Upper West

4.9 (2731)

$30 and under

American

3321 Pico Blvd., Santa Monica, CA 90405

Make a booking

Upper West

4.9

$30 and under

American

Santa Monica

Make a booking

2 people

26 Oct 2026

19:00

Booked 5 times today

Experiences are available.

About this restaurant

Neighbourhood gem
Good for special occasions
Good for groups

**Contact us today to schedule your next event! We can accommodate parties of 10 to 150 guests**

Upper West's ever-changing menu draws inspiration from around the world while maintaining eclectic flavors unique to them. The bar offers Happy Hour Wednesday-Sunday from 4:30-7:00pm serving refreshing craft cocktails, handcrafted beer. The dinner menu is always evolving and includes ingredients sourced locally from the Santa Monica Farmers Market as well as local farmers such as Weiser Farms and Niman Ranch. Upper West is the perfect place to book large events for 20 or more guests and is an excellent private party venue for hosting corporate events, birthdays, anniversaries, holiday festivities, rehearsal dinners, and more.

Additional information

Dining style
Casual Dining
Price
$30 and under
Cuisines
American, Global, International
Hours of Operation
Dinner Wed, Thu 4:30 pm–9:00 pm Fri, Sat 4:30 pm–9:30 pm Sun 4:30 pm–8:00 pm
Phone number
(310) 586-1111
Website
http://www.theupperwest.com/
Payment Options
AMEX, Mastercard, Visa
Dress Code
Casual Dress
Executive Chef
Nick Shipp
Catering
Prefixed or customized buffet and seated menus, with full bar service.<br />We can accommodate off site or personal home catering as well.
Private party facilities
Upper West will be the ultimate space to host your holiday party.
Delivery & takeout
Order direct

Location
3321 Pico Blvd., Santa Monica, CA 90405
Area
Santa Monica
Cross Street
1 block west of Centinela
Parking Details
Valet
Public transport
Santa Monica Blue Bus line #7Bus Stop Pico & 33rd St
Entertainment
12 foot projector screen featuring movies, shows, and sports events.
Additional
Patio/Outdoor Dining

