Best Outdoor Dining Restaurants in Santa Monica
59 hand-picked restaurants, critic-reviewed and ranked
Last Updated: February 2026
Our Top Pick
Orla by Michael Mina
Michelin-starred chef's Mediterranean vision with unmatched ocean views
Essential Picks
9.1
Chef Michael Mina's oceanfront fine dining temple showcases elevated Mediterranean small plates with bold Middle Eastern spices and dramatic Pacific views. The ever-evolving menu channels aromatic bazaars through dishes like shakshuka, saganaki, and lamb chops, each executed with precision and creative flair.
Must-Try Dishes:
Saganaki with Black Truffle Honey, Wagyu Beef Tartare, Baklava French Toast
What Makes it Special: Michelin-starred chef's Mediterranean vision with unmatched ocean views
Notable Picks
#2
The Lobster
8.8
Perched above the Santa Monica Pier since 1923, this Michelin Plate restaurant showcases Celebrity Chef Govind Armstrong's seasonal seafood menu with locally-sourced ingredients. The second-story dining room offers a breathtaking 180-degree ocean view spanning from Santa Monica Bay to Point Dume.
Must-Try Dishes:
Charred Octopus with Romesco, Maine Lobster Thermidor, Pan-Roasted Black Cod
What Makes it Special: Century-old legacy restaurant with Michelin recognition and panoramic ocean views
8.8
This seductively stylish steakhouse reinvents the traditional American steakhouse experience with 40-day dry-aged New York strips and A5 Japanese Wagyu. The ocean-view patio and vibrant bar scene create an alluring ambiance that matches the exceptional cuisine.
Must-Try Dishes:
40-Day Dry-Aged NY Strip, A5 Japanese Wagyu Flight, Tableside Caesar Salad
What Makes it Special: The only steakhouse offering ocean views with 40-day dry-aged steaks.
8.8
This Brentwood Country Mart scoop shop from the Rustic Canyon family turns organic dairy and peak-season farmers market produce into small-batch ice creams, sundaes, and frozen novelties. Since 2010, chef Shiho Yoshikawa’s team has built a loyal following for deeply flavored classics and inventive seasonal specials, plus thoughtful dairy-free options.
Must-Try Dishes:
Salted Caramel Ice Cream, Fresh Mint Chip Ice Cream, Campfire Sundae
What Makes it Special: Serious small-batch ice cream made with organic, farmers market-driven ingredients.
8.8
This world-renowned Taiwanese dumpling empire delivers its signature 18-pleat soup dumplings with breathtaking ocean views from the third floor of Santa Monica Place. Every xiao long bao arrives expertly folded and piping hot, while the bamboo steamer-shaped booths and turf-lined patio create an unexpectedly playful atmosphere for such precise culinary craftsmanship.
Must-Try Dishes:
Pork Xiao Long Bao, Crab & Kurobuta Pork Soup Dumplings, Garlic String Beans
What Makes it Special: Ocean-view patio meets world-class soup dumpling precision
#6
Heavy Handed
8.6
This walk-up smashburger spot uses ground short rib for patties with molten American cheese, house-made bread-and-butter pickles, and tangy Heavy sauce on potato rolls. Lines snake out the bright orange building onto Main Street for burgers that deliver both tender richness and crispy caramelized edges.
Must-Try Dishes:
Double Smashburger, Beef Tallow Fries, Triple Stack
What Makes it Special: Ground short rib patties create uniquely tender and beefy smashburgers
#7
Kappo Miyabi
8.5
Since 2019, this kappo-style restaurant showcases the art of knife and fire cooking with an extensive menu spanning sushi, robata, and hot pots. The lunch omakase special provides exceptional value with its chef's selection of premium cuts and traditional preparations.
Must-Try Dishes:
Miyabi Omakase Lunch, Wagyu Dumplings, Aburi Shime Saba
What Makes it Special: Traditional kappo cooking style rarely found outside Japan
#8
The Albright
8.5
This seafood-focused pier restaurant elevates their Old Bay-seasoned fries to complement fresh catches. Beer-battered and twice-fried, these golden beauties pair perfectly with their sustainable seafood offerings.
