We can say we walked the pier. It was a bit busy and there were people fishing. Enjoyed seeing the sights looking out from the end of the pier. We didn't go to the amusement park but the kids would really enjoy it i'm sure. Lots of places to eat and drink there.

The Santa Monica Pier is such an active and lively place — there’s always something going on! You’ll see people preaching the gospel, families grabbing food, crowds waiting in line for rides, and vendors selling everything from snacks to souvenirs. Toward the back of the pier, there’s even a store offering discounted Santa Monica merchandise, plus a restaurant that’s relatively affordable compared to other beachside spots. Before you even enter the pier, you’ll notice a cool boat and dragon display. When you step onto the boat and pedal, it makes mist come out of the dragon’s nose — super neat and a fun surprise for kids and adults alike! One thing to keep in mind: there are no foot-washing stations nearby. So if you spend time in the sand, just know your feet might stay sandy for a while. There’s also a workout area if you want to burn some energy or just enjoy the fun beach fitness vibes. Overall, this is definitely a full-day experience and a great spot for family fun. Lots to see, lots to do, and a classic California adventure! 🌊🎡🌴

The Heart of the California Coast! 🌴🎡🌊 Santa Monica Pier is one of those places that just never gets old. Every time I visit, it feels like a mini vacation the ocean breeze, the views, the lights, the music… everything about it gives that perfect California energy. The pier is beautifully maintained and super easy to get around. You can find everything right in one spot fun rides 🎢, games, great food, and of course, that breathtaking ocean view. The sunsets here are unreal watching the sky light up over the Pacific is something everyone should experience at least once. 🌅 What really stands out, though, is how welcoming the atmosphere is. The staff at the restaurants, shops, and attractions are always friendly and patient, even when it’s packed. You can tell the management keeps things running smoothly because the whole area feels organized and clean despite the constant crowd. There’s also something for everyone families, couples, solo travelers, or friends just hanging out. Whether you’re taking photos, grabbing funnel cake, riding the Ferris wheel, or just sitting by the water, it’s pure good vibes all around. Santa Monica Pier isn’t just a tourist stop it’s a full experience. It’s the kind of place that makes you feel happy and relaxed no matter how many times you’ve been. 🌊💙 Definitely a must visit when you’re in Los Angeles the energy here is unmatched! GTA 5 in real life

Santa Monica Pier was nice to see once, but nothing too special. It’s a classic boardwalk vibe, but if I had to choose between here and Rehoboth Beach boardwalk, I’d pick Rehoboth. We visited in November, so parking was easy and only $7. The water was cold, as expected that time of year, but it was still a beautiful, sunny day and a fun quick stop.

The Santa Monica Pier is one of Southern California’s most iconic coastal landmarks, offering a perfect blend of seaside fun, entertainment, and history. Extending into the Pacific Ocean at the end of Colorado Avenue, the pier features a lively amusement park with its famous solar-powered Ferris wheel, roller coaster, arcade, and classic carnival games. Visitors can enjoy oceanfront dining, street performances, and breathtaking sunset views over the water. Originally built in 1909, the pier has become a symbol of the laid-back California lifestyle and a must-visit destination for tourists and locals alike. With its vibrant atmosphere, ocean breezes, and timeless charm, the Santa Monica Pier captures the spirit of the Pacific coast.

Enjoyed a nice walk around the pier. Caught the walk before some rain, but that made for a cool breeze and minimal people. A few spots were open along rhe pier but nothing too exciting. All in all made for a good scenic view, a comfortable walk and a location visit checked off. Oh and apparently the seagulls dont mess around.... look at my picture of the seagulls ;p

Nice to walk around and lots of people from all backgrounds. We were entertained and were able to take lots of photos. Having Pacific Park in the pier was cool. We went there with an 8month old baby and found it a bit hard to navigate as pier itself is not pram-friendly and couldnt find any family rooms. If there were, I wish there was signage.

This beach is a nice and large beach with many tourist attractions along it's length like Muscle Beach and the Pier. It is often crowded, and if you dont come in from the bike path, parking is really tough. The views are nice though, and there is a bikeway along the entire length of the beach.

Beautiful ! Plenty of parking and. not free I paid $15 so....plan your trip Wisely. The beach is really nice and it's a little bit of a hike from the parking to waters edge. Come prepared to walk a bit. Also, choose your bike rental wisely too. I paid $95+ tax for a bike for a good 4hrs. Come to find out there were cheaper options.

