08/10/2026
One of my biggest surprises from this trip?
The food was so good.
Four completely different meals — and four reasons I would happily go back:
🌊 Terrazza at Casa del Mar
Ocean views, beautiful surroundings and an elevated Mediterranean-meets-California dinner. We shared everything from hamachi crudo and roasted beets to scallops, filet and pasta before ending with a table full of desserts.
🥙 Élephante
Lively, stylish and perfect for sharing. The eggplant spread alone deserves a return visit, but add the ocean views, vegetables, burrata and that buzzing atmosphere and this is such a fun Santa Monica lunch. Élephante is currently included in the MICHELIN Guide’s Santa Monica restaurant selection.
🌶️ Cobi’s
Southeast Asian flavors with dishes meant for the table. The papaya salad was my favorite, but the prawns, butter chicken, lentils, roti and dessert all delivered. Cobi’s is also currently recognized by the MICHELIN Guide.
🏖️ Coast at Shutters on the Beach
Beachfront and relaxed — exactly what you want when you don’t feel like leaving the hotel. My ceviche by the pool was the perfect arrival-day meal, and Coast serves all-day dining right beside the beach.
Santa Monica isn’t just a place to stay when you’re visiting LA.
Food lovers could build an entire weekend around this city.
And yes — I can absolutely help you build the reservations into the itinerary so you’re not trying to figure it all out after you arrive.