Best Contemporary American Restaurants in Playa del Rey

45 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Edgemar Restaurant + Lounge restaurant

1. Edgemar Restaurant + Lounge

4.6

Exceptional(73)

Price: Very Expensive

• Contemporary american • Santa Monica

Booked 24 times today

Now Open! Edgemar is a Modern American neighborhood restaurant located in a historic Frank Gehry-designed building on Main Street in Santa Monica. We offer a unique dining experience that blends global and local influences across our menu, service, and design, all crafted to celebrate the spirit of our community and welcome visitors. Join us for a memorable meal in a one-of-a-kind setting that embodies the true essence of Santa Monica.

2. Charcoal Venice

4.6

Exceptional(538)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Venice

Booked 18 times today

Charcoal Venice stands out as a premier destination for Steakhouse cuisine, nestled in the vibrant Venice neighborhood of Marina Del Rey. Michelin-starred Chef Josiah Citrin brings his culinary expertise to every dish, particularly the 48 oz. dry-aged Porterhouse, which has become a favorite among patrons. Guests rave about the "best aged steaks" and commend the "terrific & even healthy sides & salads." The live fire cooking technique used at Charcoal Venice adds a unique, smoky flavor that enhances the authenticity and quality of their steaks, making each bite memorable. Diners consistently praise the atmosphere and service, noting it as a perfect spot for a delightful dinner, with one guest mentioning it's "quietly one of the best restaurants in Venice." Charcoal Venice is truly a gem for steak lovers seeking top-notch, beautifully prepared meals in a welcoming setting.

3. Cast & Plow

4.6

Exceptional(983)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Marina del Rey

Booked 27 times today

Nestled in the picturesque Marina del Rey, Cast & Plow at The Ritz-Carlton offers a quintessential Contemporary American dining experience with a unique Californian twist. Patrons rave about the "mouthwatering salmon," "handmade scampi pasta," and the "best hummus and pita" they've ever had, highlighting the authenticity and quality of the cuisine. The restaurant's ambiance, accentuated by stunning waterfront views and fire-pit tables, creates a perfect backdrop for enjoying meticulously crafted dishes. Whether it’s the innovative cauliflower appetizer with a chef-inspired buffalo sauce or the celebratory chocolate mousse cake, every dish is a testament to Cast & Plow's commitment to excellence. This locals' favorite not only promises delicious food but also an unforgettable dining experience, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking the best in Contemporary American cuisine.

4. Ivy at the Shore

4.7

Exceptional(3524)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Santa Monica

Booked 24 times today

Ivy at the Shore in Santa Monica stands out as a beacon of Contemporary American cuisine, offering a delightful dining experience that consistently impresses. Nestled near the iconic Santa Monica Pier, the restaurant garners praise for its "excellent food" and "fantastic atmosphere," making it a must-visit for both locals and tourists. With dishes that blend creativity with comfort, diners rave about the "lobster scramble and eggs benedict" and the "grilled vegetable salad," each dish showcasing the fresh, vibrant flavors that define great American cooking. The service is repeatedly noted as "professional and friendly," ensuring a memorable culinary journey. Ivy at the Shore embodies the spirit of Southern California dining with its beautiful setting and high-quality fare, making every meal a special occasion.

A photo of Mama's Boy at Winston House restaurant

5. Mama's Boy at Winston House

4.3

Awesome(109)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Venice

Mama's Boy at Winston House in Venice, Los Angeles, offers a delightful twist to traditional Italian cuisine. Michelin-starred Chef Wes Whitsell expertly combines his Southern roots with authentic Italian dishes, creating a memorable "Spaghetti Western" experience. The restaurant has received glowing reviews, with customers raving about the "fantastic meal" and "delicious eclectic cuisine." The spaghetti bolognese, in particular, has been called "spectacular," showcasing the chef's innovative approach and dedication to quality. Mama’s Boy is not just a place to dine; it's a journey through a fusion of flavors that promises an exceptional dining experience in a lively, music-filled setting.

6. Rustic Kitchen

4.4

Awesome(26)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary american • Culver City

Booked 3 times today

Rustic Kitchen in Culver City, Los Angeles, is a treasure trove of authentic Comfort Food cuisine that has captured the hearts of locals and visitors alike. Celebrated for its use of fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and a menu that brilliantly blends Southern California flair with Italian roots, this family-owned gem offers a culinary experience that is both genuine and delightful. Favorites like the “delicious” chicken pot pie and the “amazing” RK burger highlight the menu, while the extensive wine list has earned accolades from Wine Spectator magazine. Patrons rave about the “comfortable ambience” and “pleasant service,” making Rustic Kitchen a must-visit for anyone seeking a top-notch Comfort Food experience.

