There's almost always a reason I check Google reviews in addition to Yelp before trying a new restaurant. Michael's on Third Street is one of them. Tucked away like a hidden gem, this charming spot welcomes you with a spacious, inviting patio before revealing an interior that's every bit as elegant as the cuisine itself. If only I'd taken more photos--or any at all--of the outdoor space. I was far too distracted by the decadent food, exceptional cocktails, and the fairy tale glow of twinkling string lights overhead. After confirming their salmon was wild-caught, and could be made dairy-free, the Faroe Island Salmon became an easy choice. Pescavegan-approved. Zero regrets. Michael's strikes an impressive balance between restraint and creativity. The menu is concise, but every dish feels thoughtfully composed with elevated, carefully sourced ingredients. I actually caught myself Googling a few unfamiliar ingredients--not out of confusion, but curiosity. Any restaurant that inspires me to learn something new while delivering an exceptional meal is doing something right. read more

Michael's Restaurant - Faroe Island Salmon - wild sylvetta arugula, field herbs, calamansi, chermoula sauce (Pescavegan) - New American Near Me - Santa Monica, California

great spot! came here for happy hour and it was so lively. this restaurant is deceiving, it's much larger on the inside! a lovely front and back patio and some comfortable seating inside. the chips and fries were delicious. The lamb burger was very tasty. all of the cocktails were also great! i will say service was a bit slow. had a hard time flagging down a waiter to put in some more orders or to get our check. but they were having a private event while we were there so that could explain the service. servers were extremely friendly and helpful though! read more

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I love this place. My colleagues put me on this restaurant after we had a going away party here for a co-worker. I love the vibe and the night lift atmosphere. The owner comes to your table and checks on you. They have happy hour which I LOVE. The fish and chips are GREAT, the deviled eggs GREAT, sourdough bread amazing with the butter. Didn't care too much about the chicken wings but everything else was pristine and YUMMY. read more

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Amazing service and good food. The cashier was incredibly respectful and possessed a fantastic sense of humor, which really added to the overall positive dining experience at Michael's Restaurant. I also appreciated the cozy ambiance, making it a perfect spot for a relaxed meal. The dishes were beautifully presented and tasted even better than they looked. I'll definitely be returning soon to try more of their delicious offerings and to enjoy the friendly atmosphere once again. read more

Michael's Restaurant - Team photo - New American Near Me - Santa Monica, California

Nice atmosphere with lovely artwork throughout. Right down the road from 3rd street promenade There is a public multi level parking structure right next door plus street parking. Watch out because street parking is limited to permit after 6pm. Seating both inside and outside. There is a private room upstairs for parties and events. Happy hour available. Food is beautifully plated. Trout was a bit of a disappointment. The olives didn't seem to work with the grapefruit and fennel. Dessert trio was a nice combo read more

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Michael's ambiance and food have been a Santa Monica gem for YEARS. For a restaurant to sustain itself through various economies. I recently had the pizza with homemade duck sausage, the chilled oysters and the spicy shrimp. The duck sausage was so moist it made the pizza albeit the pizza crust was very good. The chilled oysters were my favorite as it's difficult to find that level of oyster served so well. I loved the added trout caviar. The spicy shrimp were good too. I need to return soon and explore more. Wonderful barside seating inside and out for a long Happy Hour that is even on weekends. One can still drop a bit of change at Happy Hour but it's delightful that they offer it! Inside dining is LIKE eating outside as the roof can be opened up and you're bathe in trees. Street parking is doable if you can walk a few blocks. Check for garage parking if you need to. Just down the street and reasonable. Then take a walk to the ocean! read more

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Beautiful space and solid food. Loved the Spinach & Artichoke Salad and the Short Rib. Appreciated the use of vegetables throughout all of the dishes. There was a special Pineapple Martini on the night we dined that went down a bit too easy. Our server was quite helpful. read more

Great place with a very nice atmosphere and delicious food. We sat on the back patio, which felt really tropical and relaxing. We ordered the lobster pizza and the French onion soup. The soup was good, but for my taste, it was a bit too rich and slightly bitter. However, the lobster pizza was outstanding--perfectly thin, with a delicious, slightly doughy crust, juicy lobster, fresh vegetables, and flavorful toppings. The service was also excellent, which made the whole experience even better. read more

