DineGuides

Top Restaurants Near Downtown Santa Monica Station

Find the best restaurants near Downtown Santa Monica Station in Los Angeles. Top spots within walking distance. Independent scores, no paid placements.

By DineGuides Team·Updated July 2026·15 spots within 0.5 mi

15 top-rated restaurants within 0.2 miles of Downtown Santa Monica Station. Italian leads with 4 picks, followed by American (4) and Mexican (2).

Whether you’re grabbing a bite before boarding or exploring the neighborhood, these are the spots worth your time.

The top-ranked restaurants near Downtown Santa Monica Station are LouLou Santa Monica (0.2 mi), UOVO Santa Monica (0.4 mi), and The Misfit Bar & Restaurant (0.3 mi).

Dining Near Downtown Santa Monica Station FAQ

Where should I eat near Downtown Santa Monica Station?

The top-ranked restaurants near Downtown Santa Monica Station include LouLou Santa Monica, UOVO Santa Monica, and The Misfit Bar & Restaurant. LouLou Santa Monica is just 0.2 miles away.

Are there walkable restaurants near Downtown Santa Monica Station?

Yes, there are 15 restaurants within walking distance (0.5 miles) of Downtown Santa Monica Station, including LouLou Santa Monica, UOVO Santa Monica, The Misfit Bar & Restaurant.

What types of food can I find near Downtown Santa Monica Station?

Restaurants near Downtown Santa Monica Station offer Italian, American, Mexican, French, and Steakhouse. Our guide covers 15 options within 0.5 miles.

How many restaurants are near Downtown Santa Monica Station?

Our guide features 15 vetted restaurants within 0.5 miles of Downtown Santa Monica Station in Los Angeles, all reviewed and scored by DineGuides.

Are there cheap eats or quick bites near Downtown Santa Monica Station?

Yes, 10 affordable options are within 0.5 miles, including UOVO Santa Monica, The Misfit Bar & Restaurant, Colapasta Restaurant. All scored independently with no paid placements.

Which restaurants near Downtown Santa Monica Station are good for groups?

For groups, try LouLou Santa Monica, The Misfit Bar & Restaurant, Chez Jay. These are top-rated for gatherings and are within 0.5 miles.

What Metro line stops at Downtown Santa Monica?

Downtown Santa Monica is served by the LA Metro E Line. There are 15 restaurants within 0.5 miles of the station.

Can I grab food right when I get off at Downtown Santa Monica?

Yes. LouLou Santa Monica is just 0.2 miles from the station exit, and there are 14 more options nearby. All scored by DineGuides based on real reviews.

Are there any top-rated restaurants near Downtown Santa Monica station?

12 highly-rated restaurants near Downtown Santa Monica are ranked in the top tier on DineGuides, including LouLou Santa Monica and UOVO Santa Monica.

Top Restaurants Near Downtown Santa Monica Station

LouLou Santa Monica
#1Downtown Santa Monica Station

LouLou Santa Monica

0.2 mi
French·$$$

LouLou Santa Monica offers a vibrant rooftop scene, perfect for lively celebrations and energetic evenings. The atmosphere buzzes with music and a chic coastal vibe, making it a go-to for groups and those seeking a fun night out.

🍽️85Food
92Vibe
💰75Value
80Wait
💬

Outstanding - the grilled fish

Ideal for
Birthday and celebration groupsRooftop date nights and special occasionsBrunch with friends on weekends
Uovo Santa Monica
#2Downtown Santa Monica Station

Uovo Santa Monica

0.4 mi
Italian·$$

UOVO Santa Monica is a pasta bar where fresh pasta, made in Italy and flown in daily, is the star. The simple menu focuses on expertly prepared classic dishes, with a tasting menu offering a curated journey through their best offerings. Watching the chefs craft these dishes in the open kitchen adds to the intimate, date-night-friendly atmosphere.

🍽️98Food
85Vibe
💰85Value
75Wait
Ideal for
Date night or special occasionsItalian food enthusiastsPasta purists
The Misfit Bar & Restaurant
#3Downtown Santa Monica Station

The Misfit Bar & Restaurant

0.3 mi
American·$

This Santa Monica spot buzzes with a lively, casual vibe, making it a go-to for both date nights and group gatherings. It shines with a full bar offering strong, well-crafted cocktails and a menu that thoughtfully caters to various dietary needs, including extensive vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.

🍽️88Food
95Vibe
💰75Value
85Wait
💬

Highly recommend this place for a date night, followed by free west coast swing dance classes on 3rd street

💬

The Misfit Bar & Restaurant is my go-to spot in Santa Monica for a fun and casual meal.

