First time here- glad to discover this family-owned mainstay in the Santa Monica area. Nice friendly bar with great happy hour deals. And the food was delicious and diverse in terms of choices. Not your usual fare / but what we had was soooo good. The sweet potato side was a standout- chimmichurri and strawberries! Very attentive staff and street parking was a breeze! read more

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Went here for a group event for the first time and the food was surprisingly good for a large group event (entire restaurant was booked out for a Monday evening) Ambiance: dim, warm lighting perfect for a small intimate meet up or a more formal get together. Event was held on an evening the restaurant was closed so can't comment on general noise level Service: no issues, staff was extremely helpful with clearing the dishes, bringing out to go boxes pre emptively prior to the end of the event to allow guests to take leftovers to go Food: - Proteins were surprisingly not overly cooked/dry! Hard to say this routinely about salmon and chicken - Pizza/flatbread: nothing super standout but crust was not dry, tasted mostly of cheese - Oven baked sweet potato: garnished with strawberries and cheese, blistered for a nice caramely flavor on top of the already nice sweetness - Pasta salad: nothing special but also nothing alarmingly bad - Sadly didn't get to try to tuna crispy rice - Desserts: an assortment of small eclairs, profiteroles, and brownies -- feel like this is where the food fell flat. The eclair and profiterole pastry was kind of flat/dry (didn't taste fresh really). Brownie was probably the best - moist but also nothing super amazing Interested to come back in the future to see how The food (especially the dessert) fairs outside of large events. read more

I came back and was a bit disappointed with the food. The service and ambience were the same but my food wasn't as tasty as I remembered. I got the burger and had it cooked medium. The center was completely red and it was unevenly cooked. I noticed that everyone else's burger had the same issue so a lot of us didn't finish. Not sure if I'll be back. read more

Upper West - Burger - New American Near Me - Santa Monica, California

We loved this spot and can't wait to go back. The service and food were excellent, and it's a great date night (or double date) location!

What a lovely and unexpectedly fun time I had having a solo dinner at Upper West! Arrived to beat traffic after work around 5:45pm and immediately headed to the bar. Since i'm a girl who loves a solo dining adventure, sitting at the bar is a must for me. I love scoping out the energy of a place, people watching, and chatting up others sitting at the bar as well. The other folks enjoying themselves at the bar were so kind, friendly, and approachable. Initially, I came in with the hopes of having a salad, but none of the salads seemed appealing to me (which ended up working in my favor) so I asked the bartender which was his favorite out of the chicken and the pork tenderloin. He suggested the pork (and the lady sitting next to me agreed) so thats what I got. SUCH A GREAT CHOICE! Of Course, I had to pair it with a lovely glass of Paso Cab. Ok, so more about this pork! Came out in a lovely citrus demi glaze sauce, whipped mashed potatoes, and the perfect amount of applesauce. CMON! It was so delicious. I can't believe I was going to choose a salad over this. For dessert, i had the key lime tart which was delicious as well. Perfect ending to such an incredible meal! Totally loved my little time at Upper West. I loved that its a little hidden from the main hustle and bustle of Santa Monica. I had a great time chatting with the other patrons, having some yummy food, and enjoying myself. I will definitely be back again for another great meal. read more

Upper West - Key Lime Tart - New American Near Me - Santa Monica, California

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Restaurant located on Pico in Santa Monica. I'm really hoping to dine here soon because the food looks and smelled amazing. Looking over the menu, it looks like one of those neighborhood spots where you can dine here multiple times in a week or dine here for special occasions. Talking to the bartender, they accommodate large groups for big celebrations as well (and believe me, I was recently asked for nice restaurant suggestions for large groups on the west side and I couldn't think of any...) My experience was really just having a couple of drinks at the bar. And although I was hungry (I really had to resist), I was killing a little time before going to a big food event nearby. Looking over their whiskey list, they have an excellent selection. And for a lot of the bourbons that I really like, the prices are more than reasonable. I really love drinking whiskey at spots like this. The bartender was really cool as well. I got there right at open so it wasn't super busy. Had great convo about whiskey and baseball. As people started to trickle in, you can tell this is a beloved spot for locals and regulars. Hoping to come back soon and eat some of the stuff that had my mouth watering at the time. There was also plenty of metered street parking out front. I got a spot right across the street. read more

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We are occasionally in Santa Monica. When we can we eat at Upper West. Excellent food preparation and service. Never disappointed.

