Absolutely a neighborhood favorite for Samo subs. Amazing ambiance, warm staff, and an impressive variety of dietary-friendly options on the menu. Highly recommended dishes include grilled octopus, mussels, chopped salad, tuna tartare, short ribs, bucatini, chicken under a brick, and grilled carrots. Despite its size, the restaurant offers ample space for lengthy conversations and boasts an excellent selection of wines.
Daniel Reyman
Great cocktails, bar service, food and atmosphereParking: Some parking behind restaurant
We stopped in without reservations and were lucky to grab the last two seats at the bar. Food was excellent - great variety of mains, pastas, apps, and pizzas. Don’t skip on the pizza it’s some of the best crust we’ve had in LA. Hanger steak was second best perfectly cooked with a great crust. We got the special pasta (lobster) and noodles were fresh.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Mushroom Truffle Pizza
Sabrina Cohensedgh
Salads & veggies are amazing. Would definitely come back. Amazing date spot as well.
The GM/Sommelier made sure we had a perfect reservation, table, and then wine pairings. We shared so many fabulous appetizers that we only ordered two main dishes which we split between 6 of us. The food is unique and extremely tasty. The service was impeccable. You can park for free off the alley behind the restaurant.
Love Local. The food is fresh and excellently prepared. The service is friendly and knowledgeable and they go above and beyond to make guests happy. Every time we go we have a wonderful experience.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Michael Platz
Local Kitchen is a must in Santa Monica! The food is always outstanding, I mean fresh made pasta, how bad could that be! The service is also always stellar and attentive. If you are looking for a great spot for a date night or special occasion, check it out!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Hanger Steak, Chicken Under Brick
Julianne Kertes
Bar service had me feeling like royalty. Thank you everyone for making the visit pleasant yet again.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Carol Mason
Before writing this, I emailed the restaurant with my complaint. If I'm going to leave a negative review I'd rather leave it directly with the establishment, than online. I received no reply. My husband and I visited for the first time last week. I ordered the osso buco which was tough (and the sauce overly sweet) so I sent it back. The server didn't seem at all troubled that the meal had been a disappointment. She offered to replace it with something else. Of course, as well all know, once a meal is returned, the other party is eating theirs, or waiting, so the entire dining experience is ruined at that point. The pasta was slow to come out. My husband was done his meal. The server brought the bill and noted the osso buco had been removed from the bill (of course. Why wouldn't it be? I had sent it back.) The entire experience smacked of a restaurant who didn't much care about a customer's negative experience. Most places would have sent over a manager, or might have even offered a desert on the house to in some way rectify the situation and send the customer home less disappointed. Not here. I should also add we shared a calamari appetizer that was supposed to be grilled but came out coldish, and pale, and bore no evidence of having been grilled. Very overpriced appetizer for the size too. The pasta dish I ended up getting was fine, though unremarkable. But we won't be back. There is a lot of tremendous dining in Santa Monica at the higher end. There's no need to frequent a place that clearly must not appreciate your business.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 2
Service: 1
Kevin Dippold
Tasty, speciality food with great service and a friendly atmosphere.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Caesar Salad, Baby Artichoke Hearts, Mushroom Truffle Pizza
Ambience good. Food good. Waiter pompous and rude. There are many restaurants in Santa Monica with many of them having great food. The way the waiter treated and spoke to us made me not want to return.
Brandon S.
Nestled in the less touristy part of the Santa Monica, this charming Italian restaurant offers a romantic ambiance that sets the stage for a memorable dining experience. Whether it's a casual date or a special occasion, this place exudes a cozy and inviting atmosphere that instantly puts you at ease.The star of the show for me was the meatballs. Bursting with flavor and authenticity, these mouthwatering spheres of delight feel like your they were cooked by the nonna you never had. The combination of perfectly seasoned meat and a robust tomato sauce is a symphony of flavors that leaves a lasting impression on your palate.Another dish that commands attention is the paccheri. This delectable pasta creation features a generous portion of tender lamb that has been cooked to perfection. The meat is exceptionally tender and flavorful, complementing the pasta in a harmonious dance of taste. Every bite is a celebration of the kitchen's expertise, as the flavors meld together flawlessly.However, not every dish reaches the same heights. The bucatini, while cooked al dente, lacks the diversity of flavors that one would hope for. The sauce, although decent, fails to excite the palate with its rather one-dimensional profile. Nonetheless, it's important to remember that the restaurant's culinary expertise extends far beyond this particular dish, promising a multitude of other options. This includes their renowned brick oven pizza. While we unfortunately didn't have the opportunity to try it on this occasion, it is undoubtedly a staple of this establishment. The presence of a traditional brick oven speaks volumes about the dedication to authenticity and quality. It's an invitation to indulge in a classic that should not be missed.The service at this restaurant deserves commendation. The staff is attentive, friendly, and well-versed in the menu offerings. From helpful suggestions to timely service, their professionalism adds an extra layer of enjoyment to your visit.In conclusion, if you're seeking an Italian restaurant offering strong classics with an intimate setting, this place is a must-visit. The meatballs alone are worth the trip.
