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Patio del Mar
Master Critic Review
Patio del Mar
7.8
Hotel Casa del Mar's seasonal alfresco bistro sits beachside on the Strand offering fresh seafood, raw bar selections, and coastal fare with unobstructed Pacific Ocean views. Operating seasonally through warmer months, it provides front-row seating to Santa Monica's legendary sunsets and pier views.
Must-Try Dishes:
East and West Coast Oysters, Waygu Hamburger, Shrimp Ceviche
Scores:
Value: 7.2
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 7.5
Food Quality: 7.9
Atmosphere: 8.8
Cultural Relevance: 7.6
What makes it special: Exclusive seasonal oceanfront patio at historic beachfront hotel with unmatched sunset views
Who should go: Special occasion diners, hotel guests, sunset seekers
When to visit: Sunset cocktails and dinner Thursday through Monday
What to order: Raw bar selection, waygu burger, fresh catch
Insider tip: Seasonal operation means it closes in cooler months
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Hotel valet $18-22, metered street parking on Ocean Ave (free after 6pm weekdays, paid weekends), public lots within 2 blocks
Dress code: Resort elegant - sundresses, linen button-downs, no beachwear or athletic wear despite beach location
Noise level: Moderate to lively - ocean breeze helps, but bustling patio energy means intimate conversations require leaning in
Weekend wait: 75-90 min without reservation during sunset hours (6-8pm), book 2+ weeks ahead for prime tables
Weekday lunch: Walk-ins usually accommodated within 15-20 minutes, though limited seasonal lunch service
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - 4-5 options including seasonal vegetable plates, artisanal salads, and pasta preparations
Vegan options: Limited - 2 options typically available, chef can modify certain dishes with advance notice
Gluten-free options: Yes - dedicated gluten-free bread, several seafood and salad options naturally GF, kitchen aware of cross-contamination
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Excellent for confident first dates - the stunning setting creates natural conversation starters and the outdoor space feels less pressure-filled than intimate indoor dining. However, the scene-y vibe and premium pricing ($150-200 per couple) make it better suited for second or third dates when you're ready to impress.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible but risky during peak season (May-October). Arrive right at 5pm opening for best walk-in odds, or try post-8:30pm when sunset seekers clear out. Weekday evenings (Monday-Wednesday) offer better spontaneous availability. Bar seating is first-come and doesn't take reservations.
Is it kid-friendly? Appropriate for well-behaved children 8+ during early dinner service (5-6:30pm), but the romantic sunset atmosphere and higher price point make it better suited for adult occasions. No children's menu. Families with younger kids better served at nearby Santa Monica Pier restaurants.
How long does dinner typically take? Plan for 90-120 minutes - the pace is leisurely to maximize your sunset window, and service intentionally times courses around golden hour. This isn't a quick bite spot.
What if the weather turns bad? Patio has overhead coverage and heat lamps for cooler evenings, but heavy wind or rain means closure with minimal notice. Call ahead on questionable weather days. Hotel's indoor Terrazza restaurant serves as backup option.
Best For
Better for: Unbeatable for pure oceanfront sunset dining experience in Santa Monica - no restaurant matches these direct beach views. Superior to The Lobster or Blue Plate for Instagram-worthy setting and luxury hotel polish. Best choice when the ambiance matters as much as the food.
Skip if: You prioritize innovative cuisine over setting (head to Rustic Canyon), need year-round reliability (closed November-March typically), want more casual beach vibes without hotel formality (try The Albright), or you're on a budget under $100 per person. Also skip if you're noise-sensitive - the oceanfront patio gets lively and wind can affect conversation.