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SALT Restaurant & Bar
Master Critic Reviews (8 Lists)
SALT Restaurant & Bar
8.2
SALT Restaurant & Bar, opened in 2015 inside the Marina del Rey Hotel, focuses on California seasonal cooking with an American bent, from chowder to braised short ribs. Diners come for polished plates, cocktails, and one of the better waterfront dining rooms on the harbor.
Must-Try Dishes:
Marina Clam Chowder, Shrimp & Grits, Braised Short Rib
Scores:
Value: 6.4
Service: 7.6
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 8.9
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: Hotel waterfront restaurant marrying seasonal California dishes with marina views.
Who should go: Guests wanting upscale American plates in a scenic setting.
When to visit: Sunset or weekend brunch for peak atmosphere and light.
What to order: Marina Clam Chowder, Shrimp & Grits, Braised Short Rib.
Insider tip: Book brunch and ask for a window table facing the harbor.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet is available at the Marina del Rey Hotel (typically $12–$18 depending on time), with limited metered marina-side spaces that fill quickly during sunset and brunch hours.
Dress code: Smart casual; polished denim is fine, but most guests lean dressy for sunset dinners and weekend brunch.
Noise level: Moderate; the dining room maintains a steady buzz, but conversation at a normal volume is comfortable, especially at window tables.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation, longer for waterfront tables.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait, though patio seating may require a short delay on sunny days.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Good coverage — salads, appetizers, and a rotating seasonal entrée typically offer plant-forward options.
Vegan options: Limited but workable; expect 1–2 vegan-friendly dishes plus modifiable salads.
Gluten-free options: Several dishes are marked gluten-free, and many proteins can be adapted upon request.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the marina backdrop, polished plates, and calm-but-buzzy atmosphere make it ideal for a relaxed but elevated first date.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possibly during weekday lunch, but evenings and brunch fill up fast. Walk-ins may wait for patio or window seats, so booking ahead is strongly recommended.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids; the setting is refined, but staff accommodate families. Younger children are fine during brunch or lunch when the vibe is more relaxed.
Best For
Better for: Scenic waterfront dining with polished California-American dishes and a more refined vibe than nearby casual marina spots.
Skip if: You want a fast, casual meal or very budget-friendly pricing — the experience here leans upscale.
SALT Restaurant & Bar
8.4
Inside the Marina del Rey Hotel, SALT pairs seasonal California cooking with an American seafood-leaning menu and wide-open harbor views from the dining room and patio. It draws hotel guests and locals for chowder, braised mains, cocktails, and a slightly polished but still relaxed take on waterfront dining.
Must-Try Dishes:
Marina clam chowder, Shrimp and grits, Braised short rib
Scores:
Value: 7.6
Service: 6.7
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 9
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: Hotel waterfront restaurant balancing polished seasonal plates with sweeping marina views.
Who should go: Couples and small groups wanting upscale-but-relaxed seafood by the water.
When to visit: Sunset or weekend brunch for best light and ambience.
What to order: Marina clam chowder, shrimp and grits, braised short rib.
Insider tip: Reserve around sunset and request a window or patio table facing the harbor.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet is available at the Marina del Rey Hotel (typically $12–$15); limited metered street parking on Bali Way fills quickly during sunset hours.
Dress code: Smart casual; polished jeans, sundresses, and elevated resort wear all fit the waterfront setting.
Noise level: Moderate; conversation-friendly indoors with slightly more ambient noise on the patio during peak sunset windows.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation, especially around sunset.
Weekday lunch: Generally no wait; walk-ins are usually seated immediately.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Several thoughtful options, including salads and seasonal veggie plates.
Vegan options: Limited but workable; 1–2 modifiable dishes depending on seasonal menu rotation.
Gluten-free options: Good selection; many seafood dishes are naturally gluten-free and staff can guide safe modifications.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—harbor views, warm lighting, and polished seafood plates create an easy, relaxed setting that still feels special without being overly formal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible on weekdays or off-peak hours; on weekends or near sunset, walk-ins are often quoted 30–45 minutes, so reservations are strongly advised.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for families with school-age kids; the hotel setting and patio seating make it workable, though it skews more adult during sunset and dinner service.
Best For
Better for: Waterfront ambience, date-night-friendly seafood, and polished seasonal plates without the full formality or pricing of luxury-tier Marina dining rooms.
Skip if: You want ultra-casual seafood shacks, very large group seating, or a fully vegan-friendly menu.
SALT Restaurant & Bar
8.4
SALT at the Marina del Rey Hotel is a waterfront date-night standby where seasonal California plates, cocktails, and a lively lounge meet sweeping marina views. High review volume and steady crowds confirm it as one of the area’s most reliable picks for celebratory dinners and holiday meals.
