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.

Culinary delights and unique atmosphere

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.

The atmosphere 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.

Essential info for visitors

Operating hours: Wally's Santa Monica welcomes guests daily from 11:30 AM to 10:00 PM.
Reservations: Yes, you can conveniently book your table through OpenTable to ensure a seamless experience.
Delivery and takeout: Wally's offers both delivery and takeout services, perfect for enjoying gourmet meals at home.
Payment methods: Accepts Mastercard and Visa credit and debit cards, with NFC payments supported for added convenience.

Frequently asked questions

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.

Community sentiment and local vibe

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.

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.

A timeline of recognition and milestones

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.

Ambiance and guest experience

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

Exceptional wine selection that earned it the White Star status in 2024.
Locally sourced fresh ingredients from top-rated farmers’ markets ensuring vibrant flavors.
Elegant and inviting atmosphere likened to a wine cellar setting, perfect for celebrations and intimate dinners.
Diverse menu offerings featuring gourmet cheeses, charcuterie, and New American entrees.

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.

Considerations before visiting

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.

Pros 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.
Cons 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.

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