Navigating the vibrant streets of Santa Monica, from the iconic pier to the bustling Third Street Promenade, often leaves little time for cooking. Whether you’re a local seeking a weeknight dinner solution or a visitor wanting to savor the city’s culinary offerings from the comfort of your hotel room, the lure of takeout is undeniable. Santa Monica boasts a dynamic food scene, celebrated for its quality ingredients, innovative chefs, and diverse cuisines. But with so many options, finding the perfect takeout spot can feel overwhelming. This article serves as your comprehensive guide to the very best take out food Santa Monica has to offer, catering to every palate and budget, ensuring that your next meal on the go is nothing short of exceptional. Prepare to discover hidden gems and revisit familiar favorites as we explore the mouthwatering world of Santa Monica takeout.
Grab-and-Go Goodness Casual Takeout Spots
For those moments when speed and convenience are paramount, Santa Monica’s casual takeout scene delivers. These are the places where you can grab a quick, satisfying bite without sacrificing quality or flavor.
Burgers and Sandwiches That Hit the Spot
HiHo Cheeseburger is a testament to the power of simplicity done well. Their grass-fed Wagyu beef burgers are cooked to perfection and served on a soft, toasted bun. The minimalist menu focuses on quality ingredients and thoughtful preparation, making it an ideal choice for a quick and delicious takeout meal. Ordering is easy, and the consistently high quality makes this a winner. Alternatively, for an authentically Los Angeles experience, Bay Cities Italian Deli & Bakery is a must. Their “Godmother” sandwich, piled high with Italian cold cuts, provolone cheese, and their signature “the works” topping, is legendary. Be prepared for a wait, as the line often snakes out the door, but the sheer volume of sandwiches they produce is testament to the quality of this location. Ordering online can often save you time here.
Pizza Perfection A Slice of Santa Monica
When pizza cravings strike, Stella Barra Pizzeria stands ready to deliver. Their artisanal pizzas, made with fresh, seasonal ingredients, are a cut above the ordinary. From classic margherita to inventive creations featuring locally sourced produce, there’s a pizza for every taste. Their pizzas travel well, making them a perfect choice for a family pizza night at home. Milo and Olive presents a more rustic, sophisticated take on pizza. Their wood-fired pizzas boast unique flavor combinations and a perfectly charred crust. Be sure to check out their daily specials for seasonal offerings. Their takeout pizza boxes are surprisingly sturdy and well designed.
Tacos and Mexican Fiesta To Go
Tacos Punta Cabras offers a taste of authentic Mexican street food in a casual, vibrant setting. Their fish tacos are a standout, featuring fresh, sustainably sourced seafood and a tangy slaw. Don’t miss their selection of agua frescas for a refreshing complement to your meal. For a more traditional experience, Gilbert’s El Indio is a Santa Monica institution. Their classic tacos, burritos, and enchiladas are prepared with time-honored recipes and generous portions. Gilbert’s offers a hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a relaxed night in.
Salads and Healthy Options Fueling Your Body
For those seeking a nutritious and delicious takeout option, Sweetgreen is a go-to choice. Their customizable salads are packed with fresh vegetables, grains, and proteins, allowing you to create a meal that perfectly suits your dietary needs. Their app makes ordering a breeze, and their commitment to sustainable sourcing is commendable. Kreation Organic Juicery offers a wide range of organic juices, smoothies, and healthy snacks. Their detoxifying cleanses and nourishing bowls are perfect for a quick and revitalizing meal. Kreation is a great place to go when you need a healthy pick-me-up.
Elevated Eats Fine Dining, To-Go
Santa Monica’s fine dining restaurants have adapted to the demand for takeout, offering elevated culinary experiences that can be enjoyed in the comfort of your own home. Expect sophisticated packaging and attention to detail that preserves the quality of the food.
Seafood Sensations An Oceanic Feast
Water Grill brings the freshest catches from the Pacific Ocean to your table, even when you’re ordering takeout. Their expertly prepared seafood dishes, from grilled fish to raw oysters, are a true delight. Their packaging ensures that the delicate flavors and textures are preserved during transport. For a truly special occasion, consider ordering takeout from The Lobster. Their iconic location overlooking the Santa Monica Pier provides stunning views, and their menu features classic seafood dishes with a modern twist. The Lobster’s attention to detail extends to their takeout packaging, which is both elegant and functional.
Italian Indulgence Pasta Perfection
Giorgio Baldi is renowned for its exquisite Italian cuisine and romantic ambiance. Their takeout menu features classic pasta dishes, such as cacio e pepe and tagliatelle bolognese, prepared with the finest ingredients. The food travels surprisingly well. Uovo offers a more casual, yet equally delicious, Italian takeout experience. Their handmade pasta dishes are prepared with fresh, high-quality ingredients and served in generous portions. Uovo’s focus on simplicity and quality makes it a perfect choice for a comforting and satisfying takeout meal.