Must-Try Dishes:
Old Bay Seasoned Fries, Fish & Chips Platter, Raw Bar Selection
What Makes it Special: Sustainable seafood meets perfectly seasoned fries
8.5
This entirely outdoor restaurant in Bergamot Station's parking lot reimagines farm-to-table dining as an elegant backyard gathering. Chef Rudy hand-picks ingredients daily from multiple markets, cooking everything over open flames at picnic tables under the stars, creating a uniquely Californian experience that feels like a sophisticated campfire feast.
Must-Try Dishes:
Wood-Grilled Lamb Chops, Whole Roasted Fish, Seasonal Vegetable Plates
What Makes it Special: Completely outdoor dining with open-fire cooking and farmers market ingredients
8.4
This longtime beachfront cafe attached to the Annenberg Beach House serves a trio of seafood tacos—fish, shrimp, and salmon—steps from the sand. The tacos pair crisp slaw and pico with ocean views that make a casual plate feel like a mini vacation.
Must-Try Dishes:
Fish Tacos, Shrimp Tacos, Salmon Tacos
What Makes it Special: A Santa Monica landmark where you can eat seafood tacos at tables set directly in the sand.
8.4
Vibes:
Brewery & Beer Garden Republic
Trendy Table Hotspots
Group Dining Gatherings
Outdoor Dining Oasis
Detroit-style pizza specialists with crispy frico crust and creative toppings, housed inside Santa Monica Brew Works. The NYC-bred concept brings square pies with signature sauce stripes.
Must-Try Dishes:
Nashville Hot Chicken Pizza, Le Big Matt Burger, Caesar Salad
What Makes it Special: West Coast debut of acclaimed NYC Detroit-style pizza with award-winning burgers
#12
Lunetta
8.4
Vibes:
Date Night Magic
Outdoor Dining Oasis
Family Friendly Favorites
Birthday & Celebration Central
Chef Raphael Lunetta's neighborhood restaurant features three distinct outdoor patios serving seasonally-driven California cuisine with house-made pastas and wood-grilled meats. The multiple patio spaces create intimate garden-like settings with string lights and lush greenery, offering both casual daytime dining and romantic evening ambiance.
Must-Try Dishes:
Kobe Beef Burger, Wood-Grilled Salmon, Chocolate Lava Cake
What Makes it Special: MICHELIN Plate recognition with three distinct patios and chef-driven seasonal California cooking
#13
North Italia
8.3
Handcrafted Italian with daily chef's choice pizzas and fresh pasta made from scratch, offering sophisticated late-night dining until 11pm on weekends. The open kitchen and ocean breeze create an energetic atmosphere perfect for Santa Monica nights.
Must-Try Dishes:
White Truffle Pizza, The Pig Pizza, Daily Chef's Special Pizza
What Makes it Special: Daily rotating chef's pizza with seasonal ingredients
#14
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
8.2
Chef Antonio Murè reimagines his original Piccolo concept with signature fig and potato tortelli alongside creative homemade pastas and fresh seafood. The charming back patio provides intimate neighborhood dining with specialty cocktails and an impressive wine selection focused on Italian varietals.
Must-Try Dishes:
Fig and Potato Tortelli, Squid Ink Pasta with Clams, Grilled Lamb Sirloin
What Makes it Special: Chef Antonio's signature dishes from his original Piccolo with creative seasonal twists and full bar
#16
Socalo
8.2
Modern Mexican from James Beard and Julia Child Award-winning chefs Feniger and Milliken, built around conscientiously-sourced ingredients and creative plant-forward options like jackfruit tinga tacos alongside traditional preparations. The dual dog-friendly patios and well-regarded happy hour made it a natural fit for Santa Monica groups who wanted upscale execution without fuss.