Experiences

Thirsty Thursday Half-Off Wine Bottles
1 - 40 people
Multiple dates available
Join us every Thursday for a wine experience like no other, where you can enjoy 50% off most of our wine bottles. Reserve your table now and raise a glass to #ThirstyThursday!🥂
Tier 1 Large Party at Upper West ($52)
US$61.36 per person
20 - 50 people
Multiple dates available
Host a dinner party at our exclusive dining room. This experience is designed for any party size from 20-50 guests. We require a pre-set menu at $52 per person (exclusive of tax and gratuity). A minimum spend of $2300 on Friday Night and $2500 on Saturday nights. See attached menu for details. $52 Seated Menu per person (plus tax & tip) Appetizer Assortment SPICY AHI TUNA CRUNCHY RICE wasabi tobiko / avocado puree / jalapeno / sweet chili sauce / freeze dried soy sauce GRILLED ARTICHOKE HEARTS citrus aioli / fennel pollen / parmigiano-reggiano / herbs BURRATA tomato-cranberry chutney / frescobaldi olive oil / black chai salt / basil / dill / organic flour bread Main Course (choice of one) BLACKENED SALMON israeli couscous "risotto" / tomato / piquillo / sweet yellow corn / guajillo sauce FLATIRON STEAK (medium) McDaniel smoked bacon & gorgonzola slaw / bourbon balsamic demi PAN ROASTED PITTMAN FARMS CHICKEN tomato & yogurt marinade / garbanzo bean & tomato stew / mango / lebneh VEGGIE CURRY (vegan) served with black forbidden rice Dessert BRIOCHE BREAD PUDDING rye whiskey caramel / crème anglaise / local strawberry *Beverage, tax and service not included. Additional items may be added a la carte. *Dietary restrictions can be accommodated within reason. A 18% service charge will be added to your final bill.
Tier 2 Large Party at Upper West ($60)
US$70.80 per person
19 - 40 people
Multiple dates available
Host a dinner party at our exclusive dining room. This experience is designed for any party size from 20-50 guests. We require a pre-set menu at $60 per person (exclusive of tax and gratuity). A minimum spend of $2300 on Friday Night and $2500 on Saturday nights. See attached menu for details. $60 Seated Menu per person (plus tax & tip) Appetizer Assortment SPICY AHI TUNA CRUNCHY RICE wasabi tobiko / avocado puree / jalapeno / sweet chili sauce / freeze dried soy sauce GRILLED ARTICHOKE HEARTS citrus aioli / fennel pollen / parmigiano-reggiano / herbs BURRATA tomato-cranberry chutney / frescobaldi olive oil / black chai salt / basil / dill / organic flour bread Main Course (choice of one) BLACKENED SHETLAND ISLANDS SALMON israeli couscous / tomato / piquillo / yellow corn / guajillo sauce FLATIRON STEAK (medium) McDaniel smoked bacon & gorgonzola slaw / bourbon balsamic demi PAN ROASTED PITTMAN FARMS CHICKEN tomato & yogurt marinade / garbanzo bean & tomato stew / mango / lebneh VEGGIE CURRY (vegan) served with black forbidden rice COFFEE CRUSTED KUROBUTA PORK TENDERLOIN goat cheese mashed potatoes / citrus demi / truffle / roasted jalapeno applesauce VEGGIES (served family style) GARLICKY GREEN BEANS - beech mushrooms / leeks / mustard seed / pedro vinegar ROASTED CAULIFLOWER - cauliflower - chimichurri / barberries / tahini ROASTED SWEET CORN - avocado butter / cotija cheese / smoked paprika Dessert BRIOCHE BREAD PUDDING - rye whiskey caramel / crème anglaise / local strawberry *Beverage, tax and service not included. Additional items may be added a la carte. *Dietary restrictions can be accommodated within reason. A 18% service charge will be added to your final bill.

Offers

Happy Hour at Upper West
1 - 40 people
Multiple dates available
Sun - 16:30 - 19:00,Wed - Sat - 16:30 - 19:00
Every Wednesday - Sunday 4:30pm-7pm, 40% off all specialty cocktails and selected wines by the glass.

Concierge
AI Beta

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

BURRATAUS$19.00
tomato-cranberry chutney / frescobaldi olive oil / black chai salt / basil / dill / organic flour bread
SPICY AHI TUNA CRUNCHY RICE US$20.00
wasabi tobiko / avocado puree / jalapeno / sweet chili sauce / freeze dried soy sauce
THAI PEANUT NOODLE (room temperature) US$15.00
chilled ramen / peanut dressing / green onion
CHOPPED SALAD US$16.00
grilled red pepper / fennel / celery / apple / feta cheese / cilantro strawberry / quinoa / champs vinaigrette
- add blackened chickenUS$12.00
THE WEDGE US$19.00
iceberg / bacon / smoked blue cheese dressing / grilled corn /basil
CURRIED CHICKEN SALAD US$20.00
field greens / napa cabbage / bell pepper / basmati rice / marinated cucumber / goma dressing / crispy wonton
CHARGRILLED AVOCADO US$18.00
whipped goat cheese / hoja santa / tomato / strawberry / reduced vinegar / toasted bread
SMOKED BLUE CHEESE CHIPS US$17.00
smoked blue cheese sauce / bacon / truffle
LAMB & FENNEL SAUSAGE FLATBREAD US$21.00
Bianco Dinapoli tomato sauce / chili flakes / truffle / dried cherries / reduced vinegar / arugula
SWEET & SPICY SPARE RIBS US$22.00
sambal-honey glaze / fresno pepper / sesame / cilantro
CHARGRILLED OCTOPUS US$24.00
hummus / sweet pepper / thai basil / shaved fennel / passion fruit vinegar / sumac
GULF SHRIMP CEVICHE US$22.00
tomato broth / cilantro / fresh avocado / lime / tortilla chips
BEEF CARPACCIO US$20.00
grilled romaine / tzatziki / kalamata / pecorino / za’atar / caper-honey vinaigrette / smoked olive oil

