(310) 656-9688
1413 Fifth St
Santa Monica,
CA
90401
34.017
-118.494
Neighborhoods: West LA, Downtown
What People Are Saying About Akwa Restaurant
The Editor
Contributor
Citysearch
In Short – Guests choose from three scenes inside this upscale restaurant and lounge. Three large waterfalls create a soothing ambience in the downstairs red- and black-toned sushi bar. The upstairs mezzanine features soft sage-colored lounging sofas and black-clothed tables, as well as a handful of booths. An outdoor courtyard provides dining under the stars, which evolving into a late-night singles scene. Menu specialties include crispy potato-wrapped ahi and tandoori roasted tofu steak.
Great for post-work happy hour with friends!
by happybunny77 at Citysearch
My friend and I meet at Akwa after work all the time. The food is terrific! The staff are friendly and helpful. Amanda is the best bartender!!! The happy hour specials are fantastic. Give it a shot on a weeknight to help perk up the work week :>
Great California Cuisine
by vischer at Citysearch
I recently stumbled upon this restaurant in Santa Monica. I was amazed at their great outside courtyard on the second floor. I have to admit it was a little slow, but it was a Wednesday night. It really did not matter because the ambiance was great. My boyfriend and I ordered a great bottle of wine and started off with roasted peppers and burrata and calamari ceviche, both very good. We then had Lamb Chops and Chilean Sea Bass. Our server was very kind and professional and to my delight the Chef and manager came out to say hello. I would definitely go back the next time I am in Santa Monica.
- Pros: Great ambiance, service and food
- Cons: a bit slow
Disappointing
by topsail at Citysearch
Akwa lacked flare, great decor but the night was missing a hostess to greet you and a scene. The kitchen was very slow (took an hour and a half to get any food on the table). Food was decent but nothing amazing. The service was not good, waitress and manager tried once they knew our party wasn't getting attention but overall just not a good experience. For a saturday night with a group of friends it was a dud.
The Details on Akwa Restaurant
Save Time:
There's usually a DJ, but no dance floor; admission is free. Make dinner reservations one week out for Friday and Saturday nights to bypass possible lines.
Know Before You Go:
For dinner parties of 25 or more, guests must order off a prix-fixe menu.
Look Good:
On busy nights and weekends, sushi is only available at the downstairs bar. On slower weekday nights, the chef will often serve to the upstairs tables by request.
The Extras:
Private parties of varying size can be accommodated.
Category:
Payment Methods:
American Express, Visa, Discover, MasterCard
Restaurant Special Features:
People Watching, Late Night Dining, Date Spot, Group Dining, Outdoor Dining, Prix Fixe Menu






Join Us on Facebook
Follow Us on Twitter