Restaurants on Santa Monica Pier
Santa Monica locals often mention that the restaurants on Santa Monica Pier are typically over-priced, unhealthy, and lackluster compared to Santa Monica’s superior dining options. However, tourists frequently appreciate the pier restaurants, with Tripadvisor users (travelers) rating them higher in quality and value compared to Yelp users (primarily locals). When dining at the pier, customers are mostly paying for the stunning location and panoramic view rather than exceptional food. Interestingly, food prices can often be more reasonable than beverage prices at various sit-down establishments.
The Albright has seen a rebranding from its former identity as Santa Monica Seafood. The next generation of the same family has elevated the quality and service, resulting in its newfound popularity. This restaurant remains committed to its seafood offerings, so it’s advisable to avoid the burgers here.
Among the various dining options on the pier, Pier Burger earns accolades from both locals and travelers for delivering a delectable, albeit modest-sized, burger and fries at a reasonable price.
For a quick bite, the Pacific Park Food Court features familiar brands such as Taco Bell and Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf, alongside a selection of pizza, burgers, and popular carnival treats like funnel cake, churros, and Dippin Dots.
Soda Jerks, located inside the Carousel Building, offers delightful old-fashioned ice cream sodas, shakes, sundaes, and a variety of other ice cream specialties.
Families with young kids or college students who enjoy the lively atmosphere may find Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. to be an entertaining dining experience. Rusty’s Surf Ranch occasionally features live music and dancing for a cover charge, though the food itself isn’t considered remarkable. In contrast, Mariasol, located at the end of the pier, boasts an excellent sunset view for a memorable dining experience.
One of the standout culinary experiences at the pier can be found just above it on Ocean Avenue at The Lobster. This establishment is well-reviewed for its delicious food and spectacular view over the pier. However, it is worth noting that the tables can feel cramped and prices can be steep, particularly for lobster. If budget is not a concern, one might consider ordering a picnic from The Lobster to enjoy while watching the sunset on the beach or bluff, creating a perfect end to the day.
Pacific Park Food Court
The Food Court resides within the Pacific Park amusement area of the pier, and there is no admission fee, making it accessible for everyone to enjoy.
Available vendors include:
- Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf
- Beach Burger – known for burgers and hot dogs
- Pacific Wheel Pizza Company – offering individual pan pizzas
- Taco Bell – serving tacos, burritos, and quesadillas
- Scoops – famous for ice cream, frozen yogurt, and shakes (recognized as a 2019 award winner!)
- Funnel Cake Factory
