The chicken sandwiches was very good overall it could feed three people if you are sharing with others.

I was genuinely surprised and disappointed to learn that, despite having all the ingredients on hand to make an espresso martini, the staff refused to make one--citing corporate policy. That decision feels completely out of step with the level of hospitality I've come to expect from a restaurant group like Hillstone, which prides itself on going above and beyond to serve its clientele. When a guest makes a reasonable request--especially for a classic cocktail using ingredients already behind the bar--it should be met with flexibility and accommodation, not rigid adherence to policy at the expense of the guest experience. This isn't about being demanding; it's about the difference between good service and great service. And unfortunately, this time Hillstone missed the mark. read more

Wow, I haven't been here in a bit. We were super impressed with the entire staff-from the hostess who remembered my name to the server and runners. The food was stellar. We received our fries a bit early, so they replenished them when we got our order. The carrot cake was served at the perfect temperature. I don't know how they get it so right, but we're so happy they do! read more

Great food & service BUT BUT BUT... management really should get slammed for alllllways running out of numerous menu items. 90% of the time they run out of the tuna burger & special sandwiches of the day. Typically before 7 pm. Often other menu items as well. Ridiculous, as this happens so so often, so they must know there is sufficient demand to do better portion ordering, but they never do. It's a huge sore spot for regulars, but mgmt doesn't seem to care. read more

My friend and I were in the area for an appointment and I'm so happy the store recommended this place! We were hungry on a rainy day and thinking to look up some places. The store employee mentioned that R&D was just down the street and how she's there multiple times a week. Well we were sold on that! We arrived when they opened so luckily it was not busy. I really appreciated that all the staff was wearing masks and being respectful with distance. There are so many options on the menu! My friend went for the burger and really liked hers. I went for the crispy chicken sandwich and it was so freaking delicious!! I loved that they split it in 3 portions that were nice to eat. The chicken was cooked crispy and so tender in the inside. I loved the sauce and all the veggies. The fries were crispy and cooked to perfection. We had such an awesome meal. I'll definitely come by when I'm in the area next time! read more

See all

Lilly met us at the door with the most amazing smile and demeanor, and our server Lauren made the meal perfect. Super nice, explained the dishes very well, Drinks on time (very important), food was paced properly and the food was very good. Thank you ladies for perfect service and an amazing lunch! read more

Food is amazing. Ambiance is Cozy, community, comfortable. Service is fantastic. I love the lamb sandwich on Friday.

Possibly one of the best all round spots in Santa Monica. I live half a block away and frequent this restaurant all the time. There is no restaurant on the westside with better quality service. They will replace your martini glass mid drink with a new cold glass. All the food is prepared exactly the same every time (and comes out very quickly). Fridays are my favorite because they have the lamb sandwich as the special. The crispy chicken sandwich is also amazing and what I usually order if not on Fridays. The last go to is the ribs. They fall off the bone and are super juicy. I also love their seasonal specials. Just tried their rock shrimp special, and it was perfect. Super crispy with a nice coated sauce. My fiancé loves their salad selections, especially the Asian chicken and noodle salad. The appetizers here are also fantastic. The dip duo is excellent. Great serving of guacamole and queso with some chips. I would say the meatballs are good but pretty expensive given the very small portion. The devils eggs are also solid. Simple but delicious. Lastly, for desert they have a really delicious cookie (ask them to warm it up for you too!) Drinks here are excellent and they have a very fun a wide range of beer and wine selections too. They have a fun, small bar that you can order from in the front left while you wait for your table. That is the one drawback is they do not take reservations and the wait time is usually VERY long (huge advantage if you live close like me). This is one of thee best water holes and food spots in SM without a doubt. The food is very reasonable. Drinks are typical SM prices, in my opinion. Service is through the roof exceptional. I have NEVER had a bad meal here. The only negative I will say is that if you do takeout here, the portions do seem smaller than ordering in. read more

They quoted us at 45 minutes, ended up waiting 1.5 hours. At that point, it's late, you're in a bad mood, it's hard to enjoy the food. They had the chips n Guac on deck for everyone who waited, signaling to me they know this happens. Seriously, just take reservations. Oh, but they don't bc they want you to spend money at the bar while you wait. Food n drink were fine, but def not worth the wait. read more

R+D Kitchen - Beef ribs - New American Near Me - Santa Monica, California

Sometimes what you're looking for is consistency. R+D Kitchen exemplifies the very definition of that. Whether it's consistency in the caliber of the food or service, we've never once left disappointed. For anyone who has read my previous reviews this won't but as a shocker but my favorite item on the menu is their chicken sandwich with fries. I like the rectangular bread as opposed to the circular bun. It's a nice mix up to my regular chicken sandwich routine. The flavor is unparalleled; unmatched. The soft bun juxtaposed against the crispiness of the chicken breading is like first date sparks but in my mouth. read more

The place looked expensive when I walked in. It was the best cheeseburger that I've had in a long time.

