terry

Any thoughts on nice restaurants in Santa Monica? My husband mentioned Ivy - any comments on it? Other ideas?

Russ

Well, the TV-trendy spot to go is Border Grill of "Two Hot Tamales" fame, I believe on Second Street a block west of the Promenade. The Promenade itself as well as surrounding blocks are jam packed with interesting restaurants.

In short, good choices are all over the place, tell your concierge what cuisine you are in the mood for and ask for a suggestion. I'd suggest asking a female concierge or hotel staff, they are usually more informed on nice nice places versus trendy nice but marginal food kinds of places. I hope you really enjoy your stay here in Los Angeles. From your previous posting (if this is the same Terry) you are coming here at a fabulous time of year.

Mar

Your husband is thinking of The Ivy's sister restaurant fronting the ocean, Ivy at the Shore. Nice though a little pricey for eating in an upscale beachshack environment (just a lot of Hawaiian shirt prints used as decor, still very nice environment). Also noteworthy are I Cugini, Il Fornaio, Ocean Avenue Seafood (though they can be hit or miss) and The Lobster (amazing view over the SM Pier). The Border Grill is supposed to be good, though location is on 4th Street, 1 block East of the Promenade. Across the street is a nice alternative, Seranata de Garibaldi. Also recommended is Jiraffe (near if not on 4th - I can't recall) and Josie's on 24th and Pico (strange location, excellent food).

Kiki

There is a beautiful hotel right down from the Promenade, called the Miramar, they have a fun little restaurant in it called The Grill... Best crab cakes, ever. Great wine selection. Fantastic service.

j

Jiraffe definitely, Border Grill (good food, great atomosphere, but very noisy) or the restaurant in Shutters Hotel at the foot of Pico. Beautiful view! It's on the beach.place you might see a celebrity or two. Enjoy!