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Connie & Ted's
Master Critic Reviews (7 Lists)
Connie & Ted's
8.5
Connie & Ted's is a New England–style seafood house from the Providence team, built around pristine raw-bar towers, chowders, and wood-grilled fish. Locals treat it as the neighborhood’s go-to for lobster rolls, clam shacks flavors, and a lively patio that still works for serious seafood cravings.
Must-Try Dishes:
New England Clam Chowder, Lobster Roll, Raw Bar Oyster Selection
Scores:
Value: 7.6
Service: 8.6
Consistency: 9
Food Quality: 9.2
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.7
What makes it special: Serious New England seafood from a fine-dining chef in casual digs.
Who should go: Seafood lovers craving chowder, lobster rolls, and raw bar.
When to visit: Evenings and weekends for full buzz and raw-bar energy.
What to order: Clam chowder, lobster roll, rotating raw-oyster selection.
Insider tip: Sit near the open kitchen or patio to balance noise and energy.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking along Santa Monica Boulevard and side streets; can be competitive after 6pm. No valet.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual; jeans and a nice top fit the room, but many guests dress slightly elevated for evening patio seating.
Noise level: Moderate to lively, especially on weekends; conversations are doable but expect steady buzz from the raw bar and patio.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation, longer during peak patio weather.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait, though patio may fill on warm days.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited—mainly salads, sides, and occasional veggie specials.
Vegan options: Very limited—most dishes contain seafood, dairy, or butter-based preparations.
Gluten-free options: Several items can be prepared gluten-free, including chowders and select grilled fish; staff is knowledgeable about modifications.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—it's lively without being overwhelming, with a bright patio and consistent service. The raw bar and shared plates offer natural conversation pacing.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often, yes—walk-ins are common, especially at off-peak hours. Aim for early evening or late dinner slots for faster seating.
Is it kid-friendly? Moderately—families visit regularly, and the patio is accommodating. Best for ages 6+ who enjoy seafood, as the menu skews adult.
Best For
Better for: One of the strongest raw-bar programs in the area, plus standout chowders and a top-tier lobster roll in a relaxed but polished setting.
Skip if: You want ultra-quiet dining, extensive vegan options, or a fine-dining seafood tasting experience.
Connie & Ted's
8.2
Vibes:
Comfort Food Classics
Group Dining Gatherings
Birthday & Celebration Central
Trendy Table Hotspots
Connie & Ted’s brings a New England-style clam shack to West Hollywood with an open kitchen, raw bar, and seafood platters that feel more polished than picnic. It’s where locals go for lobster rolls, grilled fish, and chowder in a lively room that still delivers chef-driven finesse.
Must-Try Dishes:
Connecticut-Style Lobster Roll, Fried Clams with Bellies, Grilled Catch of the Day
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 6.3
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: A chef-driven New England seafood house with a lively West Hollywood crowd.
Who should go: Seafood lovers craving lobster rolls, oysters, and chowder.
When to visit: Weekend evenings or sunny brunch for peak raw-bar energy.
What to order: Lobster Roll, Fried Clams, Grilled Catch with sides.
Insider tip: Sit near the raw bar to watch shucking and grill action up close.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet is typically available in the area; metered street parking can be tight during peak dinner hours but easier earlier in the evening or on weekdays.
Dress code: Smart casual; polished but relaxed. Jeans are fine if paired with a nicer top or jacket.
Noise level: Moderate to lively — you can hold a conversation, but the raw bar and open kitchen keep the room buzzing.
Weekend wait: Expect a 30–60 minute wait without a reservation, especially during prime hours.
Weekday lunch: Usually minimal wait; walk-ins are commonly seated quickly.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited but thoughtful options, mostly sides and a few composed dishes.
Vegan options: Very limited; seafood focus means only a handful of plant-based sides qualify.
Gluten-free options: Good range — many grilled fish and raw bar items are naturally gluten-free, and the staff is accustomed to modifying dishes when possible.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you want something lively and unfussy — the seafood platters and raw bar make for fun shared ordering, though the room is a bit loud for deeper conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often yes for off-peak times; during weekend dinner, expect to wait unless you arrive early or are open to bar seating.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for ages 6+ who enjoy seafood; the menu has approachable options and the atmosphere is casual enough for families, though it’s not tailored for toddlers.
