Home

Download

NO BAD **RECOMMENDATIONS**.

London, United Kingdom

Red Room

New York, USA

La Esquina Brasserie

Tokyo, Japan

Don-Don

The most popular restaurants in Nova Circle right now

TRENDING NOW

Guide to

- you book them just for the pool

Europe's most spectacular pool hotels

EAT & STAY

Summer in Europe

in Sweden

The Most Unique Spas

Beaches, Clubs, Hotels & Things to Do

Ibiza 

Explore curated travel guides filled with hidden gems and top recommendations to inspire your next adventure.

TRAVEL GUIDES

Discover standout moments and top picks from our vibrant community of travelers and explorers.

USER HIGHLIGHTS

Meet our most active and inspiring community members sharing unique recommendations and insights.

TOP USERS

New Launch: August 2025

Zimbabwe

Mpala Jena Private Villas

for Your Next Long Haul Flight

Beauty Hacks

Luxury Travel on a Budget

How To:

for a Stress-Free Trip

Top 10 Travel Hacks

with 30% discount

Get Lounge Access

Stay updated with the latest travel tips, trends, and exciting updates from the Nova Circle community.

NEWS

Discover

10 things to do in Stockholm

Stockholm

Dog Friendly Dining

Eat & Do

Hidden gems in Marbella

Explore

Koh Samui

A Tropical Getaway

 Find fresh ideas and experiences to discover, from must-visit spots to unique activities.

MORE INSPIRATION

Connect with trusted partners who share our passion for unforgettable experiences and quality travel.

OUR SELECTED PARTNERS

Nova Circle is your single space for saving and sharing top recommendations around the world while getting inspired by likeminded people.

Nova Circle - No Bad Recommendations

As a valued Nova Circle member you can enjoy our exclusive partner discounts. Simply just sign in to claim the deals.

Partner Discounts

Enjoy exclusive travel partner discounts with Nova Circle.

Nova Circle Benefits - Travel Partner Discounts

Benefits

Santa Monica

Wally's Santa Monica is praised for its exceptional food, extensive wine selection, and elegant yet casual ambiance. Guests appreciate the attentive service and the quality of both food and beverages. The atmosphere is described as stylish and welcoming, making it suitable for various occasions, from casual lunches to special celebrations.

Discover Wally's Santa Monica: A Contemporary Bistro with a Gourmet Twist in Downtown Santa Monica, CA 90401 USA.

Nestled in the heart of Downtown Santa Monica on Wilshire Boulevard, Wally's Santa Monica is a vibrant contemporary bistro and gourmet food and wine store that invites locals and travelers alike to experience an unforgettable culinary journey. This upscale yet lively eatery is renowned for its exquisite New American entrees, a carefully curated selection of cheeses and charcuterie, and an impressive wine collection displayed across towering walls, creating an ambiance reminiscent of an elegant wine cellar.

Wally's menu is a treasure trove for foodies seeking both comfort and sophistication. Guests rave about the tender diver scallops bursting with freshness, the decadent truffle baked Brie that’s not to be missed, and the spicy salami pizza that perfectly balances bold flavors. For meat lovers, the perfectly cooked tomahawk steak stands out as a highlight. The restaurant also boasts a wide array of cocktails, including crowd favorites like the espresso martini and the spicy margarita, ensuring a memorable dining experience from start to finish.

 at Wally's is described as classy, sexy, and perfect for a date night or special occasion. The live music on Monday nights adds to the vibrant energy, while the tall wine walls create a unique, immersive setting. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday or enjoying a casual meal with friends, the attentive staff and thoughtful service enhance every visit.

 Wally's Santa Monica welcomes guests daily from 11:30 AM to 10:00 PM.

 Yes, you can conveniently book your table through OpenTable to ensure a seamless experience.

 Wally's offers both delivery and takeout services, perfect for enjoying gourmet meals at home.

 Accepts Mastercard and Visa credit and debit cards, with NFC payments supported for added convenience.

What are the operating hours of Wally's Santa Monica?

