By: Haley Bosselman By: Haley Bosselman | July 24, 2024 | Food & Drink, Feature,
Mar'sel
As a beach-adjacent city, Los Angeles offers an abundance of dining experiences complete with memorable meals, beautiful sunsets and the sparkling Pacific Ocean. Read on to see the top restaurants for waterfront dining in the city.
Website/100 Terranea Way 90275
It’s all in the name for Mar’sel. A pairing of the Spanish word for “sea” and the French word for “salt,” the Ranchos Palos Verdes blufftop restaurant at the Terranea embraces the ocean breeze for sunny Sunday brunches and decadent dinners. While enjoying seasonal California dishes like Ibérico Pork Coppa Steak and lobster-stuffed pappardelle pasta, you marvel at the expansive sea.
Website/ 22878 Pacific Coast Hwy 90265
With all the charm of a quaint pier and the refined splendor of its home, the Malibu Beach Inn, Carbon Beach Club presents a tasteful, private dining experience set just above the esteemed shores of Carbon Beach. Waves roll in below as you feast on from the Pacific and Mediterranean-inspired menu. Consider the excellent seafood tower to complete your meal.
Website/ 1111 2nd St 90403
The high-rise restaurant atop The Huntley Hotel in Santa Monica finds a muse in its neighbor, the Pacific Ocean. Serving coastal American fare, The Penthouse Restaurant assures its seafood offerings like Greek-style octopus, Diver scallops and the catch of the day are nothing but the freshest thanks to unending shoreline views.
Website/ 1697 Pacific Ave 90291
Open to 21-plus guests only after sunset, Hotel Erwin’s High Rooftop Lounge promises chill vibes alongside its California-American eats. Savor fish tacos, lobster rolls, wings, burritos and more between sips of signature cocktails and glimpses of the sea.
Website/ 700 Wilshire Blvd 90401
One of Los Angeles’ most stylish rooftops, Calabra in Santa Monica pairs Meditarranean-California cuisine with Pacific Ocean sights. As with most Proper Hotels, you can bet the seating is plush in this tranquil space, making the soft sound of salty breezes even more calming.
Website/ 22706 Pacific Coast Hwy 90265
Indeed, locals and tourists alike flock here for renowned chef Nobu Matsuhisa’s esteemed Japanese-Peruvian cuisine. But between bites of ultra-fresh sushi, sashimi tacos and decadent plates (like the seared toro with truffle teriyaki), your experience is made especially magical by rolling ocean waves just below the deck.
Website/ 1910 Ocean Way 90405
A stone’s throw from the sands of Santa Monica, the Casa Del Mar Hotel restaurant complements its Mediterranean Coast menu with Pacific views. The seaside dining experience is all about the ocean, from dishes like Day Boat scallops and Chilean sea bass to swaying palms and crashing wave serenades.
Website/ 18412 Pacific Coast Hwy 90265
Sure Mastro’s has a few restaurants around town, but just one boasts enchanting views of the beach. Head to the Mastro’s Ocean Club location when you’re in search of seafood, steaks and live music. Flanked by the Pacific and sherbert skies at sunset, the elegant dining experience makes for a special evening.
Website/ 27400 Pacific Coast Hwy 90265
Surrounded by lush landscaping and towering palms, Geoffrey’s Malibu is made picturesque by twinkle lights and pristine white umbrellas. But it's the waterfront location that truly makes dining here divine. In fact, ocean views are foundational to the Geoffrey’s Malibu ethos. When the restaurant was purchased and revamped by Harvey Baskin in 1983, Baskin made sure that every single table had a panoramic view of the sea. It all pairs perfectly with the California-style international cuisine.
From Venice to Santa Monica to Malibu, waterfront dining is always a special experience
See also: The 10 Best Sushi Restaurants In Los Angeles
Photography by: Terranea Resort; Lisa Romerein