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Fireplace - The Penthouse Restaurant, Santa Monica, CA

The Penthouse Restaurant

4.7 (4428)
$31 to $50
Contemporary American
1111 2nd Street, Santa Monica, CA 90403

Make a reservation

A photo of The Penthouse Restaurant restaurant

The Penthouse Restaurant

4.7
$31 to $50
Contemporary American
Santa Monica

Make a reservation

2 people
7:00 PM
Booked 23 times today
Experiences are available.

About this restaurant

  • Great for scenic views
  • Good for special occasions
  • Charming
Discover one of the best places to eat in Santa Monica! The Penthouse offers guests a dramatic 18th-floor rooftop dining experience, complete with panoramic ocean views, beach cabanas, and open sky enclaves. Sip signature craft cocktails or indulge in contemporary Mediterranean inspired California cuisine. The Penthouse provides a truly one-of-a-kind dining experience and is among the best places to eat in Santa Monica.

Additional information

  • Dining style
    Casual Elegant
  • Price
    $31 to $50
  • Cuisines
    Contemporary American, Mediterranean, Californian
  • Hours of operation
    Breakfast Daily 7:00 am–11:00 am Brunch Sat, Sun 11:00 am–3:00 pm Lunch Mon–Fri 11:00 am–3:00 pm Dinner Mon–Thu, Sun 6:00 pm–9:30 pm Fri, Sat 6:00 pm–10:00 pm
  • Phone number
  • Payment options
    AMEX, Carte Blanche, Diners Club, Discover, JCB, Mastercard, Visa
  • Dress code
    Smart Casual
  • Private party facilities
    Atop the 18th floor of Huntley Santa Monica Beach, revel in panoramic ocean and city views at The Penthouse. Ideal for special events, corporate gatherings or grand wedding celebrations, The Penthouse exceeds expectations.
  • Private party contact
    Mandy Amini: (310) 566-5501
  • Neighborhood
    Santa Monica
  • Cross street
    California
  • Parking details
    Hotel Valet
  • Entertainment
    DJ, Friday & Saturday starts at 9:00 pm until closeSunday 1:00pm - 6:00pm
  • Additional
    Banquet, Bar/Lounge, Beer, BYO Wine, Cocktails, Corkage Fee, Full Bar, Indoor Fireplace, Non-Smoking, Private Room, View, Weekend Brunch, Wheelchair Access, Wine
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Experiences

  • Malibu Cabana Experience

    $195.00 per person

    2 - 5 people

    Multiple dates available
    Treat your inner VIP to our Malibu Cabana Experience at The Penthouse. Enjoy the best of The Penthouse. Your reservation includes: Guaranteed Malibu Cabana Reservation. A Four Course, Chef-Crafted Tasting Menu. Complimentary welcome beverage upon arrival. $195/Person, not inclusive of tax and gratuity. _ View our Malibu Cabana Experience Menu at http://penthouserestaurant.com
    Malibu Cabana Experience Photo

Private dining

Concierge
AI Beta

Our AI assistant, Concierge, is here to answer your questions about this restaurant.

What 4,428 people are saying

The Penthouse Restaurant reviews from people who’ve dined at this restaurant. Based on recent rating.

Overall ratings and reviews

Reviews can only be made by diners who have eaten at this restaurant

4.7
4.7 based on recent ratings
  • 4.6Food
  • 4.6Service
  • 4.7Ambience
  • 4.3Value

NoiseModerate

Review summary

AI-generated from verified diner reviews
The Penthouse Restaurant offers breathtaking views and a lively atmosphere, perfect for special occasions or business luncheons. Guests rave about the "amazing food" and "phenomenal service," with standout dishes such as the cauliflower steak and Stone Axe Wagyu. While noise levels can vary, the staff consistently provides "attentive service."
4,428 Reviews
  1. Marian

    New York City1 review

    5.0

    Dined 1 day ago

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 4
    You can add a live music singing or playing it will be more vibrant

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  2. Thomas Gold

    Jackson Hole4 reviews

    5.0

    Dined 3 days ago

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Very nice experience. Good was very good and so was the service.

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  3. Geoffrey

    Los Angeles24 reviews

    3.0

    Dined 4 days ago

    1. Overall 3
    2. Food 4
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 3
    Hadn’t been there in a while, but was very disappointed when I went for a romantic dinner on a Thursday night and there was a very loud jazz ensemble playing adjacent to the bar. I like Jazz, but this was not even really Jazz, and was very loud, annoying, and disruptive. We even got a table relatively far from them, and still had to elevate our conversation levels to speak to each other when they were playing. We went there thinking we could have a romantic evening, and good conversation, and were disappointed by the noise. The food was good, and staff was great, but I do not suggest you go if you intend to have a conversation with your date.

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  4. Anne

    Los Angeles12 reviews

    5.0

    Dined 5 days ago

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    The Penthouse is wonderful for a VIP business luncheon!

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  5. Victoria Gold

    Los Angeles6 reviews

    5.0

    Dined 6 days ago

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    What a lovely experience!!! Terrific staff, great food, phenomenal view and a peaceful setting to actually be able to enjoy conversations without having to shout !

