
Élephante
Chic Italian restaurant with stunning ocean views, offering a lively atmosphere perfect for sunset drinks and dining.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Élephante

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Chic Italian restaurant with stunning ocean views, offering a lively atmosphere perfect for sunset drinks and dining.
"The vibe is immaculate, the space is stunning, and the location is perfect."
Reserve for Sunset Views
Book weeks in advance for tables, especially for sunset. The Sunset Room is highly recommended.
Try the Signature Dishes
Don't miss the whipped eggplant, vodka pasta, margherita pizza, and the banana bread.

Quick Facts
Cuisine
Italian
Price
$$$
Phone
(424) 320-2384
Address
1332 2nd St Rooftop, Santa Monica, CA 90401, USA
Website
elephanterestaurants.com/Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Oceanfront Dining with Stunning Views
Enjoy sweeping Pacific Ocean vistas from a chic, loungelike setting, especially vibrant during sunset.

Whimsical Whipped Eggplant Dip
A must-try starter, this creamy eggplant dip is a signature dish beloved by many.

Coastal Italian Delights
Savor authentic Italian flavors with wood-fired pizzas, fresh seafood, and delicious pasta dishes.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Reserve for Sunset Views
Book weeks in advance for tables, especially for sunset. The Sunset Room is highly recommended.
Try the Signature Dishes
Don't miss the whipped eggplant, vodka pasta, margherita pizza, and the banana bread.
Consider Lunch Special
A $35-$40 three-course lunch special offers great value for a taste of Elephante.
Be Prepared for Noise
The atmosphere is lively and can be noisy, especially during peak hours. Opt for off-peak if you prefer quiet.
Tips
from all over the internet
Reserve for Sunset Views
Book weeks in advance for tables, especially for sunset. The Sunset Room is highly recommended.
Try the Signature Dishes
Don't miss the whipped eggplant, vodka pasta, margherita pizza, and the banana bread.
Consider Lunch Special
A $35-$40 three-course lunch special offers great value for a taste of Elephante.
Be Prepared for Noise
The atmosphere is lively and can be noisy, especially during peak hours. Opt for off-peak if you prefer quiet.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Élephante is lauded for its stunning ocean views, vibrant atmosphere, and delicious Italian cuisine, particularly its signature whipped eggplant and pizzas. However, some diners find the experience overpriced and note issues with noise levels and occasional service lapses, though many still consider it a worthwhile splurge for special occasions.
"Élephante offers a truly exceptional Italian dining experience in Santa Monica! Its location is incredibly convenient, especially with the Santa Monica Parking Structure 4 situated directly across the street and easily accessible via nearby crosswalks – a huge plus in this busy area. The journey to the restaurant itself is part of the experience; a quick elevator ride whisks you up to the third floor, where you're greeted warmly and efficiently by the staff.
The ambiance is fantastic, and it's clear why reservations are highly recommended. If you're hoping to soak in those famous Santa Monica sunset views, booking well in advance (potentially weeks ahead!) is definitely the way to go. Our server was attentive and knowledgeable, guiding us through the menu with helpful recommendations. The Italian dishes we ordered were fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented. It's evident that Élephante prioritizes both the quality of their food and the overall dining experience. While the prices are on the higher side, the stunning views and impeccable service make it a worthwhile splurge. Highly recommended for a special occasion or a memorable evening out. Just remember to book ahead, especially if you desire a sunset table!"
Afshin Shoja
"Élephante is always exceptional! Every time I visit LA, I make a point to come here, and it never disappoints. The vibe is immaculate, the space is stunning, and the location is perfect. It just has that effortlessly cool, coastal energy that makes you want to stay for hours.
The food is incredible, so flavourful, and consistently on point. From the drinks to the dishes to the overall experience, everything is done with care and intention. One of my absolute favourites in Santa Monica!
Obsessed with the Fusilli Pesto and of course have to order the Whipped Eggplant!"
Andrea Belzerowski
"One of the best spots in Santa Monica. Make a reservation ahead of time. 2 top things to order. The eggplant dip + the vodka pasta, they can also accommodate if you’re gluten free. Try to book the sunset room for sunset time. The vibes are immaculate!"
Deniz Kayiket
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
Reservations are strongly recommended, especially for sunset times or weekend visits, as the restaurant is very popular.
