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Norma
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Norma
7.9
Chef Christopher Leal's coastal California restaurant brings inventive twists to American classics in a sophisticated 1930s-inspired space with DJs spinning vinyl. The Santa Barbara crab fried rice and lobster benedict showcase the kitchen's seafood expertise alongside creative cocktails.
Must-Try Dishes:
Santa Barbara Crab Fried Rice, Lobster Benedict, Grilled Sea Bass
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 7.5
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 8.2
Cultural Relevance: 7.2
What makes it special: Coastal California cuisine meets vintage glamour and DJ vibes
Who should go: Sophisticated brunch crowds and cocktail enthusiasts
When to visit: Weekend brunch or Thursday DJ nights
What to order: Crab fried rice, Pornstar cocktail, lobster benedict
Insider tip: Free reservations available on OpenTable and Resy
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet $15, limited street parking - use nearby parking garages on weekends
Dress code: Smart casual - trendy attire encouraged, no athletic wear
Noise level: Moderate to loud - DJ nights can be energetic, brunch more conversational
Weekend wait: 30-45 min without reservation, book ahead recommended
Weekday lunch: Walk-ins usually seated within 15 min
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - several options beyond salads, modifications available
Vegan options: Limited - 2-3 dishes, kitchen can modify some items
Gluten-free options: Yes - seafood dishes naturally GF, alert server for cross-contamination
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Perfect for impressive first dates - sophisticated atmosphere, great cocktails, and DJ creates energy without being too loud for conversation during dinner service
Can I get a table without a reservation? Bar seating usually available for walk-ins, but dining room books up - use OpenTable or Resy for free reservations, especially for weekend brunch
Is it kid-friendly? Better for teens and up - sophisticated vibe and bar-forward atmosphere make it less suitable for young children, especially during DJ nights
Best For
Better for: Superior seafood execution and cocktail program compared to nearby American spots, plus unique DJ atmosphere you won't find at competitors
Skip if: Choose Republique or Gjelina instead if you want quieter ambiance or more extensive vegetarian options
Norma
8.2
This coastal California restaurant blends Mediterranean influences with innovative New American cuisine, featuring standout crab fried rice and house-made sourdough. The sophisticated yet approachable atmosphere attracts a stylish West Hollywood crowd seeking creative small plates and craft cocktails.
Must-Try Dishes:
Santa Barbara Crab Fried Rice, Pork Belly with Asian Pear, House Sourdough with Cultured Butter
Scores:
Value: 7.6
Service: 8
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 8.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: Elevated coastal California fare with Mediterranean touches and exceptional cocktails
Who should go: Date nights and trendy dining enthusiasts
When to visit: Friday evenings for the buzzing bar scene
What to order: Crab fried rice, sourdough, craft cocktails
Insider tip: Request the lounge area for a more intimate experience
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet $15, limited street parking after 7pm, nearby garage on San Vicente ($10)
Dress code: Smart casual - jeans with nice top works, but lean elevated for dinner
Noise level: Moderate to lively - conversation-friendly but energetic on weekends
Weekend wait: 60-90 min without reservation, bar seating sometimes available
Weekday lunch: Usually immediate seating, 10-15 min during peak lunch
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - strong selection including mezze plates and vegetable-forward mains
Vegan options: Limited - 3-4 modified options, kitchen accommodating with advance notice
Gluten-free options: Yes - marked menu items, dedicated fryer for certain dishes
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Perfect - intimate lighting, shareable plates encourage conversation, and the lounge area offers cozy seating. Not too loud, not too quiet.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Unlikely on weekends. Best bet is arriving right at 5pm opening or trying for bar seats. Tuesday-Thursday more flexible.
Is it kid-friendly? Better suited for ages 12+ given the sophisticated vibe. No kids menu, but kitchen can do simple pasta. Earlier dinner times more accommodating.
Best For
Better for: Mediterranean-California fusion you can't find elsewhere, exceptional cocktail program, and that Instagram-perfect ambiance for special occasions
Skip if: You want traditional Mediterranean, need a quick casual meal, or dining with young children - try Cleo or Dama instead