Perched above the Santa Monica coastline, Élephante seamlessly blends the breezy charm of Southern Italy with Los Angeles’ sophisticated rooftop scene. It is a curated escape where Mediterranean design and panoramic ocean views create an atmosphere that feels like a permanent vacation.
Diners enjoy a seasonal menu rooted in coastal Italian traditions, perfect for a sunset meal or late-night cocktails. With its vibrant energy and artisanal details, it remains one of the most sought-after spots for an authentic coastal dining experience.
A Transportive Mediterranean Escape
Stepping into Élephante is like leaving the hustle of Santa Monica’s Second Street behind and being whisked away to a chic villa on the island of Pantelleria. Nick Mathers’ Wish You Were Here Group has masterfully executed a “Tulum-meets-Mediterranean” aesthetic that feels incredibly organic and grounded.
The space is filled with custom-made furniture, warm wood tones, and hand-touched artisanal details that soften the high-energy rooftop atmosphere. It isn’t just about the view; it’s about the feeling of being somewhere else entirely—an ethos that permeates every corner of the lounge and dining areas.
The restaurant’s layout is intentionally designed to maximize its prime coastal location. Whether you are tucked into a plush velvet booth or lounging on the terrace, the visual focus remains on the vast horizon of the Pacific Ocean. As the sun begins to set, the room glows with a golden hue that makes it one of the most photographed dinner spots in Los Angeles. It’s the kind of place where the ambiance does half the work of making the evening feel special before the first course even arrives.
Culinary Highlights and Italian Inspiration
The menu at Élephante stays true to its coastal Southern Italian roots, emphasizing light, seasonal ingredients that pair perfectly with a seaside breeze. A visit is almost incomplete without the famous whipped eggplant dip served with warm puccia bread—a creamy, savory starter that has reached legendary status among LA foodies.
From there, the kitchen excels in wood-fired pizzas with blistered crusts and fresh pastas that lean into the simplicity of high-quality produce. It’s “vacation food” at its finest: flavorful, fresh, and designed for lingering over long conversations.
Complementing the food is a robust beverage program that showcases the diversity of Italian viticulture. From crisp Vermentinos to deep, limited-vintage reds and proprietary private labels, the wine list is a treasure trove for enthusiasts looking for something beyond the standard offerings. If you prefer a cocktail, the signature drinks are often infused with bright citrus and herbal notes, reflecting the vibrant, sun-drenched spirit of the Aeolian Islands.
Evaluating the Élephante Experience
Choosing Élephante for dinner comes with distinct advantages and a few trade-offs that are worth noting. On the positive side, the operating hours are remarkably generous. While many upscale Santa Monica establishments wind down early, Élephante keeps the energy high until midnight from Monday through Saturday. This makes it a rare gem for those who enjoy a late-night meal or an extended evening of spirits and social lounge vibes following a sunset dinner.
However, the location’s immense popularity means that securing a table—especially one on the oceanfront rail—usually requires planning weeks in advance. The atmosphere is undeniably lively and can become quite loud as the night progresses, which might not be ideal for those seeking a quiet, hushed environment for a private business meeting.
Nevertheless, for anyone looking to embrace the quintessential Southern California lifestyle through an Italian lens, the sheer vibrancy and visual splendor of Élephante are difficult to top.
Frequently Asked Questions
The whipped eggplant dip served with warm puccia bread is the legendary starter that nearly every guest recommends.
The venue remains open until 12:00 AM from Monday to Saturday, while closing slightly earlier at 10:00 PM on Sundays.
Expect a high-energy, sophisticated lounge vibe with a "see and be seen" crowd and stunning sunset views over the Pacific.
Yes, because of its popularity and limited oceanfront seating, booking several weeks in advance is strongly advised.
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- Closed Now10:00 AM - 12:00 AM
- Monday10:00 AM - 12:00 AM
- Tuesday10:00 AM - 12:00 AM
- Wednesday10:00 AM - 12:00 AM
- Thursday10:00 AM - 12:00 AM
- Friday10:00 AM - 12:00 AM
- Saturday10:00 AM - 12:00 AM
- Sunday10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
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