LARGE PLATES

PAN ROASTED PITTMAN FARMS CHICKEN US$30.00
tomato & yogurt marinade / garbanzo bean & tomato stew / mango / lebneh / warm pita bread
VEGGIE CURRY (vegan) US$22.00
served with black forbidden rice
BRAISED SHORT RIB US$44.00
mashed potato / tarragon pesto / fresno
BLACKENED SALMON US$34.00
israeli couscous / tomato / piquillo / sweet yellow corn / guajillo sauce / lemon
MAC & CHEESE US$22.00
mozzarella / asiago / white cheddar / roasted pasilla pepper
MARINATED PRIME FLATIRON STEAK US$41.00
napa cabbage / red onion / smoked bacon / gorgonzola sauce
COFFEE CRUSTED KUROBUTA PORK TENDERLOIN US$40.00
goat cheese mashed potatoes / citrus demi / truffle / roasted jalapeno applesauce
SEARED WILD CAUGHT STRIPED BASS US$38.00
whipped baba ganoush / tomato confit / olive / preserved lemon / patatas bravas / herbs
STEAK TACOS (16oz) US$47.00
fresh guac / salsa verde / queso fresco / fajita veggies

SANDWICHES

all sandwiches are served with fries

FLANNERY BEEF CHEESEBURGER US$22.00
american cheese / worcestershire-caramelized onions / pickles / arugula / so-cal sauce
- add thick cut nueski’s bacon US$5.00
ROASTED VEGGIE BURGER US$20.00
housemade veggie patty / grilled pineapple relish / piquillo pepper / smoked tomato aioli / toasted brioche bun
FRIED CHICKEN SANDWICH US$21.00
blue cheese cole slaw / hot sauce mayo / bread & butter pickles

VEGGIES & SIDES

GARLICKY GREEN BEANS US$16.00
beech mushrooms / leeks / mustard seed / pedro vinegar
ROASTED SWEET CORN US$16.00
avocado-cilantro butter / smoked paprika / cotija cheese
FRIED SWEET POTATO US$15.00
chimichurri / queso fresco / harry’s strawberries
ROASTED CAULIFLOWER US$16.00
chimichurri spice / barberries / tahini / pine nuts / toasted panko
GRILLED ARTICHOKE HEARTS US$18.00
citrus aioli / fennel pollen / parmigiano-reggiano / herbs

Cocktails

ESPRESSO MARTINI US$16.00
HONEY RYE US$15.00
sazerac rye / barenjager honey / orange bitters
CUCUMBER MARTINI US$15.00
wheatly vodka / cucumber / mint / lemon
EL DIABLO US$15.00
pueblo viejo tequila / jalapeno puree / dried lime
SPANISH MANHATTAN US$15.00
buffalo trace bourbon / vermut (Spanish Vermouth) / jerry thomas own decanter bitters
STRAWBERRY FIELDS US$15.00
hendrick’s gin / strawberry / basil / lemonade
BRAMBLE US$15.00
hendrick’s gin / blackberry / lemongrass / fresh lemon
THE WESTSIDER (White Sangria) US$15.00
belvedere vodka / fresh pomegranate / giffard pamplemousse / rose cava
GINGER MARGARITA US$15.00
pueblo viejo tequila / exilxir G / fresh lime
THE PALOMA US$15.00
pueblo viejo tequila / grapefruit / lime / chili lime seasoning
SEASONAL MOJITO US$15.00
fresh Seasonal fruit / mount gay rum / lime / fresh mint
SUNSET SMOKE US$16.00
mezcal / aperol / guava / fresh lime / chili lime seasoning

