Finding the perfect lunch spot in Pacific Palisades can feel like searching for a hidden gem. This affluent Los Angeles neighborhood boasts a diverse culinary scene, offering everything from casual cafes to upscale eateries. This guide highlights 20 of the best lunch restaurants in Pacific Palisades, categorized for your convenience, ensuring you find the ideal dining experience, whether you’re craving a quick bite or a leisurely meal. This list focuses on restaurants offering exceptional lunch menus in 2023.
Casual & Quick Bites: Perfect for a Speedy Lunch
These options are ideal for those seeking a fast, delicious, and affordable lunch without compromising on quality.
1. The Bayside Cafe: A Pacific Palisades staple known for its fresh seafood and stunning ocean views. Their fish tacos are legendary.
2. SunLife Organics: A healthy option for a quick and nutritious lunch. Their smoothies, bowls, and wraps are packed with flavor and freshness. They offer a variety of vegan and vegetarian options.
3. Blue Plate Taco: A vibrant and casual spot perfect for taco lovers. Their flavorful tacos, burritos, and bowls are made with fresh ingredients. Expect a bustling atmosphere and quick service.
4. Palihouse Westside Cafe: Located in the chic Palihouse hotel, this cafe offers a relaxed atmosphere and a menu of delicious sandwiches, salads, and pastries. Their avocado toast is a must-try.
Upscale Dining: Lunch with a View or a Special Occasion
For a more refined lunch experience, these restaurants provide sophisticated menus and impeccable service.
5. Geoffrey's: An iconic Pacific Palisades restaurant with breathtaking ocean views. Their lunch menu features refined American cuisine, perfect for a special occasion or a celebratory meal.
6. The Lobster: A classic seafood restaurant offering fresh, high-quality seafood dishes. Their lobster rolls are a popular choice. Expect a slightly higher price point reflecting the quality and location.
7. Nobu Malibu: (While technically in Malibu, it's close enough to merit inclusion). Although known for its dinner service, Nobu Malibu also offers an incredible lunch menu featuring their famous Japanese cuisine.
8. Fritto Misto: (Another close-by option). This Italian restaurant, while slightly outside of the immediate Pacific Palisades area, offers an exquisite lunch experience focusing on fresh pasta and seafood.
International Flavors: A Culinary Journey Around the World
Pacific Palisades offers a variety of global cuisines, ensuring there's something to satisfy every palate.
9. Malibu Farm Pier Cafe: (Again, close proximity makes it worthwhile) Offering fresh, farm-to-table cuisine with stunning ocean views. Their salads and seafood dishes are particularly notable.
10. Felix Trattoria: A charming trattoria serving authentic Italian dishes. Their pasta dishes are made fresh daily.
11. Gracias Madre: (Slightly outside Pacific Palisades) This popular vegan Mexican restaurant offers delicious and inventive plant-based dishes.
12. A Votre Santé: A French bistro offering classic French dishes in a cozy and inviting setting. Their French onion soup is a favorite.
Cafes & Bakeries: Sweet Treats and Coffee Breaks
These spots are perfect for a leisurely lunch or a quick coffee and pastry.
13. Menotti's Coffee: A local favorite for their expertly brewed coffee and selection of pastries.
14. Urth Caffé: A popular café known for its organic coffee, tea, and healthy food options.
15. Sweet Rose Creamery: A local ice cream shop offering delicious artisanal ice cream.
Hidden Gems & Local Favorites: Discover the Unexpected
These are smaller, less well-known restaurants that still deliver exceptional lunch experiences.
16. The Albright: A local favorite known for its casual atmosphere and delicious American cuisine.
17. The Tasting Kitchen: A farm-to-table restaurant with a constantly evolving menu featuring seasonal ingredients.
18. Hamasaku: (Slightly outside Pacific Palisades) This upscale sushi restaurant also offers a delicious lunch menu.
Quick Lunch Options: Grab-and-Go
If you need something quick and easy, these places are ideal.
19. Whole Foods Market: Whole Foods Market offers a wide selection of prepared foods and salads, perfect for a quick and healthy lunch.
20. Trader Joe's: Trader Joe's also has a ready-to-eat section with various lunch options.
Conclusion: Finding Your Perfect Pacific Palisades Lunch Spot
Pacific Palisades offers a diverse range of lunch restaurants to suit every taste and budget. Whether you're looking for a quick bite, a romantic lunch, or something in between, this guide provides a starting point for discovering your perfect Pacific Palisades lunch spot. Remember to check restaurant websites for hours, menus, and any special offers before your visit. Enjoy your culinary adventure!
