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ZipPicks Awards
Best Tacos in Santa Monica
Best Breakfast in Santa Monica
Best Romantic Restaurants in Santa Monica
Best Fine Dining Restaurants in Santa Monica
Master Critic Review
Back on the Beach Cafe
8.4
This longtime beachfront cafe attached to the Annenberg Beach House serves a trio of seafood tacos—fish, shrimp, and salmon—steps from the sand. The tacos pair crisp slaw and pico with ocean views that make a casual plate feel like a mini vacation.
Must-Try Dishes:
Fish Tacos, Shrimp Tacos, Salmon Tacos
Scores:
Value: 7
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 9
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 9.3
Cultural Relevance: 9.2
What makes it special: A Santa Monica landmark where you can eat seafood tacos at tables set directly in the sand.
Who should go: Families and groups wanting tacos with ocean views.
When to visit: Sunny late lunch on weekdays to dodge peak weekend crowds.
What to order: Fish tacos, shrimp tacos, salmon tacos with rice and beans.
Insider tip: Request a table right on the sand and pair your tacos with a margarita-style drink for sunset.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Paid parking is available at the Annenberg Beach House lot (typically $12–$15 depending on season). Street parking along PCH is limited and fills quickly on sunny days.
Dress code: Beach-casual. Swimsuits with cover-ups, shorts, and sandals are all perfectly normal.
Noise level: Low to moderate—mostly breezy outdoor ambience with families and beachgoers. Easy to hold a conversation.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes, especially around sunset when oceanfront tables are in demand.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait unless it's peak summer or a particularly hot beach day.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: A few options, including salads and customizable tacos without seafood.
Vegan options: Limited—some sides and salads can be modified, but expect only 1–2 viable dishes.
Gluten-free options: Corn tortillas are available and many tacos can be made gluten-friendly, though cross-contamination is possible due to the casual beachside kitchen.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, if you want something relaxed and scenic. The oceanfront setting creates an effortless vibe, though it’s more laid-back beach casual than romantic fine dining.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—most tables are walk-in. Arrive early for sand-side seating, especially on weekends or around sunset.
Is it kid-friendly? Very. The café sits right on the sand with plenty of space for kids to play, and the menu has approachable options for younger eaters.
Best For
Better for: Oceanfront taco eating with toes practically in the sand—few spots in LA offer this combination of beachside seating, casual service, and seafood tacos.
Consider Alternatives If: You want chef-driven, avant-garde tacos or a quiet indoor dining room. The vibe here is breezy, casual, and beach-forward.
Hours
Monday9am - 3pm
Tuesday9am - 3pm
Wednesday9am - 3pm
Thursday9am - 3pm
Friday9am - 3pm
Saturday8am - 4pm
Sunday8am - 4pm