BEER

AMBER US$10.00
Rotating handle, please ask your server for details
PALE ALE US$10.00
Rotating handle, please ask your server for details
KRONENBOURG 1664 US$10.00
Euro Pale Lager / France / 5.0% ABV
EINSTOK OLEGRO, WHITE ALE US$10.00
Witbier / Iceland / 5.2 % ABV
OFFSHOOT BEER CO., RELAX IT’S JUST A HAZY IPA US$10.00
American IPA / Orange County / 6.8% ABV
ANDERSON VALLEY, BOURBON BARREL STOUT US$10.00
Wild Turkey Stout / Boonville, CA / 6.9% ABV
ALLAGASH, CURIEUX US$15.00
Triple Ale aged in Jim Beam Barrels / Portland, Maine / 11% ABV
IPA OF THE DAY US$10.00
Rotating handle, please ask your server for details
SANTA MONICA BREW WORKS, 310 US$10.00
Blonde / Santa Monica / 4.8% ABV
IPA - BLIND PIG US$11.00
Russian River Brewing Co. / Sanoma County / 6.25% ABV
PACIFICO US$10.00
Mexican Pilsner / Sinaloa - Mexico / 4.50% ABV

Reviews

OpenTable reviews from verified diners

Reviews from people who have dined at Upper West.

4.9

(2731)

4.9Food
4.8Service
4.8Ambience
4.7Value

Noise • Moderate

Diners' Choice Awards

Los Angeles
American
Westside
Best Overall
Westside
Best Food
Westside
Best Service
Westside
Best Value
Westside
American

Review summary

AI-generated from verified diner reviews

Upper West delights with "fantastic food" and "impeccable service" in a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Known for "creative, satisfying menus" and standout dishes like steak tacos and spicy tuna crispy rice, it's a "go-to place" for many. Guests praise the "inventive drinks," attentive staff, and "beautiful setting," ensuring a memorable dining experience.

2,731 Reviews

J
Julian
Los Angeles2 reviews
5.0
Dined 5 days ago
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Spoons and a good Italian bread or Sourdough would have been the perfect addition to the meal for the Scotch event. Aside from that I have zero complaints
Is this helpful?
T
Teresa
Los Angeles1 review
5.0
Dined 5 days ago
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Everything was very good. I will sure go back again for the drinks, the food, the services and the ambience. Wish the restrooms have quality clean white tile floor rather than just cement. I understand it might cost a bit to upgrade the restrooms one notch up, sure that would worth it. Regardless the -5pts due to the cement floor in the ladies room, The Upper West still deserves a solid "A" in my opinion. Thank you.
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R
Richard
Los Angeles5 reviews
5.0
Dined on 17 October 2026
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
The food is Excellent. We enjoyed everything from the sharable appetizers, large dishes, to the desert. Cocktails are delicious . It can be a little loud, but managed descent conversation. Loved it, and will definitely return.
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G
Gordon
Unspecified1 review
5.0
Dined on 16 October 2026
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Excellent dinners and the service was superb! Took a guess at where to eat while headed to a concert at McCabe’s Guitar Shop. The Upper West ended up being a huge suprise with the service and quality of our meals.
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R
Rebecka Gold
Los Angeles10 reviews
5.0
Dined on 15 October 2026
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
We’ve been coming to this restaurant for almost 2 decades and most recently spent our 19th anniversary here. The food and service is always fantastic. Fred and his team are so affable, gracious and go extra lengths to make diners feel welcome and taken care of. Favorites include the steak tacos, the PEI mussels, the cheeseburger, the burrata, and octopus. Also the lamb and fennel flatbread. Such an amazing menu.
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C
Carla Gold
Chicago / Illinois4 reviews
5.0
Dined on 11 October 2026
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
The food and service were fantastic. We had a large party and the restaurant staff was so warm and accommodating. They made a great night even better!
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M
Marilyn
Los Angeles4 reviews
5.0
Dined on 20 September 2026
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Excellent restaurant in every way. The food is fantastic, service impeccable. I will put this restaurant on my favorites list.
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A
Alan Gold
Los Angeles3 reviews
5.0
Dined on 20 September 2026
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Love everything about this place. Food, atmosphere, service—all top notch.
1 person found this helpful
EE
EveE
Los Angeles2 reviews
5.0
Dined on 19 September 2026
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
lovely meal and service. Steak tacos are fabulous. Not to mention the bread pudding which we fought over. Our go to place for a yummy dinner. They never disappoint.
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J
Joy
Los Angeles1 review
5.0
Dined on 19 September 2026
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 4
4. Ambience 4
One of the best kept secrets on the Westside! We will be back!!
1 person found this helpful