Best For
Better for: Top-tier classic New England seafood in a chef-driven setting — especially raw bar items, lobster rolls, and chowders you won’t find at most West Hollywood restaurants.
Skip if: You want a quiet, romantic dinner or need extensive vegan options; the energy here leans lively and seafood-heavy.
Connie & Ted's
8.2
Vibes:
Outdoor Dining Oasis
Group Dining Gatherings
Family Friendly Favorites
Birthday & Celebration Central
Connie & Ted’s is Michael Cimarusti’s casual New England–style seafood house, built around chowder, lobster rolls, and an oyster bar that opens onto a large street-facing patio. The outdoor terrace feels like a modern clam shack in West Hollywood, ideal for daytime seafood feasts or relaxed celebrations.
Must-Try Dishes:
New England Clam Chowder, Lobster Roll, Fish & Chips
Scores:
Value: 6.4
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 8.1
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: A modern clam shack with a big patio where lobster rolls and chowder feel built for outdoor eating.
Who should go: Seafood fans who want patio dining over white-tablecloth formality.
When to visit: Sunny weekend lunches or early evenings on the terrace.
What to order: Cup of chowder, Lobster Roll, and classic Fish & Chips.
Insider tip: Request a patio table facing Santa Monica Blvd if you like people-watching with your oysters.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking along Santa Monica Blvd and the side streets; it’s workable but fills quickly during peak hours. No valet, so plan a few extra minutes to circle.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual. Patio diners often wear jeans, tees, and light layers; no need to dress up unless you want to.
Noise level: Moderate on the patio, especially during peak lunch and dinner hours. You can still hold a conversation, but expect steady ambient noise from the street and nearby tables.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation, especially if you want the patio.
Weekday lunch: Typically little to no wait; patio tables open up more quickly.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited but present—think salads, sides, and a few non-seafood starters.
Vegan options: Very limited. Most dishes rely on butter, seafood stock, or traditional New England prep.
Gluten-free options: Decent accommodation for grilled fish, oysters, and chowders (ask for specific versions). Some items can be modified; inform your server for guidance.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you’re aiming for a relaxed, fun seafood meal rather than something formal. The lively patio keeps things casual and low-pressure.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often yes, especially for weekday lunches. For weekend dinners, expect a wait—put your name in early if you want an outdoor table.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes. The patio is spacious, noise-tolerant, and works well for families. Older kids especially enjoy the raw bar and fried seafood options.
Best For
Better for: Casual outdoor seafood, hearty New England classics, and a lively patio that works for groups and daytime celebrations.
Skip if: You want fine dining, a quiet date-night environment, or a menu with strong vegan or vegetarian coverage.
Connie & Ted's
8.1
Connie & Ted’s is a New England-inspired seafood house from chef Michael Cimarusti and Sam Baxter, serving chowder flights, lobster rolls, and a deep raw bar on a busy stretch of Santa Monica Boulevard. Since opening in 2013, it has evolved from celebrity magnet to neighborhood standby while earning a spot in the MICHELIN Guide.
Must-Try Dishes:
Jo’s Wicked Good Chowda sampler, Warm or cold lobster roll, Raw oysters from the raw bar
Scores:
Value: 7.4
Service: 7.6
Consistency: 8.8
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.7
What makes it special: New England-style seafood spot built around chowder and lobster rolls.
Who should go: Seafood fans wanting lively, casual West Hollywood dinners.
When to visit: Early evenings or sunny weekends for patio and bar.
What to order: Clam chowder trio, lobster roll, raw oysters.
Insider tip: Start with the chowder sampler to compare all three styles before committing to a full bowl.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking along Santa Monica Blvd and side streets; valet often available during peak hours but fills quickly.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual; diners range from jeans and tees to slightly dressier evening outfits.
Noise level: Moderate to loud during peak dinner; patio is slightly quieter and better for conversation.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation, especially for patio or large groups.
