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Master Critic Review
Golden Bull Restaurant
8.5
Vibes:
Date Night Magic
Group Dining Gatherings
Birthday & Celebration Central
Comfort Food Classics
A Santa Monica Canyon chophouse dating back to 1949, The Golden Bull delivers classic steaks, prime rib, and martinis in a wood-paneled, fireplace-warmed room. It’s a go-to for couples who want an old-school, slightly buzzy steakhouse feel without leaving the neighborhood.
Must-Try Dishes:
Prime rib with Yorkshire pudding, French onion soup, Filet mignon
Scores:
Value: 6.9
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 9
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 8.7
Cultural Relevance: 9.1
What makes it special: Midcentury steakhouse energy with fireplaces and canyon locals.
Who should go: Steak-and-martini couples and small celebration groups.
When to visit: Golden Hour or later dinner for cozy, clubby ambience.
What to order: Prime rib, French onion soup, filet mignon with sides.
Insider tip: Sit near the fireplace lounge for peak throwback atmosphere.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet available for around $12; limited street parking in the canyon fills quickly after 6pm.
Dress code: Smart casual—jeans are fine, but most guests lean polished (button-downs, nice tops, dresses).
Noise level: Moderate—buzzy steakhouse chatter, but still easy to hold a conversation across the table.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation, depending on party size.
Weekday lunch: Minimal to no wait, though lunch service can be lighter depending on the season.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: A handful of solid options like salads, vegetable sides, and a couple of mains; not a vegetarian-focused menu but doable.
Vegan options: Limited—expect 1–2 customizable dishes (veg sides, salads minus dairy). Best to call ahead for accommodations.
Gluten-free options: Multiple gluten-free-friendly dishes, and the kitchen is accommodating; steaks and many sides are naturally GF.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—its warm lighting, fireplaces, and vintage steakhouse charm set an intimate tone without feeling overly formal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? You can try, especially early evening or late night, but weekends fill quickly. The bar area is often easier to snag a walk-in spot.
Is it kid-friendly? It’s not designed for little kids, but older children and teens are fine. No dedicated kids’ menu, and the atmosphere skews adult and date-oriented.
Best For
Better for: Classic steakhouse nostalgia, cozy fireplaces, strong martinis, and neighborhood intimacy compared to glitzier Westside steakhouses.
Consider Alternatives If: You want avant-garde cuisine, ocean views, or a fully vegan-friendly menu—other Santa Monica spots may suit those needs better.
Hours
MondayClosed
TuesdayClosed
Wednesday4:30pm - 12am
Thursday4:30pm - 2am
Friday4:30pm - 2am
Saturday4:30pm - 2am
Sunday4:30pm - 12am