Santa Monica State Beach is absolutely beautiful! The wide sandy shoreline, clean ocean water, and stunning views make it the perfect place to relax or take a walk. The atmosphere is lively yet peaceful, with plenty of space for everyone to enjoy. Watching the sunset here is unforgettable, and the nearby Santa Monica Pier adds extra charm. A must-visit spot if you’re in Los Angeles!

A timeless, iconic beach with an urban backdrop. Not so much for the pristine waters and the seclusion, like, say, a beach on the south orange county coast, but more for the cosmopolitan panache that reflects what most visiting tourists might think of when they visualize Los Angeles. The drawbacks are its crowds, especially during summer, and now, the grime that has been an inevitable side effect of a metro light rail line that runs from downtown LA to the coast...

Santa Monica Pier and Beach offer the perfect blend of fun, relaxation, and stunning ocean views. The pier is lively with street performers, shops, and great spots for food and ice cream. The Ferris wheel ride gives a beautiful view of the coastline, especially during sunset. The beach is clean, wide, and great for walks, picnics, or just soaking up the California sun. Parking is convenient and there are plenty of nearby restaurants and attractions. Whether you’re a tourist or a local, Santa Monica Pier and Beach never disappoint — a must-visit spot for that true SoCal vibe!

I’ve lived in California most of my life, but finally took the time to spend a full Saturday at Santa Monica State Beach—and I gotta say, it’s got a lot going for it. The views are honestly hard to beat, especially if you get there a bit earlier before the crowd rolls in. I parked way down past the pier because, man, the parking lots right by the sand are pretty expensive and fill up fast. You’ll have a little walk, but I didn’t mind—actually kind of enjoyed checking out the local businesses on the way. Once I hit the sand, it was nice and clean, no trash around, and plenty of space to toss a frisbee or just chill. Brought my own towel and umbrella—recommend doing that because rentals are nuts. I ended up near a volleyball game for a bit, and the people playing were friendly enough to let me jump in for a round. Water was cold (like, freezing at first), but after the first thirty seconds you get used to it. I’m not a super swimmer, but the waves were manageable, and lifeguards were on point. Took a walk up to the pier, which is honestly worth the trip whether you’re first-timer or local. Tons of food stands and little shops—got a burger that was solid but overpriced, but so is everything around here. Roller coaster was fun, arcade is slightly run down but still gives you that old-school vibe. Ran into some street performers who were surprisingly legit, and ended up watching a skate demo near the boardwalk. Annoyances? For sure. Restrooms could use a serious deep clean, and if you’re like me and try to avoid public bathrooms, be prepared—most days they’re kind of gnarly by noon. Also, traffic out of Santa Monica at sunset was a joke. Took me 40 minutes to get onto the freeway. Would’ve been nice if cops helped direct more, since lots of folks just stand around blocking the crosswalks and it gets messy. Still, all things considered, it was a killer day. Beach, water, people-watching, and just hanging out with friends with the ocean right there—hard to complain. Deducting a star mainly for the parking and those restrooms but, honestly, I’ll be back. If you can roll with big crowds and keep your expectations set, Santa Monica State Beach delivers the classic SoCal experience.

Santa Monica State Beach is a true California gem – a perfect blend of natural beauty, classic seaside charm, and cultural history. Stretching over 3 miles along the Pacific Coast, this iconic beach has been a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike for over a century. Its history dates back to the early 20th century, when Santa Monica became a popular seaside retreat for Hollywood stars and Los Angeles residents looking for a break from city life. Over the years, it has become a symbol of the California beach lifestyle. The beach is wide, clean, and well-maintained, with soft sand and stunning views of the ocean. The famous Santa Monica Pier, built in 1909, adds a nostalgic charm with its vintage amusement park rides, small aquarium, shops, and restaurants. It’s also the historic endpoint of Route 66, making it a meaningful stop for road trip lovers. There are plenty of activities for everyone – biking, volleyball, paddleboarding, or simply relaxing by the waves. The beach paths are great for long walks, and the sunsets here are absolutely breathtaking. Whether you’re into beach fun, coastal views, or historic landmarks, Santa Monica State Beach offers an unforgettable experience. It’s more than just a beach – it’s a piece of California’s cultural and cinematic legacy.

