Ranging from$1.00-taco on Taco Tuesdays to prime rib early-bird special to Italian food that will break the bank; Santa Monica Canyon offers a variety of dining choices in an convenient neighborhood setting. And by convenient I mean all of the restaurants are located on one block. There are two main arteries running through the Santa Monica Canyon, Entrada and West Channel. On these streets, the first block off of PCH, is where you will find all of the restaurants. West Channel, the busier of the two streets, is home to Giorgio Baldi, Sam’s by the Beach, Café Delfini, and The Golden Bull.

Entrada, which parallels West Channel, is home to Marix Tex Mex and Patrick’s Roadhouse.So what are these restaurants like? Here is a snapshot:

Il Ristorante de Giorgio Baldi – The most expensive dining experience in the canyon, this Italian restaurant is world famous. You never hear much about the food, just the celebrity sightings made there.

Café Delfini – “The other Italian restaurant” in the canyon is directly across the street from Giorgio Baldi. Delfini has a very unassuming exterior, which leads into a dark and intimate dining experience. Much more low-key than Giorgio Baldi, and way more affordable. Delfini offers a well rounded dining experience.

Marix Tex Mex – Famous for its “Taco Tuesdays”, Marix is the lone Mexican restaurant in the canyon. This is a local hangout, so expect to see familiar faces every time you stop in.

The Golden Bull – An interesting restaurant to say the least. The Golden Bull offers classic American dishes like steak, potatoes and vegetables. They are also well-known for their prime rib. The best time to go is for their early-bird special – order before 7pm. $17 will get you a full meal with a glass of wine.

Patrick’s Roadhouse – An iconic restaurant in the canyon, Patrick’s Roadhouse is in the bright lime-green building on Entrada and PCH. They only serve breakfast and lunch, but boy do they do it right. Threatened by eviction about a year ago, Patrick’s was able to hold on and continues to serve local residents. This is one of Arnold Schwarzenegger’s favorite breakfast spots. Patrick’s was also featured on the popular Food Network show Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.

Sam’s by the Beach – Still my favorite place in the canyon. Sam’s by the Beach offers fresh Mediterranean cuisine in a very intimate setting. Great food and excellent service. A very well-rounded restaurant.
Are you planning a trip to Santa Monica?

Check out these restaurants this weekend!

Wheeler Coberly is an Associate Partner at Partners Trust Real Estate. He lives in Santa Monica and loves writing about food and surfing.