0 Followers
Simonette
Master Critic Reviews (5 Lists)
Simonette
7.9
All-day French café and bistro inside Palihotel Culver City reimagining a 1920s boarding house with a charming courtyard. The menu delivers approachable French-American classics from morning croissants through evening beef bourguignon in an unpretentious, light-strung setting.
Must-Try Dishes:
Moules Frites, French Onion Soup, Dijon Burger
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 7.3
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 8.5
Cultural Relevance: 7.5
What makes it special: Hidden courtyard setting with tree growing inside creates magical garden atmosphere
Who should go: Hotel guests, locals seeking approachable French fare, happy hour hunters
When to visit: Monday all-night happy hour, weekend brunch in the courtyard
What to order: Half-priced burgers during happy hour, beef bourguignon, clams Simonette
Insider tip: Happy hour runs 3-6pm weekdays with $8 wines and $12 cocktails, all night Mondays
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Washington Blvd and side streets, typically easy before 6pm. Hotel valet available $15 for non-guests. Paid lot across street $8 flat rate after 5pm.
Dress code: Casually chic - nice jeans and button-down works, but courtyard atmosphere invites sundresses and linen. Avoid gym wear.
Noise level: Quiet to moderate - courtyard absorbs sound beautifully, indoor dining room can get lively during happy hour but conversation flows easily
Weekend wait: 30-45 min without reservation Friday-Saturday after 7pm, courtyard tables book fastest
Weekday lunch: Walk-ins usually seated within 10 minutes, peak rush 12-1pm
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - 6-8 options including ratatouille, mushroom omelette, seasonal vegetable tart. French cuisine leans butter-heavy but accommodating.
Vegan options: Limited - 2-3 options (salads, vegetable sides). Call ahead for modifications. Not a vegan-first menu.
Gluten-free options: Moderate options - several protein dishes naturally GF, can modify some items. No dedicated prep area but kitchen is careful with cross-contact.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Excellent choice. The courtyard creates intimate atmosphere without being stuffy, prices won't terrify anyone ($18-32 mains), and conversation flows easily. Request courtyard seating when booking. Skip Monday happy hour - too casual for romance.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Weekday lunch and early dinners (before 6pm) usually fine. Weekend brunch and Friday/Saturday dinners absolutely need reservations - courtyard fills by 11am weekends. Bar seating available walk-in for full menu.
Is it kid-friendly? Surprisingly yes for French dining. Courtyard setting gives kids space, brunch has scrambled eggs and pastries, staff is welcoming. Best for ages 6+ who can sit through a meal. Avoid peak dinner service if kids are restless.
How's the happy hour compared to other Culver City spots? Superior value - $8 wines and $12 cocktails beat most Downtown Culver competition, half-price burgers are legitimately good. Monday all-night happy hour is the move. More sophisticated vibe than sports bars, less pretentious than Platform spots.
Is the courtyard heated for evening dining? Yes - heat lamps and blankets provided. Courtyard open year-round but most magical spring through fall. Winter evenings can be chilly despite heating, request indoor table if you run cold.
Best For
Better for: Romantic ambiance without stuffiness, all-day dining flexibility (breakfast through dinner), happy hour value, hotel-adjacent convenience for out-of-towners, European café vibe without pretension
Skip if: You want bold innovative French (this is classic bistro comfort), need extensive vegan options, seeking scene-y energy (this is relaxed), want authentic Parisian formality, or need validated parking
Simonette
8.1
Located in the Palihotel courtyard, this French bistro captures Parisian cafe culture with bistro-style seating under umbrellas and classic dishes like croque madame and quiche. The charming outdoor space and weekend brunch service make it feel like a hidden neighborhood escape.