Iconic street in Los Angeles area famous for walking promenade, street musician, bustling cafes and restaurants, farmers market, and Sunday salsa! For more info and to checkout new hot spots follow us on instagram @gemislist

A different vibe from the past It used to be quirkier. Still, it’s safe and quite nice to stroll through on a sunny day.

The 3rd Street Promenade in Santa Monica is a place I've visited many times, and it's definitely a vibrant, pedestrian-only stretch that's a Southern California staple. This bustling hub really blends shopping, dining, and entertainment, and it always attracts a mix of tourists and locals. When it's at its best, the Promenade offers a delightful experience. I love strolling along the tree-lined street, checking out the diverse array of shops, from well-known brands to unique boutiques. The outdoor dining scene is impressive, too, with restaurants and cafes offering everything from casual fare to gourmet cuisine. The street performers always add to the lively atmosphere – I've seen some great musicians, artists, and entertainers showcasing their talents. And its proximity to the Santa Monica Pier and the beach makes it a perfect destination for a day of fun and relaxation. However, I've noticed that the Promenade has faced challenges in recent years. Like many retail areas, it has been affected by the rise of online shopping, leading to some store closures and vacancies. I've also sometimes been a bit concerned about issues like homelessness and public safety, which can detract from the overall experience. Despite these challenges, the 3rd Street Promenade remains a significant attraction for me. I know there are efforts underway to revitalize the area, with plans to introduce new businesses, improve public spaces, and enhance the overall ambiance. Whether I'm looking for a place to shop, dine, or simply soak up the California sunshine, the Santa Monica Promenade still holds a certain charm and continues to be a key part of the Santa Monica experience.

I love to dance Salsa and Bachata! It was a great time on Sunday from 7pm-10pm, you can dance and have some delicious food at the restaurant!

Wonderful place to hang out and meet new people. mini shops, restaurants. There's also Palisades Park, the library, the beach, the train station, and Tongva Park within walking distance! Public restrooms at the end of the alley on Arizona and 2nd Street Ct right beside and underneath the public parking. There will be a green sign that says lobby entrance and that is where you will find the public restrooms. I would also like to add that the ambassador's do their best to clean up the alleys and the restrooms even though there are a lot of tourists and people that come through here.

Fantastic place to visit, a lot of action, restaurants, bars, stores. Today there is a special event due to the superbowl in Los Angeles. Promenade in Santa Monica is a lot of fun with great choices of shops, and quality restaurants.

If you're 1 minute over their 15 minutes free parking due to their slow elevators, no leeway! And they wonder why nobody goes here anymore.

I don't want to tell everybody about this place. This is my secret location where I come to the beach and it's so private and so beautiful, so clean. It has a walkway through the sand the parking is good. It's economical. There's a restaurant on it. There's volleyball chords. There's a pool that you can go swimming on Mondays. Really do I have to tell everybody about this place? They're gonna give me like a $1000 for this review if you're looking for a nice quiet clean beach with clean bathrooms and place a pl ayground for your kids to play. This is definitely a spot. Just don't tell everybody about it. Everything else is already overcrowded.

A very convenient location for parking and beach access away from tourist crowd...clean walkways..convenient restrooms..a great cafe to watch the sunsets. Soft playarea for kids...cheap parking rates as the parking rates are very high in santa monica beach and pier

playground structures are very very hot and not enough shade. They should restrict how many people are allowed in the pool-- it was crowded like a cruise ship hot tub. otherwise than that its a pleasant place to hangout for a poolside picnic with small children and feels safe and clean. its very nice to have the cafe right there. a solid 3.5 stars

Only thing- & i mean ONLY thing i dnt care for bout this place is that they REALLY trip over some SMALL dive toys! It's petty, otherwise.. can bring food in, and the seating is phenomenal! Love this lil hidden jewel!

Great beach! Clean, easy parking and beautiful view.

I really love this beach because it is so clean. It has a kids playground, pool, clean bathroom, volleyball courts on the sand, and clean ocean water. This place is so kid friendly. Parking could be a struggle but usually it isn’t. The Annenberg Community still is pretty even after the Palisades Fire.

Beautiful, affordable pool by the ocean. I wish it was open all year round!

