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The Lobster


TripAdvisor Traveller Rating:
  • A summary score based on quality, quantity and age of traveler ratings.
4.0 of 5 stars 148 ratings
148 ratings
5.0 of 5 stars
49
4.0 of 5 stars
56
3.0 of 5 stars
27
2.0 of 5 stars
11
1.0 of 5 stars
5
TripAdvisor Popularity Index:
  • Measures overall traveller satisfaction based on ratings, reviews and other sources.
#11 of 314 restaurants in Santa Monica
  • Cuisines: American, Seafood
  • Price range*: £19-24 ($31-$40)
  • Neighbourhood: West

Reviews you can trust

[ Date ] [ Rating ]
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4 of 5 stars
London
13 Nov 2009

The Lobster is a good place to meet in Santa Monica as it's right in the centre of everything and is always sunny and flooded with light. Great vibe from the beach and the pier, perfect for relaxing with a cocktail. I enjoyed it. more

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3 of 5 stars
A TripAdvisor reviewer on Facebook
2 Nov 2009

Way too touristy... but a great sunset spot. more

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2 of 5 stars
Jackson, Wyoming
19 Oct 2009

I rated this restaurant poor based solely on the lobster entry. I've eaten at the Lobster at least 5 times in the past five years and every time I've "tried" the lobster entry it was terrible. Most recently (10/17/09), I ordered the Spiney Lobster (a California lobster) that was Char grilled. The weight was 1.5 pounds (I'll bet 80% shell... more

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5 of 5 stars
Maryland
18 Oct 2009

Be sure to call for a reservation, a day or two ahead. The place is always busy because of the food and service. It's a bit pricey but worth it. Try for a window table, the view is great. more

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5 of 5 stars
Baton Rouge, LA
8 Oct 2009

The Lobster is located at the beginning of the Santa Monica Pier, so you have views of all the action and the beach. They had a great wine selection and small custom menu. I chose the scallops which were amazing. They were cooked just right (it's hard not to overcook them and turn em into rubber). The sauce was a... more

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2 of 5 stars
New York
8 Oct 2009

Although the food was first quality with several local fresh fish varieties prices were extremely high. Tables were so close that if it wasnt for the noise you might have heard their conversation. Overlooking the Pier in Santa Monica you can see the ferris wheel and lights so the view was terrific on the Pacific. They must do some soundproofing... more

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3 of 5 stars
Southern Cal
5 Oct 2009

I wouldn't recommend this restaurant for a few reasons. It's high priced for what you get for sure. My husband and I had lunch there and shared a drink. Our bill was $60. Not worth it at all. The portions are small and the food is not up to par for that price. The best part was our free dessert... more

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3 of 5 stars
London, England
26 Sep 2009

A wonderful setting just by the pier but like so many restaurants in Santa Monica there isn't enough outdoor seating. There is a small outside bar area with very limited seating. The main restaurant, which has a breathtaking view of the Pacific, has a ceiling that they didn't open. When I was there on September 24th they did open the... more

Yummmmm!
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5 of 5 stars
Washington, DC
17 Sep 2009

This was a splurge anniversary lunch for my husband and me, and well worth it. We had -- surprise! -- lobster, and it was delicious. So was the cerviche we had as an appetizer. Great staff. more

So good!
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5 of 5 stars
Des Moines, IA
27 Jul 2009

I dined with my mom and sister in May and so good. I wish I could be eating there again soon! Great service and the sunset was awesome! more

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The Lobster Address

1602 Ocean Ave, Santa Monica, CA 90401
Tel: (310) 458-9294
* Restaurant price information is based on meal cost per person, excluding drinks, tax and tip.