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  6. David Gold

    Los Angeles9 reviews

    5.0

    Dined 6 days ago

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    We haven't been in years and it was nice to see a well run and delicious meal upon our return. We were greeted with a smile. Gave us a table that was away from the crowd. Meal and my steak was perfect. Service was excellent. Luke our waiter was well informed and went above and beyond. Will be back much sooner ! (easy valet parking as well)

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  7. Jacob Gold

    Los Angeles2 reviews

    5.0

    Dined on July 5, 2026

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Wow! I enjoyed every minute, The ambiance was so calming, prestigious and heavenly. Every dish was perfect, the sauces the textures and the small bites. Especially the Stone Axe Wagyu that I ordered… I’ve tasted many many other filets and none like this one, so buttery juicy and full of taste! I’d definitely come back it was amazing!
    The Penthouse RestaurantResponded on July 6, 2026
    Dear Jacob, Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We are thrilled to hear that you enjoyed your experience with us. We take great pride in sourcing exceptional ingredients and preparing them with care, so it's fantastic to hear it stood out as one of the best. Our culinary and service teams work hard to create a memorable dining experience, and your feedback is truly encouraging. Thank you again for your support. We look forward to welcoming you back to The Penthouse for another amazing dining experience soon! Warm regards, Jewel, Food & Beverage Manager

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  8. Evelina

    New York City1 review

    3.0

    Dined on July 4, 2026

    1. Overall 3
    2. Food 2
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 2
    The view is incredible but the restaurant smelled like cleaning products and was tired looking
    The Penthouse RestaurantResponded on July 6, 2026
    Dear Eveline, Thank you for sharing your feedback. We're delighted to hear that you enjoyed our incredible views, as they are one of the highlights of the Penthouse experience. We're sorry to learn that the ambiance did not meet your expectations during your visit. While we take great pride in maintaining our restaurant and creating a warm, inviting atmosphere for our guests, we understand that everyone's experience and perception can be different. Thank you again for your feedback. We hope you'll give us another opportunity to provide the five-star experience we strive to deliver. Warm regards, Jewel, Food & Beverage Manager

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  9. Camille

    Los Angeles1 review

    5.0

    Dined on July 4, 2026

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Had a great experience. The food was amazing and our waitress so nice. Thank you for your delicate attention over my son's birthday. Will recommend 100%
    The Penthouse RestaurantResponded 7 days ago
    Dear Camille, Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We are delighted to hear that you had a great experience with us and that you enjoyed both the food and the service. It was our pleasure to be a small part of your son's birthday celebration. Creating memorable moments for our guests is what we strive for, and we're so happy to know our team made the occasion extra special. Thank you for your kind recommendation and for celebrating with us. We look forward to welcoming you and your family back to The Penthouse for many more special occasions. Warm Regards, Jewel Food & Beverage Manager

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  10. Ashley Gold

    Washington DC10 reviews

    5.0

    Dined on June 28, 2026

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Always a wonderful experience! The food and staff are consistent. I love bringing my friends to this restaurant.
    The Penthouse RestaurantResponded on July 6, 2026
    Dear Ashley, Thank you so much for your kind words and continued support! It means a great deal to know that you consistently have a wonderful experience with us. Hearing that both our food and service continue to meet your expectations is the highest compliment we could receive. We're especially honored that you choose The Penthouse to share with your friends. We truly appreciate your loyalty and look forward to welcoming you and your guests back again soon for another memorable dining experience. Warm regards, Jewel, Food & Beverage Manager

    Is this helpful?

Additional information

  • Dining style
    Casual Elegant
  • Price
    $31 to $50
  • Cuisines
    Contemporary American, Mediterranean, Californian
  • Hours of operation
    Breakfast Daily 7:00 am–11:00 am Brunch Sat, Sun 11:00 am–3:00 pm Lunch Mon–Fri 11:00 am–3:00 pm Dinner Mon–Thu, Sun 6:00 pm–9:30 pm Fri, Sat 6:00 pm–10:00 pm
  • Phone number
  • Payment options
    AMEX, Carte Blanche, Diners Club, Discover, JCB, Mastercard, Visa
  • Dress code
    Smart Casual
  • Private party facilities
    Atop the 18th floor of Huntley Santa Monica Beach, revel in panoramic ocean and city views at The Penthouse. Ideal for special events, corporate gatherings or grand wedding celebrations, The Penthouse exceeds expectations.
  • Private party contact
    Mandy Amini: (310) 566-5501
  • Neighborhood
    Santa Monica
  • Cross street
    California
  • Parking details
    Hotel Valet
  • Entertainment
    DJ, Friday & Saturday starts at 9:00 pm until closeSunday 1:00pm - 6:00pm
  • Additional
    Banquet, Bar/Lounge, Beer, BYO Wine, Cocktails, Corkage Fee, Full Bar, Indoor Fireplace, Non-Smoking, Private Room, View, Weekend Brunch, Wheelchair Access, Wine
Gift card

Gift card

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FAQs

The Penthouse serves breakfast, lunch, brunch on weekends, and dinner nightly with slightly reduced weekday dinner hours. Weekly hours: Breakfast daily 7:00–11:00 AM; Lunch Mon–Fri 11:00 AM–3:00 PM; Brunch Sat–Sun 11:00 AM–3:00 PM; Dinner Mon–Thu & Sun 6:00–9:30 PM; Fri–Sat 6:00–10:00 PM. Always call ahead for holiday hours or special events, as the restaurant often runs special menus for holidays.

