DineGuides

Hidden Gems in Venice

31 restaurants in Venice. Part of our Los Angeles Hidden Gems guide.

Burger Spot Venice
#1Hidden Gems
6 photos

Burger Spot Venice

Burgers·$$

This Venice Beach spot is a no-frills haven for smashburger aficionados. Expect a simple menu focused on delivering a perfectly crispy, juicy burger with equally impressive fries, all at a price that feels like a steal by the boardwalk.

🍽️98Food
75Vibe
💰90Value
💬

Small seating area and it's quiet. Went on a weekday

💬

Consistent excellence perfectly golden slightly crispy fries and even eco friendly presentation

💬

I've been there twice and am already looking forward to coming back

Ideal for
Burger enthusiasts seeking LA's bestBudget-conscious beachgoersTourists visiting Venice Beach
Lit Burritos
#2Hidden Gems
4 photos

Lit Burritos

Mexican·$$

This Venice Beach walk-up stand serves up some of the most flavorful tacos and burritos, with a signature 'Lit' sauce that keeps people coming back. It's a casual, family-friendly spot perfect for grabbing a delicious bite right by the ocean.

🍽️98Food
💰85Value
💬

We had vegetarian street tacos. They were so fresh and delicious. We went back for a 2nd order. Highly recommend this joint.

💬

Marlene and Jorge provided the most amazing service and were delightful to chat with! The food was delicious and not overly priced!

💬

The carne asada tacos were so good! Their home-made secret sauce brings that zing that keeps on giving, everything was so fresh and delicious highly recommend the carne asada quesadilla.

Ideal for
Families with kidsGroup diningBeachside bites
Tajrish Kabob
#3Hidden Gems
6 photos

Tajrish Kabob

·$$

Tajrish Kabob is a Marina Del Rey spot where the Persian flavors are both authentic and deeply satisfying, often described as soulful home cooking. The boneless chicken shish kabob and lamb shank are frequently highlighted, showcasing a commitment to quality ingredients and preparation.

🍽️94Food
90Vibe
💰85Value
🛡️75Safety
💬

A beautiful little restaurant with delicious food. They are clearly passionate about their food and are also friendly and welcome.

💬

Marco provided wonderful service and recommended the popular menu options. Had the chicken shish kabob, barg kabob, and tabouli salad. We will be back again.

💬

Marco John and Shawn were amazing the lamb shank was quiet divine best food and service I will come back best regards Akapl Kecholli.

Ideal for
Casual weeknight dinnerAuthentic Persian cuisineFamily meals
Cisco’s Pizzeria
#4Hidden Gems

Cisco’s Pizzeria

Pizza·$$

This Venice Beach pizzeria crafts a thin, crispy crust daily, a perfect base for fresh toppings. It's a casual, family-friendly spot ideal for grabbing a quick bite before hitting the sand.

🍽️95Food
💰90Value
💬

Best Venice Beach pizza. Get crunchy thin crust! It's our go-to pizza spot right in the center of Venice!

💬

Perfect thin crust pizza, crisp edges and great tasting dough to complement the toppings.

💬

Truly delicious pizza at fair prices - especially for the location right on Venice Beach!

Ideal for
Families with kidsSolo diningBeachgoers
Peruvian Bowl
#5Hidden Gems
6 photos

Peruvian Bowl

Peruvian·$$

This Venice Beach spot offers a vibrant taste of Peru with a creative poke-bowl twist. Expect authentic flavors and fresh ingredients served in a casual, beachside atmosphere. It's a place where friendly staff and a relaxed vibe make every meal feel like a mini-vacation.

🍽️95Food
85Vibe
💰75Value
💬

Best Peruvian food I've had in.

💬

Right off the beach but in enchanting Gingerbread House

💬

Second time here. Not super cheap, but pretty good

Ideal for
Peruvian food enthusiasts seeking authenticityBeach-day dining with premium fresh seafoodRepeat visitors and locals building relationships with staff
Venice Cucina
#6Hidden Gems
6 photos

Venice Cucina

Italian·$

This Venice Beach spot feels like a warm hug from an Italian grandmother, serving up incredibly fresh, homemade pasta and pizzas. The owner, Antonio, is the heart of the operation, making every guest feel like family with his genuine hospitality.

🍽️95Food
85Vibe
💰85Value
🧹70Hygiene
💬

The Mediterranean salad with prosciutto, garlic bread ( best dipping oil) , fettuccine Alfredo, shrimp pizza and shrimp scampi, all worth the 5 stars

💬

Super cute spot with delicious food! Tony is very sweet!! Good for date nights or dinner with your friends

💬

Antonio was wonderful, pleasant, and very entertaining. He made us feel at home. The food was delicious. Highly recommended.