Must-Try Dishes:
Guacamole, Ceviche, Burrito
What Makes it Special: Modern Mexican cantina with plant-forward options like jackfruit tacos alongside traditional carne asada, all served on a dog-friendly patio
#17
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
#18
Blue Plate Taco
8.2
This beachside Baja-meets-Santa Monica spot features ocean views, handmade tortillas made fresh all day, and a coastal approach to Mexican cuisine. Happy hour brings discounted margaritas and sustainable, organic ingredients prepared with California flair.
Must-Try Dishes:
Baja Fish Tacos, Short Rib Tacos, Lobster Taco
What Makes it Special: Ocean views with organic, sustainably-sourced ingredients
8.2
Chef Vittorio's California-Italian menu with handmade pastas and fire-grilled seafood comes with panoramic Pacific views at Shutters on the Beach. The elevated yet relaxed beachfront dining pairs seasonal cooking with Wine Spectator-recognized selections.
Must-Try Dishes:
Handmade Pastas, Fire-Grilled Seafood, Salted Caramel Sundae
What Makes it Special: Unmatched beachfront location with direct ocean views while dining on sophisticated Italian-California cuisine
8.2
Inspired by East Hampton lobster bakes and Montauk roadside eateries, this casual beachy spot serves overflowing Connecticut and Maine-style lobster rolls with stellar oyster selections. The outdoor patio offers ocean views while maintaining a laid-back vibe that attracts both surfers and studio executives.
Must-Try Dishes:
Connecticut Lobster Roll, Steamers in Broth, Daily Oyster Selection
What Makes it Special: Authentic East Coast seafood shack experience on the West Coast
8.2
Chef Andrea Inio grows herbs on-site for traditional recipes inspired by his Italian upbringing, creating a farm-to-table experience with housemade pasta. The second-floor patio offers a family-friendly atmosphere where Farmers Market ingredients meet authentic Italian techniques.
Must-Try Dishes:
Mushroom Tower Appetizer, Tableside Prepared Pasta, Osso Buco
What Makes it Special: On-site herb garden enhancing every dish
#22
Rabano
8.1
This health-focused counter-service spot opened in 2023, bringing sustainable bowls and Latin-Asian fusion to Main Street with locally sourced ingredients and eco-friendly packaging. The menu balances globally inspired options like Peruvian saltado and Korean-style bowls with approachable California fare, drawing a steady lunch and dinner crowd to its modern, light-filled space.
Must-Try Dishes:
Pork Belly Knockout Bowl, Peruvian Saltado Bowl, VIP Poke Bowl
What Makes it Special: Farm-to-table fusion bowls with extensive vegan and gluten-free options
#23
The Surfing Fox
8.1
Steps from the pier, this coastal California restaurant captures Santa Monica's surf culture with an indoor-outdoor design where ocean breezes flow freely. Chef David Yamaguchi delivers inventive twists on coastal classics using just-caught seafood and farmers market produce.
Must-Try Dishes:
Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich, Pan-Seared Halibut, Fox Fries with Aioli
What Makes it Special: No walls between indoor/outdoor creates constant ocean breeze
#24
Ugo Trattoria
8.1
VPN-certified Neapolitan pizzeria established in 2002 offering wood-fired pizzas with imported Italian tomatoes and handmade gelato. The Third Street Promenade location provides authentic Italian fare in the heart of Santa Monica's shopping district.
Must-Try Dishes:
Margherita Pizza, Quattro Formaggi, Prosciutto e Funghi
What Makes it Special: VPN certification ensuring authentic Neapolitan standards
8.1
Family-operated Jalisco-style restaurant bringing authentic Tepatitlan regional cuisine to Santa Monica since 2015. The Martin family's dedication to fresh ingredients and traditional techniques creates vibrant flavors in generous portions that keep locals returning weekly.
