The Lobster
Santa Monica, CA 90401
Phone: (310) 458-9294
- Price:
- $$$
- Cross Street:
- Colorado Avenue
- Best of Citysearch:
- Waterfront Dining 2005, Seafood 2004, Upscale Casual Dining 2004
- Hours:
- Sun-Thu 11:30am-10pm, Fri-Sat 11:30am-11pm
Message from The Lobster
Fine dining in a casual atmosphere and a 180 degree view of the ocean.
- Local Favorite
- Award-winning Seafood
- Private Parties
Paid advertisement by The Lobster.
Editorial Review for The Lobster – by Martha Burr
The Scene
Southern California doesn't get any better than this--top-notch seafood and dreamy cocktails while overlooking a 180-degree vista of ocean, beach and the twinkling Santa Monica pier. An L.A. landmark since 1923, this vintage "seafood shack" was remodeled in 1999 with a more luxe vibe. White tablecloths and candles lend sophistication to an airy room of glass walls and wood-beamed ceilings. The crowd of casually elegant beachgoers, families and couples are joined by a rocking patio bar scene in the salty, star-filled evening air.
The Food
Classic American seafood hits its zenith here under the kitchen's deft eye and imagination. Transcendent lobster and Manila clam chowder--fragrant with applewood bacon and thyme--offsets the lightness of lemon-tinged Dungeness crab and wild arugula salad. Fresh Maine lobster is the obvious draw; rich and tender, it's an irresistible classic. Seasonal fish may include moist and sweet oven-roasted black grouper, and boldly flavorful Hawaiian big-eye tuna seared rare.
Hits: Often mistaken for a tourist trap because of the location and stunning view, this is truly a seafood destination thanks to first-rate lobster, shellfish and beautifully executed fish dishes.
Misses: While magic-hour sunset dining is spectacular, the brightness sometimes necessitates wearing sunglasses until the glare disappears.
Editorial content is independent of paid advertisers. Any expenses are paid for by Citysearch.
Insider Tips
Where to SitOverlooking the vast Pacific Ocean, glassfront patio tables 105 and 106 are this seafood spot's most coveted.
Know Before You GoWalk-ins are accepted at the bar and on the open air patio--graze on generous appetizers that can easily be enough for dinner.
ParkingValet parking is a reasonable $5, but you can get three hours free in the city lot two blocks away at Colorado and Second.
What to DrinkThe expansive wine list offers a wide selection of regional labels and global picks. Specialty cocktails are eye-catching, especially the giant bloody Mary adorned with jumbo shrimp.
User Reviews for The Lobster
04/22/2008 Posted by surfer2
I had a great 30th birthday over the weekend, and we went to the Lobster to celebrate. We started with drinks at the bar..great fun staff, and then we had a wonderful table right along the window...it was amazing to see an unobstructed view of the pier and the ferris wheel at night! We started with the Lobster pancakes and the Wild Halibut sashimi, and I must say they were marvelous! As for entreess we had the grilled salmon and grilled lobster. It all was perfectly cooked on a special night..our server Michael was amazing, and the night was more than I had hoped for..and I am not easy! This place is a 5 star winner, I will be going back, and not waing for a special occation like my birthday!
Pros: the view and the food
Cons: can be loud, and long waits if no reservation
04/21/2008 Posted by Lily1981
Although I have been to The Lobster on several other occasions and liked it, the last time I went, it turned out to be a nightmare. My husband and I got terrible FOOD SICKNESS from the Lobster salad (on pancakes). My husband was the one who actually ordered the dish and it was really bad for him. I would not eat there again myself, and I would certainly not recommend the Lobster salad to anyone. I am sure it was an honest mistake, however; for a restaurant called "the lobster", it would be nice if they could get the lobster right and not sicken people!! YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED! Lily
Pros: I feel less sick now.
Cons: Got sick from the lobster dish.
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