Best Modern European Restaurants in Santa Monica

My daughter and I thoroughly enjoyed the experience! Each dish was savory and creatively and artfully displayed. We were puzzled by one dish: the obsidian mirror. We discovered that the "food" was the thin layer of black smoked mussel and plum resting on top of the black round container. We used a large mussel shell as our spoon, which was different. Our favorites: seasonal paradox (full of flowers with peas and kiwi), oat porridge bread, sea urchin (a supplemental with a splash of Pedro Ximénez 1931 sherry - such a unique combination for dessert!), and layers, the last dessert of the evening. Service was excellent. Vespertine ranks high among the Michelin starred restaurants we've enjoyed throughout the years.

Very good food, very good service, very clean and attractive restaurant. The wienerschnitzel and sausages are delicious and exquisitely presented. Bernhard Mairinger, the owner chef, presents his dishes with delicate refined detail and they're always satisfying and delicious.

Last night, we had the pleasure of dining at Shirley Brasserie, located in the iconic Roosevelt Hotel in Hollywood, CA. From the moment we walked in, we were captivated by the elegant and inviting ambience. The decor seamlessly blends classic Hollywood glamour with modern sophistication, creating a perfect setting for a memorable dining experience. The food was nothing short of exceptional. Each dish was a delightful blend of flavors and textures, showcasing the chef's creativity and attention to detail. The service was impeccable. The staff was attentive, knowledgeable, and genuinely passionate about ensuring we had a great experience. They were more than happy to provide recommendations and accommodate any special requests we had. Overall, Shirley Brasserie exceeded our expectations in every way. We can't wait to return and explore more of their exquisite menu.

Had date night here and it was amazing! All of the food was so delicious and some of the best food we’ve ever had. We will definitely be back and highly recommend this place for a great dinner and cuisine that is one to remember

Mom, Please is a cozy gem bringing the warmth of Ukrainian hospitality to every detail. The mlyntsi, borscht, and vareniki are bursting with flavor, and the atmosphere feels just like home. Highly recommend!