 Wally's operates daily from 11:30 AM to 10:00 PM.

Does Wally's Santa Monica accept reservations?

 Yes, reservations are accepted through OpenTable for your convenience.

Is there parking available at Wally's Santa Monica?

 Parking details are not specified; guests should check directly with the restaurant for options.

Does Wally's Santa Monica offer delivery or takeout?

 Yes, both delivery and takeout services are available for enjoying their gourmet offerings at home.

What payment methods are accepted at Wally's Santa Monica?

 Mastercard and Visa credit and debit cards are accepted, including NFC contactless payments.

Wally's Santa Monica enjoys a stellar reputation for its extensive wine collection and delectable food menu, combining to create a refined yet approachable dining experience. The ambiance, often described as classy and sexy, draws in couples looking for a romantic date spot as well as groups celebrating special occasions. Guests appreciate the friendly and knowledgeable staff, the lively atmosphere enhanced by live music, and the unique design featuring walls adorned with wine bottles. While some visitors note the high price points and certain service quirks, the overall sentiment reflects a place that offers a memorable, upscale bistro experience in the heart of Santa Monica.

North America

United States

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Santa Monica at 214 Wilshire Blvd, Wally's Santa Monica is a culinary gem that combines a contemporary bistro atmosphere with an extensive gourmet wine and cheese store. This spot is renowned for its sophisticated yet inviting ambiance, making it a perfect destination for food lovers, wine enthusiasts, and those seeking a memorable dining experience in the Los Angeles area.

Contemporary bistro & gourmet food/wine store, offering cheese, charcuterie & New American entrees.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNuMTUyTENnEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJi27hEmSlwoARCtLqSTsT41U/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNuMTUyTENnEAE

The service is helpful but non intrusive. They are on it and are so knowledgeable about the menu and flavors. The whole staff was friendly from the host stand to the bartenders and the management. The table staff were efficient and polite. Now the food and wine. Unmatched. The diver scallops were tender and full of freshness. The oysters were the same. Bone marrow was delicious. The truffle Brie is not to be missed. Phenomenal truly. Tomahawk steak was perfectly cooked. Ambience is the best of

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNIemRidmVREAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJi27hEmSlwoARCtLqSTsT41U/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNIemRidmVREAE

Very atmospheric and beautiful place, no questions about food and drinks, they are amazing, thank you!

We reserved a table for 4, two of us came on time, two were late, but the hostess refused to show us to the table and told us to wait outside until all the guests arrived. We were very surprised, but she said that they have such a rule. Strange, but we have been here before and there was no such rule, always one of the guests is late.

Just keep this in mind, and next time we will choose a place where there are no such rules

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURkcFAtVmtBRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJi27hEmSlwoARCtLqSTsT41U/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURkcFAtVmtBRRAB

Celebrated a loved one's birthday here with friends!

The food is on the pricey side - but the 5-star experience makes it justified. Food, ambiance, and service were top notch.

The restaurant is unique and flooded with wine bottles all over the walls. What a fantastic collection.

Highly recommend the spicy salami pizza and the truffle brie! I would love to come back and experience the rest of the menu

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNYaHRLQWlRRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJi27hEmSlwoARCtLqSTsT41U/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNYaHRLQWlRRRAB

The menu has a lot of top line options - truffles, caviar, wagyu, etc. - and I'd say that the kitchen does a reasonable job of delivering these at an appropriate level of quality. The atmosphere looks to fit this standard as well.

However, we noticed quite a few gaps in the armor that brought down our appreciation of the restaurant.

In terms of atmosphere, the big issue was that the chairs are hard wooden stools with no back and our booties got a bit chilly by the end of the meal because there's not much insulation. Not a big issue but it seems a bit strange to bring a hot date to eat $300 caviar on a tiny stool.

We ordered the "two person only" scallops dish. It came with only three scallops. They were large for scallops but that's still about the size of a single New York steak, all added together.

