ZipPicks Awards
Best Outdoor Dining Mediterranean in Santa Monica
Best Rooftop Views Italian in Santa Monica
Best Date Night Italian in Santa Monica
Best Italian in Santa Monica
Best Outdoor Dining Italian in Santa Monica
Master Critic Review
Élephante
8.8
This buzzy rooftop Mediterranean hotspot channels coastal Italian vibes with its cactus garden, ocean views, and wood-fired dishes. Since 2018, it's been the see-and-be-seen destination for whipped eggplant spread, handmade pastas, and scene-y weekend brunches.
Must-Try Dishes:
Whipped Eggplant with Puccia Bread, Wood-Fired Pizza, Vodka Rigatoni
Scores:
Value: 7.5
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 9.4
Cultural Relevance: 9.1
What makes it special: Michelin-recognized rooftop with unbeatable ocean views and scene
Who should go: Instagram influencers, birthday groups, date nights
When to visit: Weekend brunch or sunset cocktails
What to order: Whipped eggplant, any pizza, vodka pasta
Insider tip: Arrive early for sunset seats in the ocean-view section
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet $15, self-park in nearby structures $8-12, street parking nearly impossible after 5pm
Dress code: Smart casual essential - think designer jeans, stylish tops, no athletic wear
Noise level: Loud - especially weekend nights, better for scene than conversation
Weekend wait: 90+ min without reservation, often not taking walk-ins
Weekday lunch: 15-30 min, reservations still recommended
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - excellent mezze selection, veggie pizzas, multiple pasta options
Vegan options: Limited - hummus, salads (request modifications), 1-2 entrées
Gluten-free options: Yes - marked on menu, GF pasta available for $3 upcharge
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Perfect if you want to impress - stunning views and buzzy atmosphere, but too loud for deep conversation. Better for 2nd-3rd dates.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Extremely difficult, especially Thursday-Sunday. Try bar seating or arrive at 5pm sharp when they open. Reservations open 30 days out and fill within hours.
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal - no kids menu, very scene-y crowd, long waits. Better for ages 12+ who appreciate the food, avoid for young children.
Best For
Better for: Unmatched rooftop ocean views, see-and-be-seen scene, Instagram moments, group celebrations where atmosphere matters more than conversation
Skip if: You want intimate conversation, authentic Mediterranean without the hype, quick casual meal, or dining with young kids - try Cassia or Citrin instead
Hours
Monday10am - 12am
Tuesday10am - 12am
Wednesday10am - 12am
Thursday10am - 12am
Friday9am - 1am
Saturday9am - 1am
Sunday9am - 12am