💬

Excellent mediterranean inspired food in a fun setting with several vegetarian options.

Ideal for
Date nightGroup diningCasual hangouts
Colapasta Restaurant
#4Downtown Santa Monica Station

Colapasta Restaurant

0.4 mi
Italian·$
📍 1241 5th St

This Santa Monica spot serves up handmade pasta with a focus on traditional flavors and fresh ingredients. It's a casual, family-friendly favorite that feels like a true Italian home kitchen.

🍽️95Food
85Vibe
💰80Value
65Wait
💬

Best pasta I've ever had

💬

Been coming four years. Still just as good

💬

Service is great. Love the espresso

Ideal for
Pasta lovers willing to waitFoodies seeking quality over speedWeekday lunch visitors
Meat On Ocean
#5Downtown Santa Monica Station

Meat On Ocean

0.3 mi
Steakhouse·$$$
📍 1501 Ocean Ave

This Santa Monica steakhouse offers a classic, upscale atmosphere with stunning ocean views, making it ideal for special occasions. While known for its prime cuts and extensive wine list, the restaurant also caters to families with a thoughtful kids' menu.

🍽️92Food
90Vibe
💰75Value
70Wait
💬

I've been here several times, every visit perfect

💬

Service was outstanding. My wife, my daughter

💬

Located right across from Santa Monica Beach

Ideal for
Special occasions and celebrationsSteak enthusiasts and meat loversDiners seeking oceanfront fine dining
Orto Santa Monica
#6Downtown Santa Monica Station

Orto Santa Monica

0.3 mi
Italian·$$$

This Santa Monica spot offers a taste of authentic Italian cuisine, with many calling it the best in LA. The intimate atmosphere and attentive service make it a perfect choice for special occasions or a charming date night.

🍽️92Food
90Vibe
💰75Value
🛡️65Safety
75Wait
💬

Phenomenal service, made sure all meals were dairy free

💬

Every time we come to LA, we make it a point to dine here

💬

You can actually have a conversation without shouting

Ideal for
Date nights and romantic occasionsSpecial celebrations (anniversaries, birthdays)Italian food enthusiasts seeking authenticity
Chez Jay
#7Downtown Santa Monica Station

Chez Jay

0.3 mi
American·$$
📍 1657 Ocean Ave

Chez Jay is a Santa Monica institution, a dive bar that feels like stepping back in time, complete with celebrity photos and a storied past. It's a place where locals and tourists alike can enjoy classic steaks and seafood, often accompanied by live music in its lively backyard patio.

🍽️88Food
95Vibe
💰80Value
70Wait
💬

I got the butter New York steak, and to be honest it was one of the best steaks I have ever had.

💬

We had an incredible meal inside the restaurant followed by deserts, drinks and live music on the back patio.

💬

My friend's steak was not ideal but excellent service and amazing crowd makes this place a favorite.

Ideal for
Date nightGroup diningSolo dining
Fritto Misto
#8Downtown Santa Monica Station

Fritto Misto

0.3 mi
Italian·$

This Santa Monica Italian spot offers a family-friendly atmosphere with a full bar and generous portions. It's a great place for dates or groups, with a menu that caters well to vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diners.

🍽️88Food
88Vibe
💰85Value
🛡️65Safety
75Wait
💬

Gluten Free Pasta! I have Celiac disease and this is a picture of their gluten free pasta! The best I have ever had!

💬

This place is amazing!!! My family stopped here for dinner our 2nd day in Santa Monica and I cannot rave enough.

💬

Lunch special is the best deal in town. Huge salad portion, very tasty pasta of the day, and a drink for under $20!

Ideal for
Date nightFamilies with kidsGroup dining
Pita House Inc
#9Downtown Santa Monica Station

Pita House Inc

0.5 mi
Mediterranean·$$

Pita House serves up hearty, flavorful Mediterranean plates with generous portions that make for satisfying comfort food. The vibrant flavors of their kebabs, shawarma, and hummus are a consistent draw, offering a casual yet potentially white-tablecloth-worthy meal.

🍽️92Food
💰85Value
📍65Location
75Wait
💬

Came back months later and ordered a chicken wrap. Really loved it but it was too small for me though.

💬

So this is my first time coming to this place.I thought it's amazing, but the service is not the greatest.

💬

This place was excellent. We ate so much and the food bill was so affordable.

