Golden Hour at Santa Monica Rooftop Restaurant: Seaside on the Pier

Now that my boys are older and busy living their own lives, our time together feels even more precious. I relish every chance we get together in one place, and I love planning special outings to make memories that truly matter. If I’m lucky, they bring along friends, which only adds to the energy and fun of our family circus. Our visit to Santa Monica Pier and dinner at Seaside on the Pier, the only rooftop restaurant at the Pier, was the perfect place to share laughs, drinks, and make memories.

Sometimes, it’s fun to play tourist in our own backyard, and there’s something special about the energy of the Santa Monica Pier. Located just steps from 3rd Street Promenade, it’s impossible not to get swept up in the California surf vibe as you see surfers catching waves, the iconic Ferris wheel, the fab people-watching, and ‘stop you in your tracks and make you gasp’ sunsets.

Santa Monica Pier fuels my nostalgia as it’s been the backdrop for popular films like Forrest Gump, Iron Man, and The Sting. It’s the perfect place for families to ditch the chaos, and hang out together outside of the usual routine.

We wandered around, watching the sky show off with a magical display of pink, orange, and red. Naturally, we paused for the obligatory sunset pics (how could we not?) before heading to Seaside on the Pier, the only spot with a rooftop restaurant right on the pier. It’s laid-back, casual, and the perfect place to enjoy a meal while soaking in the views and the vibes of the pier below. We couldn’t resist trying their world-famous lobster roll and let’s just say, it more than lived up to the hype.

Santa Monica Rooftop Restaurant: Seaside on the Pier

The Santa Monica Pier has plenty of dining options, but if you’re after something special, Seaside on the Pier is the spot. I have a thing for rooftop restaurants, and it doesn’t get any more ‘LA’ than this. Seaside on the Pier checks all the boxes: lovely ocean views, twinkling city lights, and laid-back California beach vibes. It’s the perfect Santa Monica rooftop restaurant for any celebration… or just because you fancy a night out.

From the minute we arrived, the atmosphere was warm and welcoming. We were quickly shown to our rooftop tables and began debating what we should order. The menu is packed with delicious options to satisfy everyone, from fresh seafood to hearty comfort food. We started with crab cakes, crispy calamari and chicken wings – simple yet delicious. For mains, there’s everything from fish and chips, salmon, and seafood pasta to burgers, pizzas and steaks.

Specialty Cocktails That Shine

Of course, no Santa Monica Pier rooftop restaurant experience is complete without a cocktail (or two). Their cocktail menu is just as fun as the setting. The Fishbowl, a mix of Stoli Ohranj vodka, blue curaçao, fresh sour, and Starry, instantly took me back to my college days.

If you prefer something different, they offer a great selection of wine, beer, and mocktails, so there’s truly something for everyone. But it was the Three Rum Colada that stole the show, served in a gorgeous fresh pineapple and decorated with exotic fruits.

Santa Monica Pier: Rooftop Restaurant Info

Seaside at the Pier has plenty of options. Seating is typically on a first-come, first-served basis, however, for bigger celebrations like corporate outings, weddings, or family reunions, you can check out their Group Dining for a la carte services. Or, if you’re planning something small and special, their Priority Seating ensures you get the best table without the wait, elevating any experience.

Seaside on the Pier is more than just a restaurant… it’s a So. Cal experience. It’s the kind of place where great food, stunning views, and family banter effortlessly come together to create special moments. If you’re looking for an upscale yet fun LA experience, this is it.

Seaside on the Pier

250 Santa Monica Pier
Santa Monica, CA 90401
Get Directions
Phone: (310) 857-5073

If you need more ideas on places to explore in Los Angeles, you may find these articles interesting:

The Best Things to do in Los Angeles

Terranea Resort – Best Place for a 36 Hour Getaway

*** This article is sponsored but all opinions are my own ***

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