The Whipped Eggplant, Vodka Pasta, Margherita Pizza, and the banana bread are frequently recommended by diners and influencers.
While not explicitly stated, the atmosphere is chic and beachy. Smart casual attire is generally appropriate.
Yes, the restaurant can accommodate gluten-free requests.
Visiting during sunset is highly recommended for the best ocean views, but booking well in advance is crucial.
Yes, Élephante is a popular brunch spot known for its lively ambiance and delicious food, especially during weekends.
The restaurant can be quite noisy due to its lively atmosphere and music, especially during peak dining hours.
Élephante offers a three-course lunch special for around $35-$40, which is considered a good value.
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Santa Monica’s buzziest beach house draws an affluent crowd, from models and socialites to bankers and tech entrepreneurs (LA’s version of Silicon Valley is just down the road). Housed in a prime beachfront spot with views over the ocean, the décor is a mash-up of Tulum meets Malibu, with sleek wooden decks, potted cacti, hand-woven plates and limestone walls. During the day it’s all about laid-back lounging, with people lolling on the sofas ordering brunch from the Italian-inspired menu, but come sunset the place packs out and the music cranks up, with waiters in high demand.
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Vibes: the only word that comes to mind after the elevator ride up to this extremely popular Santa Monica rooftop restaurant and bar serving seasonal California Italian cuisine and top-notch cocktails. Located upstairs from the Laemmle Theater, Élephante boasts one Santa Monica’s best indoor-outdoor spaces, with resort-like interior design that feels ripped from the pages of Conde Nast Traveler. Inside, chic modern wood furniture and a selection of cacti and lush houseplants set the stage for a stunning view of the ocean from the aptly-named Sunset Room.
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Santa MonicaEscape the hustle and bustle of Santa Monica (well really Third Street Promenade) with this hidden gem. Serving up a menu of coastal Mediterranean favorites, this rooftop restaurant is everything you want a Santa Monica hot spot to be: good vibes, good music, and good drinks, with the Pacific Ocean as your backdrop. You also have the option of making any cocktail a small or large punchbowl, which is the ideal way to celebrate with friends.
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Channelling the spirit and cuisine of coastal Italy, this Santa Monica suntrap more than fits the bill if you’re after a bit of low-lit romance. Book a table at its aptly named Sunset Room, replete with natural stone and wood that complement the dimming sun just perfectly, and tuck into a smorgasbord of small plates featuring whipped aubergine and rigatoni verde with mushroom ragù. Bookend your meal with its signature pavlova topped with white chocolate mousse, vanilla bean ice cream and fresh fruit and you’ll understand why bagging a reservation at this haute spot is such a feat – and treat.
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Australian restauranteur Nicholas Mathers (also a co-owner of Eveleigh) has set up an astounding number of thriving restaurants on both coasts of the U.S., and the Mediterranean-inspired Elephante beach house in Santa Monica is no exception. The space incorporates natural elements like wood and stone into its design in order to create an inviting, comfortable space, where diners can admire ocean views while indulging in fresh and healthy Italian food. Reservations are strongly recommended as this is one of the most popular dining spots on the L.A.
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Brunch Hours: Monday to Thursday 10AM to 3PM, Friday to Sunday 9AM to 3PM. With its stunning international tastes, Elephante, in the true spirit of LA, effectively brings the cuisine of the Southern Mediterranean with some coastal Italian influences to its guests; the Driver Scallops in particular are a must-try menu item. Also, because it wouldn't be a true within-proximity-of-the-beach restaurant without a killer view of the ocean, they do indeed have that, and it will completely entrap your focus - at least until the food comes.
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Santa Monica's breezy, all-day sky-high restaurant and bar is a little of both at all times of the day. Sure, Elephante serves light, bright food with seasonal ingredients (and the pizza's not bad), but we're all about the cocktails and of course the view. The indoor-outdoor space feels like a dream living room, with modern, comfortable-but-chic furniture and a stunning view of the ocean off the patio, but with a space like that, it's also one of the toughest SaMo reservations to land.