They ran out of the desert that I ordered so, without asking me, brought an other one, dumped it on the table, and mentioned something about, "If you don't like it..." To be honest, I didn't like it. My wife did so it did mostly disappear but I wasn't given any choice and the waiter never checked. In general, he seemed too be acting like he felt like it was his job to appear snooty and disinterested.

On the whole, I'd say that it would be a good place if it didn't feel like they were trying so hard to be an upscale location to take other people to really impress them with opulence. But, given the opulent menu options, it felt like they didn't really know how to do most of the other stuff quite right.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQ1MHVqUWxBRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJi27hEmSlwoARCtLqSTsT41U/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQ1MHVqUWxBRRAB

Nice restaurant close to Santa Monica pier.

Beautiful interior. Wide selection of wines and champagne. It’s like sitting in a wine cellar. Great atmosphere. Perfect for occasions and celebrations. There’s live performances on Monday night.

Food is decent. Truffle Baked Brie is my favorite. Entrees are mid. You may skip the surf and turf, not the best I’ve had.

Experience Wally's Santa Monica: Luxury Dining Near Pier

Wally's Santa Monica is a renowned dining establishment known for its exceptional food, extensive wine selection, and elegant yet casual ambiance. It offers a unique dining experience with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients and innovative flavors.

History of Wally's Santa Monica Restaurant and Wine Experience in Downtown Santa Monica CA United States 90401 at 214 Wilshire Blvd.

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Santa Monica, California, Wally's Santa Monica stands as a beacon of contemporary bistro dining and gourmet food and wine retail. This upscale establishment is renowned for its thoughtfully curated selection of cheeses, charcuterie, and inventive New American entrees, offering an exquisite culinary journey that caters to food enthusiasts and wine connoisseurs alike.

Strategically located on Wilshire Boulevard in downtown Santa Monica, Wally's benefits from its proximity to the bustling metropolis of Los Angeles and access to the freshest ingredients sourced from premier farmers’ markets across the region. This results in a menu that is both innovative and grounded in local terroir, highlighting the best seasonal produce and artisanal products.

In 2024, Wally's Santa Monica garnered prestigious acclaim by being named a White Star venue by Star Wine List. This coveted recognition underscores the restaurant’s exceptional wine selection, complementing its gourmet food offerings and enhancing the overall dining experience for guests seeking sophistication and quality in every sip and bite.

Wally's envelops visitors in an inviting yet refined atmosphere, where the walls adorned with extensive wine racks create the ambiance of an elegant wine cellar. Its commitment to great service, coupled with an imaginative menu that features delicacies such as truffle Brie and diver scallops, ensures a memorable outing whether for family gatherings, celebrations, or intimate dinners.

What makes Wally's Santa Monica stand out

 that earned it the White Star status in 2024.

 from top-rated farmers’ markets ensuring vibrant flavors.

 likened to a wine cellar setting, perfect for celebrations and intimate dinners.

 featuring gourmet cheeses, charcuterie, and New American entrees.

Good for Groups

Good for Children

Serves Beer

Serves Wine

Serves Lunch

Serves Dinner

Dine In

Takeout

Delivery

Outdoor Seating

Live Music

Wally's Santa Monica is a contemporary bistro and gourmet food/wine store located on Wilshire Boulevard, offering a delightful menu that includes cheese, charcuterie, and New American entrees in a vibrant atmosphere.

Wally's Santa Monica

A curated selection of starters, main courses, and desserts featuring fresh, seasonal ingredients and innovative flavors.

Winter Hummus

Daily Soup

Moroccan Cauliflower

Truffle Fries

Yellowtail Crudo

Burrata & Citrus

Paul's Endive Salad

Purple & Blue Salad

Simple Greens

Wally's Santa Monica Menu

Wally's Santa Monica menu highlights the best of contemporary bistro cuisine in an inviting setting near the Santa Monica Pier.

Nestled at 214 Wilshire Boulevard, Wally's Santa Monica offers a thoughtfully curated lunch menu that masterfully blends gourmet New American entrees with artisanal cheese and charcuterie selections. Ideal for food lovers and trend-conscious travelers, the dishes here highlight seasonal ingredients and sophisticated flavor combinations.

