 The Lobster Restaurant Review: Perched right on the Pacific, this seafood restaurant is one of L.A.’s most atmospheric oceanside spots. A fixture at the entrance to the Santa Monica Pier since 1923, the original Lobster has been renovated and expanded into a dramatic wood, glass and concrete restaurant that holds 150 people in the dining room, bar and sweeping terrace. The occasional celebrity sighting and drop-dead ocean view---complete with psychedelically-lit Ferris wheel---make it one hot reservation. But the food is also a draw, so don't fill up on the warm bread served with house-made chimichurri. Start with an order of very fresh oysters before enjoying simple but sophisticated seafood dishes such as pan-seared crab cakes with avocado purée, arugula, oven dried tomato and shaved fennel salad, and Hawaiian blue King prawns sautéed and served with their heads still on. Executive chef Collin Crannell believes, "The best part is sucking out the heads." Of course, there's lobster, beautifully presented steamed, grilled or butter poached as well as in a satisfyingly light salad and the signature "Santa Monica style" lobster roll. Landlubbers can enjoy steaks, citrus-marinated chicken and skillfully prepared vegetable side dishes. The friendly staff will help with squeezing lemons on lobster-stained hands to pairing dishes and pastry chef David James' simple sweets with selections from the California-heavy wine list. Thinking of dropping in just for a signature cocktail at sunset? Plan ahead. The happening bar scene gathers steam long before then.
|
Send to Phone 
The Lobster Restaurant is one of GAYOT's 2013
| Top 10 LA Seafood Restaurants
| Top 10 LA Classic Restaurants
| Top 10 LA Beachside Restaurants
|
Go behind the scenes of The Lobster restaurant! Watch our exclusive interview with executive chef Collin Crannell at GAYOT.com's YouTube channel.
Splurging at top-rated restaurants is fun for special events, but where can you go for a good quality meal that won't break the bank? Gather the change out of your piggy bank and sofa cushions and take it to one of our selections for the best cheap eats in your area.
