Best Restaurants Special Occasions Santa Monica
The best restaurants special occasions Santa Monica for your first anniversary or your 50th, dinner at Giorgio Baldi will mark the occasion with style.
Giorgio Baldi
Topping the list of the best anniversary restaurants near Santa Monica, Giorgio Baldi offers a truly unique experience. In business for thirty years, this family-managed restaurant is all about tradition and authenticity. Treat someone special to a four-course dinner from salad to soup to entree, and don’t forget dessert!
Best restaurant with a View
With so many great restaurants in Santa Monica, it might come down to the view that makes or breaks it for you. Some like the ocean, others like the mountains, and some love the hustle and bustle of a city. We chose Elephante as the restaurant with the best view. Here’s why.
Elephante
Depending on your definition of romantic, Elephante offers the best of both worlds. More date night than an anniversary, you get a spectacular ocean view from its downtown location, where you also feel the city’s energy. Grab a balcony seat and dine on fabulous craft cocktails and California cuisine. It’s always fun and always a party. Best Date Night Spot If you’re looking to take your honey out for a weekly date night but still want something unique, consider Forma on Montana Avenue.
Forma
The words “forma di formaggio” refer to the “whole cheese.” Well, Forma takes cheese to a new level. Our favorite dish, Cacio e Pepe, is noodles spun around on a three-foot-wide block of cheese. The cheese block becomes a mixing bowl, pulling cheese into the noodles on every spin. Sure, you can also enjoy the short ribs, fish, wine, and other pasta dishes — but if you’re a first-time visitor? Order the Cacio e Pepe. (Oh, and to clarify: The giant block of cheese does not come to your table. They prepare your Cacio e Pepe in the cheese block, then plate it. Sorry, cheese maniacs.)
Best Fine Dining Restaurant Regarding strictly food, Citrin might top the list of the best fine dining restaurants.
Citrin Owned by culinary expert Josiah Citrin, a two-star Michelin chef, Citrin is amongst the finest in fine dining. Check out their seasonal a la carte or Prix fixe menu, both available for an outdoor dining experience in the garden. To be clear, we consider Citrin a special place for special occasions. So spend your money wisely because choosing to have dinner here might mean forgoing your kid’s college fund.
Tips for Getting Hard-to-Get Reservations
The best way to get a reservation is to ask your hotel concierge if you’re visiting or staycationing in Santa Monica. That said, all of the restaurants mentioned above do offer online reservations through Resy, OpenTable, or other apps. However, some spots might even require that you call 30 days in advance to secure a table. For example, to get the exact time and table you want at a spot like Nobu Malibu, locals might call first thing in the morning, thirty days in advance. Isn’t that so LA?
Whether it’s your first anniversary or your 50th, dinner at Giorgio Baldi will mark the occasion with style.
Cassia – Best Vietnamese Cuisine
For a unique dining experience, check out Cassia, serving modern Vietnamese cuisine with California flair. Perfect for a special occasion with a group of friends or family.
The Lobster – Best Seafood Restaurant
Savor fresh seafood at The Lobster, a top-rated restaurant known for its sustainable seafood, lively atmosphere, and stunning ocean views. A must-visit for seafood lovers.
Tar & Roses – Best Mediterranean Cuisine
Indulge in rustic Mediterranean cuisine with a modern twist at Tar & Roses. From wood-fired pizzas to slow-cooked meats, this restaurant offers a memorable dining experience that’s perfect for any occasion.
The Arthur J – Best Steakhouse
Treat yourself to a delicious steak dinner at The Arthur J, a stylish steakhouse offering prime cuts of beef, fresh seafood, and handcrafted cocktails. Ideal for a particular date night or celebration.
Tips for Making Your Special Occasion Unforgettable
To make your special occasion truly unforgettable, consider these tips:
- Make a reservation well in advance
- Dress up for the occasion
- Plan a unique activity after dinner, such as a walk on the beach or a scenic drive
- Bring a small gift or write a heartfelt note for your loved one
- Make a toast to the special moment and enjoy each other’s company.
With so many great restaurants in Santa Monica,it might come down to the view that makes orbreaks it for you!