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Santa Monica’s breezy, all-day sky-high restaurant and bar is a little of both at all times of the day. Sure, Elephante serves light, bright food with seasonal ingredients (and the pizza’s not bad), but we’re all about the cocktails and of course the view. The indoor-outdoor space feels like a dream living room, with modern, comfortable-but-chic furniture and a stunning view of the ocean off the patio, but with a space like that, it’s also one of the toughest SaMo reservations to land.
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If you follow literally any Instagram influencer, chances are you’ve had Élephante’s stunning views and stiff drinks pop up on your feed. This trendy, Mediterranean-inspired restaurant is definitely the sort of place where people like to be seen, however, they manage to live up to the hype with their delicious food and tasty craft cocktails. Along with having three bars on the property, there is plenty of fun and comfortable seating areas depending on the vibe that you are going for.
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Located in downtown Santa Monica, Élephante Beach House is a prime option if you want to leave LA for a bit, and elevate yourself to the Mediterranean. Buzzing, stylish and chic, here you are surrounded with natural wood and stone, design pieces from Northern Africa and Southern Italy, all with the Pacific Ocean as backdrop. Open daily, from morning to late night, the rooftop menu focuses on light coastal Italian dishes, as well as cocktails inspired by the flavors of Italy.
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As one of the most talked-about restaurants on the Westside, Élephante is known for its chic, bohemian atmosphere, breezy ocean patio and refreshing cocktails. While you can sit down for a full dinner, the lounge-like setting makes Élephante a popular spot for espresso martinis before a night on the town. If you're a fan of passion fruit, however, the signature namesake cocktail is a tangy libation that can be made with your choice of vodka, tequila, mezcal, gin or rum.
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Elephante has limited actual outdoor seating, but with their open floor plan and big sliding glass doors, I’m going to say this one still counts – especially since it’s still a favorite of mine and it basically feels outdoors. It is located in Downtown Santa Monica on the 2nd floor of a building and offers fantastic food and cocktails, as well as sweeping views of the ocean and city below. This is one of those places I would be happy visiting often – so I do!
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The restaurant is located in downtown Santa Monica with a vibey boho-chic aura and is always buzzing with activity. The interior has neutral-toned furniture and decor that draws inspiration from the coastal Italian area. Their Mediterranean-inspired menu offers gluten-free options like fried calamari, whipped eggplant, freshly-baked Puccia bread, burrata pizza and housemade pasta dishes.
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Élephante feels like a scene from a summer vacation in the south of Italy. The Sunset Room is a high-demand dining area with vistas of Santa Monica that roars with conversation, making it difficult to hear at your table. However, should you wish for a quieter enclave, the Cactus Room, toward the entrance of the restaurant, allows for more connection at the expense of the view.
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Elephante: Elephante invites you on a journey for the senses, offering a dining experience unlike any other in Santa Monica. This chic restaurant pulsates with a vibrant atmosphere, where innovative cocktails and globally inspired cuisine converge. Step into a world of stylish décor, warm lighting, and captivating ocean views, creating a mesmerizing backdrop for your evening.
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Élephante is undoubtedly one of the most popular spots for Westside locals and visitors. Hot tip: If you’re going celebrity scouting, this is a great place to start; I don’t think I’ve been there yet without spotting a cast member from The Bachelor!. Between the chic bohemian atmosphere and ocean views, this hotspot sets the scene for a picturesque summer day in Santa Monica.
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This beach house and rooftop bar in one is your ticket to the Southern Mediterranean without having to leave LA. While the light coastal Italian cuisine and drinks are already magical, the ambiance and views of the ocean are enough to make you want to never leave. If you're a fan of pasta, try their signature vodka sauce that'll make you forget about Gigi Hadid's recipe.
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Elevated both in location and concept, Élephante is one of Santa Monica's trendiest bars perched atop a building on Wilshire Boulevard. The bar features a picturesque setting of endless sea views and is known for its craft cocktails with an Italian twist. We recommend trying the Mama Mia, a delicious concoction with Whiskey, Amaro, and Carrot Juice.
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Perched above the Pacific Ocean, Élephante Beach House transports diners to the Mediterranean with its coastal-inspired fare and panoramic ocean views. From handcrafted cocktails to freshly prepared seafood, every aspect of Élephante's dining experience reflects the relaxed sophistication of Southern California's beachfront lifestyle.
