2 Best Restaurants in Santa Monica, Pacific Palisades, and Brentwood, Los Angeles

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In these neighborhoods, choose from a diverse collection of eateries—from sandwich shops to upscale seafood houses—that cater to the healthy and active lifestyle of locals. But beware of overpriced eateries betting that an ocean view will help you forget about substandard value and quality. Fortunately, they're easy to avoid by sticking to our list here. As for budget eats, there are plenty of cafés, burger shacks, and casual chains that won't raise an eyebrow when you walk in with your sandy flip-flops.

Forma Restaurant and Cheese Bar

$$ | Santa Monica

Pasta is served here dalla forma, meaning it's cooked, then dipped into a cheese wheel and stirred up until it's coated with melted cheese before serving. Catering to a higher-end crowd, Forma specializes in cheeses, pastas, and pizzas. It also serves small plates like fresh mozzarella knots, arancini balls, and crispy artichokes prepared Roman style. A generous happy hour from 3 to 6 lets you discover many of the specialties without breaking the bank.

1610 Montana Ave., Los Angeles, CA, 90403, USA
424-231–2868
Known For
  • Amazing pasta stirred in a cheese wheel
  • Fresh mozzarella knots
  • Roman-style crispy artichokes

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Toscana

$$$ | Brentwood

This rustic trattoria along San Vicente has been a favorite celebrity haunt for decades. Expect elevated sensory offerings, from its cozy atmosphere to its mouthwatering Tuscan and Italian fare (including carpaccio and gnocchi scampi) and excellent wine list.

11633 San Vicente Blvd., Los Angeles, CA, USA
310-820–2448
Known For
  • Excellent wine list
  • Seasonal menu
  • Great celeb-spotting

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