Pam Dyachenko
First time dining here. The food, cocktails, and service were all excellent! Will definitely be back! Neighborhood gem for sure!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Sam O.
Dined at Local Kitchen & Wine Bar for the first time with my girlfriend and had the pleasure of being served by Josh this evening. His service was fantastic: friendly, professional, and knowledgeable about the drinks and food. For drinks we had the Islay scotch cocktail, kiwee sour, and Oregon Pinot from Willamette Valley as well as a taster of the dragons breath by Trefethen. The scotch drink was my favorite and very well balanced with hints of spiced ginger. Both wines were excellent with the dragons breath being a more tannic blend of Malbec, petit Verdot and cab whereas the Pinot was very light with bright acidity and a total juice box. For food we had the olive oil flatbread, tuna tartare and veal pappardelle. All of them were exquisite. The pappardelle pasta was probably the best pasta I've had in west LA and was truly a treat. Portion for the pasta was plentiful and I will be thinking about it for the rest of the week. For dessert an Affogato and butterscotch budino. Would definitely pass on the budino but the Affogato was very nice - the espresso was not bitter at all and of a nice roast. Will definitely return to see Josh again and grab that pappardelle pasta and to try the brick chicken that he said was his fav. Highly recommend checking out this spot if you haven't yet!
Meagan McCall
I recommend making a reservation for Local Kitchen + Wine Bar on Resy in advance. It’s located on Ocean Park Blvd in Santa Monica, and we were easily able to find metered street parking.As far as food, I strongly recommend Chicken Under Brick ($28) with balsamic chile glaze, charred onions. shishito peppers, & pan jus. Bonus points if you order it singing “Brick House” by Commodores like I did.I strongly recommend the chilled Stolpman Vineyards 2021 vintage So Fresh G.G.T. chilled red blend of Grenache, Gamay, & Trousseau, which is primarily composed of Grenache. $72/bottle.For those looking to explore bolder reds, the Cabernet “Cab” Franc from Idiot's Grace vineyards in the Columbia Gorge AVA paired well with the heartier dishes. Also $72/bottle.
Absolutely a neighborhood favorite for Samo subs. Amazing ambiance, warm staff, and an impressive variety of dietary-friendly options on the menu. Highly recommended dishes include grilled octopus, mussels, chopped salad, tuna tartare, short ribs, bucatini, chicken under a brick, and grilled carrots. Despite its size, the restaurant offers ample space for lengthy conversations and boasts an excellent selection of wines.
Great cocktails, bar service, food and atmosphereParking: Some parking behind restaurant
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Cheese Board, Mushroom Truffle Pizza
We stopped in without reservations and were lucky to grab the last two seats at the bar. Food was excellent - great variety of mains, pastas, apps, and pizzas. Don’t skip on the pizza it’s some of the best crust we’ve had in LA. Hanger steak was second best perfectly cooked with a great crust. We got the special pasta (lobster) and noodles were fresh.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Mushroom Truffle Pizza
Salads & veggies are amazing. Would definitely come back. Amazing date spot as well.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Fried Artichoke, Roasted Mixed Beets
The GM/Sommelier made sure we had a perfect reservation, table, and then wine pairings. We shared so many fabulous appetizers that we only ordered two main dishes which we split between 6 of us. The food is unique and extremely tasty. The service was impeccable. You can park for free off the alley behind the restaurant.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Tomato Burrata Salad, Chicken Under Brick, Fried Artichoke, Mushroom Truffle Pizza
Love Local. The food is fresh and excellently prepared. The service is friendly and knowledgeable and they go above and beyond to make guests happy. Every time we go we have a wonderful experience.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Local Kitchen is a must in Santa Monica! The food is always outstanding, I mean fresh made pasta, how bad could that be! The service is also always stellar and attentive. If you are looking for a great spot for a date night or special occasion, check it out!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Hanger Steak, Chicken Under Brick
Bar service had me feeling like royalty. Thank you everyone for making the visit pleasant yet again.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Before writing this, I emailed the restaurant with my complaint. If I'm going to leave a negative review I'd rather leave it directly with the establishment, than online. I received no reply. My husband and I visited for the first time last week. I ordered the osso buco which was tough (and the sauce overly sweet) so I sent it back. The server didn't seem at all troubled that the meal had been a disappointment. She offered to replace it with something else. Of course, as well all know, once a meal is returned, the other party is eating theirs, or waiting, so the entire dining experience is ruined at that point. The pasta was slow to come out. My husband was done his meal. The server brought the bill and noted the osso buco had been removed from the bill (of course. Why wouldn't it be? I had sent it back.) The entire experience smacked of a restaurant who didn't much care about a customer's negative experience. Most places would have sent over a manager, or might have even offered a desert on the house to in some way rectify the situation and send the customer home less disappointed. Not here. I should also add we shared a calamari appetizer that was supposed to be grilled but came out coldish, and pale, and bore no evidence of having been grilled. Very overpriced appetizer for the size too. The pasta dish I ended up getting was fine, though unremarkable. But we won't be back. There is a lot of tremendous dining in Santa Monica at the higher end. There's no need to frequent a place that clearly must not appreciate your business.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 2
Service: 1
Tasty, speciality food with great service and a friendly atmosphere.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Caesar Salad, Baby Artichoke Hearts, Mushroom Truffle Pizza
Restaurantji Recommends
Ambience good. Food good. Waiter pompous and rude. There are many restaurants in Santa Monica with many of them having great food. The way the waiter treated and spoke to us made me not want to return.