Additional information

Dining style
Casual Dining
Price
$30 and under
Cuisines
American, Global, International
Hours of Operation
Dinner Wed, Thu 4:30 pm–9:00 pm Fri, Sat 4:30 pm–9:30 pm Sun 4:30 pm–8:00 pm
Phone number
(310) 586-1111
Website
http://www.theupperwest.com/
Payment Options
AMEX, Mastercard, Visa
Dress Code
Casual Dress
Executive Chef
Nick Shipp
Catering
Prefixed or customized buffet and seated menus, with full bar service.<br />We can accommodate off site or personal home catering as well.
Private party facilities
Upper West will be the ultimate space to host your holiday party.
Delivery & takeout
Order direct

Location
3321 Pico Blvd., Santa Monica, CA 90405
Area
Santa Monica
Cross Street
1 block west of Centinela
Parking Details
Valet
Public transport
Santa Monica Blue Bus line #7Bus Stop Pico & 33rd St
Entertainment
12 foot projector screen featuring movies, shows, and sports events.
Additional
Patio/Outdoor Dining

Featured in

18 June 2026
Top Picks: Hot Santa Monica Restaurants to Book — OpenTable LA
Santa Monica’s restaurant scene is a vibrant mix of casual and elegant dining experiences, each offering unique menus and atmospheres that cater to a variety of tastes. From the casual elegance of Water Grill, known for its fresh seafood and scenic views, to the cozy, neighborhood charm of Tar & Roses, which offers an innovative American menu, there’s something to satisfy everyone. Notable mentions also include Élephante, where guests can enjoy Italian dishes in a stylish, beachfront setting, and the Mediterranean delights of Calabra at Santa Monica Proper, which is not just a feast for the palate but also a treat for the eyes with its beautiful decor and ocean views. For those looking for a more relaxed vibe, Lunetta and True Food Kitchen offer laid-back environments with a focus on high-quality, wholesome meals. On the other hand, upscale options like Fia and The Penthouse Restaurant provide a more refined dining experience with expertly crafted dishes and sophisticated settings. Whether you’re in the mood for a casual meal or a luxurious dinner, Santa Monica’s top restaurants offer a range of choices that promise a memorable culinary adventure. Make sure to explore these curated selections and book your next dining experience soon.
Published by OpenTable

FAQs

Yes, Upper West is regularly recommended for date night, with reviewers praising its dim, moody, romantic atmosphere and calling it an ideal spot for a special evening.

For Happy Hour, go Wednesday through Sunday (Happy Hour 4:30–7:00 pm); guests also highlight Saturday evenings for a cozy dinner, while many pick Friday as their go-to takeout night.

Upper West, Dinner: Wed–Thu 4:30 pm–9:00 pm; Fri–Sat 4:30 pm–9:30 pm; Sun 4:30 pm–8:00 pm. Happy Hour runs Wednesday–Sunday 4:30–7:00 pm.

Portions at Upper West are consistently described as generous and shareable, reviewers note large, shareable servings and say items like the steak tacos are enough for two.

Upper West is especially lovely in the early evening, try happy hour (Wednesday–Sunday, 4:30–7:00 pm) or arrive around 5:30–6:00 pm to grab the bar or a quick pre-show dinner before nearby concerts.

Upper West is owned and run by Fred and his family, guests frequently note Fred as the owner who greets and welcomes diners.

