When looking at great places for a vacation, Los Angeles is hard to beat. Home to Hollywood and countless other attractions, you’ll be spoilt for choice with so much to see and do.
And to fuel your West Coast adventures, it’s worth knowing what some of the best dining spots in the area are.
While the culinary scene in the City of Angels is incredibly rich and diverse, one could argue that the jewel in its crown is the combination of upscale food and breathtaking ocean views.
So if you’re craving some vitamin D and that classic California feel, check out my list of the best waterfront restaurants in Los Angeles.
Geoffrey’s
27400 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265
Phone: 310-457-1519
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Geoffrey’s exclusive dining experience offers oceanside views like you won’t see anywhere else in California.
Each table has a view of the ocean and surrounding tropical scenery. This upscale location is perfect for hosting special events or making a reservation, and bringing a date.
This high-end restaurant serves beautifully crafted small plates. My favorite was the Ahi Tuna Tartare and sampling the artisan cheese plates.
If you can, be sure to follow up with a delicate dessert and cocktail. Overall, Geoffrey’s is hard to beat if you are looking for a restaurant to spend an unforgettable evening with somebody special.
Malibu Farm Restaurant
23000 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265
Phone: 310-456-8850
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This casual and breezy oceanside bistro is the perfect location when you’re looking for a nice blend of rustic and chic dining options.
Located next to the Malibu Pier, it was easy to stop for dinner after a day of admiring the ocean. I was so impressed with the farm-to-table menu, and everything paired perfectly with a glass of Cabernet Sauvignon.
The vegan coconut ceviche was simply incredible and a perfect reflection of the atmosphere found here—high-end without losing any of its homely charms.
I’m sure this is a restaurant I will return to for fresh eats and exciting flavors.
Nobu Malibu
22706 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265
Phone: 310-317-9140
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I reached my next stop, Nobu Malibu, heading south along the Pacific Coast Highway. I was so excited to try the cuisine created by Iron Chef Nobuyuki “Nobu” Matsuhisa.
Perfectly blended Japanese and Californian style fare did not disappoint. This modern eatery serves up all of your classic Asian favorites, such as sashimi and miso, or you can order Kobe beef if fish isn’t your thing.
And don’t forget to try one of the decadent desserts. Sipping my Sunset Spritzer and watching the sun go down from this restaurant’s elegantly decorated deck was the ideal way to spend the evening.
The Lobster
1602 Ocean Ave, Santa Monica, CA 90401
Phone: 310-458-9294
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Located adjacent to the Santa Monica Pier, the lobster was within walking distance of incredible nightlife and entertainment.
This stylish and modern eatery offers breathtaking ocean views with a perfect sight line to the beach. The food was easily the star of the show.
This internationally known establishment specializes in lobster and locally sourced fare. I highly recommend the lobster roll with a side of truffle fries paired with a Lobster Cosmo.
Visit this upscale eatery and have your taste buds tantalized by celebrity chef Govind Armstrong’s expert culinary skills.
The Strand House
117 Manhattan Beach Blvd, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
Phone: 310-545-7470
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For a stylish and sleek atmosphere, I visited the Strand House on Manhattan Beach at the entrance to the Manhattan Beach Pier.
I didn’t have to travel far for entertainment since there was live music all evening at the venue. Being serenaded while admiring 180° ocean views is something you’ll want to experience during your visit, too.
This incredible location serves farm-fresh dining and hearty, healthy eats. I couldn’t have asked for a better night out on the town with a plate of fresh oysters and a glass of Prosecco.
Catch
1910 Ocean Way, Santa Monica 90405
Phone: 310-581-5533
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Santa Monica was one of my favorite areas to enjoy dining and entertainment during my visit. I knew I wanted to eat at a restaurant near the action, so I chose Catch, which did not disappoint.
This sophisticated seafood restaurant and bar is conveniently located in the Hotel Casa Del Mar, making it a great place to stay during your trip.
This gorgeous hotel and the surrounding beach provide the perfect backdrop for this sophisticated restaurant.
Serving fresh-caught and expertly prepared seafood, it’s no wonder so many want to stay at such a high-end hotel. If you get the chance, I recommend sampling the sushi with a group of friends.
Crusty Crab
1146 Nagoya Way, San Pedro, CA 90731
Phone: 310-519-9058
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You will want to add Crusty Crab to your list of food destinations for a casual, fun atmosphere and some of the best seafood in California.
This market and dining experience offers an authentic look at coastal living in San Pedro. With indoor and outdoor dining offering beautiful views of the main channel, you can rest assured that all your food is freshly caught.
You can walk up to receive your meal or sit in the dining room. You can even buy seafood by the pound, and they will cook it for you. Talk about coastal living!
SALT Restaurant & Bar
13534 Bali Way, Marina Del Rey, CA 90292
Phone: 424-289-8223
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This chic and trendy location offers magnificent views of the marina, giving it that perfect riverfront feel.
Conveniently located in Marina Del Rey Hotel, this is a perfect stop if you’re looking for a casual but sophisticated atmosphere.
Open for brunch or dinner, treat yourself to fresh selections like smoked salmon toast and mimosas. Or, stop by for happy hour between 2 and 4 PM and enjoy a cocktail before dinner.
Salt Restaurant and Bar won’t disappoint you if you’re looking for an incredible night out with friends or the perfect venue to host your event.
The Penthouse
1111 2nd St, Santa Monica, CA 90403
Phone: 310-393-8080
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Sitting at the top of the Huntley Hotel, you will find The Penthouse, a classy eatery for California’s finest diners. Reserve a table for breakfast through dinner, and enjoy panoramic waterfront views.
After an exciting day exploring the town, it is luxurious to come back to your hotel and Stop by the restaurant for dinner.
Classic flavors with a contemporary twist are the perfect blend of familiar and sophisticated. I highly recommend the short rib cavatelli, one of the many signature cocktails.
22nd St. Landing Seafood Grill & Bar
141 W 22nd St Ste A, San Pedro, CA 90731
Phone: 310-548-4400
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This restaurant has a rich history and is surrounded by plenty of other interesting places to see. Visit the Fort MacArthur Museum or browse the port of Los Angeles.
At the end of the day, though, make sure you stop for a meal at 22nd St. Landing Seafood Grill and Bar.
This gorgeous eatery offers waterfront views and classic coastal fare. Stop by for breakfast, lunch, or dinner and try fresh seafood options Such as stand clams and mussels.
If you do make it in time for brunch, I highly recommend the lobster fritter benedict and a glass of champagne.