Came here craving garlic bread and somehow left emotionally attached to the customer service The manager was SO nice and genuinely went out of his way to make sure we had a good experience. You can tell the staff actually cares instead of just going through the motions. Bartender was cool too and the vibes were immaculate. Good drinks, good energy, great service, and right by the beach?? Yeahhh I get the hype now. Definitely coming back. read more

The Whaler - Classic martini and Siete Lenguas on the rock - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Santa Monica, California

From the service to the food, everything was amazing. Got the Spicy Tuna on Crispy Rice and the Captain's Table for Two. You can taste the freshness in everything that was made. Coconut shrimp had to be the star of the dish. Additionally, we may have had a hiccup with our food initially, but management handled it promptly and professionally. Will be back when in the area. Views of the Santa Monica pier were a plus +1 read more

The Whaler - Captain's Table for Two - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Santa Monica, California

Came in for happy hour... No host so you just seat yourself. Sat myself outside. The waiter comes, great start. Water is quick to come, and my order taken quickly. I ordered oysters and a margarita. Everything comes out quick. The oysters are nasty. I'm a big fan of oysters, but these were the saltiest, largest lumps of oysters I've ever tried. Honestly this restaurant has made me reconsider ever trying oysters again. I'm trying to convince myself the low prices are why the quality was so terrible. I sent these back and the server even sat next to me saying "oh no hard feelings" hard feelings for not being able to enjoy and eat the dish I ordered at your restaurant? Excuse me? Lol And I had a feeling ( as she did this last time I came with a friend ) she would not take the oysters off the bill ... even if you send the food back. I had to get up TWICE to get the servers attention! What am I tipping for??? The first time was to order and sent the food back, the second time was to get the check. She comes with her toast. This is smart, she does this to have you ignore that there's a 3% surcharge on every bill! (Charged by the restaurant I assume) Ask for the written check, do NOT pay directly on the tablet. As you don't see the breakdown of your bill. Why aren't you letting us see the check before paying the bill??? The toast inflates the tip to charge you for not only your food and beverage but also taxes + their 3% surcharge that doesn't even go to their staff. They'll overcharge you! She literally charged me for the oysters I sent back I even asked her if she tip shares, I'm a big tipper and wanted to give her 25% or more despite her terrible service. She said "no, thanks for asking!" Then I see she charged me for the oysters on the bill! Had to go to the bar (assuming that's where the manager is at because he was able to void them immediately) You don't tip share and this is the terrible service you provide? Overcharging guests after sitting next to them saying "no hard feelings" for not liking the oysters? One oyster was eaten.. just to try it... and I hated it and sent it back. Wow. Just low and greedy. Do better read more

I'm a longtime customer of The Whaler and love coming here for causal drinks/food right by the Santa Monica pier and ocean. They are always playing sports games and have a steady crowd gathered with both indoor and outdoor seating. They also have a DJ and sometimes live music. Service can be a little slow because it's usually very full but food is good and their menu has a variety of options from burgers to chicken tenders to soups and salads. Today I got the taco trio and enjoyed all 3 types (grilled cod, fried cod, and shrimp). The grilled cod was my favorite and the shrimp was a little too salty in my opinion so next time I would skip that one. read more

The Whaler - Tacos - Grilled Cod, Fried Cod, and Shrimp - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Santa Monica, California

Really great food, good vibe, everyone is always friendly here. Perfect place to stop by for lunch after a beach day read more

The Whaler - Fish & Chips Whaler Smash Burger - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Santa Monica, California

We popped in for a drink just around lunch time for something simple. It just opened not that long ago so it wasn't busy just yet. The whole inside was emptied as everyone was utilizing the front patio off of ocean blvd. Location wise, it's great as it's right across the street from the beach and pier. Perfect for people watching and having a meal or drinks. There's hi top tables along the side, tufted bar seating hi top on the opposite side. One corner was a little seating area with a fire pit. Menu wise, your usually lunch spot. Sandwiches, salads, shareable, pizzas, some specialty items and breakfast served. Not a lot in that but a few items. We just had drinks which were the mimosas served with a slice of orange. Portion wise was great. And the Bloody Mary. A pickle brine which was quite tasty and that had the adornment of olives, jalapeño and cucumber. It was quite tasty if I say so. We've been a few times and it's normally for drinks. Sometimes a plate to share of some sort. The service has been great. Amazing location and its prefect for lounging with friends and people watching. read more

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Right off the beach this is a loud fast pace place with lots of folks. My wife went with buttermilk chicken strips. While I chose the fish and chips. If your looking for place to drink this is you place. This is not a Military friendly restaurant. read more

