For years, Main Street in Santa Monica was known for its laid-back vibe, a mix of casual bars and established eateries. While areas like Abbot Kinney and Rose Avenue in Venice garnered attention for high-profile dining, Main Street was quietly evolving. But recently, something has shifted. Main Street Santa Monica Restaurants are buzzing, drawing crowds and sparking conversations, signaling a significant culinary upgrade. Is Main Street finally stepping into the limelight as a must-visit dining destination?
Last Friday night offered a glimpse into this transformation. At 6 p.m., Vamos Vamos, a new restaurant serving New Mexican-inspired cuisine from the team behind Silverlake Wine, was already facing a one-hour wait for solo diners – a remarkable feat for only its third night open. Just a short walk away, Crudo e Nudo, celebrated for its raw seafood and sustainable practices, was packed with patrons enjoying natural wines and fresh catches on its lively outdoor patio. Further down Main Street, the scene was equally vibrant. Young crowds gathered outside Little Prince, anticipating a table, and a line had formed at Augie’s on Main, chef Josiah Citrin’s latest venture featuring crispy, “dirty” chicken. These openings, all within a short stretch of Main Street, highlight the area’s burgeoning restaurant scene and its newfound appeal.
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The resurgence of Main Street Santa Monica restaurants can be attributed to several factors. While it has long been a hub for hospitality, a turning point arrived in 2019 with the opening of Pasjoli. Chef Dave Beran’s acclaimed French restaurant brought fine dining to Main Street, attracting a more upscale clientele with its exquisite dishes, including the dramatic tableside pressed duck. The year 2021 further accelerated this growth. As diners sought outdoor experiences during the pandemic, Main Street became a sought-after destination for open-air dining near the beach. Crudo e Nudo and Cobi’s, a stylish Southeast Asian restaurant known for its flavorful and shareable plates, both opened their doors in 2021, along with JuneShine, a hard kombucha brand, and Alfalfa, a spot specializing in fresh salads, wraps, and smoothies. Santa Monica’s proactive approach to outdoor dining parklets played a crucial role in supporting these businesses, allowing them to thrive even amidst challenging times. The city’s decision to make the Outdoor Parklet Program permanent further solidifies Main Street’s pedestrian-friendly and al fresco dining culture.
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Leena Culhane, co-owner of Crudo e Nudo, highlights the unique character of Main Street, noting the prevalence of “independently owned, smaller businesses.” This creates a “neighborly” atmosphere, fostering collaboration and a strong sense of community among the restaurants. Brian Bornemann, her partner, points out Main Street’s distinct appeal, suggesting that the smaller unit sizes deter large chains, allowing for more unique and locally-focused establishments to flourish. He describes Main Street as a bridge between Venice and Santa Monica, attracting both local foot traffic and drivers, creating a vibrant mix of patrons. This blend contributes to a “locals-only Westside vibe,” fostering a sense of familiarity and regular clientele, reminiscent of the welcoming atmosphere of a neighborhood pub.
Cobi Marsh, owner of Cobi’s, echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the convenience and community aspect of Main Street. “People are tired of schlepping,” she states, highlighting the appeal of being able to walk to excellent restaurants within their own neighborhood. Randy Clement of Vamos Vamos, experiencing the immediate popularity of his new restaurant, attributes Main Street’s recent success to a confluence of factors. He acknowledges the proximity to the beach, the supportive local community, and the city’s welcoming environment. He perceives a palpable “wind of optimism” on Main Street, attracting positive energy and enthusiastic diners who are genuinely excited about new dining options.
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The culinary growth on Main Street Santa Monica is far from over. Holey Grail Donuts, known for their unique taro doughnuts and having recently secured significant investment, is set to open a brick-and-mortar location on Main Street in October. Further south, near the Venice border, Standing’s Butchery, a popular Melrose butcher shop, is expanding with a larger outpost, which will also house Breakfast by Salt’s Cure in the mornings and Burgers by Standing’s in the afternoons. Adding to the diverse offerings, Triple Beam Pizza, renowned for its Roman-style pizza slices, is reportedly opening a location at 2905 Main Street. Rumors abound about other prominent restaurant groups also securing leases, suggesting a continued influx of exciting new dining destinations.
Heavy Handed, the popular burger truck, is also establishing its first permanent location on Main Street. Founders Danny Gordon and Max Miller are transforming 2912 Main Street, complete with a vibrant mural by local artist DJ Neff. Anticipated to open in mid-to-late October, Heavy Handed will serve their signature short-rib burgers, beef tallow fries, and a selection of ice cream, beer, and wine. For Heavy Handed, choosing Main Street represents a return to their roots, as they began their journey with pop-ups in the area. Danny Gordon notes that Main Street offered a chance to reconnect with their Westside fanbase and be part of the burgeoning culinary scene. He emphasizes the positive energy and collaborative spirit among the “complementary restaurant business” on Main Street, where fellow young owners are contributing to a dynamic and exciting dining environment. The collective energy on Main Street is undeniable, signaling a sustained and thriving culinary renaissance that the Westside community is eagerly embracing.
