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Best Restaurants for Special Occasions in Santa Monica

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163 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Tar & Roses restaurant
1. Tar & Roses
4.9
Exceptional(4233)
Price: Expensive
• American • Santa Monica
Booked 10 times today
Tar & Roses is a globally inspired culinary experience. Chef Andrew Kirschner has transformed his kitchen into a local and welcoming home, focused on the element of the wood fired oven to bring out the best flavor in our dishes. Coming straight from the visionary mind of our award winning chef, our menu is created with only the highest quality ingredients and fresh, local products. This attention to detail helps makes our food a perfected craft which will inspire you to be adventurous, in the most approachable and delicious way possible. When you step into Tar & Roses, you'll feel like you are coming home. Our entire staff awaits your arrival with warm smiles and thoughtful service ~ please, come share a meal with us!
A photo of Meat On Ocean restaurant
2. Meat On Ocean
4.7
Exceptional(3429)
Price: Expensive
• Steakhouse • Santa Monica
Booked 28 times today
Meat On Ocean is a meat-centric, modern steakhouse in Santa Monica that offers both a sense of adventure and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. Beyond the offerings of a world-class steakhouse, Meat On Ocean features an artisanal charcuterie bar, an exhibition dry-aging room and a variety of prime beef – from dry-aged domestic cuts to Japanese A-5. Integral to the operation is a highly trained crew of servers and butchers, who communicate directly with Guests about the beef, organically farmed chickens, house made sausages, choice seafood and more.Located on the corner of Ocean and Broadway, Meat On Ocean is steps from the action - including the Santa Monica Pier, shopping and hotels.Starting May 2024, Meat On Ocean is also your headquarters for private dining and events, with customizable spaces that are perfect for social events, corporate meetings, birthday parties, anniversary celebrations, wedding receptions and ceremonies, with full audio/visual connectivity.
A photo of Orto Santa Monica restaurant
3. Orto Santa Monica
4.8
Exceptional(1100)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Santa Monica
Booked 24 times today
Orto Santa Monica is a special occasion restaurant that offers a unique blend of traditional Italian recipes with locally sourced ingredients. With rave reviews highlighting its excellent food, service and ambiance, it's the perfect place to celebrate special occasions like birthdays and anniversaries. One reviewer even mentioned that it gives them a sense of being in Italy. Its intimate setting and high-quality service makes it ideal for both casual gatherings and business meetings.
A photo of Benihana - Santa Monica, CA restaurant
4. Benihana - Santa Monica, CA
4.0
Excellent(4092)
Price: Moderate
• Japanese • Santa Monica
Booked 98 times today
Welcome to Benihana, a dining experience unlike any other! Our guests are seated at communal tables in groups, where your personal chef will perform the ancient art of Teppanyaki. Watch as we slice and dice, preparing a meal that will dazzle your eyes as well taste buds, whether you choose mouth-watering steak, tender chicken or succulent seafood. You can also enjoy sushi prepared by a talented sushi chef and indulge in a specialty cocktail.
A photo of North Italia - Santa Monica restaurant
5. North Italia - Santa Monica
4.4
Awesome(1492)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Santa Monica
Booked 17 times today
Everyone has a favorite dish at North. Every day, our Chefs start from scratch to create handmade pizza and pasta using only the best ingredients to craft inspired dishes from the garden, farm, and sea. North defines the standards for handcrafted Italian. Our menu offers a great selection of antipasti (daily soup, charcuterie, bruschetta), salads full of seasonal ingredients, and a main entrée menu driven by both traditional Italian cuisine and lighter fresh fish dishes. North is a great neighborhood spot for family and friends to meet and share a handcrafted experience. From the food to the service, at North every detail matters. Due to recent current events, we will be only open for to go sales only at this point in time. Thank you for your understanding
A photo of True Food Kitchen - Santa Monica restaurant
6. True Food Kitchen - Santa Monica
4.3
Awesome(1534)
Price: Moderate
• American • Santa Monica
Booked 6 times today
True Food Kitchen in Santa Monica is a perfect spot for special occasions. It offers a great ambiance with a lively vibe, as per a review. The food is consistently praised as delicious, flavorful and amply portioned. The service is attentive and professional. The restaurant has a special menu for Valentine’s Day, showing its ability to cater to special occasions. With its excellent food, great atmosphere, and friendly service, it’s definitely a place you’d want to celebrate a special day!
A photo of Gjelina restaurant
7. Gjelina
4.7
Exceptional(2304)
Price: Expensive
• American • Venice
Booked 102 times today
Gjelina is a restaurant specializing in New American cuisine. Open every day from 8 a.m. until 11pm, serving breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner. For breakfast, try 9 grain pancakes with butter and maple syrup or warm banana buckwheat loaf with butter and jam of the day. Brunch options include Moroccan baked eggs and 7 grain porridge. Gjelina offers a variety of oysters, crudo, charcuterie and salad options to start at lunch and dinner. Main courses include pizzas from our wood fired oven and entrees like duck confit, house made pastas and roasted organic half chicken.*Only ADA certified animals are allowed in Gjelina*A 20% Mandatory Service Charge is added to your check. Our belief is that every hourly Gjelina employee contributes to your service and 100% of the MSC will be distributed amongst them.