My family and I are long time patrons of this restaurant. Today both the food and service were a disappointment. Since when are deviled eggs 3 pieces (1 1/2 eggs) and the brussels sprouts 7 pieces (3 1/2 sprouts)? My martini wasn't full. And we gave payment for the check at 6:42pm and the bill came back to us at 7:02pm. Will keep our fingers crossed for Ospi that is opening in Brentwood. Just too bad! read more

R+D Kitchen - Literally 7 pieces which is 3.5 sprouts lol. - New American Near Me - Santa Monica, California

Just must have the Shrimp Louie Salad and the crispy chicken sliders. I have been searching for years for a good Bloody Mary. Their version is the best! read more

Third (and now final) time visiting a Hillstone location and the experience was so poor it encouraged me to download this app and write my first review. Burger was completely undercooked, and overpriced- I've made significantly better burgers in my shitty grill at home. Service was arguably worse, we waited almost 15 minutes after sitting down before someone came over to us. The water glasses were as small as I've ever seen at a restaurant and not once did a server refill it without me asking to. Despite asking twice my burger was still brought out without ranch on the side and when I asked a third time it took another 5 to 10 minutes for it to arrive. The only positive was the hostess- I believe her name was Brooke?- was extremely pleasant and helped get us a table in no time despite it being a busy day. Literally go anywhere else in Santa Monica, you'll have a better experience! read more

Let's get straight to the point : the Ribs. Amazing period. My understanding is that this is a sister location of south Beverly grill and honor bar. They have similar items like the burger or chicken sandwich but that's not why I drive to Santa Monica. It's the Ribs. Food was absolutely delicious. The only thing I was unhappy about is that they "lost our ticket" for the kale salad. A little plate costs $8. Literally took them 20 min while others were being served. The acknowledged the mistake and took the item off our check. I always say to myself when these things happen that I would gladly pay the price of my item to get it timely than get it taken off and being as frustrated as I was. Either way I don't want to penalize them. I will come back and check this place out for the ribs again and I hope this won't be an issue. Surprisingly I had the same thing happen at SBG with same results. The choco chip cookies were great and the chocolate pudding was as well. Their interior is designed similar to their sister locations so expect that vibe :) At the end. They have good customer service as well as great food. Try the ribs! read more

See all

Service: Great! Ambiance: Noisy, although somehow we were able to converse without problem. Food: Very good, would return. Scottish Salmon: We asked to cook slightly under, and it was perfect! Knife and Fork Tuna Burger: Delicious! We were fortunate enough to get a table before the evening rush. read more

A solid Hillstone restaurant group. I usually don't like "chain" restaurants, but I have to say that I've never had a bad experience at a Hillstone restaurant (Honor Bar, Houstons, Bandera, etc). You can always count on having a good meal in a pleasant ambiance. We dined on the new outdoor patio (converted parking lot) that was quite lovely. I had the fish of the day which was quite tasty and exactly what I wanted (something a bit on the healthier/lighter side). My friend did get the fried chicken sandwich which I've had at the Honor Bar and can say is amazing, so if you've never had it before do yourself a favor and get it (or get one for the table to share - it comes as 3 sliders). My bf had the half chicken which I took a bite of and was definitely a bit jealous. Not sure what they did there, but the flavors were delicious. All in all a solid choice! read more

R+D Kitchen - New American Near Me - Santa Monica, California

Honestly, the service was trash, the food was a letdown, the wine selection was super weak, and the vibe just didn't hit right. All in all, I'm giving this place a 1/5, and I'm definitely not coming back. read more

I love all the concepts the Houston's does. This is no exception. The menu is small. (Much smaller than Hillstone) but everything is good. The service is always A+ every single time. They have a sandwich of the day everyday and believe it or not, the picnic tuna is so good. I always get the pine room salad, and it's one of my favorites of all time. It's small. But so yummy. The burger is noteworthy. It is one of my top faves. It gets very very busy here. So come early. There is always a wait and they don't take reservations. It's small inside. But it's cozy. There are lots of small booths. And a fireplace. You can't just sit at the bar, that's popular too. You have to get on a waitlist for that. The bartenders are all very good and all very friendly. Def a must stop on Montana Ave. read more