Must-Try Dishes:
Wet Burrito Ahogado, Molcajete Mixto, Carnitas Michoacanas
What Makes it Special: Authentic Jalisco family recipes from Tepatitlan region
8.1
This chef-driven New American restaurant occupies a historic building with a charming courtyard patio. Operating a 100% scratch kitchen with 90% gluten-free menu, they serve Euro-inspired dishes alongside California classics for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Must-Try Dishes:
Protein Power Bowl, Neapolitan Pizza, Puff Bread with Hummus
What Makes it Special: Historic courtyard setting with scratch-made gluten-free focus
#27
Cobi's
8
Chef Tin Vuong's Southeast Asian and African fusion menu leans into high-impact dishes—rendang, curry puffs, branzino—served in a moody, design-forward room on Main Street with a soul and reggae soundtrack that sets the energy level. It draws couples and adventurous eaters who want bold, globally inflected cooking without the stiffness of fine dining. Expect a lively room better suited to a fun night out than a hushed conversation.
Must-Try Dishes:
Butter Chicken, Curry Puffs, Short Rib
What Makes it Special: Southeast Asian and African-inspired dishes from chef Tin Vuong, served in a moody, design-forward Main Street space
#28
Urth Caffé
8
LA institution serving exclusively organic, heirloom coffee with health-conscious California cuisine in Spanish-style building. Founded in 1989, Urth pioneered the organic coffee movement and offers extensive breakfast menu featuring everything from vegan options to decadent pastries, all made with sustainable ingredients in a European-style coffeehouse setting.
Must-Try Dishes:
Breakfast Burrito, Spanish Latte, Sticky Buns
What Makes it Special: America's first exclusively organic coffee company with celebrity following
8
Sweet Rose's pier outpost brings farmers' market-inspired ice cream made with organic ingredients from local farms to beachgoers. Small-batch flavors change monthly based on seasonal produce from Santa Monica Farmers' Market.
Must-Try Dishes:
Fresh Corn Ice Cream, Madagascar Vanilla, Salted Caramel
What Makes it Special: Farm-to-cone ice cream using Santa Monica Farmers' Market ingredients
#30
Cha Cha Chicken
8
Family-owned since 1996, this colorful Caribbean beach shack serves jerk chicken with Latin fusion twists on two covered patios steps from the ocean. The BYOB policy, coconut fried chicken featured on Food Network, and homemade jerk sauce create a laid-back island vibe that locals have treasured for nearly three decades.
Must-Try Dishes:
Jerk Chicken Enchiladas, Coconut Fried Chicken, Cha Cha Chicken
What Makes it Special: Caribbean-Latin fusion with BYOB policy at beach-adjacent outdoor shack
#31
Socalo
8
From Border Grill's Susan Feniger and Mary Sue Milliken, Socalo offers conscientiously-sourced SoCal Mexican with a famous salsa macha. The dog-friendly patios and proximity to Santa Monica Pier make it ideal for casual lunches with craft beers and creative antojitos.
Must-Try Dishes:
Barbacoa Tacos, Tacos Gobernador with Cheesy Shrimp, Jackfruit Tinga Tacos
What Makes it Special: Award-winning chefs' modern Mexican interpretation
#32
Crimson
8
Health-focused Mediterranean cookhouse established in 2013 using hormone-free meats and organic produce when possible. The open-flame grilling method and 40-year family recipes create flavorful dishes with authentic Middle Eastern spices.
Must-Try Dishes:
Salmon Kebab, Filet Mignon Kebab, Chicken Shawarma
What Makes it Special: Hormone-free meats grilled over open flame with health-conscious preparation
Worthy Picks
#33
Lares Restaurant
7.9
A long-running Pico Boulevard Mexican spot built around traditional preparations—mole, chile verde, lengua—served alongside nightly live guitar and weekend mariachi that set the tempo for the whole room. It draws families and large groups who want festive, communal dining with outdoor seating and enough noise to let the table get loud. Expect to raise your voice during peak hours, but that's the point.
Must-Try Dishes:
Enchiladas, Mole, Chile Verde
What Makes it Special: Long-running Pico Boulevard Mexican spot where live mariachi accompanies traditional dishes like mole and chile verde
#34
Kafe K
7.9
European-style cafe serving health-conscious organic breakfasts on a sunny outdoor patio. Women-owned and locally operated, this Main Street spot emphasizes fresh, farm-to-table ingredients with extensive vegetarian and vegan options alongside classic breakfast sandwiches and Mediterranean-inspired salads.
