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Best Contemporary Italian Restaurants in Santa Monica

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71 restaurants available nearby

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A photo of Orto Santa Monica restaurant
4.2
Awesome(1117)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Santa Monica
Booked 11 times today
Growing up in Italy, my family cooked at home and had the most extraordinary experiences with ingredients grown in our backyard, paired with the wines my chef/restaurateur stepfather would bring back from regions throughout Italy. I fell in love with food as a child watching my stepfather, once nominated a top chef in Italy, work in restaurant kitchens and floors. Moving to California in 1991 and subsequently to Santa Monica and experiencing the Farmers Market inspired me to start Orto - Italian for “vegetable garden” - where I meld local ingredients and organic herbs grown here at the restaurant to create traditional Italian recipes. At our bar you’ll find a cocktail list created from fresh herbs and premium spirits, and our wine list focuses on sustainable and organic producers. Andrea InioHappy Hour Monday-Thursday 5-7pmValidated parking is available for $7 for 3 hours at 501 Santa Monica Blvd (enter on 5th street, behind the Citibank)
A photo of Palma at Santa Monica Proper restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(289)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • Santa Monica
Booked 26 times today
Palma at Santa Monica Proper is a shining gem for Italian cuisine, celebrated for its authenticity and seasonal inspirations. Nestled in an inspiring, art-filled space, it offers a culinary journey that captures the essence of Italy. One reviewer raves, "The food and ambiance are always fantastic," highlighting how the experience transcends mere dining. With a One MICHELIN Key 2024 award, the restaurant stands out not only for its exquisite dishes but also for its exceptional service and cozy, intimate atmosphere. From expertly crafted cocktails to delightful Italian flavors, Palma ensures every visit is a memorable culinary delight.
A photo of Massilia restaurant
4.5
Awesome(840)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Santa Monica
Booked 18 times today
Massilia, located in the vibrant heart of Santa Monica, offers a captivating journey through Moroccan cuisine, renowned for its authentic flavors and exceptional quality. Guests rave about the "Couscous Royale," a signature dish that truly embodies the richness of Moroccan culinary traditions. The menu skillfully merges Mediterranean influences, creating a dining experience that is both unique and delightful. With fresh ingredients and "wonderful service," diners consistently commend the attentive staff, including the remarkable Jean-Michel, who enhances every meal with his "exceptional hosting." Massilia promises a "foodie wonderland" that transports patrons to the colorful streets of Morocco—a must-visit for those seeking genuine Moroccan flair.
A photo of Élephante Santa Monica restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(1590)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • Santa Monica
Booked 286 times today
Élephante Santa Monica is a true gem in the heart of Santa Monica, celebrated for its authentic and elevated Mediterranean cuisine. With ocean views that enhance its breezy, lounge-like ambiance, guests are treated to a dining experience that is both vibrant and intimate. The restaurant's commitment to quality is evident; as one reviewer raved, "the pasta is homemade and quite spectacular," with ingredients imported from Italy ensuring "authenticity in every bite." Dishes like the whipped eggplant and burrata pizza are particular standouts, capturing the essence of Mediterranean flavors. This chic destination not only offers great food but also "a vibe" that keeps patrons coming back.
A photo of Fia restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(2544)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Santa Monica
Booked 34 times today
Nestled in the heart of Santa Monica, Fia is a hidden gem that beautifully captures the essence of superior seafood dining. The culinary artistry of celebrated Chef Brendan Collins shines through in every dish, notably the "Yellowtail Crudo," praised for its "triumph of freshness and taste." Guests rave about the delightful blend of California and Italian Coastal Cuisine, with seasonal ingredients that elevate the seafood experience to new heights. The ambiance at Fia complements the exquisite menu, offering a chic yet relaxed setting that feels like an "oasis of tranquility." For those seeking an unforgettable seafood dining journey, Fia is a must-visit.
A photo of Ivy at the Shore restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(3573)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Santa Monica
Booked 67 times today
Ivy at the Shore in Santa Monica is a seafood lover's paradise that promises an exceptional dining experience. Known for its vibrant ambiance and ocean views, this iconic restaurant serves a seafood menu that's as fresh as it is flavorful. Guests rave about the "incredibly fresh and flavorful" Stone Crab, perfectly chilled and paired with a tangy mustard sauce, underscoring the restaurant's dedication to quality seafood. The service is impeccable, with attentive staff ensuring every detail is perfect. Whether it's a leisurely lunch or a special occasion, Ivy at the Shore offers "an unforgettable dining experience" with its standout seafood dishes.