This "Kitchen " is quite pretentious, the waiter has to ask the so called, "Chef" to substitute an item that not listed on the Menu? Which is not accommodated? This is NOT a Michelin star restaurant, far from it! Service and food is mediocre, considering this "Kitchen " is in a well to do area of Santa Monica. read more

My friend and I came here for drinks one night; and have to say the bartender was super sweet. I love the vibe so I know I had to come back and have dinner here. Was so right about this place; we came back. This time my toddler came with us. I love how the waiter was so patient and amazing with my son (: he loves the chicken sandwich and French fries. I recommend this place if you want some delicious food and that's kid friendly. Also, the bar is the best the bartenders are the sweetest. I always recommend this place to anyone that's looking for a place to have dinner in Santa Monica. read more

5 star on service with a smile! 5 star of quality of food! 5 star for the atmosphere! 2 star because they do not take reservations and all party members must be present before you can put your name down on the wait list. I love R+D Kitchen! I've come here for just cocktails and a snack and also for a full meal with friends. The vibe here is warm, inviting, and bustling. I truly feel comfortable here. They do not have Happy Hour and their menu is limited, but every time I come here the food and deonk quality is fantastic! It's a great neighborhood restaurant on Montana Ave with a full bar! read more

See all

Literally wouldn't give me water, so I gave them my full manhattan and told them they can keep it.

Went for a few drinks! Great vibes. The place was very busy but the staff made you feel welcomed and hustled to take care of us in a timely manner! 5/5 read more

First off, our server was phenomenal and a big shout out to her. Professional, smart and kind. Everyone that works there were great yesterday! The menu has shrunk, prices have gone up, and for me the food was not as good as I remembered. The burger was buried under a sky high amount of lettuce, tomatoes and not sure where the cheese was. Impossible to eat without making a mess and certainly not their customers' mouth friendly. My friend's Chinese chicken salad was put inside a huge scooped out half a head of lettuce, so she did not get to eat that. It was more of a noodle dish than a salad. And their pale fries reminded me of McDonalds. ( not my favorite at all) Everything is ala cart and when we went to pay, we found out they are now a "cash less" restaurant. We couldn't get them to break a 20 so we could leave our amazing server her tip in cash. Actually, this phenomenon was a first for both of us and I wonder how a place with a bar wouldn't have the ability to do that. I found it strange. I worry the people working there may not be getting the tips they deserve! It is still is beautiful restaurant but I will not be returning because this was not the wonderful restaurant I remember... I left feeling sad and a bit hungry. read more

Great burgers and a nice ambiance for a date night. I've tried a bite of the chicken sandwich (and it's very good) but I can't imagine anything other than a burger when visiting R+D. read more

This was the first time visiting the Santa Monica R+D Kitchen. The Newport Beach location is closer to us and one of our favorite places to dine. We beat the crowd by eating early in the afternoon (around 5pm). I ordered a draft beer and my wife a margarita. For dinner we ordered the cheeseburgers and added fries since they are a à la cart item. Serving was quick and our severs were polite and friendly. Even though the place started filling up we never felt rushed. The only hiccup was they mixed up my credit card / bill with another tables and delivered someone else's credit card to me. The issue was quickly resolved by the restaurant management and a apology followed. I would still recommend this restaurant as the food is simple yet prepared well. read more

R+D Kitchen - Waiting to be seated! - New American Near Me - Santa Monica, California

The Burger and especially the Cheesecake is my favorite of the menu! I always take the cheesecake to go home bc I am so full from my entree. It is one of my most favorite cheesecakes in the city read more

Jordan was super friendly and sweet, great food and ambience definitely recommend this restaurant!

Service has slipped a bit. Quality of Chimay is not the same - they've been flat for a while.. Still live the atmosphere. read more

The service was fast, the server came took our order and he left, we waited and another guy wearing a white kind of a chef coat brough the dishes, my friend tried to ask him for something else but the guy didnt even let him finish his sentence and said: I'l call your server now, and he left in a rush, we tried to ask for some silverware but there was nobody around so we stole the silverware from next table. im sorry we shouldnt do that, nobody came to ask us if everything was ok like others restaurants even tough we saw a lot of people working, the sandwich was delicious, but the little sad side of french fries was less than ok. not worth it. Remember that food can be ok but if the service was magnificent people come back. read more