Delicious food, gorgeous ambiance, good night! I came for a friend's birthday dinner, and the place is gorgeous! There were hearts everywhere (I'm assuming from Valentine's Day) and even screening films on the wall. Loved it! I started with the Beef Carpaccio, which is 100/10!!! The pictures will never do it justice! Perfect all around, and I honestly cannot stand that I didn't have more! Each bite was a party in my mouth. I did have them bring me some toasted bread because there is most definitely a carb missing from this menu item, but it's GREAT! I also got the Sweet & Spice Spare ribs, which were extremely tender, however they didn't deliver on the sweet side. I was expecting them to taste sweet & spicy as they're named, but all I got was the salty side. The service was okay. I do think they were overwhelmed with the party size, so it took a few rotations for me to get my order it, but I would still return! read more

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Planning our holiday event at Upper West Restaurant turned out to be an amazing decision. The entire restaurant was decorated beautifully and looked very festive, and combined with great food and warm service, it became the perfect holiday party. Many of our company's employees told me this was the best holiday party they've ever had. From my first meeting with Fred, the process was simple and stress-free. He even helped me find the perfect DJ and assisted with decorating the tables and buffet, making everything come together seamlessly. Highly recommend Upper West for holiday events or any special occasion read more

Upper West - Playing craps - New American Near Me - Santa Monica, California

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Great Happy Hour before 7 pm ! only 11$ for my favorite Espresso Martini. Try the burrata and marinated prime steak - SO Good!! The vibes are romantic and so nice to have a big or small group The restaurant is modern and beautiful Highly recommended to check it out..! read more

This restaurant has quickly become one of my go to spots in Santa Monica. And every time I visit, I'm reminded why. On my most recent visit I sat at the bar and ordered the octopus, the flat iron steak, and an old fashioned and every single item exceeded my expectations as always. The octopus was tender and perfectly prepared, the steak was flavorful and cooked just right (honestly, the best steak I ever had) and the cocktail was delicious. What really makes this place stand out beyond the food and drinks is the atmosphere and the people. The staff is consistently attentive, and I love that Fred (owner) personally comes by to ask how everything is going!!! A thoughtful touch that makes the experience feel genuine and welcoming. It's rare to find a restaurant that combines great food, great drinks, and such a personal connection, but The Upper West delivers every time. Highly recommended. If I could give The Upper West 10 stars I would! read more

Upper West - I CHARGRILLED OCTOPUS - New American Near Me - Santa Monica, California

Good food and nice service. My friend and I had the burger and the flat iron steak which was excellent medium cooked. read more

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Great local restaurant open 16 years. The owner seats you and participates in the experience. Gourmet choices and we chose to split a very flavorful Vegetarian Burger with a side salad and a fried sweet potato with a spice parsley chimichurra on top. Great tasting! The owner is a Renessaince man the decor and vibe is very classy. read more

We had a party at the upper West this weekend and it was absolutely fabulous. Food was incredible. Service was wonderful. I highly recommend it. read more

Upper West - We had a party at the Upper West! - New American Near Me - Santa Monica, California

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This is one of my favorite spots on the Westside . Stopped in for a very delicious dirty martini . I love this place.

Came here during happy hour (weekday) after work, and this place is okay? Their drink choices on HH are limited. Are ok. They're dog friendly and let you sit in this porch area that's half inside half outside Not sure id come back unless someone suggested (for a group thing) read more

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Food: 5/5! Huge portions and great plating. Felt very luxurious and left absolutely stuffed! Service: professional and friendly. Ambiance: very busy, with lots of dates and big groups. It's a bit quirkier than a typical date spot with lots of art and a nice glassed off room for groups as well. read more

Upper West - SEARED STRIPED BASS - New American Near Me - Santa Monica, California

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Amazing space. Great food. The older bartender with the long hair and hat was an asshole and was very rude. He even put his hands in the drinks for my friend and it was her birthday. Very slow and has an attitude. read more

I think this place has been around throughout my time living in California. it's always a great choice for a slightly fancier dinner, but one to that is still approachable for families. We decided to come here for Christmas, and bring our two-year-old. The restaurant was decorated beautifully, the staff and front of house were five star. The menu is easy to navigate, and has plenty of choices for any picky eater. We didn't have a dish we didn't like. Flatbread, pork, short rib. It was all really good. Our waiter was nice enough to give some suggestions as well as drink pairings. Overall great experience, and would love to come back and taste more of the menu on other nights, where we are feeling like dressing up a bit. read more

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I love this place my spot one a week the food is always good and the staff friendly. Highly recommend for a nice dinner. read more

Upper West - Sweet and spicy ribs - New American Near Me - Santa Monica, California

We had a luncheon with a fairly large group (over 40 people) at this wonderful restaurant. We had to arrange everything from Europe, so there were several telephone conversations with the restaurant owner Fred. He could not have been more accommodating. The restaurant is very clean, lovely decor, and they had a buffet, with delicious fresh food. They normally serve sit down meals, but set up a wonderful buffet for our large group. I normally am not that fond of buffets, but this was truly delicious. The service was excellent. They paid attention!! I would give this place more than 5 stars if that was possible, so here it goes:******. You won't be disappointed! read more

the worst martini in town. Can't get the order right. I ordered a Belvedere martini with an orange twist. They brought a martini with olives. They went back to the bar and removed the olives and put in an orange slice. They couldn't cover the olive juice with the orange slice. What a bunch of fuck ups. Don't worry, I won't be coming back. read more