Must-Try Dishes:
Organic Poached Eggs, Smoked Salmon on Toasted Bagel, Acai Bowl
What Makes it Special: European cafe atmosphere with locally sourced organic ingredients
7.9
Día de Muertos-themed cantina established in 1991 featuring Mexico City-inspired dishes and over 300 tequilas on a colorful outdoor patio. The kitchen emphasizes lighter preparations suitable for various dietary preferences while maintaining authentic regional flavors.
Must-Try Dishes:
Shrimp Tacos, Lula Margarita, Chicken Mole
What Makes it Special: One of LA's largest tequila collections with over 500 varieties and vibrant Chicano art
#36
Go Greek Yogurt
7.9
Authentic Greek frozen yogurt bar featuring probiotic-rich options with old-world methods creating luxuriously thick texture. Fresh fruit is hand-cut daily and they offer unique toppings including freshly ground nut butters made to order.
Must-Try Dishes:
Greek Honey Frozen Yogurt, Wild Berry Bowl, Plain with Fresh Fruit
What Makes it Special: Authentic Greek yogurt with freshly ground nut butters on demand
#37
Dogtown Coffee
7.9
Surf-and-skate culture cafe in the landmark Jeff Ho Zephyr building serving health-conscious breakfast burritos and organic micro-roasted coffee. Pet-friendly patio celebrating Santa Monica's iconic skateboard and surfing heritage.
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
#38
Fogo de Chão
7.9
Vibes:
Group Dining Gatherings
Birthday & Celebration Central
Happy Hour Hotspots
Outdoor Dining Oasis
This Brazilian churrasco steakhouse offers continuous tableside service of fire-roasted meats carved by gaucho chefs. The open grill concept with ocean views and extensive Market Table create an interactive dining experience perfect for adventurous couples.
Must-Try Dishes:
Picanha (Top Sirloin), Filet Mignon, Lamb Chops
What Makes it Special: Authentic Brazilian churrasco with endless meat service.
7.9
Neighborhood gathering spot centered around a wood-burning pizza oven serving seasonal market-driven plates and handcrafted pizzas. The cozy enclosed patio features a wood trellis reclaimed from a 1920s Santa Barbara bridge, creating intimate ambiance for Ocean Park locals.
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
7.8
Vibes:
Outdoor Dining Oasis
Family Friendly Favorites
Birthday & Celebration Central
Brunch Bliss Spots
An owner-operated beachside kitchen on Neilson Way where the draw is balcony seating overlooking Ocean View Park's pool and the sand beyond—empanadas and wood-fired pizza served in a setting that does the heavy lifting. It runs as a casual neighborhood spot for families and beachgoers who want to eat steps from the water without a reservation or a prix fixe menu.
Must-Try Dishes:
Margherita Pizza, Beef Empanadas with Olives and Pepper, Spinach and Mozzarella Empanadas
What Makes it Special: Owner-operated beachside kitchen steps from the sand with balcony seating overlooking an Olympic-size pool and Ocean View Park
#41
SOCALO
7.8
Award-winning chefs Susan Feniger and Mary Sue Milliken bring seasonal SoCal-Mexican fare to this Gateway Hotel gem with expansive dog-friendly patios. The funky mid-century decor and string lights create a Palm Springs vibe, while the conscientiously-sourced tacos and strong margaritas make it a reliable neighborhood gathering spot.
Must-Try Dishes:
Deshebrada Brisket Tacos, Tacos Gobernador, Salsa Macha
What Makes it Special: Celebrity chef duo creates approachable Mexican gastropub with sustainable sourcing
#42
Cosetta
7.8
Vibes:
Family Friendly Favorites
Outdoor Dining Oasis
Trendy Table Hotspots
Instagram Worthy Wonders
Chef Zach Pollack's Westside Italian restaurant features California-inflected cooking with wood-fired pizzas and market-driven dishes. The plant-filled patio welcomes families with crayons and sippy cups while maintaining appeal for adult diners.