Tongva Park in Santa Monica is a beautifully designed urban oasis that offers a variety of amenities for visitors of all ages. The park is divided into four main sections: Observation Hill, Discovery Hill, Garden Hill, and Gathering Hill.  One of the park’s standout features is the Observation Hill, which provides stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the iconic Santa Monica Pier. The playground at Discovery Hill is a hit among children, featuring modern climbing structures and slides that keep them engaged. Garden Hill showcases a diverse array of native and drought-tolerant plants, reflecting California’s coastal ecology. Gathering Hill offers open spaces perfect for picnics and community events.    The park’s design incorporates curving pathways that wind through sculpted landscapes of hills and ravines, creating a sense of exploration and tranquility. Water features and art installations add to the park’s aesthetic appeal, making it a pleasant place to relax and unwind.  While the park is generally well-maintained, some times there is the presence of homeless individuals in the area. However, many feel safe during daytime visits and appreciate the park’s cleanliness and amenities. Overall, Tongva Park offers a serene escape in the heart of Santa Monica, blending natural beauty with thoughtful design. Whether you’re looking for a place to relax, play, or enjoy scenic views, this park is worth a visit.

Pretty and pleasant park but a bedroom and living room for the homeless after dark. A shame that for a place as wealthy as Santa Monica, they cannot figure out a way to take care of the less fortunate.

As a local Los Angeles wedding photographer, I highly recommend Tongva Park for wedding couple portraits or any photo session. The park offers so many beautiful spots, and with an experienced photographer, you can really take advantage of the variety of settings it provides. There are stunning terraces, areas with beautiful flowers, and exotic plants that make for unique and vibrant backdrops. The design of the park itself gives you a lot of options for different looks, whether you want something lush and green or more modern with clean lines. The only downside to shooting at Tongva Park (That is the reason bc I am leaving 3 stars) is that, like many public spaces in the area, there are sometimes homeless people around. While it’s not always a problem, it’s something to be aware of during your session. That being said, the park is still a beautiful and inspiring place for photos, and overall, it’s a great spot to capture some beautifull moments.

Tongva park , This park Here in Santa Monica California has lots of native plants here and kids playground and no washrooms , its also a chilled park type , thier are rental scooters here , its got good viewing balconies on the upper park level overlooking Santa Monica beach ⛱️

Great Family Park with a Few Urban Challenges We recently spent a few hours at Tongva Park located at 1615 Ocean Ave, Santa Monica, CA, and overall, it’s a beautiful space that offers a lot—especially for families. Fun for Kids The playground and splash pad are fantastic for younger children. There are climbing areas, gentle water features, and unique structures that spark imagination. Kids absolutely loved it. It’s clean, modern, and built with safety and fun in mind. Peace for Parents Parents will appreciate the peaceful walking paths, plenty of shaded seating, and gorgeous landscaping. There’s even ocean views from some parts of the park, and the gardens are filled with native plants and artful design. It’s a lovely place to sit back while the kids play. Perfect Picnic Spot There are grassy lawns, picnic tables, and public restrooms available, making it great for a family snack or relaxed afternoon under the trees. 🛑 A Note About the Homeless Situation Like many public areas in Santa Monica, Tongva Park does have a visible homeless presence. During our visit, it wasn’t threatening, but it’s something families should be aware of especially if you're planning to visit with young kids. Park staff and security do patrol the area, and the space remains welcoming, but some parents might prefer to come earlier in the day, when the park feels more active and family-focused. Final Thoughts Tongva Park is beautifully designed, full of thoughtful spaces for both kids and adults, and just steps from the beach and pier. With some awareness and planning, it can still be a fantastic spot for a family outing—even in the face of some of the urban challenges Santa Monica is currently working through.

What a beautiful park! It has so many neighborhoods, with the highlight being a beautiful old tree with its roots showing. Don't miss!

Another great place to catch Sunset over Pacific horizon with modern architectural arc. For more, follow our instagram @gemislist

Legendary Deli store with an amazing atmosphere and stuff. Very friendly, kind with free parking and with sunny seating outside, fun environment. Regarding the food, they have amazing selection of sandwiches, warm food and pre-made food what you can also take home. My current selection was the Godfather which was okay. The bread was a bit chewy and not that crispy as I expected but maybe it’s just me. Overall they have very good stuff and will definitely come back!