Nestled in the less touristy part of the Santa Monica, this charming Italian restaurant offers a romantic ambiance that sets the stage for a memorable dining experience. Whether it's a casual date or a special occasion, this place exudes a cozy and inviting atmosphere that instantly puts you at ease.The star of the show for me was the meatballs. Bursting with flavor and authenticity, these mouthwatering spheres of delight feel like your they were cooked by the nonna you never had. The combination of perfectly seasoned meat and a robust tomato sauce is a symphony of flavors that leaves a lasting impression on your palate.Another dish that commands attention is the paccheri. This delectable pasta creation features a generous portion of tender lamb that has been cooked to perfection. The meat is exceptionally tender and flavorful, complementing the pasta in a harmonious dance of taste. Every bite is a celebration of the kitchen's expertise, as the flavors meld together flawlessly.However, not every dish reaches the same heights. The bucatini, while cooked al dente, lacks the diversity of flavors that one would hope for. The sauce, although decent, fails to excite the palate with its rather one-dimensional profile. Nonetheless, it's important to remember that the restaurant's culinary expertise extends far beyond this particular dish, promising a multitude of other options. This includes their renowned brick oven pizza. While we unfortunately didn't have the opportunity to try it on this occasion, it is undoubtedly a staple of this establishment. The presence of a traditional brick oven speaks volumes about the dedication to authenticity and quality. It's an invitation to indulge in a classic that should not be missed.The service at this restaurant deserves commendation. The staff is attentive, friendly, and well-versed in the menu offerings. From helpful suggestions to timely service, their professionalism adds an extra layer of enjoyment to your visit.In conclusion, if you're seeking an Italian restaurant offering strong classics with an intimate setting, this place is a must-visit. The meatballs alone are worth the trip.
First time dining here. The food, cocktails, and service were all excellent! Will definitely be back! Neighborhood gem for sure!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Dined at Local Kitchen & Wine Bar for the first time with my girlfriend and had the pleasure of being served by Josh this evening. His service was fantastic: friendly, professional, and knowledgeable about the drinks and food. For drinks we had the Islay scotch cocktail, kiwee sour, and Oregon Pinot from Willamette Valley as well as a taster of the dragons breath by Trefethen. The scotch drink was my favorite and very well balanced with hints of spiced ginger. Both wines were excellent with the dragons breath being a more tannic blend of Malbec, petit Verdot and cab whereas the Pinot was very light with bright acidity and a total juice box. For food we had the olive oil flatbread, tuna tartare and veal pappardelle. All of them were exquisite. The pappardelle pasta was probably the best pasta I've had in west LA and was truly a treat. Portion for the pasta was plentiful and I will be thinking about it for the rest of the week. For dessert an Affogato and butterscotch budino. Would definitely pass on the budino but the Affogato was very nice - the espresso was not bitter at all and of a nice roast. Will definitely return to see Josh again and grab that pappardelle pasta and to try the brick chicken that he said was his fav. Highly recommend checking out this spot if you haven't yet!
I recommend making a reservation for Local Kitchen + Wine Bar on Resy in advance. It’s located on Ocean Park Blvd in Santa Monica, and we were easily able to find metered street parking.As far as food, I strongly recommend Chicken Under Brick ($28) with balsamic chile glaze, charred onions. shishito peppers, & pan jus. Bonus points if you order it singing “Brick House” by Commodores like I did.I strongly recommend the chilled Stolpman Vineyards 2021 vintage So Fresh G.G.T. chilled red blend of Grenache, Gamay, & Trousseau, which is primarily composed of Grenache. $72/bottle.For those looking to explore bolder reds, the Cabernet “Cab” Franc from Idiot's Grace vineyards in the Columbia Gorge AVA paired well with the heartier dishes. Also $72/bottle.