Yes, The Penthouse welcomes families and can accommodate a range of seating needs, but call ahead to confirm specifics. Guests frequently bring children and toddlers and praise cabana and booth seating for family celebrations. The restaurant is in a hotel with elevator access and offers spacious cabana-style tables, but if you need a high chair, wheelchair access, or stroller-friendly seating, mention it when booking so staff can arrange the best table.

Yes, The Penthouse is a top choice for a romantic date night. Guests praise the spectacular ocean and sunset views, intimate cabana seating, craft cocktails, and attentive service that make special occasions feel memorable. Expect contemporary American plates with an upscale, presentation-driven touch and a lively, elegant vibe at night. For the most romantic experience aim for a sunset seating or reserve a cabana and mention your occasion when booking so the team can help personalize the visit.

Portions vary, guests describe some dishes as generously plated and others as more modest, typical of an upscale kitchen. Appetizers and shared plates (oysters, seafood tower, bread apps) are often satisfying to split, while some mains at dinner are described as more refined or smaller than expected for the price. The weekday prix-fixe lunch is frequently called generous and filling. If you’re sharing or celebrating, consider ordering a starter to share plus a main.

For a quieter, more relaxed experience go for weekday lunch or an early weekday dinner, guests say weekday lunchtimes and early evenings are less crowded. For stunning scenery and romance, book at sunset. If you want lively energy, Friday–Saturday nights (DJ or events) and weekend brunches are popular but can be loud. Always reserve in advance for sunset, cabanas, or holiday dates.

Yes, The Penthouse operates on many public holidays and frequently offers special holiday menus. Guests describe dining there for Thanksgiving, Easter, Valentine’s Day, New Year’s celebrations, and Christmas with dedicated prix-fixe or holiday offerings. Because holidays are very busy, reserve early and expect special pricing or fixed menus on those dates.

Yes, call the restaurant to arrange special touches. Guests frequently report staff providing handwritten cards, birthday desserts with sparklers, table moves for window seats, and accommodations for dietary needs. The team is known for making celebrations special, but because requests aren’t guaranteed on very busy nights, it’s best to call ahead and confirm details so they can prepare.

For a balance of scenery and lower noise, choose a weekday (Mon–Thu) lunch or early dinner, guests report the best combination of service, value, and calmer atmosphere then. If you want the full lively vibe, go for Saturday or Friday night to enjoy DJs, a buzzy crowd, and a party atmosphere. Sunday brunch is also a favorite for views and a celebratory brunch scene.

Yes, The Penthouse accommodates private parties and special events. The rooftop layout includes cabanas and semi-private areas, and guests report private-party setups and curtained sections for celebrations. For group events, contact the restaurant in advance to discuss menus, minimums, and available private spaces so the team can tailor the experience.

The ambience is elegant yet lively, think dramatic ocean views, white-draped cabanas, and contemporary decor. Guests consistently praise the romantic sunset setting, stylish vibe, and attentive service. Note that evenings (especially weekends and special events) can be energetic and noisy with DJs or private parties, while weekday lunches and early dinners feel calmer and more conversational. It’s a great spot for celebrations, date nights, or brunch with a scenic backdrop.

Smart casual is the recommended dress code. Guests often dress up for special occasions like anniversaries and proposals, so think polished casual: nice shirts or blouses, dresses, or slacks rather than beachwear or flip-flops. If you’re celebrating, guests often opt for slightly dressier attire to match the elegant rooftop setting.

Yes, families do dine here, and guests often bring children for celebrations and brunch. While there isn’t clear evidence of a formal kids’ menu, guests report child-friendly options and staff who accommodate little ones. For younger children, consider an early seating or a cabana/booth for comfort, and call ahead if you need a high chair or special menu tweaks.

Reservations are strongly recommended because the Penthouse gets busy, especially at sunset, weekend brunches, holidays, and event nights. Guests report occasional waits even with reservations and occasional overbooking issues, so if you anticipate being seated at a particular time or want a window/cabana table, call ahead, the staff will advise on wait expectations and help secure your preferred seating.

Busiest: weekend brunches, Friday–Saturday nights (DJ or events), holidays (Valentine’s, Thanksgiving, NYE) and sunset service. Quietest: weekday lunches and early weekday dinners; many guests recommend Monday–Thursday evenings or weekday lunch for a calmer experience and easier seating. If you prefer quieter dining, avoid weekend evenings and major holiday service times.

How FAQ content is generated

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Make a reservation

A photo of The Penthouse Restaurant restaurant

The Penthouse Restaurant

4.7
$31 to $50
Contemporary American
Santa Monica

Make a reservation

2 people
7:00 PM
Booked 23 times today
Experiences are available.
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