One of the most iconic Italian markets in town always bustling and have great foods ready to go. For more info and to checkout new hot spots follow us on instagram @gemislist

Talvi Deal and Baker is a very good shop, everything is available, the store is good, the view is nice and the food and drinks are good.

This shop is an absolute gem. From the moment you walk in, you can feel how thoughtfully everything is arranged — shelves filled with a great variety of products, inviting displays, and a warm atmosphere that makes you want to stay a little longer. The selection of prepared foods is especially impressive: fresh, flavorful, and made with real attention to detail. Every dish I tried had a distinct taste that felt both comforting and elevated. What really makes this place stand out is how effortlessly it combines a market, a café, and a quick-stop spot all in one. You can grab something delicious to enjoy right away or pick up ingredients and treats to take home. The assortment ranges from hearty sandwiches to delightful desserts, plus plenty of items for cooking, snacking, or gifting. Everything feels well-curated. The ambience is lively but pleasant, and it’s easy to get in and out without any hassle. It’s the kind of place you end up returning to again and again — not just for the food, but for the overall experience. Every visit leaves a great impression, and it’s quickly become one of those spots I genuinely look forward to stopping by.

Godmother’s the best. If you’re coming from NYC you won’t be mind blown, but still solid sub. Great Italian grocer, with friendly service.

This is what their chicken parm sandwich looks like. No bread, almost no chicken. Only soggy disgusting breading and some peppers. One of the worst sandwiches I’ve tried. It’s even hard to call this a sandwich.

Meatball Sub - meatballs, spaghetti sauce, parmesan cheese / 5 ⭐! Godmother Sub - prosciutto, ham, capi cola, mortadella, Genoa salami, provolone cheese, with "the works" (Italian dressing, lettuce, mayo, mustard, onions, pickles, tomatoes) / 5 ⭐! Bay City Italian Deli & Bakery is frequently ranked high on lists for the best sandwiches in Los Angeles and they deserve every accolade they receive. I recently had my first visit to Bay City Deli during a stormy day in LA and it was magical. They were quite busy when I went but the friendly crew behind the deli counter were efficient and I barely noticed the wait. They had an old school 'take-a-number' system. Almost everyone who ordered before me went with their iconic sandwich, 'The Godmother'. I already had my sights set on ordering one and it was delicious. The bread was excellent. The variety of deli cuts and the cheese were flavorful. The sandwich was packed with fresh produce and the condiments added to the overall experience. Since it is hard for me to get to Santa Monica, I also ordered a meatball sub. The meatball sub was sublime. The sauce, cheese and handmade meatballs were perfect. When I return, I am going to be in trouble. I will want to order both subs again but would want to try out others from their large selection. They also have a full Italian grocery inside. They had a parking lot but it was full. I circled the block a few times until a street parking spot opened up. I loved my visit to Bay City Deli and can't wait to return!

Super cute girls dinner! Exploring the area while in town and heard great reviews, so stopped in hoping to just grab a seat at the bar but luckily they had a table! Endive Salad: anticipated a little more leafy endive but the salad was majority shaved pear. Still very good! 4/5 Maitake: take on fish and chips! Lightly battered and perfectly fried. 5/5 Steak frites: delicious! Perfectly cooked and seasoned. The sauce au poivre, chefs kiss. I could have another order with fries to dip! Great drinks and service! Perfect date night or girls nice. Intimate space!

The service is incredible, and the staff members are very friendly. They even treated my little dog kindly, which made me feel very welcomed. I ordered two tomato-based dishes since I don’t usually eat meat—one was just okay, but the other was really tasty! The prices are a little on the high side, but definitely worth it for the overall experience.

Everything was too salty. I got the dry-aged ribeye (medium rare), but it was super tough with lots of sinew and had a weird flavor — not the good kind of dry-aged aroma. Honestly feels like they used heavy seasoning just to cover that up. Totally not worth the price, and I can see why they lost their Michelin star.

After previous date nights here, we've been wanting to come and try the duck dinner. Hubby and I love to try as much as possible, so limiting ourselves to just a couple of dishes based on duck wasn't as appealing. A friend's birthday was a good excuse. The space is intimate, dark and moody, as a bistro should be. Friendly staff and service. Good cocktails and you can do special orders for mocktails as well. The four of us ordered quite a few appetizers, the duck and the steak frites with a side of green beans. The duck is large enough for 3, especially if you do order a few appetizers. The 4 of us couldn't finish the meal and had a good amount of left over food to take home. The duck dinner is a special occasion thing IMO.