The Whaler - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Santa Monica, California

It was good. Nothing crazy not bad- just good Service I have experienced wasn't my favorite We were seating right away which was nice and great ocean view. Waitress came and we ordered drinks. I had Hugo/ I barely felt any alcohol there but okay. Was it good? Yes Did it taste like Hugo? NO! We waited for food 20+ minutes to come and no one came to ask us if we want another drinks so / or water so I had to sip on melting ice(thanks God). I had to share a napkin with my son because no one came to ask if everything is okay or we want another drink or water! I will not be coming back if you want to give a shot and had better experience please update it, but I'm giving a three star.. generally - disappointed Ps: it wasn't so full when I came in. I had to ask twice to pay the bill ..... (maybe it was a sign to leave? lol ) read more

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Jeee-zus. Sadly, this is one of the tripe-F-restaurants (Triple F: Find em | F*** em | Forget em. My wife and I came to have a good time - and a nice lunch. We did not expect the Ritz, but this.... I ordered a soup as a starter and two sandwiches for my wife and myself as entrees, one with fries, one with breakfast potatoes. Our entrees were served a minute after the starter, so I had two spoonfuls - and then went to the entree, which looked delicious, as you see. Sadly my meat was far from the medium rare I had ordered - it was ultra well done. My wife's fish looked delicious but was drained in oil. Here fries were cold - and so were my country potatoes. I would not go again. A shame really, as the ambiance was appealing. read more

The Whaler - I wish it had tasted as good as it looks - the meat was totally overcooked and the potatoes were cold and far away from being crisp :-( - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Santa Monica, California

Not bad! A great happy hour deal and a nice little meal. Vibes here are kind of barlike no matter the time of day and it was a little loud. But the food was solid, service was good, and there was a michelob ultra brand activation. read more

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February 6, 2026 | Santa Monica | After an enjoyable evening over dinner, we decided to extend the evening to light drinks & lively conversation at a new location! The Whaler had a relaxing vibe, tropical drinks, and wonderful customer service! Mocktails | The Passionfruit drinks were perfectly tasty, a pretty orange shade, and garnished with an actual slice of dried passionfruit! He & I both ordered the same drink! Lounge Vibe | The outside front patio was ablaze with a fire pit, relaxing sofa seating with plush cushions & an excitable view by passer-buyers on the oceanfront! Inside | Spacious! I was immediately attracted to the numerous record covers displayed on the wall, which included Michael Jackson, Frank Sinatra, and a number of names that were new to me! Customer Service | Friendly, and inviting! Even as we were leaving, security/Doorman complemented the energy, as well as a friendly goodbye! Good vibes here! Overall | Customer service, relaxing vibe on this particular night, tasty drinks and especially the fire pit, I would easily return! read more

The Whaler - February 6, 2026 | Friday Night | Scenery | Outside Patio! | - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Santa Monica, California

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The chicken was great! Though I was dealing with a heavily caffeinated brain, I was still able to enjoy the meal! The mashed potato and the garlic, wow! I wished I'd settled for a beer, oh well, next time. Good restaurant with great vibes! Nice outdoor space! Server--fantastic! read more

The Whaler - Brick Chicken - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Santa Monica, California

A bit of a tourist trap, but good service and food with an excellent view. A little on the pricier side, but standard gastropub fare. The staff if very accommodating and the food quality is good. Sort of a Yardhouse with a lot more seafood options. read more

This place appeared to be more of a bar / hangout spot than a place to eat with the family. I came here on a Saturday and it was loud with 90s music, which was fine! This place serves alcohol and has pretty good "bar" foods. Parking was bad, so just find local street parking. This place is right off the cost. The clam chowder has a bacon flavor. For the cost.c they give you only a little. I'd recommend the pizza and the poke nachos read more

The Whaler - Poke nachos - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Santa Monica, California

We went here for dinner during dineLA and they had 3 courses for $35. We made a reservation online and were seated quickly when we arrived. We ordered the shrimp cocktail and oysters to start - both came with 2 pieces of food so a little on the small side. Ordered both the Cesar salad and shrimp Louie salad (they were out of Brussels sprouts), which were the size of a small side salad. The main entrees were pretty large - ordered the steak frites and the fish and chips. I think the fish and chips is the most bang for your buck and they both tasted great. Street parking or lot parking in one of the lots near 3rd street. read more

