Matt Peterson in Santa Monica, CA: 1 Spot

Researched by Varedelo

Planning notes for Santa Monica

Must-try foods in Santa Monica

• Masa-Fried Scored Fish
  Masa-Fried Scored FishAt the trending 2026 hotspot Cosetta on Ocean Park Blvd, this dish has become an instant neighborhood legend. The whole fish is expertly scored, coated in a light masa-based batter, and fried until the exterior is shatteringly crisp while the meat remains tender. It’s a modern California-Italian take on a classic seafood fry.
• All Carne Asada Burrito
  All Carne Asada BurritoA traditional staple at Gilbert’s El Indio, a Sunset Park institution since 1974. This 'all meat' burrito is famously simple and hearty, capturing the old-school spirit of Santa Monica. It’s best enjoyed in one of their vinyl booths with a side of their famously potent margaritas, serving as the ultimate neighborhood comfort food.
• Matzo Ball Soup with Carrot Miso
  Matzo Ball Soup with Carrot MisoLocated in the nearby Bergamot Station, Birdie G’s offers this interesting 'World-Class' twist on a Jewish classic. The addition of carrot miso provides a deep, umami-rich orange hue and a sweet complexity to the broth that locals and critics rave about in 2026. It perfectly encapsulates the neighborhood's trend toward sophisticated.
• Blueberry Cornmeal Cake
  Blueberry Cornmeal CakeFrom Huckleberry Bakery & Cafe, this is the definitive Santa Monica breakfast pastry. It’s beloved for its moist crumb and the slight 'grit' of the cornmeal, bursting with fresh blueberries. It’s an iconic local favorite that often sells out by mid-morning, representing the area’s high-end, farm-to-table bakery culture.
• Mexican Mocha
  Mexican MochaA signature drink at Love Coffee Bar on Ocean Park Blvd, this espresso beverage is a neighborhood favorite. It blends rich chocolate with hints of cinnamon and cayenne for a subtle heat, served in a space that local 'Sunset Parkers' frequent for its laid-back patio and 'Coffee Deserves Love' aesthetic.
• Red Cioppino
  Red CioppinoThe standout dish at Vito’s Restaurant, an upscale Italian-American landmark on Ocean Park Blvd. This rich, tomato-based seafood stew is packed with fresh Pacific fish, shellfish, and aromatics. It’s the quintessential 'celebration dish' for locals who want a classic, white-tablecloth experience without leaving the neighborhood.

Trip guide

• About Santa Monica
  About Santa MonicaSunset Park is a residential neighborhood in the southern portion of Santa Monica, bounded by Pico Boulevard to the north and the city limits to the south. Historically, the area underwent significant development during the 1940s to provide housing for the approximately 40,000 workers at the nearby Douglas Aircraft Company.
• When to go
  When to goThe best time to visit Sunset Park is from September to November, when summer crowds thin out and the "Indian Summer" provides warm, clear days ideal for coastal walks. While the weather is pleasant year-round, visiting in late spring or fall avoids the "June Gloom" fog that can shroud the neighborhood in cool, gray mist. For food lovers.
• Getting around
  Getting around Santa Monica

  • Big Blue Bus (Local Transit) The Big Blue Bus lines 8, 44, and Rapid 7 provide frequent service throughout Sunset Park, connecting the neighborhood directly to the 17th St/SMC Expo Line station and downtown Santa Monica.
  • E Line (Metro Rail) Take the Metro E Line (formerly Expo) to the 17th Street/SMC Station. From there, Sunset Park is easily accessible via a short south-bound bus ride or a 15-minute walk toward Ocean Park Boulevard.
  • Biking and Micromobility Sunset Park features dedicated bike lanes on Ocean Park Boulevard and 17th Street; travelers can utilize the city's extensive shared e-bike program to navigate the neighborhood's residential streets and parks.
• Local tips
  Local tips

  • Park only in the direction of traffic and carefully check posted signs for street sweeping days to avoid frequent ticketing.
  • Expect a quiet residential atmosphere and observe the local custom of keeping noise levels low after sunset.
  • Utilize the Big Blue Bus system for affordable and efficient transportation to the beach or downtown Santa Monica.
• What’s new
  What’s new in Santa Monica

  • Opening of Louma Bakery, a non-profit artisan spot at 3223 Wilshire Blvd specializing in sourdough and Danish pastries with an inclusive community mission.
  • The 'friendly bagel battle' along Ocean Park Blvd, driven by the viral success of sourdough bagels from Layla Bagels and the seeded sourdough loaves at Jyan Isaac Bread.
• Santa Monica Travel & Tourism↗
  Santa Monica Travel & TourismThe official travel site for Santa Monica, providing information on hotels, dining, things to do, and visitor services for the California beach city.