Santa Monica Pier Restaurants

Santa Monica Pier restaurants have an advantage over their land-based counterparts: location. Atop the historic Pier at the foot of Colorado Avenue, ocean views and stellar sunsets are always on the menu.

Now of course you could walk off the Pier and be steps away from some of Santa Monica's top-rated restaurants. I've had friends visit, however, who simply have to dine on the pier, not a few steps or blocks away. This list of Santa Monica Pier restaurants is for them - and you.

Six Santa Monica Pier Restaurants 

1.  Pier Burger

Don't let the name fool you - this place has it all. This burger will rock your world. Sure, there are burgers, including veggie burgers.

And local sea bass sandwiches and other seaside specialties. And the custards, shakes, creamsicles and purple cow floats will satisfy your sweet tooth. Simple, and delicious. 

2.  Rusty's Surf  Ranch

This casual, surfboard-bedecked bar and grill on the pier serves up seafood, bar eats & live bands on weekends.

Rusty's Surf Ranch has been a Pier fixture since 1994, serving up a bit of everything - from seafood cocktails and calamari rings to fajita platters and daily fish specials - to live music and dancing.

Come for the food and ocean views and stay for a night of fun.

3.  Seaside on the Pier

Take in a glorious sunset from the rooftop lounge at Seaside on the Pier while enjoying cocktails and tasty eats from a full menu featuring seafood, pizza, burgers, and beyond.

The bottom floor provides quick eats including sandwiches, salads, and soft-serve ice cream for on-the-go diners. The middle level offers indoor tables and seating.

The top floor includes a rooftop bar and grill with outdoor seating and a view of the Pier and the Pacific Ocean. 

4.  Mariasol Cocina Mexicana

Mariasol Cucina Mexican is home to margaritas, mouth-watering Mexican fare, and million dollar views at the tranquil west end of the Pier. 

If savoring mega grande margaritas and stellar Pacific Ocean views are your thing, this Baja Cantina is for you. Mariasol's distinctive sauces, flavorful peppers, and fresh fish make it a favorite for locals and visitors alike year after year.

5.  The Albright

You’re at the ocean, it’s only natural to partake in the bountiful offerings from the sea. 

This old-school fish house serves up an array of seafood options including oysters, fish tacos, and a long list of artisan beers.

Lots of long tables and a view of the coast and the beach below combine to create a deliciously memorable meal.

6.  Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.

Putting the South in Southern California, Bubba Gump Shrimp Company  on the Pier is lively spot to get your shrimp fix or even some Dixie-style baby back ribs. Come hungry.

Bubba's serves scratch-made, southern-style comfort dishes alongside award-winning baby back ribs, burgers, salads, and more. All served in a  fun, energetic setting overlooking the ocean. 

Dining on the Pier

Pacific Park food court is an inexpensive, casual food court with take-out fast-food.