It has taken me this long to have an adventure at this magical place. The service was impeccable, detail oriented and smiles filled the energy of the restaurant. I wan to work here because I felt happy and seen! Meeting Michael was the icing on the birthday cake and the food filled my mouth and stomach like a diamond in the sky. I'm coming back soon for more. Happy hour made me happy until 7pm. Come join the fun! read more

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We tried several Dine LA offerings in July/August of 2025, and this was the most disappointing. Portions were small, everything tasted good enough, but none of the entrees - Trout Almondine and Ribeye - were served even warm, much less hot. The ribeye was also scrawny. Salad was excellent, tuna crudo was uninspiring (was supposed to be hamachi), and the deserts were very good. The place was rocking, and as usual the back patio was lovely. Service was good but the servers were clearly overwhelmed. But I do expect more from Michael's, having been there many times over the years. Typically it's excellent. This meal was just meh. read more

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Wow--Michael's truly delivered! I recently moved to Santa Monica, and my boyfriend insisted we check out Michael's--and I'm so glad we did. We stopped by during happy hour and ordered the fish and chips, oysters, wings, and the lobster roll. Everything was a 10/10. The service was fantastic--our waiter was attentive and checked in on us regularly. The ambiance is warm and inviting, making it the perfect place for Happy hour or dinner. Another bonus: it's just a short walk from the Promenade, which makes it super convenient. I've been dreaming about those fish and chips ever since. Can't wait for my next visit! read more

Michael's Restaurant - Happy Hour Menu February 2025 - New American Near Me - Santa Monica, California

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The space is beautiful. I mean the potential here is out of this world. The service is pretty typical CA casual. Not much to say about it. The problem is the food. Let's begin by saying that there is nothing inventive here. From the outset, I didn't expect to be wowed in any sense. The menu is completely dated and pretty much tells you that we are stuck in the 1980s. But that doesn't mean it can't be tasty. And yet... I don't understand how you could care this little about what you are sending out, particularly when, on a dinner for two without desert (a couple of glasses of Sancerre and a bottle of red, a bottle of bubbly water), we spent $400. I know LA is expensive and that this isn't out of the ordinary, but you have to at least provide something for the price. In this case, a sloppy roasted pear and burrata salad that tasted of... nothing. A mussel appetizer that was copious but somehow--I don't understand how these is even possible with mussels--under-seasoned (as in no salt) and pretty badly overcooked (so the mussels were little pencil erasers). There is no excuse for either of these dishes to be misses: they take seconds to prepare and are as simple as can be. The entrées were no better with an equally and oddly under-seasoned duck confit (how can you under-salt a duck leg that is supposed to be cured in salt to begin with?). Perhaps the most miserable part of this meal, however, was what was announced on the menu as "Crispy Local Vermillion Rockfish". Not sure if this was rockfish (I have my doubts) but it sure as hell wasn't crispy. Why? Because it was skinless. You aren't doing crispy fish without the skin so why even begin to describe it this way? Instead, a 4oz piece of fish with a couple of sad pale grill marks and the entire thing again completely unseasoned and soggy. I mean really soggy. As if the fish had had the grill marks put on earlier and then had been thrown in the microwave. The only thing that was actually good in this entire meal was a side of fries. All of the rest just showed a complete lack of concern for flavor. To summarize, I pretty miserable culinary experience, particularly for the price. Do better. Care! read more

I honestly don't understand how this place has any low ratings -- I'm genuinely surprised. I've lived in Los Angeles for years, and I can count on one hand the restaurants where every single dish leaves this kind of impression. At Michael in Santa Monica, every flavor had intention. Nothing felt average or rushed. Everything had depth. The steak was cooked perfectly -- tender to the point where it literally melts as soon as it hits your tongue. And the duck... I've never been a duck person, ever. I usually avoid it. But this dish? It was on another level -- layered, rich, balanced, and full of these warm, subtle flavors that just stay with you. And the desserts... I don't even know where to begin. You know when a dessert isn't just sweet -- it's crafted? The Chef's special with carrot and pumpkin was unlike anything I've had anywhere else. It was like a festival of flavor -- warm, nostalgic, comforting, but elevated in a way that felt almost emotional. I genuinely couldn't get it out of my mind. This is the kind of restaurant I go to when I want to respect myself and what I eat. Thoughtful food. Beautiful execution. Memorable from start to finish. I'll absolutely be back -- every time I want something special. read more