Weekday lunch: Usually minimal wait; walk-ins are common and often seated immediately.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited but workable—salads, sides, and a few non-seafood dishes available.
Vegan options: Very limited—most dishes contain seafood or dairy; best to call ahead for guidance.
Gluten-free options: Good options—raw bar, some grilled items, and select entrees can be prepared gluten-free.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, especially for casual or activity-style first dates. The patio and raw bar have energy without being overly formal, and the seafood focus makes ordering fun and interactive.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often yes, especially at lunch or early dinner. For weekend evenings, expect a wait unless you're flexible with bar seating or the patio.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes. The lively atmosphere, outdoor seating, and approachable menu (fried fish, rolls, fries) make it suitable for families with kids ages 5 and up.
Best For
Better for: One of the best spots in West Hollywood for classic New England seafood, a deep raw bar, and a lively but polished atmosphere that works for both locals and visitors.
Skip if: You want a quiet, intimate dinner; you prefer heavily modern or experimental seafood; or you're seeking extensive vegan or vegetarian options.
Connie & Ted's
8.7
Vibes:
Birthday & Celebration Central
Group Dining Gatherings
Family Friendly Favorites
Outdoor Dining Oasis
Connie & Ted’s is chef Michael Cimarusti’s New England–style seafood house, opened in 2013 and now featured in the MICHELIN Guide, where raw-bar towers, chowder flights, and lobster rolls anchor birthdays and group celebrations. The roomy patio and lively dining room make it a reliable choice when you need something festive but not overly formal.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chowder Sampler Flight, Lobster Roll, Chilled Seafood Platter
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 8.6
Consistency: 8.8
Food Quality: 9
Atmosphere: 7.4
Cultural Relevance: 8.6
What makes it special: High-quality, New England–inspired seafood from a celebrated LA chef.
Who should go: Seafood fans planning birthdays, groups, or out-of-town visits.
When to visit: Weekend evenings or sunny afternoons on the patio.
What to order: Chowder flight, Lobster Roll, oak-grilled fish of the day.
Insider tip: Reserve on the earlier side for patio seating and easier parking.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Santa Monica Blvd and the side streets is available but competitive after 6pm; metered spots turn over faster. No valet on-site.
Dress code: Smart casual; jeans and button-downs or nice tops fit the room. Patio diners skew more relaxed.
Noise level: Moderate to lively during peak hours; you can hold a conversation, but the dining room buzzes on weekends.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation, especially for patio seating.
Weekday lunch: Minimal wait; walk-ins are typically seated immediately.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: A few options like salads, sides, and a veggie-focused entrée; seafood dominates the menu.
Vegan options: Very limited—guests may need to customize sides, as most dishes rely on butter or seafood.
Gluten-free options: Solid selection including raw-bar items, grilled fish, and clearly marked GF options; staff is well-trained.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you want something fun, lively, and seafood-forward. The energy is upbeat rather than intimate, so it suits casual first dates more than quiet, romantic ones.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often yes, especially on weekdays or early evenings. For weekends, arrive before the rush or expect a wait—patio tables fill first.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes. The spacious patio, relaxed service, and approachable dishes (including simple fish and chips) make it comfortable for families with kids of all ages.
Best For
Better for: Seafood lovers who want MICHELIN-level sourcing without the formality or price tag of fine dining; ideal for birthdays, groups, and patio gatherings.
Skip if: You want a quiet, romantic dinner, strictly vegan dining, or a high-end tasting-menu experience—other spots may fit those occasions better.
Connie & Ted's
8.8
Connie & Ted's is a New England–inspired seafood house on the Santa Monica strip where the bar and patio become a lively happy hour scene with oysters, strong cocktails, and bar bites. It’s a go-to for after-work groups who want legit seafood, a serious raw bar, and a casual-but-polished atmosphere built to linger.
Must-Try Dishes:
New England Clam Chowder, Lobster Roll, Hook-Ale-Battered Fish & Chips
Scores:
Value: 7.1
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.8
Food Quality: 9.1
Atmosphere: 8.3
Cultural Relevance: 8.6
What makes it special: Serious seafood and a real raw bar paired with a busy, well-run bar program.
