Fine eats with incredible ocean views? When you come to Santa Monica, it’s ok to expect to have it all. Here are a few recommendations of Santa Monica restaurants on the beach that’ll help you stay away from mediocre tourist traps.
Sam’s by the Beach
This intimate and elegant Santa Monica beach-side restaurant serves up “California-Mediterranean,” with popular dishes like veal cordon bleu, bouillabasse and crepes suzette. Sam’s by the Beach: 108 W Channel Rd. S.; 310-230-9100
Water Grill
At once rustic and sophisticated, Water Grill has an extensive raw bar with a menu that’s updated daily. For just $39, you can get four oysters, two cherrystone clams, two peruvian scallops, six shrimp, six mussels, half a lobster, and a small array of periwinkles. Prepare yourself for a decadent fishy feast. Water Grill: 1401 Ocean Ave.; 310- 394-5669
Back on the Beach
This is a delightful spot to eat brunch with a mimosa in your hand, and sand between your toes. Try the french toast, or the perfectly cooked wild mushroom omelette. Back on the Beach: 445 Palisades Beach Rd.; 310-393-8282
Blue Plate Taco
This open and airy Mexican spot serves up killer enchiladas, margaritas and flautas alongside gorgeous views of the Pacific. Blue Plate Taco: 1515 Ocean Ave.; 310-393-8282
The Lobster
The entire back wall of this upscale seafood restaurant is lined with windows, so you can enjoy your butter-poached American lobster with a side of sand and surf. The Lobster: 1602 Ocean Ave; 310-458-9294