Ideal for
Families with kidsCasual weeknight dinnerTakeout
Casa Martin | Ocean Ave
#10Downtown Santa Monica Station

Casa Martin | Ocean Ave

0.3 mi
Mexican·$
📍 1654 Ocean Ave

This Santa Monica spot offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere with a full bar and a casual vibe. It's a place where homemade-style Mexican food meets friendly service, making it a go-to for many.

🍽️90Food
88Vibe
💰75Value
🔊65Noise
65Wait
💬

The queso was some of the best I’ve had and lots of vegetarian options. Highly recommend it’s the best Mexican food I’ve had in SoCal.

💬

Back again a year later and still amazing!! Casa Martin has become a must when in town.

💬

Food is very good. Had the shrimp enchiladas and they were delightful. Felt like we paid just a little more than it's value.

Ideal for
Date nightGroup diningHappy hour
The Lobster
#11Downtown Santa Monica Station

The Lobster

0.3 mi
Seafood·$$$
📍 1602 Ocean Ave

Perched above the Santa Monica Pier, The Lobster offers a vibrant scene with stunning ocean views, making it a prime spot for special occasions. While the ambiance shines, the value proposition is challenged by smaller portions and a high price point.

🍽️82Food
92Vibe
💰65Value
75Wait
💬

The lobster was not really cooked

💬

Waited almost an hour without a joke to leave

💬

The atmosphere is always pleasant and clean

Ideal for
Sunset dining and special occasionsTourists seeking iconic pier experienceDiners prioritizing view over value
Blue Plate Taco
#12Downtown Santa Monica Station

Blue Plate Taco

0.4 mi
Mexican·$
📍 1515 Ocean Ave

This vibrant taco spot, steps from the Santa Monica Pier, offers a lively atmosphere perfect for any occasion. It's a go-to for fresh, flavorful Mexican fare with a full bar and plenty of seating options, including a dog-friendly patio.

🍽️82Food
92Vibe
💰68Value
70Wait
💬

Hands down one of the best meals I’ve had in a while. The food was soooo fresh & flavorful, and the service was amazing.

💬

Service was great and the overall vibe of the place is definitely a highlight! The food looked amazing with a great presentation but unfortunately the flavor didn’t quite match.

💬

The tacos were very delicious. The beans and rice served on the side were also great.

Ideal for
Date nightGroup diningFamilies with kids
Sugar Palm Santa Monica
#13Downtown Santa Monica Station

Sugar Palm Santa Monica

0.4 mi
American·$$$
📍 1819 Ocean Ave

This hotel restaurant offers a vibrant poolside setting perfect for both casual daytime meals and romantic evenings. It shines with a variety of vegan and vegetarian options, making it a welcoming spot for diverse dietary needs.

🍽️83Food
92Vibe
💰68Value
70Wait
💬

Our server anticipated our needs before we even knew we had them, refilling glasses with perfect timing and offering thoughtful recommendations that showed they'd truly listened to our preferences.

💬

Great Little favorite. You would need to definitely look for it as it is in the hotel.

💬

Inside Viceroy hotel. Meteted 3 hour street parking behind hotel on Main St. (Near Pico) was really easy.

Ideal for
Date nightWeekend brunchHappy hour
HiHo Cheeseburger | Santa Monica
#14Downtown Santa Monica Station

HiHo Cheeseburger | Santa Monica

0.4 mi
Burgers·$

This Santa Monica spot serves up a highly-celebrated halal wagyu burger, often called the best ever by visitors. The no-tipping policy and focus on quality ingredients, like real sugar in shakes, set it apart. Expect a straightforward menu where burgers and fries are the stars.

🍽️90Food
75Vibe
💰75Value
70Wait
💬

Fantastic halal food option in LA and that to so close to Santa Monica pier!

💬

The pastrami burger which probably was the best burger I've ever had.

💬

Location was easy to get to, plenty of street parking and a parking structure across the street.

Ideal for
Group diningHalal diners
The Surfing Fox
#15Downtown Santa Monica Station

The Surfing Fox

0.2 mi
American·$

This beachside hotel restaurant offers a relaxed, casual vibe perfect for soaking in ocean views. It's a versatile spot, equally suited for a casual breakfast, a lively brunch, or a laid-back evening with friends.

🍽️78Food
92Vibe
💰70Value
65Wait
💬

The service was impeccable; our server was attentive and knowledgeable, offering helpful recommendations and ensuring our needs were met throughout the meal.

💬

Really cool looking place, happy hour requires you to sit at the bar, portions for apps small, service was brutal.

💬

I got eggs Benedict and first it came out with the smallest eggs that were hard boiled.

Ideal for
Date nightWeekend brunchGroup dining
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