Yes, guests mention a glass patio area at Upper West, a pleasant spot that people enjoy alongside the main dining room and bar.

Upper West feels warm and moody, cozy corners, dim lighting and even classic films on a projector create an intimate, welcoming atmosphere guests praise.

Casual dress is the guide, relaxed, comfortable clothing is appropriate and nothing formal is required.

How FAQ content is generated

Make a booking

Upper West

4.9

$30 and under

American

Santa Monica

Make a booking

2 people

26 Oct 2026

19:00

Booked 5 times today

Experiences are available.

Upper West

Make a booking

Upper West

Make a booking

About this restaurant

Additional information

Thirsty Thursday Half-Off Wine Bottles

Tier 1 Large Party at Upper West ($52)

Tier 2 Large Party at Upper West ($60)

Happy Hour at Upper West

SHARABLE PLATES

BURRATAUS$19.00

SPICY AHI TUNA CRUNCHY RICE US$20.00

THAI PEANUT NOODLE (room temperature) US$15.00

CHOPPED SALAD US$16.00

THE WEDGE US$19.00

CURRIED CHICKEN SALAD US$20.00

CHARGRILLED AVOCADO US$18.00

SMOKED BLUE CHEESE CHIPS US$17.00

LAMB & FENNEL SAUSAGE FLATBREAD US$21.00

SWEET & SPICY SPARE RIBS US$22.00

CHARGRILLED OCTOPUS US$24.00

GULF SHRIMP CEVICHE US$22.00

BEEF CARPACCIO US$20.00

LARGE PLATES

PAN ROASTED PITTMAN FARMS CHICKEN US$30.00

VEGGIE CURRY (vegan) US$22.00

BRAISED SHORT RIB US$44.00

BLACKENED SALMON US$34.00

MAC & CHEESE US$22.00

MARINATED PRIME FLATIRON STEAK US$41.00

COFFEE CRUSTED KUROBUTA PORK TENDERLOIN US$40.00

SEARED WILD CAUGHT STRIPED BASS US$38.00

STEAK TACOS (16oz) US$47.00

SANDWICHES

FLANNERY BEEF CHEESEBURGER US$22.00

ROASTED VEGGIE BURGER US$20.00

FRIED CHICKEN SANDWICH US$21.00

VEGGIES & SIDES

GARLICKY GREEN BEANS US$16.00

ROASTED SWEET CORN US$16.00

FRIED SWEET POTATO US$15.00

ROASTED CAULIFLOWER US$16.00

GRILLED ARTICHOKE HEARTS US$18.00

Cocktails

ESPRESSO MARTINI US$16.00

HONEY RYE US$15.00

CUCUMBER MARTINI US$15.00

EL DIABLO US$15.00

SPANISH MANHATTAN US$15.00

STRAWBERRY FIELDS US$15.00

BRAMBLE US$15.00

THE WESTSIDER (White Sangria) US$15.00

GINGER MARGARITA US$15.00

THE PALOMA US$15.00

SEASONAL MOJITO US$15.00

SUNSET SMOKE US$16.00

BEER

AMBER US$10.00

PALE ALE US$10.00

KRONENBOURG 1664 US$10.00

EINSTOK OLEGRO, WHITE ALE US$10.00

OFFSHOOT BEER CO., RELAX IT’S JUST A HAZY IPA US$10.00

ANDERSON VALLEY, BOURBON BARREL STOUT US$10.00

ALLAGASH, CURIEUX US$15.00

IPA OF THE DAY US$10.00

SANTA MONICA BREW WORKS, 310 US$10.00

IPA - BLIND PIG US$11.00

PACIFICO US$10.00

Diners' Choice Awards

Review summary

Additional information

Top Picks: Hot Santa Monica Restaurants to Book — OpenTable LA

FAQs

Is this a good pick for date night?

What is the best day to go to Upper West?

What are this restaurant's opening hours?

What are the portion sizes like at this restaurant?

When is the best time to go to Upper West?

Who owns Upper West?