R+D Kitchen - New American Near Me - Santa Monica, California

See all

For years I did not eat here because there is always a wait (no reservations), but we went this past week and it was worth the wait. The room has very strategically placed slanted mirrors so you can see the bar and the TV if facing the wall (or the server behind you). The menu is sophisticated bar food with the best fries (same as Hillstone). We tried the ham and cheese sandwich, cheese burger, smoked fish spread, and some cocktails (try the grape). Definitely will be going back to try the rest of the menu options. read more

I've been enjoying Hillstone Restaurant Group's restaurants since longer than I can remember; a long time. My original go-to was Bandera in Los Altos, CA (the town made them change the name, now Los Altos Grill.) Been there maybe 50 times? Been to Houston's in SF, Bandera in Chicago (now defunct). Always AMAZING food and excellent service! So, lunch at R+D Kitchen in Santa Monica? Outstanding. If I told you about the no corkage fee and $13 burger WITH fries back in the day, you'd laugh. It's expensive now, but food quality is just so good. Before my lunch yesterday, I awoke in the middle of the night and viewed the online menu, anticipating my visit. Well, it didn't disappoint. Outstanding food and usually good service (in an inviting setting.) *Hands over wallet, not inexpensive. One of the classics in my book - 5 stars Consistently delicious food, and especially a damn AWESOME burger & fries! read more

The place was very packed and it's only first come first serve. They do ask for ur phone number to text you for the waitlist. We waited about 35 mins at a bar down the street. The apps were delicious but the portions were kind of small for me and my fiancé who's a 6'6 dude and we're left still hungry after entrees. It was a wonderful experience. The service was great and polite. The only thing was after the 35 min wait when we checked in with our host to say we still wanted the table we had to wait another 15 mins to be seated so just make sure not to show up starving because you will wait to eat.... We ordered two rounds a drinks before our entree got there and was ready to go because it just seemed to get busier as the night went. read more

R+D Kitchen - Solid martini - New American Near Me - Santa Monica, California

I had a great experience at R+D. I was there for lunch and ordered the "PAN FRIED PETRALE SOLE 33 with coleslaw and classic tartar sauce (Tues -- Sat only)." The tartar sauce was so good. It complimented the sole perfectly. Our server was incredibly friendly. This is a great place for a business lunch (which is why I was there). I would certainly go back. read more

The layered carrot cake is a must! A very lively place with friendly folk all around. read more

R+D Kitchen - Sancerre + French Fries + Seared Tuna Salad with hidden beets! - New American Near Me - Santa Monica, California

Before the pandemic, my husband and I liked to dine here since it was nice spot for lunch or dinner spot with a good cocktail. Since we liked the Ding's Crispy Chicken Sandwich (4 stars), we recently ordered it for takeout. If you have been to other Hillstone restaurants, you may be familiar with this sandwich. I think this one tastes better than The Honor Bar in Beverly Hills. It's a filling portion that we shared. I like the juicy breaded chicken and the well dressed slaw that I could eat on its own as a salad. The soft sesame bun is buttery and lightly toasted. They also included complimentary delicious chocolate chip cookies (4 stars) with our pick up order, which was a nice surprise. I would love to try their veggie burger next time. Until things go back to normal, they offer curbside pickup with 4 star service. read more

R+D Kitchen - Takeout order with free cookies :) - New American Near Me - Santa Monica, California

See all

This has always been a great experience, and last night was no exception. We had a minor issue with one of our meals, which is very unusual, but when brought to the attention of the server the meal was immediately replaced, the manager came over to apologize and then checked with us several more times. He also comped some of the check, which was appreciated but honestly not necessary. The overall quality shown in the food, the staff, and the management guarantees we will return! read more

Came here on a Friday evening with a party of 4, and waited around an hour (initially the host gave us an est of 30 mins). We ended up getting seated at the bar. The restaurant is definitely more suited for smaller parties, there were plenty of 2 person tables and those moved relatively quickly. The restaurant doesn't take reservations, so I'd recommend stopping by earlier or during the weekday. My friend and I shared the cheeseburger, the crispy chicken sandwich, and fries. Everything tasted amazing! My personal fave was the crispy chicken sandwich because of how well the slaw complemented everything, but my friend liked the cheeseburger better. Fries were solid but nothing too special. Note that the burger and sandwich are pretty big, we were stuffed at the end of our meal. I definitely will be back! Street parking was available around the area, or in residential streets. read more

See all

I visited R+D Kitchen for a happy hour, and was impressed with the food. Their spicy chicken sandwich is to die for and their deviled eggs were pretty good too. I found that their wine menu was a little lacking, but it was a good spot for a quick bite. The restaurant got very busy at about 6 PM so I highly recommend making a reservation if you can! read more