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ZipPicks Awards
Best Outdoor Dining Mediterranean in Santa Monica
Best Middle Eastern in Santa Monica
Best Greek in Santa Monica
Master Critic Review
Mon Ami
8.6
Hidden behind a neon pink sign near the pier, this Mediterranean escape transports diners to coastal Morocco and Spain through vibrant mezze platters and lobster catalana. The multi-level venue buzzes with energy from its pink-fringed patio to the upstairs nightclub after dark.
Must-Try Dishes:
Lobster alla Catalana Pasta, Mezze Platter, 7 Spice Chicken
Scores:
Value: 8.1
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 9
Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: Mediterranean party palace with late-night dancing upstairs
Who should go: Groups seeking dinner-to-dancing transitions
When to visit: Friday nights for full party experience
What to order: Lobster catalana, mezze platter, cocktails
Insider tip: Enter through the alley between restaurants following the signs
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet $15, nearby pier lots $10-25, street parking extremely limited after 5pm
Dress code: Smart casual to dressy - nice jeans acceptable but lean elevated for nightclub access
Noise level: Moderate during dinner (7-9pm), gets louder after 10pm when DJ starts upstairs
Weekend wait: 60-90 min without reservation, especially Friday/Saturday
Weekday lunch: Not open for lunch - dinner service starts at 5pm
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - extensive mezze options, grilled vegetables, and dedicated entrees
Vegan options: Limited - hummus, baba ganoush, and salads can be modified
Gluten-free options: Moderate - grilled proteins and salads available, but limited bread alternatives
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Perfect for adventurous first dates - the pink patio creates romantic ambiance early evening, but gets party-focused after 10pm. Book 7-8pm for best date atmosphere.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Unlikely on weekends - try bar seating or arrive before 6pm on weekdays. The upstairs lounge takes walk-ins after 10pm but requires bottle service.
Is it kid-friendly? Not recommended for children - the nightclub atmosphere and late-night focus make it better suited for adults. No kids menu available.
Best For
Better for: Seamless dinner-to-dancing transition without changing venues, best late-night Mediterranean scene in Santa Monica
Skip if: You want quiet conversation, authentic traditional Mediterranean, or dining before 5pm
Hours
Monday12pm - 10pm
Tuesday12pm - 10pm
Wednesday12pm - 10pm
Thursday12pm - 10pm
Friday12pm - 10pm
Saturday11am - 10pm
Sunday11am - 10pm