For this place to have been recognized as a Michelin plate restaurant you would expect the standards to be high, unfortunately, they were not. It's all just smoke and mirrors because the service was inadequate, their prices are outrageous for what you get especially when the food is just mediocre like their fishy & soggy fish & chips. I only came because my friend recommended going otherwise you wouldn't catch me here at all, but to it off, I was way too generous with my tip, but that's my fault because I'm horrible at math and didn't have my tipping calculator with me when signing my check. Never leave home without your phone or you'll regret it. Lesson learned. read more

Went to Michael's with a few friends and we all really enjoyed it. I was concerned about parking and found that there was a public parking structure with inexpensive parking. We were seated on the back patio which had a lot of shade. The space had a good vibe to it. Our server never rushed us, she took the time to answer questions about the menu and made recommendations. So many times, you feel as if a server is there to do a job, our server was very personable. We shared a couple of Wild Mushroom tarts and for my entree, I had the Prime Short Rib. All of us enjoyed the food. At one point, Michael stopped by the table to greet us. I knew that the restaurant opened up in 1979 and a lot of chefs who went on to become legends started their career at Michael's. I found myself amazed that the restaurant had been open for 45 years which says something and that Michael was still greeting guests. read more

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The restaurant is beautiful and very clean, the atmosphere is pleasant. The drinks are also good. The food tastes good, however it is often served a bit cold. Since Santa Monica can be on the cooler side, it might be helpful if the dishes were served on warmer plates to keep the food hot.The portion sizes are also on the smaller side. The salads in particular are quite small, even for one person, so they may not be ideal for sharing. Overall it is a lovely place with good flavors and drinks. With a little more attention to serving temperature and portion size, the experience could be even better. read more

Slow service as others have stated and tiny portions. The burger was small and burnt. Took about 15 minutes before someone even came to greet, all while restaurant was empty. read more

Excellent dinner celebrating my mom's birthday! It was lovely sitting outside protected by a tall awning. They gave heaters spread throughout so we never felt cold. We had syrah and a bottle of champagne that was amazing. We startes with the bread, fig salad and sausage pizza and incredible. We all loved what we ordered from the delicious branzino, wagu Bolognese, chicken and hamburger. We shared sides of cauliflower and truffle fries. For dessert we had pretty much everything on the list and are it up until we were all stuffed. I hope to return soon! read more

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I've come here a few times now and it has not disappointed. Drinks are always delicious, the service is always on point. A few times the owner has come by and personally greeted to see how my experience was. I love going sunset hour because it has such a beautiful quiet atmosphere from the surrounding neighborhood. read more

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I came in the other night to have dinner. My server was the Lovely John Bloom. I had a pizza and it was great. But I cannot emphasize the service from John which was beyond excellent. Everything you want from someone helping you for the night is what he offered. Attentive, funny, wonderful! He is a hidden Gem. I will be coming back and asking for him!!!! read more

Best spot in SaMo. Cocktails are just perfect, every bit of food has a story and they can tell you where each ingredient comes from. We will drive down from Santa Barbara just for the sourdough bread and butter! I dream about it, and every time it is a little better than the last. read more

THE SLOWEST SERVICE. Went on a Friday for happy hour and while the drinks are tasty, I cannot recommend this spot due to the service. You might as well order 2 drinks at a time because it takes that long! The happy hour deals are not worth the 20+ min wait it takes to get them read more

Outdoor patio very nice. Service is excellent. Appetizers were excellent. Main course, I choose the sea bass, not a huge fan of the flavor, it was in a fish broth. My friend had the pasta with beef, he gave it a 4 out of 5. So overall a 4. The owner comes by and checks on your which is a great touch. We may be back. read more