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I am on a recreational trip to California this Christmas season. I stopped in here on Christmas Day. There was heavy rain from the atmospheric river yesterday, but today the sun is out and people were enjoying Santa Monica. I walked but I think there's a reasonable parking nearby. The setting is spectacular. From the patio there is a view of the ocean and beach. The decor is casual. Staff was friendly and prices are reasonable. I had steak and eggs. The chimi sauce with the steak was really delightful. The scrambled eggs were moist and tender. I enjoyed the diced potatoes as well. They had a crisp exterior and creamy interior, just what I like. This is a great way to enjoy Santa Monica! Good food, great view, nice people. I'm on an alcohol free kick for a while but if you choose, it looks like they have an outstanding bar. read more

The Whaler - Steak eggs and potatoes - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Santa Monica, California

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The Whaler is a pleasant surprise we found when looking for a restaurant with French Fries for our 3 year old. We couldn't justify Fogi de Chau, there were too many Mexican restaurants nearby, and we had just finished an early morning charity walk so we wanted to get away from the pier where there were throngs of hungry folks from the same event. The menu looked tasty but I couldn't decide between healthy (The Scramble) and comfort (Chicken and Waffle Benedict). Most benedict places drown the food in hollandaise sauce or give me dirty looks when I tell them no sauce or sauce on the side. My wife wanted the Whaler Burger but eas open to getting a 3rd dish if we split it. Luckily for her I had a big appetite this morning. Our son, of course, devoured the fries from her burger. The food was delicious! My wife loved her burger. I loved the scramble with chorizo. We both enjoyed the chicken and waffles. If you want to experience an amazing taste explosion, get a bite of the rosemary potatoes with the waffle. We are talking one of those moments from the movie Ratatouille where your tastebuds will cheer. The waffles are sweet and possibly sprinkled with sugar. They kind of make me think of a danish type of dough but when you take a bite you get some salt from the chicken that was on top and factor in the seasoning from the potatoes creates a flavor explosion of sweet, salty, umami and more. Amber and the staff were friendly. She found us a table outside on one patio helping us keep our kid from running amok. She also brought him crayons and a menu to color as well as a to go cup of water when we asked. We also noticed some other guests who had dogs at their table with a bowl of ice. Kudos for being dog friendly Whaler staff! The inside was nice with TVs to watch games, a nice bar if you want to grab a drink, easy to get a table at lunch time on a Saturday. The glass lined patio was a win for us because we could people watch, enjoy our meal, and keep our son out of mischief! read more

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Welcoming with a great location. Not a large selection of specialty cocktails but if you're a Mezcal fan... look no further - the Westside Vibe is delicious. Sad to report the spicy tuna on crispy rice was average. Overall a cute spot to hop in for a few cocktails at the bar. read more

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Great spot for drinks. I ordered the captains table for two which brought a lot of food, could've fed 4 honestly, but was tasty read more

The Whaler - Captain's table for two - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Santa Monica, California

DO NOT go here! If I could give zero stars I would. We went yesterday, had a terrible waitress ( chubby girl with blonde hair with an attitude) charged all kinds of extra things to our bill and was very rude. Then my card got all kinds of fraud charges after she took it yesterday to pay the bill. Today my credit card company called me and showed all the fraud. I knew it has to be the waitress and restaurant because we went straight home afterward. I've been Calling all day and no answer from the restaurant. We were with a group and it was the worst dining experience worst service We all have ever had which is saying a lot as we all work in the industry. I have been a restaurant manager for 13 years and our whole party are in the industry, such a shame but we will never go here again and warn all of our friends and family. Stay away from this place, such a shame I have to write this as a fellow restaurant manager. Horrific service, fraud and can't believe this place allows this. Unbelievable. What a shady disgraceful place. Never again. read more

I stumbled across this gem about two weeks ago and I've already returned like three times. The view of the Pacific, the friendly and prompt service, combined with the incredible food all brought this experience together very nicely. They have a great happy hour menu as well. read more

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What stood out here was the great service. The food was average, but the prices were fair, considering the area and made to order quickly. We did enjoy their drinks and they do have a good happy hour as well. Not my first option when in the area, but a solid happy hour. read more

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Great service, great food, great location. Prices were reasonable, no complaints, definitely would recommend and would go back!

