These upscale eateries, wine bars, and rooftop venues that boast stunning views, curated dishes, and extensive drink selections.
Experience an ocean-front dinner at Élephante
📍 1332 2nd St Rooftop, Santa Monica, CA 90401
Élephante is a captivating Tulum-inspired rooftop restaurant and bar in Santa Monica. As soon as you step out of the elevator, you’ll be greeted by a resort-like interior filled with modern wood furniture, houseplants, and an impressive view of the ocean from the Sunset Room. Indulge in their whipped eggplant dip with house-made flatbread, or choose from a selection of excellent pizza and pasta.
Know Before You Go
✔ Don’t forget to make a reservation in advance, as this popular spot tends to book up fast.
Noise Level
Reservation Difficulty
Sip natural wine at Esters
📍 1314 7th St, Santa Monica, CA 90401
Next, head to Esters Wine Shop & Bar: a light, bright, and airy, wine-centric watering hole that offers an impressive selection of around 250 wines for sale by the bottle, and 20 by the glass, represented from France, Italy, Spain, and the U.S. While prices might be a bit steep for the average wine drinker, the quality and variety make it well worth the splurge. Enjoy a glass on the breezy outdoor patio.
Know Before You Go
✔ The place can get quite busy, so grab a reservation or be prepared for a bit of a wait for the outdoor seating.
Noise Level
Reservation Difficulty
End with rooftop cocktails in a Mediterranean oasis at Calabra
📍 700 Wilshire Blvd (Entrance on 7th St) Santa Monica, CA 90401
End your day at Calabra, an upscale Mediterranean restaurant perched atop the Santa Monica Proper hotel. With lounge seating and hidden poolside alcoves, this is the perfect place to wind down after a day exploring Santa Monica. The views from this seventh-floor hotel lounge are something to behold.
✔ As with the other spots on this plan, reservations are strongly recommended.
Noise Level
Reservation Difficulty
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