Must-Try Dishes:
Burger with Dijon, Croissants, French Omelette
Scores:
Value: 8.5
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 8.4
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: Authentic French bistro in a 1920s restored hotel courtyard
Who should go: Francophiles and hotel guests seeking leisurely European-style brunch
When to visit: Saturday-Sunday 10am-3pm for brunch, happy hour Monday-Friday 3-6pm
What to order: Signature burger, croissants, beef bourguignon
Insider tip: Half-priced burgers during happy hour, valet parking available
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet parking available at Palihotel entrance ($12-15), street parking on Washington Blvd typically easier on weekdays, public lot 1 block east on Culver
Dress code: Casual chic - sundresses and nice jeans work perfectly, matches the relaxed French bistro vibe
Noise level: Quiet to moderate - courtyard setting keeps it intimate, easy conversation throughout brunch
Weekend wait: Dinner not served - brunch only Sat-Sun 10am-3pm, peak wait 20-30 min around 11am
Weekday lunch: No brunch service weekdays, lunch available Mon-Fri with minimal wait
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - French onion soup, quiche varieties, salads, and vegetarian croque monsieur available
Vegan options: Limited - can modify salads and sides, but menu is traditionally French with dairy/eggs in most dishes
Gluten-free options: Possible with modifications - skip the croissants, but salads and some entrees work, inform server
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Excellent choice - the romantic courtyard setting feels European and special without being stuffy, plus brunch timing keeps it casual and low-pressure
Can I get a table without a reservation? Hit or miss on weekends - arrive right at 10am opening or after 1:30pm for best walk-in odds, weekday lunch is much easier
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for well-behaved kids - outdoor courtyard works for families, but the vibe skews toward couples and small groups enjoying leisurely brunch
How does it compare to Republique for French brunch? More intimate and quieter than Republique's bustling scene - choose Simonette for a hidden gem vibe, Republique for Instagram-worthy pastries and energy
Is the burger really worth it? Locals swear by it - classic bistro burger with perfectly crispy fries, and half-price during happy hour makes it one of Culver City's best burger deals
Best For
Better for: Intimate European ambiance without the pretense - feels like a secret Parisian courtyard versus generic brunch spots, better for conversation and romance than louder competitors
Skip if: You want a big boozy brunch scene with bottomless mimosas, need extensive vegan options, or prefer modern fusion over classic French preparations
Simonette
8.2
Palihotel's all-day French café charms with its leafy interior courtyard and Parisian bistro aesthetic that draws Instagram lovers throughout the day. The menu balances hearty French classics like beef bourguignon with accessible options including a Dijon burger, while Monday-Friday happy hour offers half-price burgers that locals swear by.
Must-Try Dishes:
Clams Simonette with Café de Paris Butter, French Onion Soup, Steak Frites
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.3
Atmosphere: 8.7
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: Enchanting tree-lit courtyard creates transportive Parisian ambiance all day long
Who should go: All-day diners from morning croissants to evening cocktails
When to visit: Happy hour weekdays 3-6pm for budget-friendly burgers and wine
What to order: Clams Simonette, French onion soup, happy hour burger deal
Insider tip: Monday features all-night happy hour pricing at the bar
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Washington Blvd or nearby blocks, typically easier before 5pm. Public lot behind building $3-5 depending on time
Dress code: Casual chic - jeans welcome but locals dress up slightly for the European vibe
Noise level: Pleasantly buzzy in courtyard, quieter indoors - good for conversation at both
Weekend wait: 30-45 min without reservation Friday/Saturday nights, courtyard tables go first
Weekday lunch: Minimal wait except Tuesday-Thursday 12-1pm office crowd (15-20 min)
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - solid options including ratatouille, mushroom quiche, and multiple salads
Vegan options: Limited - 2-3 adaptable dishes, best to call ahead for modifications
Gluten-free options: Some options available - can modify several dishes but not a specialty, ask server
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Excellent choice - romantic courtyard setting feels special without being stuffy, moderate noise allows conversation, and $$ pricing hits the sweet spot of impressive-but-not-intimidating
Can I get a table without a reservation? Weekday lunch and happy hour usually fine for walk-ins. Weekend brunch and Friday/Saturday dinner book up - reserve or arrive right at 5pm opening to snag courtyard seating
Is it kid-friendly? Daytime yes (brunch/lunch crowd includes families), evening leans date night. No kids menu but approachable options like burger and pasta. High chairs available
How does the happy hour deal work? Monday-Friday 3-6pm: half-price burgers ($9 instead of $18) plus discounted wine and cocktails. Bar seating only on busy days. Monday extends all night at the bar
Is the courtyard heated? Yes - heat lamps keep it comfortable year-round, though February mornings can be chilly. Request blankets if needed
Best For
Better for: Unbeatable ambiance-to-price ratio in Culver City - gets you that European vacation feeling without République or Republique prices. Happy hour burger deal crushes any comparable French bistro value. All-day service means brunch at 3pm is fair game
Skip if: You want cutting-edge French technique (this is bistro comfort, not fine dining) or need extensive vegan options. If you're after trendy fusion or bold flavors, Culver City has edgier spots - Simonette plays the classics straight
Simonette
8.1
French-inspired all-day cafe and bistro at the base of Palihotel channels Parisian charm with California ingredients. Buttery croissants and croque madames anchor the morning menu at this chic downtown spot where breakfast flows into happy hour and dinner service, complete with courtyard seating and valet parking.