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In another part of Santa Monica is where you’ll find Elephante, a groovy new rooftop surprise that has quickly established itself as a destination for the Westside excellent kid set. There are plenty of beverages to go around and reclining seats with views of the water, making this a must-visit place this summer.
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Located on the Santa Monica coastline, this lively spot brings the spirit and cuisine of coastal southern Italy to LA. The menu highlights include fresh seafood, seasonal salads, wood-fired pizzas, and savory pasta dishes. Plus, the whipped eggplant dip and diver scallops are too good to pass up.
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If you're looking for a chic spot in downtown Santa Monica, Élephante is a must-visit. With its open terrace overlooking the Pacific Ocean, you'll feel transported to a Mediterranean villa. It's the perfect place to unwind and enjoy a handcrafted cocktail while taking in the breathtaking sunset.
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We are going to start strong with the ultimate 'IT' girl rooftop restaurant. Atmosphere: Elephante offers a chic and relaxed atmosphere with a distinct Mediterranean-inspired design. The restaurant is located on the rooftop of a building, providing stunning panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean.
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Established in 2018, Élephante Beach House is the latest venture from seasoned designer Nicholas Mathers. This Mediterranean oasis is located in the heart of Santa Monica and has breathtaking views with open air lounge-style seating. Come at night for the lively DJ scene and crafted cocktails.
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This buzzy 3rd-floor restaurant is a local favorite for lovers of coastal Italian cuisine. Élephante‘s drink menu also includes a variety of Mediterranean flavors and five, yes five, different types of Espresso Martini. You’ll get a dazzling view of the ocean from any of their three bar tops.
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It's very rare to find a rooftop spot in Santa Monica or Venice that's not associated with a hotel. This new spot boasts amazing cocktails and ambience with a view of the Pacific Ocean that's to die for. I haven't eaten here (just drankkks!) but I've heard the food is pretty good as well.
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It gives you a taste of southern Italy on a rooftop with amazing ocean views and sunsets. The place looks comfy and stylish, perfect for any hangout. Why we love it: It's more than just a place to eat; it's like a quick trip to the Mediterranean without leaving LA.
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Elephante: From lunch through the late evening hours, rose and cocktails are flowing at this rooftop bar with a beautiful ocean view. If you’re not a pizza eater, you will want to break that rule for one of their hand-tossed pies (we recommend the pepperoni!).
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Every meal and drink is made better by a rooftop, but it just seems that Elephante’s Italian cuisine suits a rooftop even more perfectly. In the heart of downtown, you have lots of options for nightlife, but Elephante holds its own in a sea of choices.
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The rooftop at Elephante is a must-visit destination for those looking to enjoy stunning views, delicious food and hand-crafted cocktails. The rooftop bar features a Mediterranean-inspired menu that showcases the flavors and ingredients of the region.
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Élephante Beach House is a buzzing rooftop restaurant in the heart of downtown Santa Monica. The boho-chic vibe and Mediterranean-inspired menu and drinks make you feel a world away from Los Angeles. You feel like you are on the coast in Italy!
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Finally made it to the weekend and decided to go to the beach with my friends to enjoy the breeze and sun. Then we discovered this super photogenic and trendy brunch spot with a great view of the sea!. Elephante is located in Santa Monica.
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Image Source: https://www.santamonica.com/restaurants/elephante-beach-house/. After enjoying drinks at The Coco Club, head over to Élephante. This vibrant rooftop oasis sits in Santa Monica and offers stunning ocean views.
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If you’re on social media, you have probably already heard of Élephante. This Santa Monica brunch spot has a modern-chic vibe, amazing (& viral) dishes, and has an ocean view. What more could you ask for!
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The indoor-outdoor space looks like it came straight from the magazine with modern and chich furniture and beautiful view of the ocean. Their pizza is superb!. View this post on Instagram
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Good food, but can take a while especially when they're busy. Haven't had anything I didn't like. For a main entree, their polenta & mushrooms is a good gluten free & vegetarian option.
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Why You Need To Dine Here: Take in ocean views while being transported to the Southern Mediterranean via restaurateur Nicholas Mathers’ innovative cocktail program and menu.
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1332 2nd St, Santa Monica, CA 90401Phone: 424-320-2384 Visit Website. View this post on Instagram. A post shared by Élephante (@elephante)
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