Who should go: Seafood fans meeting friends or coworkers after work.
When to visit: Weekday late afternoon for bar seats and happy hour.
What to order: Clam chowder, lobster roll, fish and chips.
Insider tip: Grab high-top seats in the bar area for faster HH service and easy shares.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Santa Monica Blvd and surrounding residential streets is available but competitive after 5pm; meters run until 8pm. No valet on-site.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual; polished but relaxed. Jeans and tees are fine, but many guests lean slightly elevated for after-work meetups.
Noise level: Moderate to lively during happy hour — conversations are doable at patio tables but tougher at the bar during peak rush.
Weekend wait: 35–55 minutes for patio or bar seats; raw bar stools often move faster.
Weekday lunch: Typically little to no wait, though happy hour seating fills quickly after 4pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited but workable — fries, salads, and a few veggie sides, though the menu is seafood-forward.
Vegan options: Very limited; only a couple of sides or modified salads qualify.
Gluten-free options: Strong — many seafood items, oysters, and raw bar selections are naturally gluten-free, and the staff is knowledgeable about modifications.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if your date enjoys seafood and a lively bar atmosphere. The patio offers better conversation flow, while the raw bar adds a fun, interactive edge.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often yes, especially at the bar or patio. Arrive before 5pm for happy hour to secure high-tops; after 6pm, expect to join a waitlist.
Is it kid-friendly? Reasonably — the staff is welcoming and the menu has approachable items, but the high-energy happy hour scene is better suited for older kids or early meals.
Best For
Better for: One of the strongest raw bars in the neighborhood, with fresher seafood and more polished execution than most happy hour spots in 90046.
Skip if: You want a quiet environment or extensive non-seafood options; its energy and seafood-centric menu won’t fit every group.
Connie & Ted's
8.7
Connie & Ted's channels classic New England seafood into a polished but relaxed dining room where families share clam chowder, fish and chips, and one of LA’s definitive lobster rolls. A spacious patio, kids who love fried seafood, and a steady hum of locals make it a go-to for special-occasion dinners that still feel casual.
Must-Try Dishes:
Lobster Roll Sandwich, Jo's Wicked Good Chowda, Fish and Chips
Scores:
Value: 6.8
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 7.4
Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: Modern seafood house with serious chowder and lobster rolls in a relaxed setting.
Who should go: Seafood-loving families celebrating birthdays or visits from relatives.
When to visit: Early evening for easier patio seating with kids.
What to order: Lobster Roll, Jo's Wicked Good Chowda, fish and chips.
Insider tip: Sit on the patio so kids can spread out while adults enjoy the raw bar.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet is typically available during peak dinner hours; street parking on Santa Monica Blvd and the surrounding neighborhood is possible but fills quickly after 6pm.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual; most guests wear jeans and a nice top, but it’s relaxed enough for families coming straight from daytime outings.
Noise level: Moderate; dining room hums with families and groups, but conversation at the table is still comfortable.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation, especially for patio seating.
Weekday lunch: Usually minimal wait; walk-ins are common and seating is faster.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited but present; a few sides, salads, and non-seafood starters work for vegetarians.
Vegan options: Very limited; most dishes center on seafood or dairy-heavy chowders.
Gluten-free options: Moderate; several grilled seafood plates and the chowder can be made gluten-aware, but fried items are not GF due to shared oil.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if the date appreciates seafood and a lively setting; the patio is more intimate, but the main room leans bustling rather than quiet or romantic.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually, yes—especially on weekdays. For weekend evenings, arrive early or be ready for a 30–60 minute wait. The patio fills first.
Is it kid-friendly? Very; ages 4 and up do well thanks to spacious seating, accommodating staff, and plenty of straightforward fried seafood dishes kids actually eat.
Best For
Better for: High-quality seafood in a family-friendly setting without the formality of pricier coastal seafood spots; particularly strong for chowder, lobster rolls, and a crowd-pleasing raw bar.
Skip if: You want a quiet or romantic dinner, prefer a heavily vegan or vegetarian menu, or are looking for bargain pricing—this is high-quality seafood with higher-end costs.