The best basque cheesecake I ever had in my life! Also really enjoyed their burger and “contesse” cocktail. Totally recommend stopping by: nice food, great service.

One of the best dining experiences I’ve had in LA. Every dish we ordered — from the beef tartare and chicken liver mousse to the poutine frites, burger, and steak frites — was outstanding. Rich, layered flavors, beautiful plating, and perfect execution. The steak was cooked to perfection, the sauces were spot on, and even the fries were memorable. The atmosphere is elegant but warm, with a cozy bar and attentive service. Pasjoli manages to be upscale without feeling pretentious. I left impressed — and already planning to come back.

We came here last year specifically for the Canard a la presse and it definitely did not disappoint. Truly that is the main attraction of the menu. Chef Beran is very innovative, which is evident from his new restaurant. Pasjoli gives you the French bistro feel. The tartare is amazing, the foie de poulete is delicious, the French deviled eggs is unique. The cocktails menu is also creative. Although they lost their Michelin star in 2023, it probably gave this place the freedom to explore other culinary interests and perhaps less "stuffy" with their table service.

This is a MUST visit. Pastries were just perfect, sweet but not too much, fresh and creamy. Try the fruit tart if you can. The breakfast was also amazing. We enjoyed every bite. We ordered the breakfast burrito and the bagel. The atmosphere is great, busy but not annoying and there is parking everywhere

The pastries are delicious here! They're just the right size for a small breakfast paired with their coffee, or for a sweet treat in the middle of the day. I got the pumpkin pie slice and a kouign amann tart. The pie crust was super crispy on the edges and had great pumpkin flavor without being overly sweet. The whipped cream on top was a bonus and finished off the pie so well. Kouign amann was sticky and sweet, with a nice peachy surprise in the middle. All the fruit pastries I've tried here are really great.

The atmosphere is what makes this place special. The people here are unusually happy with their work. The scenery unfolds with lots of natural light coming into the cafe and the design of the place is so tranquil and pleasant for an eye. The place is on the pricey side yet it wins with the energy it brings.

We had a great experience! My girlfriend has some food sensitivities but there was plenty for her to eat here and the freshness made it feel better on her stomach. We got the quiche, summer burrata salad, and a scone to share along with coffee. As we ate, it felt fresh, light, and the perfect dishes to energize us for our day. Pros: - Great place to take a date or someone you want to impress with local food. - Food tasted fresh, homemade, and full of life. There was plenty of flavor and we had no issues with our food and drinks. - There was parking behind so commuting was easy. Cons: - The items are all over-priced for the portions you get. Nothing absurd, but I was surprised at how much it was in the end. I would love to go back but because of the price, it will be mainly on special occasions or if other places are closed. - It was quite warm and loud inside. Probably due to the kitchen and how popular it is. There were plenty of seats available but we also came at a non-peak hour. We ended up sitting outside to avoid this though.

There is delicious food, lots of food to choose from, and excellent service. I recommend the Huevos Rancheros. They are mild for those concerned about spice.

Firstly I want to start off by saying the staff were all lovely. Everyone was attentive, friendly, and helpful from ordering to the bussing of the table, etc. Secondly, I have to say that I used to come here often for breakfast/lunch and always really enjoyed the food. It's been quite a while since I've eaten here but I stopped by today for lunch and a treat. I ordered the chopped salad and unfortunately it was super soaked in dressing to the point where the was a pool of orange tinged liquid at the bottom of the bowl. Not sure what happened here but it almost seemed like the bottle of peppers was just haphazardly poured into the salad with its liquid. Strange stuff and I was starving so I ate the top portion and wasn't in the mood to have an honest convo with the staff about it, so that's on me. I could live with that without complaining, but we also ordered pumpkin pie bc 'tis the season, and the pie was way off, as if whoever made the filling read the recipe incorrectly and added way too much of a spice I can't even identify. 3 hours later and I still have the lingering taste of the rancid spice. My dining partner and I both agreed the flavor was legit sickening. Anyhow, I don't complain about food often but it was such a bummer to come back to a beloved place only to have everything other than the service fall way below expectations. Disappointingly, I don't see myself returning.

