Best Family Friendly American Restaurants in Santa Monica (90401)
9 hand-picked restaurants, AI-analyzed and critic-validated
Notable Picks
#1
Hillstone
8.7
Upscale American chain known for perfectly executed classics like their legendary ribs and Ding's Crispy Chicken sandwich. The open kitchen, warm wood interiors, and professional service create a reliably excellent dining experience for families and business diners alike.
Must-Try Dishes:
Hawaiian Ribeye with Pineapple, Ding's Crispy Chicken Sandwich, Spinach & Artichoke Dip
What makes it special: Consistent excellence in American comfort food execution
Family-owned seafood market since 1939 with attached cafe serving impeccably fresh catches and New England classics. The casual market atmosphere and kids menu make it perfect for seafood-loving families seeking quality without pretension.
Must-Try Dishes:
Lobster Roll Connecticut Style, Manhattan Clam Chowder, Grilled Swordfish Sandwich
What makes it special: Buy fresh fish and eat it too since 1939
#3
Pono Burger
8.2
Hawaiian-inspired organic burger joint grilling grass-fed beef over white oak fire in a converted WWII Quonset hut. Chef Makani's commitment to farmers market ingredients and kid-friendly sliders makes this a thoughtful family destination.
Must-Try Dishes:
Piku Fig Burger with Brie, Sweet Potato Fries with House Aioli, Kids Organic Sliders
What makes it special: Oak-fired organic burgers with Hawaiian soul
#4
Blue Daisy
8.1
Cheerful all-day cafe specializing in sweet and savory organic crepes alongside healthy American breakfast favorites. The spacious dining room with outdoor patio welcomes families with extensive gluten-free options and bottomless weekday mimosas for parents.
Must-Try Dishes:
Nutella Strawberry Banana Crepe, Salmon Cake Scandia, Croissant French Toast
What makes it special: Extensive gluten-free crepe options made fresh daily
8.0
Eco-friendly burger chain using grass-fed beef and organic ingredients in a modern, minimalist setting. Their commitment to sustainability and quality ingredients appeals to health-conscious families in the Third Street Promenade area.
Must-Try Dishes:
Lounge Burger with Aged White Cheddar, Turkey Burger with Avocado, Quinoa Veggie Burger
What makes it special: Grass-fed beef and eco-conscious fast-casual dining
Worthy Picks
7.9
Two-story New American restaurant mixing modern and traditional elements with a diverse SoCal-inspired menu. The open space accommodates families upstairs while maintaining a lively bar scene below, perfect for multi-generational gatherings.
Must-Try Dishes:
Korean BBQ Tacos, Truffle Mac & Cheese, Tuna Poke Stack
What makes it special: Two-story space with balcony dining overlooking the Promenade
#7
Pier Burger
7.8
Boardwalk burger stand on the pier serving classic American fare with Wisconsin frozen custard since opening. The ocean views and carnival atmosphere make it perfect for families enjoying a day at Pacific Park.
Must-Try Dishes:
Last Burger On Land, Wisconsin Frozen Custard, Boardwalk Fries
What makes it special: Authentic frozen custard on the iconic pier
7.7
Century-old beachfront dive bar serving burgers and wings since 1902, now a locals' sports bar with 35 TVs. The boardwalk patio welcomes families for casual beach dining while parents enjoy cold beers and ocean breezes.
Must-Try Dishes:
Classic Beach Burger, Buffalo Wings, Fish Tacos
What makes it special: Century-old boardwalk landmark with ocean views
7.6
Forrest Gump-themed seafood restaurant offering Southern comfort food with ocean views and movie memorabilia. The interactive service style and kids menu make it a tourist-friendly family destination on the pier.
Must-Try Dishes:
Shrimper's Heaven Platter, Run Across America Sampler, Lieutenant Dan's Drunken Shrimp
What makes it special: Movie-themed dining with Pacific Ocean backdrop