Best Upscale American Restaurants in Santa Monica | Upscale American Food

14 restaurants in Best Upscale American Restaurants in Santa Monica | Upscale American Food

• Lady & Larder — American · rated 5/5: Lady & Larder is a sun-drenched sanctuary of artisanal craft, where the vibrant colors of seasonal produce and the rich textures of curated charcuterie transform simple ingredients into edible art. Playfully named sandwiches like the Hot Girl Salami and Talk to Me Goose offer bold, punchy flavors tucked between crusty bread, while their signature boards invite guests to linger over a mosaic of local cheeses and honeycomb. It is a chic, modern destination that celebrates the joy of the perfect picnic, blending a whimsical spirit with a deep reverence for the farmers and makers behind every bite.
• Father's Office — American · rated 3/5: Bathed in a moody, amber glow, this sophisticated gastropub buzzes with the high-octane energy of a crowded taproom where the scent of caramelized onions and sharp blue cheese hangs heavy in the air. Patrons gather at communal tables to experience the legendary dry-aged burger, paired perfectly with a meticulously curated selection of craft beers that celebrate bold, uncompromising flavors. The experience is a masterclass in elevated pub fare, blending a sleek, industrial-chic atmosphere with a no-nonsense dedication to culinary precision.
• Burger Lounge — American: This modern, eco-conscious haunt hums with energy as the aroma of searing grass-fed beef and golden, hand-cut fries fills the bright, airy space. Each bite balances the rich, savory depth of premium patties with the crunch of farm-fresh toppings and the softness of artisanal buns, offering a refined yet soulful take on the classic American meal.
• Lemonade — American: Sun-drenched interiors and a vibrant, marketplace-style counter invite diners into a world of bright, seasonal flavors that celebrate the quintessential California lifestyle. Artfully composed salads bursting with farm-fresh produce sit alongside slow-simmered braises, all complemented by a kaleidoscope of signature lemonades that sparkle in every citrusy hue. This refreshing culinary playground offers a modern, customizable approach to dining where every plate is a colorful reflection of wholesome, sunshine-infused cooking.
• Cafe zella — American: Bathed in natural light, this charming neighborhood sanctuary invites guests to linger over the comforting aroma of artisanal espresso and warm, crusty bread. The kitchen elevates the midday meal with vibrant, garden-fresh salads and thoughtfully composed sandwiches, creating a serene backdrop for quiet morning reflections or spirited afternoon catch-ups.
• Mixt — American: Sunlight streams through large windows into a bright, modern space where the vibrant colors of peak-season produce and the crisp snap of farm-fresh greens take center stage. This elevated eatery reimagines the salad as a culinary masterpiece, layering nutrient-dense grains and artisanal toppings with house-made dressings that burst with bright, clean flavors. It is a refreshing urban sanctuary for those seeking a meal that is both deeply nourishing and artfully prepared, celebrating the simple beauty of high-quality ingredients.
• Bagel Nosh — American: The air at Bagel Nosh is thick with the comforting scent of yeast and toasted sesame, drawing in a steady stream of locals seeking the perfect morning ritual. Inside, baskets overflow with hand-rolled bagels boasting a satisfyingly crisp exterior and a dense, chewy heart, ready to be piled high with velvety schmears or stacked into savory breakfast sandwiches. It’s a bustling neighborhood anchor where the rhythmic clatter of the toaster and the steam of fresh coffee create a warm, inviting backdrop for the day's first bite.
• Tender Greens — American: Sunlight streams into this airy, modern space where the vibrant colors of farm-fresh produce take center stage against a backdrop of minimalist wood and steel. The air carries the savory aroma of herb-marinated proteins sizzling on the grill, destined for bountiful bowls brimming with crisp, seasonal greens and zesty house-made dressings. It is a celebration of wholesome, chef-driven simplicity, offering a nourishing escape where every plate feels like a bright, garden-to-table feast.
• Hillstone Restaurant — American: Bathed in a warm, amber glow, this polished American classic balances sophisticated leather booths and rich wood accents with a vibrant, high-energy atmosphere. The open kitchen hums with precision, sending out impeccably seared steaks, crisp seasonal salads, and signature rotisserie chicken that pair perfectly with a stiff, ice-cold martini. It is a masterclass in seamless hospitality, where every detail—from the attentive service to the rhythmic clinking of glassware—creates a dining experience that feels both timeless and effortlessly cool.
• HiHo Cheeseburger — American: The air hums with the rhythmic sizzle of premium Wagyu beef hitting the griddle in this bright, modern space where the classic American burger is elevated to an art form. Each bite delivers a decadent harmony of buttery, grass-fed beef and perfectly melted cheese tucked into a toasted bun, complemented by the sharp, refreshing snap of house-made pickles. It is a destination that celebrates the simple joy of a masterfully executed cheeseburger, paired with hand-spun shakes and golden fries for an experience that feels both nostalgic and refined.
• The Misfit Restaurant + Bar — American: Stepping into this historic Art Deco landmark feels like entering a vibrant, bygone era where soaring ceilings and a sprawling wrap-around bar set the stage for a spirited social scene. The kitchen breathes new life into American bistro fare, balancing rustic comfort with refined technique through soul-warming plates and signature prime rib burgers that pair perfectly with a crisp, hand-shaken cocktail. It is a quintessential neighborhood haunt where the energy of the city meets the timeless charm of a classic brasserie, finished always with the nostalgic warmth of their famous sea-salt-dusted cookies.
• The Penthouse — American: Perched high above the city streets, this sophisticated sanctuary offers breathtaking panoramic views through floor-to-ceiling windows that frame the twinkling urban skyline. The air hums with the clink of crystal and low conversation as guests indulge in refined, artfully plated dishes and artisanal cocktails crafted for sunset sipping. It is a glamorous escape where the boundary between the dining room and the horizon blurs, creating an elevated atmosphere perfect for unforgettable evenings under the stars.
• B&T's Deli — American: B&T’s Deli hums with the nostalgic energy of a neighborhood cornerstone, where the aroma of toasted rye and peppery, house-cured meats draws a lively crowd to its bustling counter. Each paper-wrapped creation is a masterclass in hearty simplicity, stacking premium cuts and sharp cheeses into towering sandwiches that offer a satisfying, soul-warming bite of tradition.
• Art's Table — American: Sun-drenched and effortlessly chic, Art's Table serves as a vibrant neighborhood gathering place where the aroma of seasonal herbs and sizzling pans drifts through an airy, art-adorned dining room. The kitchen transforms fresh, local ingredients into beautifully composed plates that balance rustic charm with modern flair, creating a soulful dining experience that feels both intimate and celebratory.