Must-Try Dishes:
Braised Beef Short Rib, Lobster Pasta, Blackened Mahi Mahi Fish Tacos
Scores:
Value: 6.6
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 8.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Busy hotel restaurant with strong cocktails, marina views, and seasonal menus.
Who should go: Couples wanting lively waterfront energy with solid, polished food.
When to visit: Twilight or weekend evenings when the bar and patio buzz.
What to order: Lobster pasta, braised beef short rib, mahi mahi tacos.
Insider tip: Time your reservation with sunset and ask for an outdoor table.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet at the Marina del Rey Hotel (typically $12–$18 depending on event nights); limited metered street parking on Bali Way fills quickly after 6pm.
Dress code: Smart casual with a coastal polish—elevated denim and button-downs or casual dresses fit the dining room and lounge vibe.
Noise level: Moderate to lively, especially indoors during peak dinner hours; patio tables offer better conversation if you want a quieter date setting.
Weekend wait: Expect 30–60 minutes without a reservation, especially near sunset; bar seating is first-come and often the fastest fallback.
Weekday lunch: Generally minimal wait—most guests are hotel visitors or locals taking meetings.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Good options—seasonal salads, veggie-forward starters, and occasional pasta or risotto specials.
Vegan options: Limited—typically 1–2 customizable dishes; ask for modifications on bowls or vegetable plates.
Gluten-free options: Yes—many mains and starters can be made gluten-free, and staff is accustomed to requests.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—sunset marina views, polished service, and a lively crowd create an effortless backdrop that feels romantic without being overly formal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually, but timing matters—walk-ins can be accommodated at the lounge or high-tops, though outdoor marina tables almost always require reservations during prime hours.
Is it kid-friendly? Moderately—weekday lunches and early dinners are fine for families, but the evening bar crowd and date-night energy skew more adult. No dedicated kids’ menu.
Best For
Better for: Waterfront ambiance, lively cocktails, and a polished hotel setting—ideal for date nights or celebratory meals where atmosphere matters as much as the food.
Skip if: You want a quiet, intimate dinner or chef-driven tasting menu; the scene-forward energy can feel too busy for low-key evenings.
SALT Restaurant & Bar
7.9
SALT at the Marina del Rey Hotel is a harborfront restaurant where coastal California dishes, cocktails, and a lively bar meet a broad patio looking out over the slips. Brunch, happy hour, and sunset dinners all lean on the view, with menus that run from burgers and tacos to seafood plates suited for hotel guests and locals making a night of it.
Must-Try Dishes:
Lobster Pasta, Braised Beef Short Rib, Mahi Mahi or Fish Tacos
Scores:
Value: 6
Service: 7.5
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 8.6
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: Lively hotel restaurant with an expansive waterfront patio and coastal menu.
Who should go: Dinosaurs seeking marina views with cocktails and California plates.
When to visit: Weekend brunch or golden hour for peak patio energy.
What to order: Lobster pasta, braised short rib, fish tacos with sides.
Insider tip: Time your reservation around sunset and ask for a patio table near the railing.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet is available at the Marina del Rey Hotel (typically $12–$15). Limited street parking exists along Bali Way but fills quickly during sunset and weekends.
Dress code: Smart casual. Resort wear, sundresses, elevated denim, and collared shirts all fit the marina-hotel vibe.
Noise level: Moderate. Patio tables can be lively during brunch and sunset hours, but indoor seating remains comfortably conversational.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation, especially near sunset.
Weekday lunch: Usually minimal or no wait outside peak hotel occupancy.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Moderate selection including salads, veggie starters, and occasional seasonal plates.
Vegan options: Limited—typically 1–2 adaptable items. Ask about modifications.
Gluten-free options: Several GF-friendly dishes; staff can guide substitutions but no dedicated prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—its marina views, cocktails, and relaxed hotel ambiance create a scenic but low-pressure setting ideal for early-date chemistry.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often yes during weekdays or non-peak hours. Weekends and golden hour strongly favor reservations, especially for patio seating.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for families with kids 6+. The patio is spacious and casual enough for children, though evenings can skew more adult and social.
Best For
Better for: Waterfront ambiance, cocktails, and a lively patio scene—notably stronger than many nearby hotel restaurants.
Skip if: You want ultra-refined fine dining, very quiet conversation, or a menu with extensive vegan/vegetarian breadth.
SALT Restaurant & Bar
7.9
Vibes:
Birthday & Celebration Central
Happy Hour Hotspots
Outdoor Dining Oasis
Trendy Table Hotspots
SALT at the Marina del Rey Hotel is a busy waterfront spot where seasonal California plates, cocktails, and a lively bar anchor birthdays and group celebrations. Brunch, happy hour, and sunset dinners all lean on the harbor views, with menus that stretch from burgers and tacos to richer entrées.
