Best Upscale French Restaurants in Santa Monica | Upscale French Food

7 restaurants in Best Upscale French Restaurants in Santa Monica | Upscale French Food

• Citrin — French · rated 4/5: This luminous sanctuary of modern fine dining invites guests into a world where seasonal vibrancy meets the height of culinary decadence. Silken ribbons of citrus-cured hamachi and the iconic, velvet-rich egg caviar showcase a masterclass in precision, while the "Into the Vegetable Garden" course paints a vivid, edible portrait of the earth’s bounty. Every plate is a sophisticated balance of textures and tones, from the delicate sweetness of Stonington Maine scallops to the opulent, briny pop of Royal Osetra caviar.
• Petitgrain Boulangerie — French · rated 3/5: The air at Petitgrain Boulangerie is thick with the comforting aroma of yeast and browned butter, drawing locals toward counters laden with golden, shatteringly crisp pastries. Here, the artistry of lamination is on full display, from the jewel-toned seasonal jams nestled in cardamom scrolls to the savory, herb-flecked scones that offer a sophisticated twist on morning comfort. Each bite captures the essence of artisanal craftsmanship, turning a simple neighborhood visit into a fragrant journey through buttery layers and vibrant, market-driven flavors.
• Cafe Berlina — German (Note: Since German is not: Cafe Berlina captures the soulful pulse of a European bistro, where the aroma of freshly baked rye and buttery strudel drifts through a space warmed by soft light and rustic textures. Diners linger over artfully plated comfort dishes and rich, dark-roast coffees, finding a peaceful urban sanctuary that balances old-world charm with a contemporary, bohemian spirit.
• Santa Monica Seafood — Seafood: Sunlight streams through the windows of this iconic maritime destination, where the rhythmic shucking of oysters and the gleam of ice-packed displays create a vibrant, salt-kissed energy. Guests gather around the marble raw bar to savor impeccably fresh catches, from buttery lobster rolls to chilled platters of shellfish that taste of the Pacific tide. This local landmark seamlessly blends the lively spirit of a premier fish market with the refined ease of a sun-drenched coastal bistro.
• Cafe Demitasse — French: An intimate urban sanctuary where the rich, nutty aroma of freshly pulled espresso mingles with the gentle hum of neighborhood conversation amidst sun-drenched tables. Skilled baristas transform specialty beans into velvety lattes and bold ristrettos, perfectly paired with buttery, flakey pastries that offer a momentary escape from the bustling world outside. The space provides a sophisticated yet soulful retreat, inviting guests to linger over a morning paper or find a quiet corner for an artisanal afternoon reprieve.
• 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.
• Melisse — French: This intimate sanctuary of refined elegance invites guests into a minimalist dining room where the boundary between kitchen and table dissolves into a masterful culinary performance. Seasonal California ingredients are elevated through meticulous French technique, resulting in a succession of artful plates that balance delicate textures with bold, evocative flavors. Each evening unfolds as a choreographed journey of discovery, offering a rare glimpse into the soul of haute cuisine within a space that feels both exclusive and deeply personal.