A photo of North Italia - Santa Monica restaurant
4.4
Awesome(1519)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • Santa Monica
Booked 38 times today
North Italia - Santa Monica is a beacon of authentic Pizzeria cuisine, offering a "handcrafted Italian experience" that starts from scratch daily. Known for its exceptional service and "excellent food," North Italia crafts each pizza with the finest ingredients, capturing the essence of traditional Italian flavors. Diners frequently rave about the vibrant atmosphere and attention to detail, making it a perfect spot for family gatherings or a lively night out. The prosciutto pizza is a standout, with reviews noting it as "incredible." Whether you're a local or a visitor, North Italia promises a Pizzeria experience that is both delightful and memorable.
A photo of The Courtyard Kitchen restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(143)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • Santa Monica
Booked 31 times today
The Courtyard Kitchen in Santa Monica is a true gem for Mediterranean cuisine enthusiasts. This delightful restaurant captivates diners with its vacation-inspired Mediterranean dishes that are as authentic as they are delicious. Guests consistently rave about the “excellent food” and vibrant flavors that echo the essence of the Mediterranean. The restaurant's commitment to quality ensures that every meal is made from the freshest ingredients, providing "consistently delicious" experiences that have patrons returning time and again. The charming ambiance and attentive service further enhance the dining experience, making it a must-visit spot for anyone seeking an authentic taste of the Mediterranean.
A photo of 1212 Santa Monica restaurant
4.4
Awesome(1802)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Santa Monica
Booked 53 times today
1212 Santa Monica is a standout gem of New American cuisine, nestled in the lively Third Street Promenade of Santa Monica. This restaurant masterfully captures the diverse flavors of SoCal, offering a menu that truly embodies authentic American culinary excellence. Guests rave about the "delicious food" and "amazing service," making every dining experience memorable. The atmosphere is "spectacular" with a perfect blend of live music and stylish decor, enhancing the overall vibe. Popular for its all-night happy hour and lively bottomless brunch, 1212 Santa Monica promises a delectable and vibrant American dining experience that will leave you eager for more.
A photo of LA Puglia restaurant
4.5
Awesome(275)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Santa Monica
Booked 9 times today
LA Puglia celebrates the beauty of the Puglia region - in the Southern Italy - through its culinary tradition with a contemporary sensibility and aims to transport its guests right there through an authentic food & wine experience.Calling it “an ode to the authenticity of our regional cuisines”, the prestigious Gambero Rosso International awarded LA Puglia in Santa Monica as Restaurant of the Year from among its 2023 list of Top Italian Restaurants in the world. The official press release describes feeling transported to a small town between Bari and Lecce where flavors without filters and authentic, precise cooking deliver a genuine Apulian experience.Our menu features specialties such as fresh orecchiette with brasciole, black linguine with seafood, puree of fava beans with sautéed dandelion greens, the unique Apulian focaccia, and Pasticciotto, the decadent cream-filled pastry eaten for breakfast in the province of Lecce.

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Discover best Contemporary Italian restaurants in Santa Monica

Discover the elegant charm of contemporary Italian cuisine in the vibrant Westside of Los Angeles, specifically in Santa Monica, where culinary excellence meets coastal sophistication. Here, a selection of restaurants offers an array of modern Italian dishes that blend traditional flavors with innovative twists, each crafted by chefs who are passionate about their culinary heritage. These establishments stand out not only for their exceptional menus but also for their commitment to quality and authenticity, ensuring every dish served is a reflection of true Italian craftsmanship. Santa Monica's dining scene is dynamic and diverse, with contemporary Italian restaurants providing a culinary exploration that is both delightful and memorable. The atmosphere in these eateries ranges from casual chic to upscale elegance, making them perfect for any occasion, whether it's a casual lunch, a romantic dinner, or a special celebration. Patrons can expect top-notch service, an inviting ambiance, and a gastronomic experience that pays homage to Italian culinary traditions while embracing local influences. These restaurants are widely appreciated for their use of fresh, high-quality ingredients and their ability to create a memorable dining experience that keeps guests returning. Whether you're a local or a visitor, exploring Santa Monica's contemporary Italian dining offerings is sure to be a highlight of your culinary adventures.

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