Best Seafood Restaurants in Santa Monica
6 hand-picked restaurants, critic-reviewed and ranked
Last Updated: February 2026
Our Top Pick
The Lobster
Century-old legacy restaurant with Michelin recognition and panoramic ocean views
Notable Picks
#1
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
#2
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
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
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
Worthy Picks
7.8
This casual Texas-born chain brings Gulf Coast vibes to Santa Monica with butter-drenched Connecticut rolls and refreshing Maine-style options. Known for generous lobster portions and ice-cold draft beers, it's a reliable spot for East Coast seafood classics done right.
Must-Try Dishes:
Double Stuff Maine Roll, Lobster Bisque, Lobster Mac & Cheese
What Makes it Special: Texas-style portions of New England seafood favorites
#6
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.