Love, love, love Upper West! This was my favorite neighborhood bar and restaurant when I lived in Santa Monica in 2015-16. I've been there many times, and it's always great. When I arrived tonight at 5:30, the owner/manager warmly greeted me, and found me the perfect seat at the bar. My friend joined me, and we spent the next two hours laughing and catching up on everything. We both had the refreshing cucumber martinis. I had the excellent Vegetable Coconut Curry with Forbidden Rice, and she had the Veggie Burger with Fries. Metered street parking is plentiful nearby. You only need to pay for parking until 6 pm; after that, it's free. Give it a try. The service, food, drinks and ambiance can't be beat. Affordable menu prices, too. read more

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I love this cozy restaurant. Food is always delicious, and service is excellent. Reasonably priced too. Highly recommend!

My buddy and I went here the other night and everything we had was excellent. For starters the drinks were very good. I'd def want to come back and try a few other drinks on the menu. The food was all very tasty - we got the ribs, crispy tuna, octopus, yellowtail, Mac and cheese and steak tacos. We loved everything. Everything came out pretty quickly too which was nice as we were hungry. We will definitely be back here! read more

We were celebrating a graduation and chose to have an early dinner. As soon as we arrived, we were greeted very warmly by our host as well as all of our servers. They paid special attention to congratulate our graduate too. The restaurant is spacious and very comfortable with lovely lighting and adequate noise levels. Everything we ordered was superbly delicious and well seasoned. The servings were perfectly proportioned. I enjoyed that there was a variety of dishes to try for everyone. I would like to mention that if you have room for dessert, the bread pudding with popcorn ice cream was fantastic and a must to try. read more

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Went for Mother's Day. Got there at opening. Very good service, easy street parking, and best of all they honored the happy hour prices! Loved the drinks (honey rye) and appetizers especially (char grilled avocados and spare ribs were delicious). Pretty ambiance. read more

We came for Valentines, and it was great. Based on the reviews, we got a lot of the things that were suggested. The burrata, the grilled artichoke hearts, the ahi tuna, and the bread pudding. We wanted to have a main course, but we were so full from these items, we didn't have room. The prices are extremely reasonable. They have very good prices on the very large liquor selection. We were very pleased. The whole vibe is great. The owner and manager were fabulous. They checked on us multiple times to make sure our evening was great. I am stoked to have found this place. We will be back! read more

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Had one of the most delicious meals I've had in a long time! Had to wait a little while for a table, but I did show up on a Thursday night with no reservation. The cocktails were delicious, the fried sweet potato was perfection, the pork tenderloin was tender and succulent. Will return again! read more

Holiday get together Dinner with the usual suspects , What a great time we had and last night movie showing was An American In Paris . Loved it!! We indulged in Paloma's , Pinot Noir the chargrilled avocado, blue cheese chips , Hamachi carpaccio , My husband had the pork loin which was amazing , two of us ladies had the short rib always tender and delicious the sauce on the short rib is a silky smooth not salty just perfect wine reduction and the other husband had the salmon, all plates cleaned and boxes for the ladies, key lime pie, bread pudding , coconut basil gelato , cafe afogoto for me . We realized that we've had every appetizer on the menu except for the mussels due to my garlic sensitivity , it's extensive at least 10 different items and some of the items make great "small plates " for small eaters . Oh... they use goat cheese also in their mashed AMAZING flavor and smooth as silk texture , We loved the blue cheese chips so much the husbands are asking me to make at home ! What type of blue do you use? See you soon Fred and Upper West Staff! Happy Thanksgiving Bonnie & crew read more

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Came here for a group dinner and everything was delicious! The restaurant has a great vibe, and a nice looking private dining room. I will definitely return! read more

I had an absolutely unforgettable experience at Upper West! I visited last week to celebrate a friend's birthday, and we came as a large group--about 15 of us. From the moment we arrived, the atmosphere felt warm and welcoming. The staff were not only incredibly friendly but also impressively knowledgeable, accommodating and flexible. It's clear they take pride in what they serve. I ordered the Veggie Burger and it was hands down the best veggie burger I've ever had. It even came with house-made ketchup that took it to another level. Every bite was pure satisfaction. chef's kiss To complement it, I had the Strawberry Fields cocktail. Refreshing, just the right amount of sweet, and tasted just as amazing as it looked. One of the highlights? Our server surprised us with a generous tray featuring every dessert on the menu-- ON THE HOUSE!!! Talk about next-level hospitality! I'll definitely be coming back. Highly, highly recommend! read more