There are no words to describe, how I love going to, and just being, in Santa Monica. So once again, I grabbed another opportunity, this time to savor the fruits of the Dine LA weeks (we are fortunate to have two, numerous cities around the country have one, maybe 10 days). This is what brought me to the Whaler, in Santa Monica. Yes, there is outdoor seating, but being a chilly day, I requested an indoor affair albeit, the warmest seat available. Once again, a hard to find choice, all doors are open, still cannot understand why establishments like to suck in the cold air and take down the temperature of your warm food. I have heard the fire escape explanation. But if so, why is it that other restaurants do not open their doors and roofs :) Answer: Many do not. The Whaler offered a three-course Dine LA Lunch menu for $35. My choices were in order, the Clam Chowder, the Shrimp Louie Salad, the IPA Fish and Chips. So how was it? The clam chowder had more potatoes than clams, but too"was well balanced on the thickness of cream and flavor. The shrimp louie salad was super, even though it had only 3 small shrimp (which by the way were prepared perfectly). The fish and chips was a winner. Generously proportioned (3 pieces), an optimally seasoned batter that revealed a flaky inside fish that upheld flavor and taste. What is unique about this place is its interior decor. Several wall spaces are adorned with album covers of the music greats. One cannot help but be awed, or even tear up, to see Johnny Cash, the Beatles, Michael Jackson, and so much more. Wow and Wow. read more

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Perfect place to come with friends or family! Atmosphere was amazing if you're sitting inside or out there's just a nice coziness here. I was lucky enough to get the fire pit outside with some friends on New Year's Day. Some breakfast meals were ordered some calamari, quartile and chips and some burgers. The burgers are so juicy and filling I opted to get grilled onion instead of raw I was in heaven I loved it here. All of the appetizers we ordered and shared were great. Everything about this place is just chefs kiss our server was super sweet and so were the other staff. If you're in the area with friends and want to grabs some drinks and amazing food easy choice you have to come to Whaler! read more

The Whaler - Whaler smash burger - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Santa Monica, California

Nice place. I had the fish n chips but substituted clam chowder for fries. It was good size of food, tasted good, good service and we would definitely be back. I forgot to take a picture but it was good. My son had fish tacos that he also liked. read more

Food was good, the place had indoor and outdoors seating, the server was nice, tho took a bit long to give us the final check. For the location, expect expensive pricing. At least the portions are filling. read more

The Whaler - 3 tacos - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Santa Monica, California

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The Whaler is a cool spot located perfectly for a fun night in Santa Monica - walking distance to the pier and many other bars. I want to start by saying we went on a very busy night and I know that that is a huge strain on the kitchen and staff. Our waitress (whose name I didn't catch but was blonde with curly hair) was so attentive and communicative despite it being a crazy night! She was awesome and took great care of us. The food was just OK! The Brussels came out cold and very very salty, the fried pickles had too much batter, the ceviche was good, the drinks were good, the sliders were okay! The prices I thought were fair. Nothing really wow'd us food wise, but again, maybe it was just because it was a crazy busy night. I'd come back to Whaler for another try. Shout out again to the great staff! read more

The Whaler - Fried pickles, ceviche, brussels - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Santa Monica, California

Zero complaints! Fun, open air beach vibe you want & expect near the ocean. Such a good atmosphere. Pizza tasted great & strawberry margarita was delicious. Gonna have to return for one of their karaoke nights! read more

The Whaler - Cheese Pizza & Strawberry Margarita - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Santa Monica, California

Wow this places portions are so generous and the food is honestly delicious! From the outside it just seemed a random bar but their menu actually has a lot of variety. I loved my plate and I was super full! The fish and chips were super crunchy and the cod was tender. LOVED their fries too with tartar sauce. My only complaint is that it's really really oily but I can't deny it's good. The waitress very helpful and accommodating! The place itself is very chill and laid back since it has TV's everywhere and even live music. It's also a bit loud but you forget about it while enjoying the food lol. I think this is the perfect place for a quick casual bite. And the prices are also worth it for the portion! read more

The Whaler - Fish and Chips - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Santa Monica, California

Great vibes, food was delicious and great service Our waiter was very friendly and i felt like iv know him for years. Give that man a raise 10/10 service. I ordered their wings, burger, quesadillas and clam chowder. We also got 2 bloody marys. Bill was around $90s which is pretty good for the amount of food we got. Everything tasted delicious but id say the mvp was the burger. Very well made. My least favorite had to be the chicken quesadilla. Overall a great place and next time im in Santa Monica il visit. read more

A perfect place for a lazy Sunday brunch. Right on Ocean Blvd with bottomless mimosas (for 90 min) and a spicy tangy bloody mary. Say less. They don't rest on their location. Food is flavorful and filling. We had the muscles with fries. You will want yo lickthe bowl clean. Also and the Mexican skillet with chorizo is a winner. Our server Meggie was welcoming and just the right amount of attentive. Would definitely reccomend to a friend. read more