Must-Try Dishes:
Smoked Mozzarella Sticks, Margherita Pizza, Chocolate Peanut Butter Budino
What Makes it Special: One of few spots successfully balancing toddler-friendly touches with grown-up culinary ambition
#43
Locanda del Lago
7.8
Operating since 1991, this Northern Italian spot near Third Street Promenade specializes in Lake Como cuisine with housemade pasta and focaccia. The Wine Spectator award-winning list of 400+ selections complements traditional recipes using Santa Monica Farmers Market ingredients.
Must-Try Dishes:
Ossobuco alla Milanese, Housemade Ravioli, Fresh Focaccia
What Makes it Special: Authentic Lake Como recipes with local ingredients
7.8
Operating since 1943, this historic diner got an Italian-influenced makeover from Capo restaurant's Bruce Marder. The bougainvillea-covered patio provides a romantic setting for orange pancakes and burrata caprese omelets, while maintaining its neighborhood coffee shop charm with Illy espresso and organic ingredients.
Must-Try Dishes:
Orange Pancakes, Burrata Caprese Omelet, Breakfast Burrito
What Makes it Special: Historic 1943 diner with Italian-influenced breakfast menu
#45
Robata Bar
7.8
Traditional robatayaki grilling meets modern sushi bar in this atmospheric Japanese pub where skewers sizzle over bincho-tan charcoal. The combination of grilled items with fresh sushi creates a unique izakaya-style experience with Pacific views.
Must-Try Dishes:
Robata Specialty Roll, Grilled Salmon Collar Roll, Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice
What Makes it Special: Combination of robata grill and sushi in one spot
#46
Water Grill
7.8
Vibes:
Date Night Magic
Outdoor Dining Oasis
Business Lunch Power Players
Birthday & Celebration Central
While primarily a seafood destination, this iconic restaurant serves exceptional prime steaks with Pacific Ocean views. The luxurious copper bar, live saltwater tanks, and robust daily-changing menu offer surf-and-turf options perfect for special date nights.
Must-Try Dishes:
Bone-In Ribeye, Lobster Tail Combo, Oyster Selection
What Makes it Special: Best surf-and-turf combination with ocean views.
#47
Patio del Mar
7.8
Hotel Casa del Mar's seasonal alfresco bistro sits beachside on the Strand offering fresh seafood, raw bar selections, and coastal fare with unobstructed Pacific Ocean views. Operating seasonally through warmer months, it provides front-row seating to Santa Monica's legendary sunsets and pier views.
Must-Try Dishes:
East and West Coast Oysters, Waygu Hamburger, Shrimp Ceviche
What Makes it Special: Exclusive seasonal oceanfront patio at historic beachfront hotel with unmatched sunset views
#48
Z Garden
7.8
Counter-service Mediterranean that delivers sit-down-sized plates—lamb shank, grilled salmon, shawarma—at fast-casual prices, making it a reliable weeknight solve on Pico. The covered patio and strip-mall lot keep the overhead low and the turnover quick, which is the point: real entrees without the restaurant markup. Best suited for locals who want a full plate and an easy park, not a lingering dinner.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chicken Shawarma, Grilled Salmon, Lemon Chicken
What Makes it Special: Counter-service Mediterranean with full-plate entrees, a leafy covered patio, and portions sized like sit-down dining at fast-casual prices.
7.7
Shutters on the Beach's casual beachside cafe sits directly on the bicycle path with both indoor and outdoor seating offering contemporary comfort food and ocean views. The self-heating floor provides warmth for cooler evenings while diners enjoy New American cuisine with happy hour specials at ocean's edge.
Must-Try Dishes:
Crab Eggs Benedict, Burrata Appetizer, Fish and Chips
What Makes it Special: Rare direct beach path access with separate entrance for beachgoers and casual atmosphere at luxury hotel
#50
JINYA Ramen Bar
7.7
Contemporary ramen chain serving 20-hour simmered tonkotsu broths with handcrafted noodles in sleek modern space. The heated outdoor patio with firepit creates lively atmosphere for customizable bowls and crispy fried chicken.
