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Mon Ami
Master Critic Reviews (3 Lists)
Mon Ami
8.6
Hidden behind a neon pink sign near the pier, this Mediterranean escape transports diners to coastal Morocco and Spain through vibrant mezze platters and lobster catalana. The multi-level venue buzzes with energy from its pink-fringed patio to the upstairs nightclub after dark.
Must-Try Dishes:
Lobster alla Catalana Pasta, Mezze Platter, 7 Spice Chicken
Scores:
Value: 8.1
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 9
Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: Mediterranean party palace with late-night dancing upstairs
Who should go: Groups seeking dinner-to-dancing transitions
When to visit: Friday nights for full party experience
What to order: Lobster catalana, mezze platter, cocktails
Insider tip: Enter through the alley between restaurants following the signs
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet $15, nearby pier lots $10-25, street parking extremely limited after 5pm
Dress code: Smart casual to dressy - nice jeans acceptable but lean elevated for nightclub access
Noise level: Moderate during dinner (7-9pm), gets louder after 10pm when DJ starts upstairs
Weekend wait: 60-90 min without reservation, especially Friday/Saturday
Weekday lunch: Not open for lunch - dinner service starts at 5pm
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - extensive mezze options, grilled vegetables, and dedicated entrees
Vegan options: Limited - hummus, baba ganoush, and salads can be modified
Gluten-free options: Moderate - grilled proteins and salads available, but limited bread alternatives
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Perfect for adventurous first dates - the pink patio creates romantic ambiance early evening, but gets party-focused after 10pm. Book 7-8pm for best date atmosphere.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Unlikely on weekends - try bar seating or arrive before 6pm on weekdays. The upstairs lounge takes walk-ins after 10pm but requires bottle service.
Is it kid-friendly? Not recommended for children - the nightclub atmosphere and late-night focus make it better suited for adults. No kids menu available.
Best For
Better for: Seamless dinner-to-dancing transition without changing venues, best late-night Mediterranean scene in Santa Monica
Skip if: You want quiet conversation, authentic traditional Mediterranean, or dining before 5pm
Mon Ami
8.2
Hidden Mediterranean escape directly across from Santa Monica Pier serving curated farmer's market ingredients with Spanish, Greek, and Moroccan influences. The lobster alla Catalana pasta and 7-spice chicken draw celebrity crowds including Kendall Jenner's team events.
Must-Try Dishes:
Lobster alla Catalana Pasta, 7 Spice Chicken, Mezze Platter
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 8
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 8.3
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Celebrity-frequented hidden spot with Mediterranean fusion excellence.
Who should go: Date night seekers and foodie adventurers
When to visit: Weekend evenings for best atmosphere
What to order: Lobster pasta, mezze platter, 7-spice chicken
Insider tip: Ask for the patio during golden hour
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking near pier is brutal - expect $15-20 lots or 10-15 min walk from residential streets
Dress code: Elevated casual - nice jeans and a stylish top works, avoid beachwear despite proximity to pier
Noise level: Intimate buzz - lively but conversation-friendly, patio is quieter
Weekend wait: 60-90 min without reservation, they don't do waitlists
Weekday lunch: Walk-in friendly before 12:30pm, 20-30 min after
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Excellent - half the mezze menu plus dedicated mains like stuffed eggplant
Vegan options: Good - can veganize most mezze, ask for the off-menu falafel bowl
Gluten-free options: Moderate - naturally GF Middle Eastern dishes, but limited pasta alternatives
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Perfect - intimate lighting, shareable plates encourage conversation, and the hidden location feels like you're in on a secret
Can I get a table without a reservation? Weeknights before 6:30pm yes, otherwise prepare to wait. Bar seats open up faster - great for couples
Is it kid-friendly? Better for teens+ who appreciate adventurous food. No kids menu, limited high chairs, romantic atmosphere
Best For
Better for: More intimate and special-occasion than Republique, better Mediterranean fusion than typical Greek spots in SM
Skip if: You want quick casual Mediterranean - hit up Cava instead. Also skip if you need big group seating (max table is 6)
Mon Ami
8.4
This Mediterranean escape near the pier blends Greek, Italian, and Moroccan influences with locally-sourced ingredients from Santa Monica Farmers Market. The venue transforms from elegant dinner spot to vibrant lounge, offering craft cocktails alongside dishes like lobster alla catalana and lamb tagine.
Must-Try Dishes:
Lobster alla Catalana Pasta, 7 Spice Chicken, Mediterranean Branzino
Scores:
Value: 7.2
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 8.9
Cultural Relevance: 8.5
What makes it special: Mediterranean fusion with a sophisticated lounge atmosphere steps from the pier
Who should go: Date nights and celebration seekers
When to visit: Sunset for cocktails and ocean breeze
What to order: Mezze platters, lobster pasta, craft cocktails
Insider tip: Tuesday industry nights offer special cocktail pricing
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet $15, metered street parking scarce after 5pm, public lots 2 blocks away
Dress code: Smart casual to dressy - nice jeans acceptable but lean elevated for evening
Noise level: Moderate during dinner (7-9pm), gets louder as lounge vibe kicks in after 9pm
Weekend wait: 60-90 min without reservation, bar seating sometimes available
Weekday lunch: Not open for lunch except Sunday brunch (30 min wait typical)
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - extensive mezze options plus dedicated vegetarian entrees
Vegan options: Limited - 3-4 modified dishes, hummus and salads always available
Gluten-free options: Moderate - naturally GF Greek dishes, but limited pasta alternatives
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Perfect - romantic lighting, shareable mezze plates encourage conversation, and ocean breeze patio creates memorable atmosphere without being overly formal
Can I get a table without a reservation? Unlikely Thursday-Saturday after 6pm. Best bet is bar seating or arriving right at 5pm opening. Tuesday/Wednesday more flexible
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal - transitions to lounge atmosphere after 8pm, no kids menu. Better for teens who appreciate Mediterranean food
Best For
Better for: Mediterranean fusion with nightlife transition - no other spot combines Greek dining with craft cocktail lounge vibes near the pier
Skip if: You want authentic traditional Greek taverna experience or quiet intimate dining after 9pm