Ideal for
Date nightFamilies with kidsGroup dining
Hinano Cafe
#7Hidden Gems
6 photos

Hinano Cafe

American·$$

Hinano Cafe is a Venice institution, a gritty dive bar steps from the beach that feels like a time capsule. It's a place where surfboards hang overhead, sawdust covers the floor, and live music often fills the air. The renowned cheeseburgers are simple, juicy, and exactly what you crave after a day by the ocean.

🍽️92Food
95Vibe
💰90Value
🧹65Hygiene
💬

The vibes are typically right although there are some days where the crowd can get a little rowdy

Ideal for
Burger and beer enthusiastsLocal dive bar culture seekersBeach day casual hangouts
C&O Restaurants
#8Hidden Gems
6 photos

C&O Restaurants

·$$$

This Marina del Rey Italian spot is defined by its seemingly endless supply of warm, garlicky bread knots, served with a friendly, family-style approach. Portions are generous, making it a reliable choice for hearty comfort food that consistently satisfies.

🍽️88Food
78Vibe
💰85Value
🔊65Noise
💬

C&O Cioppino - so much seafood in a delicious broth. There were so many scallops, 2 mussels, 2 clams, and lots of chunks of fish.

💬

The best thing? They ever stop coming. The staff comes around every ~10 minutes and refill your bread bowl!

💬

The atmosphere was amazing the garlic bread was delicious and the pasta was perfectly prepared.

Ideal for
Family dinnersCasual ItalianHearty portions
La Fiesta Brava
#9Hidden Gems
6 photos

La Fiesta Brava

Mexican·$$
📍 259B Hampton Dr

This family-run spot is a Venice favorite, serving up authentic Mexican flavors with a side of genuine warmth. It's the kind of place where the potato tacos are a revelation and the fresh-squeezed orange juice tastes like sunshine. Come for the delicious, heartfelt cooking and stay for the feeling of being welcomed into their home.

🍽️92Food
85Vibe
💰80Value
💬

La Fiesta Brava is a whole vibe in the best way

💬

Still my go-to taco spot in all of.

💬

Extremely clean. One of my top pick Mexican restaurants

Ideal for
Beach visitors seeking authentic tacosFamilies wanting casual, homey atmosphereValue-conscious diners near Venice
Mercedes Bar & Grille
#10Hidden Gems
6 photos

Mercedes Bar & Grille

Cuban·$

This Venice Beach spot offers a lively atmosphere with a full bar and frequent live music, making it a go-to for brunch and happy hour. The menu blends Cuban and Latin American flavors, with standout vegetarian and vegan options.

🍽️90Food
92Vibe
💰80Value
🔊65Noise
💬

It feels like youre at your uncle's back yard with delicious food coming out of the kitchen every few moments!!!

💬

These vegetarian tacos were amazing and rich and meaty despite consisting of flowers and avocado.

💬

I decided to try a vegan burger for the first time was so juicy and yummy.

Ideal for
Weekend brunchHappy hourGroup dining
Si! Mon
#11Hidden Gems

Si! Mon

Mixed/Fusion·$$$$

Si! Mon offers a vibrant, intimate atmosphere perfect for dates or lively dinners, with a menu that artfully blends Panamanian flavors with global influences. The kitchen shines with creative seafood dishes and unique flavor combinations, complemented by expertly crafted cocktails. While the small plates encourage sharing, be prepared for a price point that reflects the elevated experience.

🍽️92Food
95Vibe
💰65Value
🛡️65Safety
💬

Dark and moody with a touch of Tattooine cantina vibes

💬

The ambiance is loud but not so loud you have to yell

💬

This place is PRICEY, but mostly worth it for a special occasion

Ideal for
Special occasion dinners (anniversaries, birthdays)Adventurous foodies seeking unique flavor profilesSmall groups or couples seeking intimate atmosphere
The Venice Beach Bar & Kitchen
#12Hidden Gems

The Venice Beach Bar & Kitchen

American·$

This Venice Beach institution is a lively boardwalk hub, offering a casual, dog-friendly atmosphere with live sports and a full bar. It's a go-to for groups and families looking for a fun, unpretentious spot right on the sand.

🍽️88Food
95Vibe
💰78Value
🔊65Noise
💬

Great service, nice view from upper storey, best fried pickles I have had, bartender said they brien there own pickles and I believe him.

💬

This bar is the most incredibly magnetic watering hole with the best staff and ownership in the industry.

💬

We loved the vibes of this bar - it felt like a spot that locals would go to and kick it, despite being in a heavily touristy area.