Sushi Supreme Precision and Freshness
Sugarfish by Sushi Nozawa is a must-try for sushi lovers. Their “Trust Me” omakase experience is available for takeout, allowing you to enjoy a curated selection of the freshest sushi and sashimi. Sugarfish’s commitment to quality and precision ensures that every piece is a work of art. Sushi Roku offers a more modern and innovative take on sushi. Their menu features creative rolls and dishes that blend traditional Japanese techniques with contemporary flavors. Sushi Roku’s vibrant presentation and diverse menu make it a great choice for a takeout sushi feast.
Steakhouse Classics Sizzling at Home
While steakhouses are often associated with in-person dining, several Santa Monica establishments offer excellent takeout options. Meat on Ocean is known for its high-quality steaks and elegant atmosphere. Their takeout menu allows you to enjoy their expertly grilled steaks, along with classic sides and appetizers, at home. Capo offers a more intimate and upscale steakhouse experience. Their takeout menu features a selection of premium cuts, prepared with meticulous attention to detail. Pairing your takeout steak with a bottle of wine from their extensive cellar will elevate your at-home dining experience.
Around the World International Takeout Delights
Santa Monica’s culinary landscape is a melting pot of flavors, offering a wide array of international takeout options to satisfy any craving.
Thai Temptations Exotic Flavors To Go
Night + Market Sahm brings the bold and vibrant flavors of Thai street food to Santa Monica. Their spicy curries, flavorful noodle dishes, and fragrant herbs are a true delight. Be sure to try their signature dishes, such as the khao soi and the pad see ew. Tarntip Thai Kitchen offers a more traditional Thai takeout experience. Their menu features classic dishes prepared with authentic recipes and fresh ingredients. Tarntip Thai Kitchen is a great choice for a comforting and satisfying Thai meal.
Indian Inspiration Spices and Aromas
India’s Oven offers a wide selection of classic Indian dishes, from creamy curries to flavorful tandoori meats. Their takeout portions are generous, making it a great value for money. Zameen focuses on regional Indian specialties, showcasing the diverse culinary traditions of the country. Their menu features unique and flavorful dishes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. Both restaurants will provide an amazing culinary experience.
Mediterranean Magic Sunshine on a Plate
Hummus Labs elevates the humble hummus to an art form. Their creamy, flavorful hummus is served with warm pita bread and a variety of toppings, creating a satisfying and nutritious meal. Tederest offers a more comprehensive Mediterranean takeout experience. Their menu features a wide range of dishes, from grilled meats and vegetables to flavorful salads and dips.
Asian Fusion East Meets West
Cassia blends Southeast Asian flavors with California sensibilities. Their innovative dishes are both creative and delicious. Cassia’s commitment to quality ingredients and innovative cuisine makes it a standout in the Santa Monica dining scene. Chinois on Main, a Wolfgang Puck restaurant, is a pioneer of Asian fusion cuisine. Their signature dishes, such as the Shanghai lobster and the crispy duck, are legendary. Chinois on Main’s sophisticated flavors and elegant presentation make it a great choice for a special occasion takeout meal.
Maximizing Your Takeout Pleasure
To ensure a seamless and enjoyable takeout experience, consider these helpful tips and tricks.
Ordering Strategies Timing is Everything
Avoid peak hours, such as lunchtime and dinner rush, to minimize wait times. Consider ordering online or through a restaurant’s app for added convenience. Many restaurants offer discounts for direct online ordering, bypassing third-party delivery services.
Transportation Tips Keeping Food Fresh
Use insulated bags or containers to keep hot food hot and cold food cold. Place takeout containers on a level surface to prevent spills. Secure bags properly in your car to avoid any accidents.
Reheating Suggestions Restoring the Magic
Use the appropriate reheating method for each type of food. Ovens are best for reheating pizza and roasted meats, while microwaves are suitable for soups and stews. Avoid overheating food, which can dry it out or alter its flavor.
Pairing Suggestions Complements to Enhance Your Meal
Consider pairing your takeout meal with a complementary beverage. A crisp white wine pairs well with seafood, while a bold red wine complements steak. Local craft beers are also a great option.
Creating Ambiance at Home Setting the Stage
Set the table with nice plates, silverware, and glassware. Light candles or dim the lights to create a more relaxing atmosphere. Put on some music to enhance the dining experience.
Conclusion
Santa Monica’s take out food scene offers a world of culinary delights at your fingertips. From casual burgers and pizzas to elevated seafood and international flavors, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. By following these tips and tricks, you can maximize your takeout pleasure and transform a simple meal into a memorable experience. Remember to support local restaurants and explore the diverse culinary landscape of Santa Monica. So, the next time you’re craving a delicious meal without the hassle of cooking, explore the amazing options for take out food Santa Monica has to offer – you’re sure to find your next favorite bite. The ease and accessibility of these restaurants are sure to satisfy you and leave you wanting more. Happy eating!