Anytime I’m in Santa Monica I make a point to stop here. The food is CONSISTENTLY SO good and amazing quality. Some places are really good every now and then but this place is really so reliable —you’ll know what you get every single time. The staff is wonderful and I love the all day breakfast. What a gem. I hope it never changes.

Father's Office is a must-visit for any burger lover. Their signature blue cheese burger is a juicy, flavorful masterpiece that will leave you craving more. The atmosphere is casual and relaxed, perfect for catching up with friends or enjoying a solo meal. Be prepared to wait, as this place is always packed, but it's definitely worth it! ■THE OFFICE BURGER・$21.00 Caramelized Onion, Bacon, Gruyére, Maytag Blue, Arugula. You can choose the doneness of your beef patty to suit your preference. ■“BASKET” OF FRITES・$8.00 with Garlic Parsley Aïoli. ■“BASKET” OF SWEET POTATO FRITES・$9.00 with Roasted Garlic & Cabrales Blue Cheese Aïoli. Many consider THE OFFICE BURGER to be one of the best burgers in Los Angeles, and it's a must-try for anyone visiting Father's Office!

Finally checked out Father’s Office in Santa Monica—one of the burger joints on my LA bucket list—and I absolutely loved it. The vibe is low-key and cozy, with a laid-back atmosphere and a great selection of beers on tap. But the real star? The burger. One of the best I’ve had—simple, flavorful, and just perfectly done. Definitely a spot I’ll keep coming back to. 100% recommend if you’re into elevated comfort food in a chill setting.

This is a quirky neighborhood spot with excellent food and a good beer list. Beer aficionados will find some unusual offerings here, and the bar tender had an almost encyclopedic knowledge of what they had on offer. I feel I know a lot about beer, but I learned a few new things here. The burger was excellent, if slightly underdone to my medium specification. I went for lunch, and the place was full of ‘Norms’… ha. Still, I felt welcome and so will you… unless you ask for ketchup. Never ask for ketchup here! (Same as the original burger place, Louis’ Lunch in New Haven). I wish I would have had room for the Bratwurst as well. It looked good.

Was In town for a work trip and someone from the hotel recommended fathers office. Ended up being the best food place of the week! The small plates were phenomenal, we got the salt and vinegar tater totes which were so surprisingly delicious, the goat cheese peppers, and the mushrooms - soooo good! For mains we got the fathers office burger which also very well done, and shared the cauliflower plate which was the only plate we weren’t over the moon about. The ipas and beer assortment were extensive and we were all very happy with the different beers we tried! Recommend the tropical IPA

Not that many places leave you craving a bite consistently for over 20 years. We’re blessed in Santa Monica to have a place on Montana Ave offering fine dining type dishes at bar food prices. Say what you want about the burger, but you’re still talking about it. Smart thing to do is to try for yourself and form your own opinion. I can eat the tater tots daily and sometimes do. I appreciate that there are seasonal dishes and the attention paid to plating. Obviously no one will impress you more with their beer selection and the bartenders are some of the most knowledgeable in town. Never change FO.

The greatest bar on Montana avenue without any doubts. Decent variety of drafts, unique seltzers, and, the most interesting part is food, that isn’t typical for the bar: we rarely our lamb skewers and pork belly as 20/10! Bravo to the chef! 👏🏼

Wow! So far this is one of the best places I've been traveling to have a beer! The selection on tap was awesome! The servers were amazing helping me choose a beer (s). Oh and the Manager running these stores took the time to talk with me as well as advice on the beer and . The menu/food I had a hard decision on with such an amazing selection of bar? food, but this was not bar food, it was the best bar food! They touted the best burger, which I almost did and would have been amazing but instead I went with the "if anyone puts this one on the menu it's going to be good" and went with the Grilled Artichoke ;-) OMG it was fawesome! I could eat all my veggies that way forever! Oh all while I I listened to Earth Wind and Fire 🔥 ... ENOUGH SAID 🎤

One of the most disappointing Michelin dining experiences I’ve had worldwide. After booking a month in advance, the restaurant canceled my reservation without consent but still charged the full amount. Communication was poor throughout. The dining space was cramped, poorly lit with harsh white lighting, and the decor felt cheap — far below Michelin standards. One course was even served with mismatched, stained chopsticks. Food was equally disappointing: nearly every dish featured overpowering sour foam, masking the ingredients’ flavors. Even after requesting adjustments, the taste remained unpleasant. The only enjoyable part was the fresh fruit and the birthday cake I brought myself.Melisse does not live up to its two-star rating.

