Sign in
Hidden gems: restaurants in Santa Monica
Map viewDiscover the city's hidden treasures—remarkable spots that are relatively undiscovered but offer exceptional experiences. Our selection criteria? A rating of 4.5 or higher with fewer than 150 reviews. Explore these lesser-known yet outstanding places that promise a delightful visit in Santa Monica. Ratings are based from 527 places in Santa Monica
The Misfit Restaurant & Bar
225 Santa Monica Blvd 90401-2207
"The food is tasty but overpriced. Lunch for 2 with 1 drink cost almost 100 dollars. They have come up with all kinds of unusual combinations that are unique and interesting. Some things I liked, othe..."
Hillstone Restaurant
202 Wilshire Blvd 90401-1202
"It’s a go to place for me in Santa Monica. It’s got that lush dark steak house vibe but a menu full of healthier fare like sushi. The Hawaiian Rib Eye might just be my favorite steak ever with a s..."
La Vecchia Cucina
2654 Main St Ste D 90405-4066
"We loved this place. Great food. Nice service. Very reasonable prices. The bread served with garlic and oil is addictive!"
Pier Burger
330 Santa Monica Pier 90401-3128
"We were little surprised to find the burger place on beach. I mean thats a new experience. We were really hungry at that time fortunately we found pier burger. They have very limited but interesting m..."
Brunos
1652 Ocean Ave 90401-3212
"Really nice and cute family restaurant. I loved the atmosphere and service. Bathroom could use an update. I had the gnocchi, which was good but a bit too plain for me. Other than that it was great."
Bay Cities Italian Deli
1517 Lincoln Blvd 90401-2776
"Picked up a sandwich hear for the first time yesterday and wow, it was so fresh. From the baguette to the meat, everything tasted wonderful. I would highly recommend to others looking for a fantastic..."
R+D Kitchen
1323 Montana Ave 90403-1709
"Delish food, friendly service, great location and won't break the bank (all things being relative; this IS Santa Monica, after all). The place came recommended to me (a visitor) by a good friend (who..."
Patrick's Roadhouse
106 Entrada Dr 90402-1249
"Our burgers were delicious, the meat was cooked perfectly, the avocado was fresh, the sauce was very nice and the buns were soft and worked well with the whole sandwich. The burger = 5 stars, customer..."
Lares
2909 Pico Blvd 90405-2001
"Best mexican restaurant I’ve been to in a long time. Went during the lunch rush and got seated right away. The margarita was strong and tasty. The enchiladas con Mole was so amazing as well!"
Stout Burgers & Beer
111 Santa Monica Blvd 90401-2201
"I really enjoyed the atmosphere at Stout. I met family here for some drinks after a Titans game, so it had already cleared out, unfortunately a lot of the beer had too. The food was great, and the bee..."
Uovo
1320 2nd St Suite A 90401-1103
"Delicious! Parking is easy across the street. The place is unassuming so you could easily miss the entrance. It is also dark and loud inside. Not great for big groups (best with 2-4 max). They will n..."
Pasta Uovo
1320 2nd St 90401-1103
"Delicious! Parking is easy across the street. The place is unassuming so you could easily miss the entrance. It is also dark and loud inside. Not great for big groups (best with 2-4 max). They will n..."
Intuitive Forager Farmshops
225 26th St Suite 25 90402
"Wonderful from beginning to end.Farm to table with class and elegance. Call ahead to get your reservations because Farmshop has a dedicated group of regulars who know this is the spot to go to.I'd..."
Gilbert's El Indio
2526 Pico Blvd 90405-1829
"Good small local place at Pico Blvd in Santa Monica, Mexican food good quality and reasonable price.They have a good sort of breakfast combos featuring eggs and omelette in various stiles, I tried the..."
Lula
2720 Main St 90405-4008
"Went here a year ago while on vacation and literally still think about it. Adorable place, friendly staff and a inviting owner we spoke with for a very long time as it was mid afternoon and during slo..."
Flower Child
1332 2nd St 90401-1103
"At first glance it may seem pricey but the quality of food is worth it. The service is great and the atmosphere is chill."
Rae's Restaurant
2901 Pico Blvd 90405-2001
"Incredibly inexpensive diner that's been serving up good homesylye food since 1958! Great service and, retro interior and delicious food. What more could you want?"
Golden Bull Restaurant & Bar
170 W Channel Rd 90402-1104
"Tummy steaks, must try. The Argentina steak was amazing as it's so different from Aussie and NZ. Each has its merits."
Britannia Pub
318 Santa Monica Blvd 90401-2206
"I sent my friends to this restaurant with my warmest recommendations. I visit this restaurant often. I get very good feedback from my friends. The dishes they serve are appetizing and the crew is gene..."