Must-Try Dishes:
Lobster Pasta, Blackened Mahi Mahi Fish Tacos, Braised Beef Short Rib
Scores:
Value: 6.5
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 7.6
Food Quality: 8.1
Atmosphere: 8.7
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: Lively hotel restaurant with sweeping marina views and seasonal menus.
Who should go: Groups planning festive dinners or birthday-night cocktails.
When to visit: Twilight or weekend evenings when patio and bar buzz.
What to order: Lobster pasta, mahi mahi tacos, braised beef short rib.
Insider tip: Time your reservation with sunset and specify outdoor seating.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet is available at the Marina del Rey Hotel (typically $10–$15). Limited metered spots along Bali Way fill quickly after 5pm, and street parking can be challenging on weekends.
Dress code: Smart casual. Jeans are fine, but most guests lean polished—think casual dresses, button-downs, or elevated resort wear.
Noise level: Moderate to lively. The patio and bar can get loud during sunset and weekends, but indoor tables offer steadier conversation comfort.
Weekend wait: Expect 30–45 minutes without a reservation, longer during peak sunset hours.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait, though patio requests may add a short delay.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Good selection—salads, pasta, and several veggie-forward starters are available.
Vegan options: Limited—usually 1–2 dishes can be modified; confirm with your server.
Gluten-free options: Several GF-friendly items, including tacos and salads; staff can guide modifications but no dedicated prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you want waterfront energy and a lively vibe. The patio is scenic, but for deeper conversation choose an earlier reservation or indoor seating.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often yes on weekdays. Weekends and sunset hours fill up fast—walk-ins may wait 30–45 minutes, though bar seating sometimes opens sooner.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for families with older kids; the patio is relaxed and there are approachable dishes. Strollers can be accommodated, but peak hours may feel crowded for toddlers.
Best For
Better for: Celebratory groups seeking waterfront views, strong cocktails, and an energetic patio atmosphere.
Skip if: You want quiet fine dining, ultra-refined plates, or guaranteed quick seating at peak sunset hours.
SALT Restaurant & Bar
8.3
Vibes:
Outdoor Dining Oasis
Birthday & Celebration Central
Happy Hour Hotspots
Trendy Table Hotspots
SALT at the Marina del Rey Hotel pairs a broad marina-front patio with California-seasonal plates and a busy bar scene. Locals and hotel guests use the outdoor deck for happy hour, brunch, and dinners that lean on cocktails, fish dishes, and harbor views rather than fine-dining formality.
Must-Try Dishes:
Mahi mahi fish tacos, Lobster pasta, Braised short rib
Scores:
Value: 6.6
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 8.9
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: Lively hotel restaurant with a large marina-view patio and seasonal California menu.
Who should go: Groups planning celebratory brunches, happy hour, or waterfront dinners.
When to visit: Twilight or weekend evenings when the patio and bar are busiest.
What to order: Mahi mahi tacos, lobster pasta, braised short rib.
Insider tip: Book an outdoor table and time your reservation around sunset for the best views.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Hotel valet is available for around $12–$18 depending on time of day; limited metered spots on Bali Way fill quickly after 6pm. Expect busy lots on weekends.
Dress code: Smart casual. Patio diners often wear resort-casual fits, but indoor seating leans slightly dressier. Jeans fine; avoid beachwear.
Noise level: Moderate. Patio can get lively during happy hour, but conversation is still manageable. Indoors is slightly quieter.
Weekend wait: 30–50 minutes without a reservation, especially around sunset. Patio demand spikes.
Weekday lunch: Minimal wait; usually seated immediately or within 5–10 minutes.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Good selection — salads, veggie starters, and several entrées can be prepared vegetarian.
Vegan options: Limited — typically 1–2 adaptable dishes; confirm with server for modifications.
Gluten-free options: Many dishes can be made gluten-free, including fish plates and salads; no dedicated prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the waterfront patio, sunset views, and solid cocktails make it an easy win for relaxed-but-scenic dates. Not overly formal, so it works well for early dating.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often yes on weekdays, but expect a wait at peak hours. On weekends or sunset, walk-ins for patio seats are competitive. Bar seating is the quickest backup.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — families dine here regularly, especially at brunch. Outdoor tables offer space for strollers, and the menu includes simple options kids tend to like.
Best For
Better for: Sunset cocktails, lively social energy, and a broad California menu in a casual-luxe waterfront setting.
Skip if: You want quiet fine dining, cutting-edge cuisine, or a low-key meal without crowds — the patio buzz may feel too active during peak hours.
