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ZipPicks Awards
Best Seafood in Marina Del Rey
Best Romantic Restaurants in Marina Del Rey
Best Fine Dining Restaurants in Marina Del Rey
Best Restaurants for Special Occasions in Marina Del Rey
Best Outdoor Dining Restaurants in Marina Del Rey
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Master Critic Review
Dear Jane's
9.1
Dear Jane's is a chef-driven, marina-front seafood restaurant from Josiah Citrin and Hans Röckenwagner, pairing classic American seafood dishes with a polished, retro-inspired dining room. Since opening in 2022 and earning a place in the Michelin Guide, it has become Marina del Rey’s most talked-about seafood destination for special-occasion dinners and serious seafood fans.
Must-Try Dishes:
Oysters Rockefeller, Shrimp Louie, Trout amandine
Scores:
Value: 7.2
Service: 8.8
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 9.4
Atmosphere: 9.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.9
What makes it special: Michelin-listed, chef-driven seafood with retro coastal glamour and marina views.
Who should go: Seafood lovers planning upscale date nights or special occasions.
When to visit: Sunset or later evenings for full Rat Pack-inspired ambiance.
What to order: Oysters Rockefeller, Shrimp Louie, trout amandine or surf and turf.
Insider tip: Sit along the windows or patio rail for the most dramatic harbor views.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet only — based on guest reports valet tends to run around $15–20. Street parking is extremely limited and not recommended, especially evening/weekend. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
Dress code: Smart-casual to dressy — think nice collared shirts or dresses; no need for formal gowns, but upscale jeans or casual wear feel underdressed given the marina-front, retro-glam vibe. This aligns with the management’s own site calling it “approachable yet upscale.” :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
Noise level: Moderate — you should be able to hear your companion easily. The ambiance is more polished and calm than noisy, especially if seated near the windows or patio. Several reviews note comfortable conversation even during multi-course meals lasting hours. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
Weekend wait: Likely 30–60 min without reservation — many reviewers report busy nights and the need for advanced booking. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
Weekday lunch: Not applicable — the restaurant does not serve lunch; dinner service begins at 5:30 PM. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Very limited — the menu is heavily seafood- and meat-focused, so vegetarian options will be minimal (perhaps a salad or sides if offered). Based on reviews, this venue is not known for vegetarian-friendly offerings. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
Vegan options: Not really — given the emphasis on seafood, buttered sauces, and classic Continental cooking styles, there’s no evidence of dedicated vegan options. Vegan diners would likely struggle to find a satisfying entrée. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
Gluten-free options: Possible but limited — some seafood dishes may be adaptable, but there’s no public indication of a separate gluten-free prep area or dedicated gluten-free menu. If you need gluten-free accommodation, it would be best to call ahead and confirm with the kitchen.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the marina views, retro-glam ambiance, and upscale yet relaxed vibe make it one of the most romantic seafood spots around. For a first date you’ll get a special-occasion feel without being overly pretentious, especially if you plan for sunset with a nice cocktail or oysters.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Only rarely — on busy weekend nights it’s unlikely. Given limited valet parking and high demand, it’s advisable to reserve ahead, especially if you want a harbor-view window or patio spot.
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal — the vibe leans toward adult dining and celebration. Between the wine- and cocktail-forward bar, refined plates, and relatively high price point, it’s better suited to adults or maybe older teens, rather than young children.
Best For
Better for: What this place does better than competitors
Consider Alternatives If: When to choose alternatives instead
Hours
MondayClosed
Tuesday5:30pm - 9pm
Wednesday5:30pm - 9pm
Thursday5:30pm - 9pm
Friday5:30pm - 9:30pm
Saturday5:30pm - 9:30pm
SundayClosed