want to impress - the ocean view patio creates natural conversation starters and the lighting is flattering without being too dark
Can I get a table without a reservation? Bar and lounge are first-come during happy hour (4-6:30pm), but weekend dinner walk-ins face 60+ minute waits - book at least 3 days ahead
Is it kid-friendly? Better for teens and up - no kids menu but they'll modify portions, the sophisticated atmosphere isn't ideal for young children
Best For
Better for: Superior dry-aging program and ocean views compared to other Santa Monica steakhouses, plus better happy hour deals than Mastro's
Skip if: Choose Water Grill for pure seafood focus, or Rustic Canyon for farm-to-table casual vibes at lower prices
BOA Steakhouse
8.6
This modern steakhouse reinvents the traditional American chophouse with 40-day dry-aged prime beef and tableside Caesar salads. Known for their signature J-1 sauce and bone-in ribeye, BOA combines seductive style with ocean views from the patio.
Must-Try Dishes:
40-Day Dry-Aged New York Strip, Tableside Caesar Salad, Bone-In Ribeye with J-1 Sauce
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 9.1
Cultural Relevance: 8.7
What makes it special: Modern steakhouse with 40-day dry-aged beef program
Who should go: Power diners and anniversary celebrants
When to visit: Happy hour 5:30-6:30pm weekdays for deals
What to order: Dry-aged NY strip, Caesar salad, wagyu flight
Insider tip: Request patio seating for ocean views
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet $15, self-park in adjacent structure $8 with validation, street parking nearly impossible after 5pm
Dress code: Smart casual to business - dark jeans acceptable but lean dressy, no athletic wear or flip-flops
Noise level: Lively but controlled - can have intimate conversation without shouting
Weekend wait: 60-90 min without reservation, bar seating sometimes available in 20-30 min
Weekday lunch: Usually immediate seating, 10-15 min during peak business lunch hours
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - Beyond expectations for a steakhouse with 6-8 dedicated options including truffle mac, roasted cauliflower steak
Vegan options: Limited - 3-4 modified options, advance notice helps chef prepare special dishes
Gluten-free options: Yes - All steaks naturally GF, dedicated prep protocols, GF bread available on request
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Perfect for impressive first dates - dim lighting, booth seating for intimacy, and sophisticated atmosphere without being stuffy. Patio tables are especially romantic at sunset.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Walk-ins nearly impossible Fri-Sat after 6pm. Best bet is bar seating or calling day-of for cancellations. Weeknights before 6:30pm usually manageable.
Is it kid-friendly? Better for teens and up - no kids menu but will do simple grilled chicken/steak. Atmosphere skews adult, especially after 7pm. Sunday early dinner works best for families.
Best For
Better for: Superior dry-aging program and ocean views compared to Mastro's, more modern vibe than traditional Ruth's Chris, better happy hour deals than most high-end steakhouses
Skip if: You want a casual meal under $50/person, prefer intimate quiet dining, or need extensive vegan options - try Gratitude or True Food Kitchen instead