Begin your meal with vibrant starters that showcase fresh, bold ingredients and expert preparation.

Purple + Blue Salad: Roasted beets harmonize with blueberries, grapes, and red cabbage, complemented by pickled cucumber, buffalo milk blue cheese, pistachios, balsamic, and olive oil.

Burrata & Citrus: Creamy fresh burrata is paired with dried peach, apricot marcona almonds, sumac-citrus cherry vinegar reduction, local honey, and toasted wheat sourdough for a perfect balance of sweet and savory.

Caesar Salad: A refined take featuring white anchovies, cherry tomatoes, shaved radish, grilled zucchini, cured yolk, and aged parmesan.

Niçoise Salad: Rare seared bluefin tuna rests on a bed of haricot vert, fennel, tomato, fingerling potato, artichoke, pickled onion, olives, hard boiled egg, and solanova, all dressed with lemon basil vinaigrette.

The mains offer a rich selection of pizzas and hearty entrees that highlight top-notch ingredients and inventive flavor pairings.

Truffle Pizza: An indulgent blend of porcini truffle purée, truffle oil, buffalo mozzarella, wild arugula, and shaved truffle creates an aromatic and earthy experience.

Spicy Salami Pizza: Calabrese style salami, housemade tomato sauce, smoked mozzarella, chili roasted red onion, and a touch of honey balance smoky heat with subtle sweetness.

Buffalina Pizza: A classic combination of tomato sauce, buffalo mozzarella, sweet pickled chili, and fresh Italian basil for a vibrant and tangy delight.

Pizza au Fromage: A simple yet satisfying pizza featuring housemade marinara and shredded mozzarella.

Wally Burger: Half pound wagyu beef cooked to perfection, topped with Arkansas smoked gouda, heirloom tomato, caramelized onion, Wally’s signature sauce, lettuce, housemade pickle, and served with hand-cut frites.

NY Prime Steak Frites: A 10oz wanderer grass-fed New York steak served with glazed cipollini onion, bearnaise, and house-cut frites.

Boeuf Bourguignon: Slow-braised beef in a rich red wine sauce with mushrooms, served alongside mashed potato, diced bacon, and a brioche dip.

While the menu focuses on savory delights, Wally’s also serves exquisite desserts and an extensive wine list that transforms the restaurant into a sophisticated wine cellar ambiance. Noteworthy is the Truffle Baked Brie, a standout dessert that pairs beautifully with the restaurant's curated selection of wines and champagne. For those seeking a lively night, live music performances add to the elegant yet welcoming atmosphere.

Indulge in vibrant flavors at Wally's Santa Monica! Enjoy a unique dining experience with fresh cuisine and stunning ambiance. Reserve your table today!

Wally's Santa Monica: Romantic Wine Dining Experience

Los Angeles County

A two-course lunch menu featuring a selection of starters and main courses, offering a taste of Wally's culinary offerings.

Prix Fixe Lunch

A tasting event focusing on premium rosé wines, perfect for warm-weather sipping.

Weekly Tasting Series - Exploring Rosé

A tasting event featuring rich, smoky, and fruit-forward wines paired with grilled favorites.

Weekly Tasting Series - Barbecue

Wally's Santa Monica: A Gourmet Haven on Wilshire Boulevard in Downtown Santa Monica California USA 90401  

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Downtown Santa Monica, Wally's Santa Monica is a premier destination for food lovers and wine aficionados alike. Located at 214 Wilshire Boulevard, this contemporary bistro doubles as a gourmet food and wine store, offering an exceptional blend of New American cuisine, artisanal products, and a stellar wine selection that elevates every visit into an unforgettable experience.

A Curated Wine Selection for Every Palate

Wally's boasts over 100 wines available by the glass, showcasing rare and exceptional bottles from around the globe. Whether you're a casual sipper or a seasoned sommelier, the wine cellar-like ambiance invites you to explore nuanced flavors and discover new favorites. The knowledgeable staff are always ready to guide you through pairings that complement the menu's refined flavors perfectly.