Must-Try Dishes:
Croissants, Croque Madame, French Omelette
Scores:
Value: 7.6
Service: 8
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 8.5
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: Parisian cafe elegance meets California casualness in boutique hotel setting
Who should go: Date night diners and French cuisine lovers seeking all-day dining
When to visit: Weekday breakfast 8-11am or happy hour Monday-Friday 3-6pm
What to order: Fresh croissants with house marmalade, croque madame, cortado coffee
Insider tip: Monday features all-night happy hour with half-priced burgers
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet available at Palihotel base ($15), street metered parking on Washington Blvd (2-hour limit), public lot at Culver & Washington
Dress code: Elevated casual - think nice jeans and blouse or button-down, avoid gym wear
Noise level: Conversational - indoor bistro acoustics allow easy talking, quieter courtyard seating available
Weekend wait: 30-45 min without reservation Friday-Saturday after 7pm, book ahead recommended
Weekday lunch: Minimal wait, walk-ins usually seated within 10 minutes
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - multiple options including veggie croque monsieur, seasonal salads, and French onion soup
Vegan options: Limited - can modify salads and sides, best to call ahead for entree accommodations
Gluten-free options: Some options - GF bread available for croque dishes, naturally GF salads, limited pastry alternatives
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Excellent choice - romantic Parisian ambiance without being stuffy, moderate noise level allows conversation, and the all-day menu means flexibility if you're nervous about dinner timing. Courtyard seating adds charm.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Weekday breakfast and lunch usually fine for walk-ins. Weekend brunch and any dinner service - make a reservation. Monday happy hour gets busy but bar seating typically available.
Is it kid-friendly? Better for older kids (10+) during breakfast/lunch - refined atmosphere suits well-behaved children. Not ideal for toddlers or dinner with young kids. No kids menu but croissants and simpler dishes available.
Best For
Better for: All-day French dining convenience, hotel lobby sophistication, reliable quality from breakfast through dinner, Monday burger deal, authentic Parisian cafe vibe in Culver City
Skip if: You want casual family brunch, need extensive vegan options, prefer loud energetic scenes, looking for budget breakfast under $15/person, or want innovative modern French versus classic bistro
Simonette
8.2
All-day French café and bistro inside Palihotel Culver City combining neighborhood warmth with Parisian style since 2019. The leafy courtyard and indoor space serve classic French-American dishes from morning espresso to late-night digestifs. Monday all-night happy hour makes their excellent $10 burgers even more appealing.
Must-Try Dishes:
Clams Simonette, French Onion Soup, Steak Frites
Scores:
Value: 8.5
Service: 8
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 8.3
Atmosphere: 8.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: All-day French café format with one of Culver City's best happy hour deals
Who should go: Locals wanting approachable French food in a beautiful setting
When to visit: Monday for all-night happy hour or weekend brunch
What to order: Happy hour burger, clams with café de Paris butter, French onion soup
Insider tip: The leafy interior courtyard with string lights feels like a secret garden
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet available at Palihotel entrance ($15), or use nearby Culver City parking structures within 2 blocks - street parking competitive after 5pm
Dress code: Casual chic - nice jeans and button-down work, but you'll see everything from sundresses to blazers
Noise level: Moderate inside, quieter in courtyard - can have proper conversation without leaning in
Weekend wait: 30-45 min without reservation Friday/Saturday after 7pm, but bar seating usually available
Weekday lunch: Walk-ins generally seated within 10 minutes, peak lunch rush 12:30-1pm
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - 5-6 solid options including mushroom omelet, niçoise salad (sans tuna), and seasonal vegetable plates
Vegan options: Limited - 2-3 options, but kitchen accommodates modifications for most salads and sides
Gluten-free options: Yes - several naturally GF options (steak frites without frites, salads) and GF bread available for breakfast
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Excellent choice - the courtyard setting is romantic without being stuffy, noise level allows conversation, and French bistro vibe feels special but not intimidating. Skip Monday happy hour for first dates (too casual/crowded).
Can I get a table without a reservation? Weekday lunch and early dinners (before 6pm) you're usually fine. Weekend brunch and Friday/Saturday dinner book up - but the bar has full menu and courtyard sometimes opens walk-in tables. Monday happy hour is first-come chaos.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for brunch and early dinner - high chairs available, relaxed courtyard vibe, and simple French classics (croque monsieur, steak) kids enjoy. After 8pm it skews more date night/cocktail crowd.
How does the happy hour actually work? Monday only, ALL NIGHT (not just 5-7pm like most places) - $10 burger, $2 off cocktails/wine, discounted appetizers. Bar and courtyard only, gets packed after 6pm but worth it for the deal.
Is brunch worth the hype? If you love French breakfast culture - yes. Think proper croissants, jambon-beurre, œufs en meurette. Not the Instagram bottomless mimosa scene, more civilized European café experience with excellent coffee.
Best For
Better for: All-day accessibility (breakfast through late night), outdoor courtyard dining, value-driven French food via Monday happy hour, and hotel lobby sophistication without hotel prices. Best neighborhood French option for casual repeat visits.
Skip if: You want formal fine dining French (go République or Mélisse), need guaranteed weekend seating without planning ahead, or expect authentic Parisian bistro gruffness - service here is California-friendly, not brusque French.