Ideal for
GroupsFamilies with kidsWatching sports
Washington Square Pizza
#13Hidden Gems

Washington Square Pizza

Pizza·$$

This Venice Beach pizza joint is a neighborhood hub, serving up surprisingly excellent breakfast burritos alongside classic pies. It's a casual, family-friendly spot with a welcoming vibe, perfect for groups and quick bites.

🍽️90Food
92Vibe
💰85Value
💬

The customer service was a 5star the first time (Will) and a negative 5 star the second time (can’t remember the clowns name)

💬

We ordered the Farmer Veggie slice and the Mushroom pizza slice for the table, and both were outstanding.

💬

The vibe when it’s sunny is warm and welcoming, the pricing is the best for the quality in the area

Ideal for
Families with kidsGroup diningCasual weeknight dinner
Sushi Enya Marina Del Rey
#14Hidden Gems
4 photos

Sushi Enya Marina Del Rey

·$

This Marina Del Rey sushi spot is a local favorite, well-regarded for its incredibly fresh fish and generous portions. Many diners highlight the warm, welcoming atmosphere and attentive staff, making it a go-to for both casual meals and special occasions.

🍽️88Food
80Vibe
💰78Value
🔊65Noise
💬

Sushi Enya is one of our favourite sushi restaurants in the area, and we say that as people who eat a lot of great sushi.

💬

This is the best sushi on the West Side. Worth going all the way to Marina del Rey.

💬

The manager Toi and the rest of the staff are super friendly, professional, and the food was fantastic.

Ideal for
Date nightImpressing out-of-town guestsCasual weeknight dinner
Moto Azabu Sushi Bar & Grill
#15Hidden Gems

Moto Azabu Sushi Bar & Grill

·$$

Moto Azabu focuses on incredibly fresh fish, presented simply with great attention to detail and flavor. It's a no-frills spot that prioritizes authentic taste over ambiance, aiming to replicate the feel of a Japanese sushi bar. The owner is often present, contributing to a welcoming atmosphere.

🍽️88Food
75Vibe
💰70Value
🛡️65Safety
💬

This place was phenomenal. I have never been to Japan, but it felt like what we probably would have gotten in Japan.

💬

Absolutely outstanding! Some of the best sushi I’ve ever had. It didn’t taste like it was boxed or frozen at all!

💬

EVERYTHING was delicious and the sushi was fresh! Moto Azabu cures their own Salmon and it is absolutely delicious.

Ideal for
Authentic sushi loversCasual date nightNeighborhood sushi spot
Alisa Wine & Friends
#16Hidden Gems
6 photos

Alisa Wine & Friends

Mediterranean·$$$

This chic Greek spot on Abbot Kinney transports diners with its Mediterranean-inspired decor and vibrant atmosphere. It's a place where thoughtful design meets flavorful, authentic cuisine, making it ideal for romantic evenings or lively gatherings.

🍽️90Food
95Vibe
💰75Value
🔊60Noise
💬

Perfect location on Abbot Kinney

💬

We've been three times. Confident there isn't a better Greek spot

💬

Warm, Mediterranean ambiance and soul-soothing design

Ideal for
Date nights and romantic occasionsCelebration dinners (birthday, anniversary)Wine enthusiasts seeking Greek/natural selections
Scopa Italian Roots
#17Hidden Gems
6 photos

Scopa Italian Roots

Italian·$$$

This Venice Italian spot is a lively scene, buzzing with energy and a full bar that keeps the cocktails flowing. It's a place that feels equally suited for a fun night out with friends, a romantic date, or even a solo stop at the bar.

🍽️92Food
88Vibe
💰70Value
🔊65Noise
Ideal for
Special occasions and date nightsGroups wanting shareable, quality Italian fareWine and cocktail enthusiasts
Ela Greek Eats
#18Hidden Gems

Ela Greek Eats

Greek·$$

This unassuming spot serves up authentic Greek flavors, with a focus on fresh ingredients that shine in their bowls and gyros. It's a casual, family-friendly cafe that excels at takeout, offering a taste of the Mediterranean right in the neighborhood.

🍽️92Food
75Vibe
💰68Value
💬

The veggies are fresh, the hummus is creamy and flavorful, the falafel is never dry, and the brisket practically melts in your mouth.

💬

Calm, had some tables (like 3) to sit and have your food there but not a restaurant meant to wine and dine you.

💬

So assuming in this small plaza. I usually go here and the X-Press dry cleaners next door once a week.

