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Orla by Michael Mina
$$$$ · Brunch, Greek, Middle Eastern

1700 Ocean Ave, Santa Monica, CA 90401 (310) 899-4050
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ZipPicks Awards

Best Outdoor Dining Mediterranean in Santa Monica Best Middle Eastern in Santa Monica Best Greek in Santa Monica Best Instagram Worthy Brunch in Santa Monica

Vibe Check this spot

Food Quality 5
Service 5
Atmosphere 5
Value 5
Consistency 5
Cultural Relevance 5

0 / 5 selected

Master Critic Review

Orla by Michael Mina 9.1
Santa Monica
Vibes: Date Night Magic Luxury Dining Elite Outdoor Dining Oasis
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
Scores:
Value: 7.8 Service: 9.2 Consistency: 8.8 Food Quality: 9.4 Atmosphere: 9.5 Cultural Relevance: 9.3
What makes it special: Michelin-starred chef's Mediterranean vision with unmatched ocean views
Who should go: Anniversary celebrants, business power diners
When to visit: Sunset hour for magical golden light
What to order: Saganaki, lamb chops, baklava french toast
Insider tip: Request patio seating at sunset for the full experience
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet $15, self-parking in Shutters garage $10 with validation, street parking scarce after 5pm
Dress code: California elegant - nice jeans with dressy top acceptable, many in business casual or cocktail attire
Noise level: Moderate indoor, quieter on patio - intimate conversation friendly
Weekend wait: No walk-ins accepted Friday-Sunday dinner, book 2-3 weeks ahead
Weekday lunch: Bar seating sometimes available, dining room requires reservation
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - multiple mezze options, dedicated vegetable-forward small plates
Vegan options: Yes - chef will modify dishes, notify when booking for best experience
Gluten-free options: Yes - most small plates adaptable, dedicated fryer for GF items
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Perfect for impressing - romantic ocean views, shareable plates encourage conversation, but prepare for $200+ for two with wine
Can I get a table without a reservation? Bar seats only for walk-ins Tuesday-Thursday, full restaurant books 2-3 weeks out for prime times
Is it kid-friendly? Better for teens and up - no kids menu, sophisticated atmosphere, though well-behaved children welcomed at lunch
Best For
Better for: Superior ocean views and outdoor ambiance vs Republique, more refined Mediterranean execution than Gjelina, better service than Bestia
Consider Alternatives If: Want casual beachy vibes (try The Albright instead), need large portions (go to Taverna Tony), on tight budget (try Cava or Mizlala)

Hours

Monday6:30am - 12am
Tuesday6:30am - 12am
Wednesday6:30am - 12am
Thursday6:30am - 12am
Friday6:30am - 12am
Saturday6:30am - 12am
Sunday6:30am - 12am