The Curious Palate

4.7 ( 643 reviews )
Checking... 11:00 AM - 8:00 PM See Hours
$20–30
395 Santa Monica Pl 3rd Floor, Santa Monica, CA 90401, United States
+1 310-395-2901
The Curious Palate, a New American restaurant located on the bustling third floor of Santa Monica Place, is proving to be a delightful culinary haven. The restaurant has garnered rave reviews for its creative menu, which brings together fresh, high-quality ingredients and innovative flavors. Diners have particularly praised the Baja fish tacos and squash blossom tacos, with one guest wishing for a sampler platter to experience all the varieties offered. Jason Martin, another satisfied patron, discovered this hidden gem while exploring the area, noting the perfection of his Italian sandwich—a true testament to the care that the chefs put into their dishes. The careful preparation shines through in the Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts and the refreshing Kale Caesar salad, both of which are favorites among returning customers. Moreover, the restaurant's welcoming atmosphere, even for families with strollers, adds to the overall experience. From unique drinks like the Basil Blackberry Spritz to hearty offerings such as Handmade Pasta and Double Pork Chili, The Curious Palate successfully balances bold flavors with comfort food. This restaurant is definitely worth seeking out for anyone in the Santa Monica area looking for a well-crafted meal that satisfies both adventurous and traditional palates.

Amenities and More

  • Accessibility
    • Has wheelchair-accessible car park
    • Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
    • Has wheelchair-accessible seating
    • Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
  • Service options
    • Has outdoor seating
    • Has no-contact delivery
    • Offers delivery
    • On-site services available
    • Offers takeaway
    • Serves dine-in
  • Highlights
    • Has fast service
    • Has great beer selection
    • Has rooftop seating
  • Popular for
    • Popular for lunch
    • Popular for dinner
    • Good for solo dining
  • Offerings
    • Serves alcohol
    • Serves beer
    • Serves coffee
    • Serves comfort food
    • Serves food
    • Serves healthy options
    • Serves organic dishes
    • Has salad bar
    • Serves small plates
    • Serves vegan dishes
    • Serves vegetarian dishes
    • Serves wine
  • Dining options
    • Serves brunch
    • Serves lunch
    • Serves dinner
    • Has catering
    • Serves dessert
    • Has seating
  • Amenities
    • Has bar on site
    • Has toilet
    • Has Wi-Fi
    • Free Wi-Fi
  • Atmosphere
    • Casual
    • Cosy
    • Trendy
  • Crowd
    • Family friendly
    • Good for groups
    • LGBTQ+ friendly
    • Popular with tourists
    • Transgender safe space
  • Planning
    • Accepts reservations
  • Payments
    • Accepts credit cards
    • Accepts debit cards
    • Accepts NFC mobile payments
    • Credit cards
  • Children
    • Good for kids
    • High chairs available
    • Has kids' menu
  • Parking
    • Paid parking lot
    • Plenty of parking
  • Pets
    • Dogs allowed
    • Dogs allowed outside

Reviews For The Curious Palate

Megan Davis
May 20,2025
This place was far better than I expected. The Baja fish tacos were absolutely amazing and so were the squash blossom tacos. The only thing I wish is there was a sampler platter option for the tacos, to have one of each kind.
Jason Martin
May 18,2025
Might be a hidden gem. Was just wandering around the mall area in Santa Monica and tried this place out. It's tucked away upstairs in the outdoor mall. I got an Italian sandwich that was just perfect. Very fresh and just a perfect blend of flavors. It's apparent that the owner/chef(s?) cares about high quality ingredients and creating truly tasty food. Will definitely be back next time I'm in the area.
Elisa Swanson
May 6,2025
We really liked it. Weird location upstairs in an outdoor mall but didn't regret our choice. Carefully prepared food that had great flavor and was clearly high quality. We totally dug the brussels with burrata, yeah! My salad was excellent
Haylie Miller
Mar 28,2025
This place was nice! My basil blackberry spritz was unique and delicious, I got the kale Caesar salad with shrimp and it was very fresh. I was able to bring my stroller up to the table!
eriko p
Mar 9,2025
5 Star! I love the food here. I have been here several times but I haven't updated my review in awhile. There are many vegetarian options. My husband who is more a "meat and potato" guy loves The Curious Palate and this says a lot! We arrived on a weekday, after the noon lunch and we were seated immediately. My friend and I ordered the same salad! The Thai Chicken Satay salad. It was delicious and presented beautifully. The staff here work hard. This restaurant is located on the 3rd Floor/ top floor of the Santa Monica Place Mall, towards the eastside.
Téo Barbosa
Feb 20,2025
The Curious Palate is fantastic! The portions are generous, and the food is delicious. The location is great, and the friendly service makes it even better. Kate, our server, was amazing—so attentive and welcoming. Highly recommend this spot!
metzy soussan
Feb 16,2025
I had a great experience here! The food was delicious, especially the burger, which was cooked perfectly and full of flavor. The service was warm, friendly, and attentive without being overbearing. It’s the kind of place where you feel genuinely welcomed. I’ll definitely be back!
Dawn Neustel
Feb 6,2025
This place is awesome. The best nachos I've ever had! My son had the satay chicken tacos and they were also excellent. We had the pleasure of meeting the owner Elliott. What a genuinely nice guy. He's truly a foodie who puts a lot of love into everything that goes out of his kitchen. Check it out, you won't be disappointed

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