3 Best Restaurants in Venice, Los Angeles

This spot comes alive the moment you walk through the rustic wooden door and into a softly lit dining room with long communal tables. Come later and the place heats up with an enthusiastic post-pub crowd lured by the seasonal menu and outstanding small plates, charcuterie, pastas, and pizza. Your endless starter options include pizza with house-made chorizo. For the main course, options include saffron butternut squash curry or braised pork belly with Oaxacan grits. Typically boisterous, the patio is a great hang-out spot and a gem for a Sunday brunch.

Stop at this two-story locals' favorite for coffee and pastries, or choose from a long list of sandwiches for something more substantial. Sit out front and watch the crowds drifting in off the beach, or get cozy upstairs in one of the comfortable reading chairs.

This beachfront bar tucked alongside the pier has been the local watering hole for musicians like the Beatles, the Doors, and the Beach Boys since 1944. It boasts an amazing view and serves tasty California pub food like fish tacos, Prince Edward Island mussels and fries, and avocado toast with a basic selection of beers. The Whaler smash burger (with whaler sauce, naturally) is an institution in itself. Be prepared for rowdy crowds of sports fans and beachgoers at happy hour and on weekends. A rotating menu of special events keeps both regulars and visitors entertained. They also serve a great brunch.