A photo of Calabra at Santa Monica Proper restaurant
8. Calabra at Santa Monica Proper
4.8
Exceptional(1576)
Price: Expensive
• Mediterranean • Santa Monica
Booked 28 times today
Calabra at Santa Monica Proper Hotel (One MICHELIN Key 2024) is located on the hotel's rooftop. The elevated garden terrace provides an inspiring atmosphere, with the ocean as a backdrop. Whether from the pool sundeck or circular bar, the views are best enjoyed with dinner, boutique wines, seasonal cocktails, and small-batch spirits. Serving Mediterranean & Californian cuisine with a view. Seating arrangements for all reservations at Calabra may include outdoor dining, bar area, as well as our indoor/ outdoor covered lounge space. Be sure to dress warmly.**Dinner reservations are for dining only. Drinks will be accommodated upon first come first serve at the bar area. Private Couch Alcoves are available with a rental and minimum spend**
A photo of Citrin restaurant
9. Citrin
4.6
Exceptional(200)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary American • Santa Monica
Booked 5 times today
Citrin is a modern Californian cuisine restaurant by Chef Josiah Citrin. The attention to detail and pursuit of excellence that defined Josiah’s landmark Mélisse restaurant for 20 years thrives in this new space. Citrin is a fun, welcoming, and approachable experience. A large bar and a la Carte menu brings a fresh take on our love of hospitality and passion to deliver exciting and delicious food.
A photo of The Penthouse Restaurant restaurant
10. The Penthouse Restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(4312)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary American • Santa Monica
Booked 23 times today
The Penthouse Restaurant is a unique spot with a stunning 18th-floor rooftop dining experience. Its panoramic ocean views, beach cabanas, and open sky enclaves make it a perfect choice for celebrating special occasions. Reviews rave about the 'unbeatable' views, 'exceptional food', and 'flawless service'. The restaurant is also highly recommended for date nights, anniversaries, and birthday parties.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Iris
    Los Angeles •6 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    We were there around 3 pm on Christmas day and the young lady at the front desk was warm, welcoming, and efficient. After checking in early, we only waited a short time for our table. Our server was Joseph and he was also very welcoming and efficient. He made us feel like our business was valuable. He asked numerous times if we needed anything and was prompt to bring whatever was requested. Our chef was Nmemon (spelling??) and he did an excellent job in preparing our food. We come to Benihana's frequently and will continue to do so with employees like Joseph and the front desk hostess. Thanks for an outstanding Christmas dinner.
    More info
    Benihana - Santa Monica, CAPrice: Moderate• Japanese• Santa Monica
    •
    4
  • Shalimar
    Los Angeles •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Sofia, our server, was friendly and helped make our dinner experience lovely.
    More info
    North Italia - Santa MonicaPrice: Moderate• Italian• Santa Monica
    •
    4.4
  • Todd
    Los Angeles •13 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Fourth consecutive Christmas Eve dinner with family. Warm ambiance, staff, and overall great experience. Food is consistently good with outstanding service.
    More info
    Meat On OceanPrice: Expensive• Steakhouse• Santa Monica
    •
    4.7
  • JoelleVIP
    Jackson Hole / Wyoming •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    This place is terrific! Very quaint and lovely ambience… The food was terrific! Especially the chicken scallopini alimony, which was delicious! Everything was wonderful and the owner is very charming and provided great service! Strongly recommend this place especially for locals!
    More info
    Orto Santa MonicaPrice: Expensive• Italian• Santa Monica
    •
    4.8
  • ErikaVIP
    Chicago / Illinois •5 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on 18 Dec 2024
    Tar & Roses provides an exceptional dining experience. The beet and yogurt dip, along with the octopus skewers were divine. The fried red snapper is a MUST. Also, the service is top notch. When we wanted to switch tables, the staff immediately accommodated us. Then, to receive an email and text from management thanking us for dining in the restaurant was a nice touch. This restaurant does everything right!
    More info
    Tar & RosesPrice: Expensive• American• Santa Monica
    •
    4.9

Discover best special occasions restaurants in Santa Monica

Discover the best spots for special occasions in Los Angeles' vibrant Westside, specifically in the scenic area of Santa Monica. Whether you're celebrating anniversaries, birthdays, or any milestone, this curated list captures the essence of Santa Monica’s dining scene, renowned for its diverse culinary offerings and picturesque settings. These restaurants are celebrated not only for their distinctive menus rich in variety and flavor but also for their exceptional service and ambiance, which make every occasion memorable. From intimate Italian eateries to ocean-view spots with live music, each establishment provides a unique atmosphere that catours to celebrations. Indulge in everything from freshly made pastas and authentic regional specialties to innovative American Mediterranean dishes, all while enjoying settings that range from cozy fireplaces and rustic patios to luxurious rooftop dining with panoramic views. Santa Monica's dining scene truly caters to those looking to make their special events extraordinary, offering a blend of culinary excellence and exceptional dining experiences. Perfect for both locals and visitors, these restaurants ensure a delightful celebration in one of the most sought-after locales on the Westside.

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