Delectable New American Dishes and Gourmet Offerings

 in tender diver scallops, fresh oysters, and the crowd-favorite truffle Brie that patrons rave about. For carnivores, the perfectly cooked tomahawk steak offers a robust and satisfying centerpiece. The menu artfully balances luxury with comfort, making it ideal for special occasions or casual gatherings.

Exclusive Gourmet Counter and Caviar Service

Beyond the dining experience, Wally's features a gourmet counter laden with specialty meats, cheeses, and artisanal chocolates perfect for gourmet shopping or gifting. Complementing this is their decadent caviar service, delivering a luxurious touch for those seeking an elevated culinary indulgence.

Wally's ambiance blends elegance with a welcoming vibe, enhanced by walls adorned with an impressive collection of wine bottles. Perfect for lively celebrations or intimate dinners, guests can also enjoy live music on Monday nights. The attentive staff provide knowledgeable, friendly, and polished service that enhances the dining atmosphere without being intrusive.

 for a relaxed alfresco dining experience.

 with menu options suitable for children.

 including credit, debit, and NFC payments.

Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a sophisticated meal paired with an extraordinary wine selection, Wally's Santa Monica invites you to indulge in a refined dining experience that captures the essence of California's culinary artistry. Discover a place where gourmet food, rare wines, and a welcoming atmosphere come together beautifully.

Discover Wally's Santa Monica: A Gourmet Dining Experience with Unique Charm and Some Considerations.

Tucked away in the heart of Santa Monica's vibrant downtown, Wally's Santa Monica offers an upscale dining experience that food enthusiasts and wine lovers will appreciate. Known for its extensive wine collection boasting over 100 selections by the glass, this contemporary bistro combines gourmet food with a welcoming ambiance that elevates any special occasion.

Upscale ambiance and diverse menu offerings

Wally's impresses with its thoughtfully curated menu featuring New American and French cuisine, including standout dishes like truffle baked Brie and spicy salami pizza. The interior resembles a luxurious wine cellar, creating a distinctive atmosphere enhanced by live music performances and outdoor seating options that invite guests to savor their meals in a lively yet elegant setting.

Experience highlights and family-friendly features

Beyond the exquisite food and wine, Wally's is pet-friendly and offers vegan-friendly options, making it inclusive for diverse dietary needs. Its accommodating space is good for groups and families alike, with a menu that caters to children. The presence of live music adds an extra layer of enjoyment, ensuring a memorable dining experience for visitors seeking both sophistication and warmth.

While Wally's Santa Monica excels in many areas, potential guests should be aware of a few aspects to plan accordingly. The higher price point may not fit all budgets, so it's ideal for those looking to indulge in a premium dining experience. Parking can require some forethought as options are limited and not explicitly specified. Additionally, during peak hours, noise levels can rise, which might affect the ambiance for some visitors seeking a quieter meal.

 Extensive wine selection with over 100 wines available by-the-glass; Upscale atmosphere suitable for special occasions; Diverse menu featuring New American and French cuisine; Pet-friendly and vegan-friendly options; Live music and outdoor seating enhance the dining experience.

 Higher price point may not be suitable for all budgets; Parking options are not specified, requiring potential planning; Some reviews mention noise levels during peak hours.

California

Discover Wally's Santa Monica on Wilshire Blvd for exceptional food, a vast wine selection, and elegant ambiance. Perfect for special occasions!

Santa Monica Dining at Wally's - Top Food & Wine Experience

Enjoy a top-tier dining experience at Wally's Santa Monica with seasonal menus, private events, and a stunning wine collection in the heart of Downtown.

Explore Santa Monica's Best Kept Secret - Wally's Dining Luxury

Savor innovative flavors at Wally's Santa Monica, offering gourmet cuisines, wine tastings, outdoor seating, and live music in Downtown Santa Monica.

Experience Wally's Santa Monica: Luxury Dining Near Pier

Élephante

Colapasta Restaurant

TUMBI Craft Indian Kitchen