We stopped by for their happy hour. They have a cozy patio and outdoor garden with heat lamps. The front was also dog friendly. The food was delicious. The oysters came with fun sauces. The fries from the fish and chips were so crunchy. The tuna tacos were fresh with great flavors. And the duck wings were amazing (although a bit challenging to eat without making a mess). It wasn't busy for a sat night and the tables were not all filled, but it did feel like we were being rushed out towards the end as we were trying to finish our drinks, as we were asked 3 times if we were ready to pay, which was the only downside. Otherwise the food was fantastic and would love to come back to try more happy hour dishes read more

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The Happy hour menu is the best in Santa Monica!! The food is delicious.. Best burger!! Best chicken sandwich in Santa Monica.. The Drinks are great.. You won't be disappointed.. And an added plus.. it's never super crowded, so I can bring my grandmother to enjoy her favorite happy hour!! The service is superb. read more

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Back in 1979 we regarded Michael's as the best restaurant on the west side, but now it just seems a bit like it's on autopilot, without any real standouts. The hamachi crudo, the white asparagus side dish, and the pizza were all fine, but there was nothing noteworthy about any of them. The steak frites was good, but again a pretty pedestrian dish. Honestly, the nuts were probably the most stellar thing we ordered. The wine list is extremely eclectic, yet oddly narrow in focus despite its size: lots of obscure French appellations with a narrow range of varietals and almost nothing above an every day table wine level. The standout here is the ambiance; the rear dining space is a romantic garden of intimacy, albeit one that definitely looks like 1979. Service was attentive and professional. read more

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The food at Michael's is extraordinary and the service is equally extraordinary. I highly recommend the cocktails and I can't wait to try their happy hour. It's a beautiful setting and I imagine in the summer it's wonderful but it's very comfortable in the evening even in the fall with a layer. read more

I have been wanting to go to Michael's in Santa Monica for quite some time and I'm sure happy that we did! Since the menu has a little bit of everything (from crudo to a cheeseburger), my fiancé and I decided to tap into senses by ordering a little something of everything. Let's start with the artichokes, shall we? They were creamy and perfectly paired with the vinaigrette and cheese that came with it. What differentiates this dish from the rest is the shaved grana pedano. Do you know how delicious a perfect bite of artichoke heart paired with a thin sliver of white cheese is?! Life-changing. Dip that perfection into the oro blanco grapefruit vinaigrette - that's rich. Oysters are oysters. They didn't wow me or come with all the bells and fixings. It was missing the heat aspect for me. The Liberty Duck Leg Confit is absolutely delicious and would order again! The duck leg was tender and just fell apart. Don't even get me started on how amazing the gooseberry gastrique paired with the lentils. It was a nice combo of sweet and savory with a little crunch from the lentils being al dente (if that applies for lentils?) If we had to sum up the flavor of the pizza in one word: tangy. A spicy salami was on the pizza that gave it a little kick (pending the name of the actual salami)! The crust? Crunchy with a little char on it. The pizza was VERY cheesy!! A++ for that. There could have been more sauce, but overall we were happy with the choice. The mood of this place is really nice! When you are inside, it definitely doesn't feel like you're in Santa Monica. Think Italian bustling cafe mixed with the jungle. This is the kind of restaurant to take someone to set the mood: date night, anniversary, intimate birthday, etc. The noise level is loud, yet the seating makes it so you can hear your company. read more

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A classic Californian staple restaurant. Love the art and menu here. Wish they would switch out the tables and chairs (loungers are ok)

Excellent Service from the time in set foot in the restaurant. Several different designed interiors to choose from to sit. HH Lobster Roll oh so good. The waiter and Manager attentive and wonderful highly recommended! read more

I have even coming to Michael's for over 20 years. My father was friends with Michael, and I am used to seeing him running the place. This last time was so nostalgic, as I had no been there for about 12 years... Unfortunately it is not what it used to be. They are going through the motions, but nothing is finished. Almost everything we ordered was under seasoned, and I mean badly. Some dishes were just half seasoned... All in all, the location is beautiful, but the food and service disappoint... badly... Although we knew Michael, we will not be going back... My advise, take your money elsewhere... read more

