30 Photos
ZipPicks Awards
Best Luxury Dining French in Santa Monica
Best Outdoor Dining Mediterranean in Santa Monica
Best Date Night French in Santa Monica
Best French in Santa Monica
Best Instagram Worthy French in Santa Monica
Master Critic Review
Massilia
8.1
Marseille-inspired brasserie since 1997 blending French, Italian, Spanish, and North African influences. Known for exceptional happy hour with 50% off drinks and authentic bouillabaisse that transports diners to the Mediterranean coast.
Must-Try Dishes:
8-Hour Braised Lamb Shank, Traditional Bouillabaisse, Clams with Merguez Sausage
Scores:
Value: 8.9
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 7.8
Cultural Relevance: 7.5
What makes it special: Authentic Marseille flavors with incredible happy hour value
Who should go: Mediterranean food lovers seeking authenticity
When to visit: Weekday happy hour 4-6pm for best deals
What to order: Lamb shank, bouillabaisse, happy hour cocktails
Insider tip: Happy hour offers 50% off all cocktails and wines
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking challenging after 5pm, public garage 2 blocks away ($8 flat rate evenings), valet not available
Dress code: California casual chic - nice jeans welcome, avoid athletic wear
Noise level: Lively but conversational - louder during happy hour rush
Weekend wait: 30-45 min without reservation, bar seating often available
Weekday lunch: No wait before 12:30pm, 15-20 min during peak
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - ratatouille, vegetable tagine, and modified pastas available
Vegan options: Limited - 2-3 options, chef can modify sides and salads
Gluten-free options: Some options - grilled fish and meat dishes, notify server for prep
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Perfect for dates - intimate lighting, not too loud, shareable Mediterranean plates create natural conversation. Happy hour takes pressure off the bill.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Weeknight walk-ins usually fine, especially before 6:30pm. Weekends book ahead or try the bar area which serves full menu.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes until 8pm - high chairs available, kids love the French fries and simple grilled fish. After 8pm becomes more adult-oriented.
Best For
Better for: More authentic Mediterranean flavors than typical French bistros, unbeatable happy hour value compared to other Santa Monica spots
Consider Alternatives If: You want formal French fine dining or need extensive vegan options - try Dialogue or Rustic Canyon instead
Hours
Monday7am - 11pm
Tuesday7am - 11pm
Wednesday7am - 11pm
Thursday7am - 11pm
Friday7am - 12am
Saturday7am - 12am
Sunday7am - 11pm