Five Santa Monica Pier Restaurants

Santa Monica is an amazing place to explore, and there is no shortage of fun things to do. However, where do you go to unwind and fill up once you're done? This article lists out five great places to grab a bite while visiting the Santa Monica Pier.

Bubba Gump Shrimp Company

301 Santa Monica Pier

Santa Monica, CA 90401

Source and additional info: http://www.bubbagump.com/locations/santa_monica.html

When Forrest Gump first hit theaters, many were bemused to discover that the Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. was suddenly sprouting up near major cities around the US. From the outside, it may look like a movie theater or old-style arcade, but inside the atmosphere is warm and the shrimp is spicy (or not, if you prefer). Known for their seafood but also for their friendly atmosphere and great land-based food as well (if you're not in the mood for fish, the burgers are awesome). A decent turn around time on orders and a friendly staff lend to the environment.

Rusty's Surf Ranch

256 Santa Monica Pier

Santa Monica, CA 90401

Source and additional info: http://www.rustyssurfranch.com/

If you're looking for a quiet evening, this is not the place to go. Live music and dancing mix with a casual, peppy environment where any "party" food is available: quesadillas, wings, burgers and their delicious home-made clam chowder. A great place to check out the local music scene, you can dine and enjoy blues, rock and all things in-between.

Mariasol Cocina Mexicana

401 Santa Monica Pier

Santa Monica, CA 90401

Source and additional info: http://www.mariasol.com

The food is offset by a magnificent ocean view, and the robust menu offers plenty in terms of what is considered your standard, nice-restaurant Mexican fare. One word of caution- while they are a family eatery, the atmosphere is better suited for adults looking for a drink to unwind, a view to enjoy and possibly some light conversation.

Border Grill

1445 4th St
Santa Monica, CA 90401

Source and additional info: http://www.bordergrill.com/

Now THIS is more like it! While Mariasol may offer a great view with standard Mexican cuisine, the Border Grill steps it up a bit with a more authentic atmosphere and menu. With food dishes based heavily on Central American recipes and a robust drink menu, the Border Grill delivers. Top that off with relatively fast service, and you've got a great place for a group meal or a friendly date. Bonus- if you like this one, check out their sister location in Las Vegas.

Surf View Café

330 Santa Monica Pier

Santa Monica, CA 90401

Source and additional info: www.theguide.com

If you're not in the mood for fancy dining or long lines, but still want a casual place to grab a bite and rest a while, check out the Surf View Café. The restaurant is appropriately decked out with a desert motif, and the food is your classic diner fare. A nice feature about this place is the price- food is relatively cheap for Santa Monica. Also, you can get shrimp as well as a burger, and a juicy-whip (think smoothie) to wash it all down.