 The iconic Art Deco Hotel Shangri-La in Santa Monica underwent a major renovation in 2009, which also introduced a modest restaurant to the property. The fare in the cozy dining room changes every few weeks, but is best described as California-style comfort food with a Santa Monica farmers market flair. (Chef Dakota Weiss has departed the restaurant.) The central location means more locals than hotel guests frequent the restaurant, which features views over Ocean Avenue and Palisades Park and peeks of the Pacific. The modern-yet-old vibe in the dining room is complemented by ocean breezes coming through the windows, a wooden bar with a colorful ceiling mural, and an adjacent outdoor courtyard and pool where food is also served. Diners can enjoy complete meals or graze and share sandwiches, salads and small plates, such as light and chewy grilled flatbreads and sliders that feature sirloin, crab cakes, a winning combination of lobster and Brie or an artful short rib dripping with tangy horseradish cream and set off by pickles. Many of the dishes were quite buttery, including the flavorful roasted lobster tail that is accompanied by worthwhile lobster hash browns. Desserts are a bargain, and we enjoyed the crème brûlée and warm cookie plate made to order. Expect friendly service, a selection of beer, wine and signature cocktails, and many specials, even on a Saturday night. Diners can work off their meals strolling on the beach or Third Street Promenade, or head to the roof for a nightcap at the indoor-outdoor bar with ocean vistas.
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