Food is amazing in this place, service is really good. Definitely will give it another try. read more

Upper West - Farmer chicken. - New American Near Me - Santa Monica, California

I've been coming to Upper West since it first opened in 2010, and it has remained my go-to destination for celebrating life's most special moments--birthdays, Mother's Day, graduations, and more. The service is consistently exceptional, and the food is nothing short of phenomenal. What sets Upper West apart is its unique menu...these are dishes I simply can't find anywhere else. My personal favorites include the creamy burrata, which melts in your mouth, and the wild striped sea bass served with fresh herbs and baba ganoush, a flavor combination I haven't experienced anywhere else. I've also had the pleasure of attending their curated beer and whiskey tastings, which are perfectly paired with some of the most delicious steaks I've ever had. The ambiance is warm and welcoming, with an atmosphere that feels both elevated and comfortable. During the holidays, the space transforms with a beautifully decorated Christmas tree that adds a festive touch, making it my favorite place to dine during the season.Upper West continues to exceed my expectations year after year. I can't recommend it highly enough! read more

Upper West - Tripe sea bass - New American Near Me - Santa Monica, California

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The menu is just wonderful. It was so difficult to choose between the small plates and the large. The menu has so many choices... We had Burrata, mussels, chicken curry, lamb flatbread and a tuna spread on an amazing rice concoction. The service was great. The place was packed but it felt like we had plenty of space. We are excited to try more items... Check this place out! read more

Casual vibe in a lowkey area. The serving sizes are generous, but some dishes, like the chopped salad, lacked variety and felt underwhelming. On the other hand, standout items like the short rib and mashed potatoes were flavorful and satisfying. The coffee ice cream and chocolate cake were highlights for dessert lovers. Service was friendly, but there were moments of disorganization with multiple servers attending, which made things feel a bit scattered. Overall, it's a good place for groups, especially coworkers, but it could use a bit more polish in both food variety and service flow. read more

This is such a cute little restaurant with great decor and awesome menu items. It's a bit on the pricier side, but the flavors of everything we ordered were worth it. Their lychee martini is a must-have and their charred avocado with whipped goat cheese...??? *Chef's kiss!!!* They get very booked, so make sure to use OpenTable to make a reservation in advance and they have metered street parking all around the area. I believe it ends at 8pm. Worth the visit! read more

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Fantastic food and ambiance! I recently went here from my birthday with a large group of people and every person enjoyed their food. The drinks were fantastic and every dish was well made. The spicy tuna crunchy rice was so delicious, I ordered a second. The wild striped bass was really good as well if you like fish. My husband ordered the short rib - yum. Some other favorite appetizers were the burrata and chopped salad. Great decor and plenty of space for a large group. We have been coming here for years and are so glad it's still around and the quality is amazing. read more

Festive ambiance. Beautifully decorated holiday tree. Lovely meal. Quality company. Professional and well- mannered staff. Our dining table of approx. 12 dinner guests was located in a private space. The evening's menu was designed by our phenomenal host; neatly crafted and folded within the dinner cloth. The film "Elf" was projected on the large wall in our private area. Several bottles of quality wine were present and champagne; the dessert wine in particular was delicious! Our gracious host gave a wonderful toast. We thoroughly enjoyed ourselves for Christmas Eve. * The vintage photos from the 1950's - 60's of Hollywood's Glamorous Stars Audrey Hepburn and Marilyn Monroe in the ladies room was a nice touch. read more

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A decent place with medium-high priced food items on the ocean park southern side of Santa Monica. Experience will vary depending on the dish you ordered. I ordered the following: Marinated flak iron steak with napa cabbage red onion smoked bacon and gorgonzola sauce Fried Chicken Sandwich blue cheese cole slaw , hot sauce mayo , bread & butter pickles SWEET & SPICY SPARE RIBS sambal-honey glaze fresno pepper cilantro sesame FLANNERY BEEF CHEESEBURGER american cheese worcestershire-caramelized onions pickles arugula/ so-cal sauce add thick-cut nueski's bacon Dud: Sweet and spicy spare ribs. Way too sweet. The contrast with the fresno pepper and cilantro didn't help. Don't think any peppers should be added to any ribs. Fired Chicken sandwich. Not a fan of the blue cheese cole slaw. Bread was a little soggy. Not worth the amount you pay. Winners: Marinated flak iron steal: Fantastic marinade. Criss-cross zags of the grill marks just like how an expert would do justice. The napa cabbage red onion, smoked bacon blends well to the marinated steak. Pricey, but definitely a cut- above the others. Flannery beef cheeseburger. Without the bacon. Excellent. The highlight of the meal. Look at the hue of the pink of the cut. It's perfectly medium rare. Don't necessarily like worcestershire sauce, but it worked for this one. Has a sharper complexion. read more

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