I came here to meet up with a friend one day during the summer and it was such a lovely experience. We were drawn to this place by the ambience and back patio seating, and had a lovely time while here. We shared Brussel sprouts, Margherita pizza, and the Truffle/mushroom dish, the latter of which is my favorite! The chef/owner (Michael) also came and personally greeted all of his guests, which I thought was such a nice, kind addition to the evening. This place is a bit pricey, however. Overall, would recommend for a nice date night or celebration given the ambience and cozy patio vibes. read more

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I came here for just a drink, chose the Scorching Sunset which is what they were known for. It's a tequila based drink. Drink was good. I sat at the bar, but there is a nice dining area which is surrounded by plants which I love. Before you get to the dining area, there is a little lounge/dining area which is more of the couch style seating for larger groups. I'd love to dine here next time. IG: kaliking806 #ViBN read more

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Been waiting to write this star spangled review. Michael's was divine. We came here for the happy hour - made a reservation a week out. Food: spectacular. Drinks: some of the best. Service: Seamless. Prices: so so reasonable for downtown Santa Monica. If you're still questioning it, just book the reservation. This place has a lovely, loungey ambiance and a gorgeous dining patio. We tried the mixed greens salad, duck wings, oysters, fries, and tuna taco from the menu. Would eat each of those items again. The MSM was one of the yummiest cocktails I've had. If you're a vodka drinker this is a must. read more

Michael's Restaurant - Oysters and the MSM cocktail - New American Near Me - Santa Monica, California

The food was terrible. I got a large salad but the salad dressing was so bitter i could not eat it and had to send it back. They gave me a different salad but it was almost as bad as the first one- this time very salty. My boyfriend got the pasta with wagyu beef but the pasta was overcooked. Not al dente at all. He was very disappointed. The ambiance was beautiful tho. Perfect lighting in a garden theme. read more

Such a beautiful restaurant. We've lived a block away for 9 years and love this spot. We've been here for anniversaries, happy hour and special occasions with my mom. Thank you Michael and staff for all the years of service. The beautiful garden area is a perfect dinner setting for any occasion. Cocktails and food are always spot on. The staff has told us the place is haunted. If you're into that sort of thing, visit the upstairs bathroom & feel the spooky vibe. read more

it earns its reputation for best happy hour in santa monica and then some. as for dinner its an oasis of easy style and comforting flavors that almost justify its top dollar price tag. there are so many good experiences to be had at Michael's that it is hard not to go back again and again. inside outside the bar dining room and garden all feel so different and special in there-own right. its hard not to go back again and again once you know you know its among the class of santa monica for lots of good reasons. read more

Michael's has absolutely maintained the highest standards over many years. Sitting in the garden for dinner on a crisp December night is just heavenly. The wine list is great and we were able to start with a few bottles of Montrachet. We are meat eaters so my partner loved the hanger steak with fries while I enjoyed the seared diver scallops. Our friends who are vegetarians enjoyed the pizzas and pastas. Overall this is one of the finest dining experiences you can have in Los Angeles. read more

On the plus side the back patio was a lovely setting and we liked that the tables aren't crammed all together like so many places do now. The service was decent although our waiter talked so softly none of us could hear him but he was attentive as was the owner, the restaurant's namesake. Drinks were good. On the minus side, the food was just not good. Steak was bizarre. Cheeseburger lacked flavor. Both appetizers, rock shrimp and some pasta 'cigar' were both so 'meh'. When the frites are the best part you know you're in trouble. An almost perfect experience made less than by the food. read more

Walking in the smell of yummy warm Bourbon Apple Cider welcome you at the door; don't even like a bourbon but on a chilly rainy night is a must, genius bartender! The food is also perfectly selected for the season, hearty fall/winter veggies compliments the meat in brilliant and vivid way. Just writing about it and looking at the picture "mouth-watering", must go back soon and try some of the other amazing creations! The nature Zen feeling atmosphere also contributed to the great experience. Thank you! read more

Michael's Restaurant - New American Near Me - Santa Monica, California