Guidebook for Santa Monica
Food Scene
Nice local Italian place with great service and lovely indoor/outdoor space
24 locals recommend
Il Forno
2901 Ocean Park BlvdNice local Italian place with great service and lovely indoor/outdoor space
Lovely local Mexican place. Sit upstairs, order a margarita (skinny cadillac is my favorite) and some mole, and enjoy the music.
35 locals recommend
Lares
2909 Pico BlvdLovely local Mexican place. Sit upstairs, order a margarita (skinny cadillac is my favorite) and some mole, and enjoy the music.
Farmer's Market
12060 Ventura Plgreat organic fruits and veggies, local seafood, and easy access. Saturday 8-1.
Viet Noodle Bar( pico blv)
3221 Pico BlvdTry the Turmeric Fish!
Crimson
2901 Ocean Park BlvdGreat casual Mediterranean food
Blossom Vietnamese
2821 Ocean Park BlvdWonderful Crepes and Vegetarian Pho
Locally and woman-owned funky coffee shop
15 locals recommend
UnUrban Coffee House 100% Organic Food & Drinks, certified organic every ingredient
3301 Pico BlvdLocally and woman-owned funky coffee shop
Trader Joe's
Very popular grocery chain
The OP Cafe
3117 Ocean Park BlvdPopular for breakfast, with generous portions
Society Kitchen
2901 Ocean Park BlvdEclectic menu with a nice patio
Fast Taco 11
simple taco place, locally-owned
Arts & Culture
Go mainly for the views. They usually have a good photography exhibit, and the music nights can be fun.
2309 locals recommend
The Getty
1200 Getty Center DrGo mainly for the views. They usually have a good photography exhibit, and the music nights can be fun.
Best variety of classes, locally owned for decades. A local gem for sure. Say hi to Bruce (the owner) and tell him I sent you.
21 locals recommend
Santa Monica Yoga
1640 Ocean Park BlvdBest variety of classes, locally owned for decades. A local gem for sure. Say hi to Bruce (the owner) and tell him I sent you.
Parks & Nature
beautiful old trees and nice views as you ascend up to Topanga. If you take the (closed) waterfall trail watch out for poison oak.
Santa Ynez Canyon
beautiful old trees and nice views as you ascend up to Topanga. If you take the (closed) waterfall trail watch out for poison oak.
El Matador Beach
32350 Pacific Coast HwyGreat Malibu Beach!