Must-Try Dishes:
Tonkotsu Black Ramen, JINYA Bun, Japanese Fried Chicken
What Makes it Special: Firepit-centered patio creates social ramen experience near beach
7.7
Corner pizzeria on Third Street Promenade offers New York-style pies and prime people-watching. Quick-service spot delivers reliable slices and whole pies perfect for families exploring the pedestrian shopping district.
Must-Try Dishes:
Margherita Pizza, Sicilian Thick Crust, BBQ Chicken Pizza
What Makes it Special: Prime location for promenade dining with outdoor patio
#52
Nick The Greek
7.7
This authentic Greek street food spot serves vertical rotisserie gyros, souvlaki skewers, and loukoumades (Greek beignets) with honey. The casual counter-service format with outdoor seating makes it ideal for quick, satisfying Greek classics without breaking the bank.
Must-Try Dishes:
Beef/Lamb Gyro Pita, Greek Fries, Loukoumades with Honey
What Makes it Special: Authentic Greek street food at wallet-friendly prices
#53
Ashland Hill
7.7
This casual gastropub serves contemporary American fare with outdoor seating and a dog-friendly patio that welcomes four-legged guests with their own menu. The beer garden atmosphere supports weekend brunch and late-night dining, with menu highlights spanning ground turkey burgers to banana cream pie desserts.
Must-Try Dishes:
Ground Turkey Burger, Banana Cream Pie, Parmesan Fries
What Makes it Special: Genuinely dog-friendly with separate canine menu and welcoming atmosphere
#54
M Street Kitchen
7.7
An all-day comfort food operation on Main Street with an in-house bakery turning out cookies and pastries alongside a brunch-heavy menu built around eggs benedict and avocado toast. The draw is the sprawling, pet-friendly patio steps from the beach—big enough for group hangs and casual enough for weekday happy hour sangrias. It works best as a low-stakes gathering spot where the setting does as much heavy lifting as the food.
Must-Try Dishes:
Eggs Benedict, Hash Browns, Cookies
What Makes it Special: All-day comfort food with an in-house bakery and a sprawling pet-friendly patio steps from the beach on Main Street
#55
Pacific Catch
7.6
Sustainable seafood specialist blends Pacific Rim flavors with California sensibility, offering poke bowls, sushi tacos, and fresh catch plates on a sunny patio. The extensive menu satisfies diverse tastes from traditional sashimi to innovative fusion creations.
Must-Try Dishes:
Poke Duo Bowl, Wasabi Crusted Ahi, Coconut Shrimp Roll
What Makes it Special: Sustainable sourcing with Surfrider Foundation partnership
#56
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
#57
Vamos Vamos
7.6
A nacho-and-margarita bar that pivoted toward Japanese-Mexican fusion under new chef Ivan Barros, with duck tacos and carne asada earning repeat praise while the cocktail program—anchored by nine margarita variations and a mezcal-watermelon standout—remains the most reliable draw. The sprawling Main Street patio sets the tone for a casual, flip-flops-welcome session, though food quality swings between visits and portions run lean for the price point. Best approached as a drinks-forward hangout where you graze the taco menu and lean into happy hour.
Must-Try Dishes:
Nachos, Duck Tacos, Grilled Fish Tacos
What Makes it Special: Nacho and margarita bar blending New Mexican hatch chile specialties with beachside Santa Monica energy on Main Street.
#58
Alfalfa
7.6
Counter-service cafe from Hoboken specializes in organic salads and wraps but offers gluten-free donuts with unique flavors like lemon thyme and fairy bread. The sunny back patio and health-forward approach attract the Main Street lunch crowd seeking balance.
Must-Try Dishes:
Lemon Thyme Donut, Fairy Bread Donut, Blood Orange Donut
What Makes it Special: Gluten-free donuts fried in dedicated fryers alongside health-focused salads
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