SALT Restaurant & Bar
8.3
Vibes:
Trendy Table Hotspots
Outdoor Dining Oasis
Happy Hour Hotspots
Birthday & Celebration Central
SALT at the Marina del Rey Hotel is a year-round patio scene with marina views, California-seasonal menus, and an active bar that anchors hotel life. Brunch, happy hour, and dinner all tilt social, making it a go-to for visitors and locals who want waterfront drinks and shareable plates rather than a hushed fine-dining room.
Must-Try Dishes:
Mahi Mahi Tacos, Maine Lobster Roll, Braised Short Rib
Scores:
Value: 7.7
Service: 6.7
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 9.1
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: Busy hotel restaurant with a large marina-front patio and event-ready bar.
Who should go: Groups chasing cocktails, views, and upbeat waterfront energy.
When to visit: Weekend brunch or twilight happy hour when the patio is fullest.
What to order: Mahi Mahi Tacos, Maine Lobster Roll, braised short rib.
Insider tip: Time your reservation around sunset and ask for a rail-side patio table.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet is available at the Marina del Rey Hotel (typically $15–$20). Limited metered spots along Bali Way fill quickly on weekends, and street parking becomes competitive after 6pm.
Dress code: Smart casual. Most guests lean polished—think elevated vacation wear, sundresses, button-downs, and stylish layers. Jeans are fine if paired with something dressier.
Noise level: Moderate to lively. The patio and bar areas run social, especially at sunset. Tables closer to the rail are calmer and better for conversation.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation, especially around sunset.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait, though patio tables may require a brief pause on clear days.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Several dishes qualify, including salads and vegetable-forward share plates. Staff can modify some entrées on request.
Vegan options: Limited—expect 1–2 suitable items plus modifiable sides. Always confirm ingredient swaps with your server.
Gluten-free options: Good selection of GF-friendly items, including seafood and protein dishes. The kitchen can adjust many plates, but there is no fully separate prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you want waterfront views, cocktails, and a lively social backdrop. It’s less ideal for intimate, hushed conversation but great for an upbeat, visually engaging first date.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often yes during weekdays or off-peak hours, but the patio fills fast at sunset and on weekends. Walk-ins may need to wait for outdoor tables, while indoor seating opens sooner.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for families, particularly during brunch or earlier dinner hours. The outdoor patio is relaxed, and the marina views keep kids entertained. Late evenings skew more adult and social.
Best For
Better for: Waterfront cocktails, social brunches, and celebratory group meals with a scenic patio. It’s stronger on vibe, views, and drinks than on formal fine-dining polish.
Skip if: You want a quiet, intimate dinner; prefer highly inventive cuisine; or dislike lively hotel-restaurant energy during peak hours.
SALT Restaurant & Bar
8.2
SALT at the Marina del Rey Hotel serves Californian cuisine built around seasonal ingredients sourced from local land and sea, with menus that shift to highlight fresh produce and seafood. It’s a lively marina-front spot known for brunch, cocktails, and a terrace that leans social but still feels polished.
Must-Try Dishes:
Blackened Mahi Mahi Fish Tacos, Avocado Hummus with Chips, Cheese & Charcuterie Sampler
Scores:
Value: 6.7
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 8.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Seasonal land-and-sea menu with a marina-front terrace and strong cocktails.
Who should go: Groups wanting waterfront brunch, cocktails, and hotel-restaurant energy.
When to visit: Weekday happy hour or weekend brunch for views and buzz.
What to order: Blackened mahi mahi tacos, avocado hummus, cheese and charcuterie.
Insider tip: Time your reservation near sunset and ask for an outside terrace table.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Hotel valet is available (typically $10–$15); limited metered spots on Bali Way fill quickly during peak brunch and sunset hours.
Dress code: Smart casual; jeans and button-downs are common, but many groups lean polished for photos and marina-facing tables.
Noise level: Moderate to lively, especially on the patio during brunch and happy hour; indoor seating is slightly quieter but still social.
Weekend wait: Expect 30–45 minutes without a reservation, longer if the patio is in high demand.
Weekday lunch: Usually minimal wait; walk-ins often seated immediately.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — seasonal salads, flatbreads, and produce-driven small plates are reliable staples.
Vegan options: Limited but present — 1–2 plant-based dishes plus modifiable sides.
Gluten-free options: Multiple GF-friendly choices, especially seafood and protein mains; servers are used to accommodating substitutions.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the marina backdrop, sunset light, and relaxed-but-polished vibe create an easy conversational setting, especially on the terrace.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Walk-ins are possible, particularly on weekdays. On weekends, expect a wait unless you arrive early or choose indoor seating.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for families with children 6+, especially during daytime meals. The patio is spacious, and the menu offers approachable options.
Best For
Better for: Waterfront brunch, cocktails, and a social patio scene with fresher seasonal ingredients than most hotel-adjacent spots.
Skip if: You want a quiet, intimate dinner or a strictly fine-dining farm-to-table experience; the energy here leans lively and social.