I don't even know where to start with this review. I've written sooooo many reviews on places and I've never had to write one like this. Let's start with the food. We went for Dine LA. We didn't feel like it was that much food for the price. But the portion of the main meals was decent. It's the starts that were like samples. I got a burger and fries and it was good but nothing special. My husband got the fish and chips and he said they were just okay too. We were also there with my 9 month old daughter. Our server gave us our food and came back to check on us and all was well. Once it came to the check, we sat there for over 30 minutes waiting for him to come back. We kept making eye contact but he was with other tables at first and rushing off. So we waited patiently because we understood he was busy. Then these 2 young girls got seated near us and the server now is spend all his time on them. Back to their table several times and we still couldn't get his attention for the check. He was beyond flirting with them and it was so inappropriate. He even went as far as to tell them he can only be with a table no longer than 5 minutes and that they check on him. By that point, we didn't want to get up and make a scene as our baby was already fussy and ready to leave. We went to the bar and just paid the tab there. So unprofessional. The food already wasn't anything special and after that experience with the server, we definitely won't be back. read more

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Dined for lunch. Menu has enough variety for most people, but it is the simple touches that make the difference. The smash burger and fried cod sandwich were served with crinkle sliced pickles and pepperoncini. The cod sandwich was served with a thick slice of tomato, These simple touches add to the plates. My son enjoyed his mocktail, " vibrant and refreshing, combining the tangy sweetness of passion fruit with the bold kick of ginger beer and citrusy zing from the lime." Patio seats are great to enjoy the view and the weather, and service was great. read more

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Had dinner in shopping area of Santa Monica. Our waitress who I thought worked alone was super speedy and efficient with our orders. Food was decent for your standard pub. Didn't hit the bar because I had a minor with me so no idea what was on tap. I had a burger and shared some chicken tenders and my boy had some steak frites. What I loved about this spot was the lively atmosphere, the DJ spinning some nice tunes and the TVs supplying all my favorite sports. read more

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Great location. Service is a bit slow and the food is just ok. The falafel avocado "salad" only had 3 lettuce leaves which I had to cut, and a tablespoon of tomatoes. The falafel was not dry but it was a little spicy. The pita bread had a lot of oil. Passionfruit tea is a regular tea with passionfruit juice. Didn't like it. With so many options around, I'd choose another place. read more

The Whaler - Falafel avocado salad - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Santa Monica, California

We traveled with a group of 9 to LA. On our way to Santa Monica Pier we stopped yo get lunch. This place is ama big! Bella was the best server for us. She was so pleasant and took very good care of us. I got the chicken club. Delicious. She made us Strawberry Lemonade in house. The chicken tenders were tender and juicy, and the breading was crunchy and flavorful. The fries were perfectly seasoned. Came out pretty fast too. They didn't have us wait long time, even though we were a big party. There was other staff that came by and checked on us. The views from the restaurant were nice. I really reconnect trying this spot! read more

The Whaler - Chicken tenders - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Santa Monica, California

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I've been going to the whaler very frequently for the last 3 years, but they recently hired a bouncer named Nate who should not be working here. My friend and I were standing by the heater outside waiting for him to come check our id's and the first thing he said when he walked up was "can I help you?" With an attitude so I asked what he meant he then asked me "why are you standing by the heater" so I told him that we were cold. He asked for our id's but I changed my mind because he was incredibly rude. We came back later that night and tried to walk in and he put his hands on me grabbing me and pushed me back (which is on video) immediately telling us that we had to leave. We asked what was the reason we had to leave and he continued yelling in our face telling us to leave after I was repeatedly asking to speak to the manager. I saw a bartender that I knew and tried to go talk to him to ask him to get the manager and Nate grabbed me once again on my arm and tried pulling me out. After this the manager came over and I was able to talk to her and Nate was sent home and she listened to me and was fully understanding of the problem. The manager and the rest of the staff are so kind and helpful, but Nate the bouncer is a problem and should not be employed at this establishment. read more

This place was super cool !! very chill , amazing food and super great service. I love the ambience. We sat outside during sunset and they just finished a rush but the food was delicious and so were the drinks. read more

The Whaler - left to right fish and chips coconut shrimp top drink - raspberry lemonade bottom drink - berry cider (alcoholic) - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Santa Monica, California

First time at Santa Monica Whaler the service was a little slow. The food was very good. I had a fish and chips, and they were crusty and delicious and fish tacos were plain all in all. I just gave it a four. read more

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