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Santa Monica › Santa Monica › Lobster & Beer Santa Monica
Lobster & Beer Santa MonicaBWorth Trying
530 Wilshire Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90401
· Seafood restaurant, American restaurant, Bar & grill
· 4.5/5 Google (381 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating
Casual seafood-and-beer spot with standout lobster rolls, hearty bar snacks, long happy hour, and inconsistent service; great for a quick coastal bite, less ideal for refined dining.
Why it gets a B for overall quality
Lobster & Beer Santa Monica delivers reliable comfort seafood with standout items—the Connecticut roll and chowder earn consistent praise—but portion variability and inconsistent execution on tacos prevent higher marks. Service gaps during busy periods and a simple, functional interior keep this a casual neighborhood spot rather than a destination, though the beachside patio and strong happy hour value make it worth visiting if nearby.
Restaurant Summary
A compact corner spot with chill bar energy, this seafood-and-beer hangout draws beachgoers and locals for happy hour and warm, buttery lobster rolls. Expect TVs, quick counter ordering, and patio seats that catch the ocean breeze. One diner shared, "The warm roll and chowder hit the spot," while another noted the service gaps when the place is short-staffed. The cooking leans comfort-first seafood: Connecticut and Maine-style rolls, creamy chowder, crispy Old Bay fries, and taco and bowl offshoots. It is more elevated bar food than fine dining, with solid value on happy hour and a few inconsistent items like lobster tacos and portion sizes that can feel light for the price. Families will find it workable: the menu has kid-friendly staples like grilled cheese, mac and cheese, fries, and quesadillas, plus mild seafood options. Outdoor seating helps with strollers and noise. There is no kids menu listed, but sides and simple plates make it easy to cobble together a child-pleasing meal.
At a Glance
- Warm buttery Connecticut roll and chowder draw consistent praise
- Long happy hour with real value on food and beer
- Portions run small for price, especially some rolls and bowls
- Hybrid service can mean slow greetings and missed items when busy
- Casual patio near beach, good for a quick bite
What Sets It Apart
- long_daily_happy_hour
- lobster_roll_focus
- beach_proximity
What People Love
- That first bite of warm, buttery roll
- Creamy chowder on cool beach days
- Crispy Old Bay or truffle fries
- Easygoing patio vibe close to the pier
Points of Concern
- Portions can feel light for the price; some guests left less than full
- Service lapses: slow greeting, order mix-ups, and refund confusion reported
- Disposable plates and tight seating make it feel more bar than restaurant
- Occasional complaints about lobster taco flavor and value
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleHybrid
Average Cost$30-42 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Build a meal: Connecticut Roll + cup of chowder + small Old Bay fries for balance
- For lighter eaters: Grilled Shrimp Bowl ($15.55) or Avocado Bowl ($12.85) with a side of broccoli
- Sharing plate: Crab Cakes ($16.45) plus Coconut Shrimp sampler
Perfect For
- Pre- or post-beach bite with a beer
- Casual date without formality
- Happy hour seafood cravings
- Solo meal at the bar
Location Insights
Area: Busy beach-adjacent downtown with offices, shops, and tourist foot traffic; casual and social.
Safety: Well-trafficked, generally safe, lively into evenings with good lighting.
Nearby: Near Third Street Promenade, beach and pier; bars and quick eats cluster nearby.
Downtown Santa MonicaDowntown Santa Monica is a bustling commercial and entertainment district with a diverse dining scene ranging from casual eateries to upscale restaurants. It is popular for its walkability, proximity to the beach, and a mix of locals and visitors enjoying shopping, dining, and nightlife.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday11:30–21:00
Tuesday11:30–21:00
Wednesday11:30–21:00
Thursday11:30–21:00
Friday11:30–22:00
Saturday11:30–22:00
Sunday11:30–21:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating
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