Best Hidden Gems Restaurants in Santa Monica (90405)
8 hand-picked restaurants, AI-analyzed and critic-validated
Notable Picks
#1
Cobi's
8.3
Chef Cobi Marsh's Michelin Bib Gourmand spot brings Southeast Asian soul to a pink-and-green building with floral wallpaper and mismatched vintage furniture. The menu showcases Thai and Malaysian influences with wood-grilled specialties and curry puffs that honor Chef Marsh's Indonesian heritage.
Must-Try Dishes:
Curry Puffs, Dry-Aged Branzino, Thai Tea Pudding with Boba
What makes it special: Michelin Bib Gourmand recognition for authentic Southeast Asian cooking in a charming, design-forward space
#2
Ghisallo
8.3
Ocean Park neighborhood staple serving both New York-style slices by day and Neapolitan-esque whole pies at dinner. Chef Casey Lane works with renowned baker Jyan Horwitz to perfect naturally leavened dough, creating blistered crusts that support creative toppings like nduja sausage with fermented honey.
Must-Try Dishes:
Funghi & Truffle Pizza, Calabrian Sausage, Margherita Slice
What makes it special: Dual dough approach offering both NY slices and Neapolitan pies from artisan bakers
Worthy Picks
#3
The Galley
7.9
Santa Monica's oldest restaurant since 1934 maintains its nautical theme and neighborhood bar atmosphere under owner Captain Ron, serving steaks and seafood amid year-round Christmas lights and maritime decor salvaged from classic films. The daily happy hour features strong drinks and discounted appetizers, while the dining rooms offer casual steakhouse fare in candlelit booths that haven't changed much in 90 years.
Must-Try Dishes:
Steamed Clams, Filet Mignon, Galley Salad
What makes it special: Historic nautical bar atmosphere with decor from 1935's Mutiny on the Bounty
7.9
Landmark surf-and-skate cafe housed in the historic Zephyr building serves organic micro-roasted coffee and hearty breakfast burritos. The massive outdoor patio with live music draws locals for the signature Munchies Burrito and 24-hour cold brew topped with sea salt foam.
Must-Try Dishes:
Munchies Burrito, Main Street Slider, Acai Bowl
What makes it special: Historic Dogtown Z-Boys surf shop location with locally micro-roasted organic coffee and extensive vegan options
#5
Café Bolívar
7.8
South American cafe serving handmade arepas since 2002, with gluten-free cornmeal pockets filled with pulled pork, mango, and panela cheese. The laid-back space doubles as a coffee shop and art gallery, drawing laptop workers and neighborhood regulars for aromatic Colombian-inspired brews and crispy arepas with rosemary aioli.
Must-Try Dishes:
Pulled Pork Arepa, Pacifico Arepa with Mango, Cafe Bolivar Latte
What makes it special: Authentic South American arepas in a neighborhood cafe with art gallery
7.7
Chef Stephen Murray's neighborhood Italian spot features house-made pastas and wood-fired pizzas in a casual setting with concrete floors and tufted banquettes. The open kitchen and year-round heated patio serve seasonally inspired California-Italian cuisine with boutique wines and creative cocktails.
Must-Try Dishes:
Wood-Fired Pizzas, Lamb Meatballs, Burrata with Fava Beans
What makes it special: Wood-fired pizzas and seasonal California-Italian cuisine in a rustic-chic neighborhood setting
#7
Thai Vegan
7.6
Operating since 2010 in a shared food hall space near Main Street, this counter-service spot focuses on straightforward plant-based Thai classics. The casual setup with outdoor communal seating makes it ideal for quick takeout or a low-key meal, though the menu plays it safe with familiar preparations rather than pushing creative boundaries.
Must-Try Dishes:
Pad Thai, Green Curry, Papaya Salad
What makes it special: Affordable all-vegan Thai menu in shared food hall near the beach
7.6
Vibes:
Quick Bites Champions
Family Friendly Favorites
Outdoor Dining Oasis
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Modern Vietnamese noodle shop with sleek minimalist design serves aromatic pho with rich bone broth and fresh spring rolls. The trendy space features communal seating and outdoor picnic tables, drawing crowds for banh xeo crepes and lemongrass-marinated grilled meats.
Must-Try Dishes:
Pho Tai (Rare Steak), Imperial Rolls, Banh Xeo
What makes it special: Fresh Vietnamese street fare in modern minimalist setting