I have eaten at Melisse twice and both times were absolutely incredible. The staff are fabulous and attentive from the time of setting up the evening through the end of the meal. They are willing to make the evening special and attend to any needs you may have. The food is superb: flawless execution and well balanced flavors. Every bite is meticulously planned and explained by the staff. I even noted to my guest that I’m often disappointed in desserts at high-end restaurants in comparison to the savory courses, but that was not the case at Melisse. Here, the dessert delivers on the same level as the savory courses as an equal: elevated and elegant without being so overly complex or reaching to lose the sweet punch expected in a dessert. The finishing touch of the night was being sent away with a copy of the menu as you specifically experienced it (down to the supplements you selected) for both food and wine complete with the date you dined in an elegant envelope as a keepsake. I have dined at many 3-Star restaurants, and very few have done this: I love that Melisse includes this as a part of its standard practice; it’s a very special touch.

Melissa is everything you hope for and more from a two Michelin star experience in Los Angeles. From the moment you walk into the intimate five table dining room, the evening feels special. The ambiance is understated and elegant, the service is warm and deeply knowledgeable without ever being overbearing, and the meal unfolds like a beautifully choreographed performance with every course more thoughtful and precise than the last. The menu is a masterclass in balance, technique, and flavor. The Miyazaki wagyu first bite set the tone for the night, rich and perfectly marbled with layers of umami that lingered beautifully. The Croque Madame with truffle Gruyère fondue was indulgent yet refined, while the Caesar with smoked anchovy and parmesan was a clever and deeply flavorful reimagining of a classic. The golden tomato soup, paired with pistachio and strawberry sorbet and finished with Portuguese olive oil, was as vibrant and nuanced as summer in a bowl. The progression of dishes shows a real depth of technical execution, from the delicate Santa Barbara spot prawn with umeboshi custard to the luxurious ossetra caviar course, every element was perfectly cooked, balanced, and plated with intention. The Wolfe Ranch “Dirty” quail was a standout, juicy and bold with apricot carrot curry and black olive caramel creating layers of unexpected harmony. The quail and lobster tortellini in carrot brodo was a study in finesse, and the lamb course and seasonal desserts struck the perfect chord between creativity and comfort. What truly elevates the experience is the service. The waitstaff were impeccable, warm, intuitive, and eager to share the stories and techniques behind each dish, which added another layer of appreciation to an already remarkable meal. Melissa is the kind of restaurant that makes an evening feel unforgettable. Highly recommended for a special occasion or simply to experience one of Los Angeles’ most accomplished kitchens at the very top of its game.

Chef bring a really refine taste of differents dishes. Everything is made to perfection and meal are well balanced. You feel like you are invited to his house, it's a lot of food so make sure you come in with an empty stomach.

We celebrated our 30th anniversary here. And though my wife doesn't eat any raw (uni) or rare (tartar) she sampled them. Haha. But I loved them! We did not have the wine pairing for each course, which was another $250/pp, but we each enjoyed a glass of fine wine which our sommelier recommended to us. Perfect. Book your reservation a month in advance, epecially for a Friday or weekend evening dining experience. Expect 2-2.5 hours. My only gripe is that when Chef Josiah Citrin finally came out to greet the small room of guests, he only greeted 2 tables and ignored the rest of us. Geez. After you pay nearly $1000 for dinner, you don't even get a thank you from the Head Chef.

...wow...so many amazing dishes served with care and amazing flavors! The wine pairing was expensive, but worth it. Same for the truffle addition. We loved the intimate environment and kind staff. The "hidden door", was fun! The whole thing was worth going at least once!

We’ve had a lot of special occasion meals but this one is far and away the best we’ve had. From even before you get to the restaurant, the service is on a whole other level. We celebrated our wedding weekend with a meal here and the staff took such amazing care of us, they made it a meal I’ll remember forever. The menu changes with the season, but you will absolutely be blown away by almost every bite. The chicken main course dish was unlike anything I’ve ever tasted. Save this place for a truly special night.