Ideal for
Casual weeknight dinnerTakeoutGroups
26 Beach
#19Hidden Gems

26 Beach

American·$$

This Venice Beach-adjacent spot is a vibrant, eclectic haven, particularly celebrated for its extensive and creative French toast menu. It offers a playful, artsy atmosphere that makes it a go-to for casual brunches and lively gatherings.

🍽️88Food
92Vibe
💰75Value
💬

The host and busboy were phenomenal, they both kept our table clean and our coffee mug filled with hot coffee 😊.

💬

This place is so cute! Very good food! I had the french toast with strawberries and bananas, with a side of applewood smoked bacon.

💬

Came to LA to visit for a week. Ended up at 26 Beach every day for their French Toast.

Ideal for
Weekend brunchDate nightGroup dining
Barrique Venice
#20Hidden Gems

Barrique Venice

Italian·$$
📍 796 Main St

This intimate Italian spot in Venice feels like stepping into a charming European home, especially when seated outdoors under warm lamps. Handmade pastas are the star, with dishes like the beet pasta and rabbit ragu earning consistent celebrate.

🍽️92Food
90Vibe
💰70Value
🔊65Noise
💬

Consistency in great flavors, the best homemade pasta

💬

Some of the best hand-made pastas in the city

💬

Valet parking is reasonably priced

Ideal for
Special occasions and romantic date nightsWine enthusiasts seeking Italian pairingsAdventurous diners comfortable with exotic ingredients
Taqueria Chihuahua
#21Hidden Gems

Taqueria Chihuahua

·$$

This unassuming spot in a strip mall serves up authentic, flavorful Mexican street food that rivals some of the best in LA. It's a casual, friendly place where generous portions and a vibrant salsa bar make it a go-to for locals seeking a delicious and affordable meal.

🍽️82Food
78Vibe
💰88Value
65Wait
💬

Just so good!! The kind of tacos you miss when you’re away from LA. Homemade flavors, excellent salsas, friendly owners.

💬

This is my favorite spot! Best burritos around. Very authentic and tasty. Truly no better place for great Mexican on the Westside. IYKYK

💬

Tucked away in a medium sized strip mall which has a few places to eat, Taqueria is our go-to.

Ideal for
Casual lunchAffordable eatsAuthentic Mexican food
Thomas Cafe Hamburgers
#22Hidden Gems

Thomas Cafe Hamburgers

·$

This Venice Beach institution serves up classic diner fare with a focus on their well-seasoned burgers and surprisingly good fish tacos. It's a no-frills spot where you can get a filling meal at a fraction of the price of nearby beachside restaurants.

🍽️85Food
70Vibe
💰90Value
💬

The BEST fried fish tacos around. I have been getting them at least weekly for nearly four years now.

💬

Best Burrito in LA, for sure! I drive all the way to Venice Beach just to enjoy this masterpiece!

💬

Beautiful interior with lots of mirrors, great food, and most importantly, very friendly and attentive staff.

Ideal for
Affordable beachside eatsQuick lunchCasual burger joint
Venice Ramen
#23Hidden Gems

Venice Ramen

·$$

This Venice Beach ramen spot serves up rich, authentic broths and springy, house-made noodles that transport diners straight to Tokyo. It's a casual, family-run operation where the focus is squarely on delivering deeply flavorful bowls, often with surprisingly large portions for the price.

🍽️88Food
75Vibe
💰75Value
65Wait
💬

The ramen was amazing the noodle texture was probably the best I’ve ever had! Definitely give this place a try the soup base is so rich and creamy!

💬

I generally prefer ramen with thicker noodles, but theirs with the more soba-y noodles was absolutely delicious.

💬

Very delicious and the waitress was soo friendly. Looking forward to my next visit

Ideal for
Casual weeknight dinnerRamen lovers
Felix Trattoria
#24Hidden Gems
6 photos

Felix Trattoria

Italian·$$$

Felix Trattoria's handmade pastas are the star, with dishes like the white truffle and bolognese earning high celebrate. This intimate spot is perfect for special occasions, offering a lively atmosphere with a full bar and outdoor seating.

🍽️92Food
85Vibe
💰65Value
🔊60Noise
💬

Service staff is awesome. Did was fantastic

💬

We were seated at the small but cozy bar

💬

Parking will suck because it's in Venice

Ideal for
Pasta lovers and special occasionsDiners who book aheadItalian cuisine enthusiasts
Siamese Garden
#25Hidden Gems

Siamese Garden

·$$

This Venice Canal spot offers a tranquil escape with its charming outdoor seating and a menu that leans towards authentic Thai flavors. It's a place where the ambiance shines, making it ideal for a relaxed meal by the water.

🍽️85Food
90Vibe
💰70Value
💬

We had the tofu pad tai, beef salad, and spicy eggplant* medium with chicken. All the dishes were distinctive and tasted great.