7. Buffalo Club

4.9

Exceptional(398)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Santa Monica

Come join us and dine under the stars in our beautiful, lush, English Garden Courtyard. One of the largest outdoor dining spaces in Los Angeles! Visit www.buffaloclub.com for more information and to view all of our covid-19 guidelines.Established in 1994 by Emmy and Golden Globe Award-winning writer Anthony Yerkovich, and featuring the internationally-renowned new American cuisine of Executive Chef Patrick Healy. The Buffalo Club boasts one indoor and two outdoor unique, charming and elegant dining spaces. Visit www.buffaloclub.com for more information.

A photo of The Tasting Kitchen restaurant

8. The Tasting Kitchen

4.5

Awesome(1923)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Venice

THE TASTING KITCHEN POP UP AT GHISALLO ! 1622 Ocean Park Blvd, Santa Monica.Beginning Monday April 3rd continuing Monday - Thursday until the Tasting Kitchen is back and running. A menu featuring some of the Tasting Kitchen's greatest hits and also Ghisallo's award winning neapolitan pizzas. All breads and pizza dough courtesy of Jyan Isaac bread.

A photo of Second Story - Hotel Belamar restaurant

9. Second Story - Hotel Belamar

4.1

Excellent(219)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary american • Manhattan Beach / Hermosa Beach

Booked 1 time today

Located in The Belamar Hotel, Second Story Restaurant is a culinary hot spot where you'll find innovative cuisine, friendly service, and a chic setting. Enjoy organic produce, sustainable seafood, and hormone-free chicken on a menu that boasts a creative twist on classic California cuisine. Open for Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner. Enjoy Happy Hour specials daily.

10. Shoreside

(0)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Santa Monica

Coming Soon this Fall! Welcome to Shoreside Santa Monica, where we offer the quintessential indoor-outdoor coastal dining experience, seamlessly capturing the relaxed ambiance and sun-soaked charm of Southern California. Indulge in the flavors of Southern California with our locally inspired menu crafted with the freshest ingredients. This coastal haven effortlessly blends timeless charm with contemporary California cool. A destination to savor cocktails poolside, gather with friends for a delicious meal, or socialize into the evening hours in our cozy lobby lounge. Join us to experience the locally inspired menu of SoCal rich flavors and premium drink selections against the backdrop of Santa Monica's coastal scene.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

S
Suzette
Los Angeles •3 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
Every time I go here we have the best experience. Bring my family, my friends, tell my neighbors. We have been going here forever, and never disappoints. Do yourself a favor and try it, you will love it.
More info
Ivy at the ShorePrice: Expensive• Californian• Santa Monica
•
4.7
G
Garyvip
Los Angeles •7 reviews
5.0
Dined 4 days ago
This was probably one of the best Thanksgiving meals I’ve had in my life. Charcoal raises the bar for a holiday meal, as my expectations from other places in the past have been a high price paired with average food and you feel like you got robbed because the restaurant was taking advantage of the holiday with a pre-fixe menu. In this case, it was a fair price for a high quality and delicious experience matched with friendly professional service.
More info
Charcoal VenicePrice: Expensive• American• Venice
•
4.6
R
Rexvip
New York City •1 review
5.0
Dined 5 days ago
Beautiful ambiance and great service . The beet salad is phenomenal
More info
Edgemar Restaurant + LoungePrice: Very Expensive• Contemporary American• Santa Monica
•
4.6
A
Angelavip
Los Angeles •16 reviews
5.0
Dined 7 days ago
Always amazing! My fav spot. I take myriad friends and guests to dine here.
More info
Cast & PlowPrice: Expensive• Californian• Marina del Rey
•
4.6
J
Joshua
Los Angeles •5 reviews
5.0
Dined on 27 Sept 2024
Next level. More people need to be coming here. Essential.
More info
Mama's Boy at Winston HousePrice: Expensive• Comfort Food• Venice
•
4.3

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Playa del Rey

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Best Contemporary American Restaurants in Playa del Rey

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45 restaurants available nearby

1. Edgemar Restaurant + Lounge

2. Charcoal Venice

3. Cast & Plow

4. Ivy at the Shore

5. Mama's Boy at Winston House

6. Rustic Kitchen

7. Buffalo Club

8. The Tasting Kitchen

9. Second Story - Hotel Belamar

10. Shoreside

See what locals rave about

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