💬

Also borders Venice boulevard so it’s noisier by the street but great food and easy seating make it worth it.

💬

Almost $20 I think 18 for the pad Thai and it just brought 3 shrimps. Kind a disappointed.

Ideal for
Date nightRelaxing meal by the water
Tahntawan Thai Kitchen
#26Hidden Gems

Tahntawan Thai Kitchen

·$$

This Venice Beach Thai spot offers authentic flavors, with many diners celebrating the curries and Pad Thai. The outdoor patio provides a pleasant setting, though some recent reception suggests portion sizes and ingredient accuracy have declined.

🍽️78Food
77Vibe
💰78Value
💬

This Thai restaurant is very pleasant with its rooftop terrace. The dishes are authentic and full of flavor, perfect for healthy eating in Los Angeles.

💬

We had Tom Yum, Pad Tai, and Shrimp Tempura. Everything was very delicious. Sauces were great too.

💬

Phenomenal prices for the quality of food!! Cant wait to come back for more!!

Ideal for
Casual Thai mealOutdoor dining
Belles Beach House
#27Hidden Gems

Belles Beach House

American·$$
📍 24 Windward Ave

This beachside spot captures the laid-back vibe of California living with a fun, tiki-inspired atmosphere. It's a lively place perfect for groups, dates, or solo visits, offering creative cocktails and flavorful dishes.

🍽️80Food
95Vibe
💰65Value
💬

Isabella was our server and she was perfect. She knew absolutely everything about the menu and described them in such great detail.

💬

Great service, great vibes, great drinks, great food. Big shout out to our server Isabella (Izzy) - she made the experience wonderful.

💬

This place is a VIBE! The ambiance is Hawaii/beach theme and I loved every bit.

Ideal for
Date nightGroup diningWeekend brunch
Beach and Brew Venice
#28Hidden Gems

Beach and Brew Venice

American·$$

This Venice Beach brewery offers a casual, chill vibe with a unique self-pour beer wall and a full bar. It's a lively spot with live music and sports screens, serving up a menu that steps up from typical bar fare.

🍽️82Food
88Vibe
💰65Value
💬

The burger was absolutely delicious. The fries were crispy too, and seasoned just right.

💬

Love the wine wall, creamy mushroom pasta and colognes pasta were delicious.

💬

Great bar food. Beer selection is just wow, pour-it-yourself system works amazing.

Ideal for
Date nightWatching the gameHappy hour
Wharo
#29Hidden Gems

Wharo

·$$$

Wharo offers a premium Korean BBQ experience on the Westside, focusing on high-quality meats and attentive service. While it aims for a refined atmosphere, many find the value proposition questionable due to high prices and smaller portions compared to K-Town alternatives.

🍽️78Food
75Vibe
💰62Value
💬

Best Premium Korean BBQ in Los Angeles. I’ve been to most and of course there are good cheap alternatives. But this place is #1 in quality

💬

Diego is one of the best servers I’ve met. He is attentive and extremely kind hearted.

💬

Obsessed with this Korean BBQ spot. Perfectly marinated, insanely tender meats, nonstop sizzling at the table, and banchan that just kept coming.

Ideal for
Korean BBQ loversWestside dining
Gjusta
#30Hidden Gems

Gjusta

Bakery/Cafe·$$
📍 320 Sunset Ave

Gjusta is a Venice institution that feels like a bakery, deli, and market all rolled into one. It's a place where regulars know to grab a number and settle into the expansive, sun-drenched patio for a taste of California cuisine.

🍽️88Food
92Vibe
💰55Value
💬

Fresh ingredients, awesome pastries, amazing bread

💬

The shine has definitely worn off. Where can a man get a great pastry in LA?

💬

Entrance is a little hard to find, parking sucks

Ideal for
Instagram-savvy brunch-goers seeking aesthetic California vibeHigh-income diners unconcerned with portion-to-price ratioFresh ingredient enthusiasts willing to wait for quality
Baja Cantina
#31Hidden Gems

Baja Cantina

Mexican·$$

This beachside cantina offers a vibrant, casual atmosphere with a lively patio that feels like a true escape. It's a go-to spot for groups and families, serving up classic Mexican fare and strong margaritas with a side of live music.

🍽️80Food
95Vibe
💰60Value
💬

Jasmine was our server and she was amazing! Was really kind to me and my aunt and did many check ins even when it was busy.

💬

The fried fish tacos were excellent, especially the fresh corn tortillas!

💬

This place was absolutely amazing. The margarita flights were so good.

Ideal for
Families with kidsGroup diningHappy hour
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