Perched atop The Huntley Hotel, The Penthouse offers a quintessentially Californian dining experience with panoramic views of the Pacific coastline. It’s a destination where sophistication meets the relaxed charm of Santa Monica, making it a premier choice for those seeking an elevated dinner in Los Angeles.
For a truly exclusive evening, the Malibu Cabana Experience provides a curated four-course tasting menu in a private setting. This VIP treatment ensures an unforgettable night of culinary excellence and breathtaking scenery for those wanting more than just a standard meal.
A Sky-High Ambiance That Captures Santa Monica
Riding the express glass elevator up to the 18th floor of The Huntley Hotel sets the tone for the entire evening. Stepping into The Penthouse, you are immediately enveloped in a space that perfectly balances chic Hollywood glamour with the relaxed sophistication of coastal living.
Renowned designer Thomas Schoos masterfully crafted this space with cabana-style drapery, sculpted white walls, and elegant fireplaces that create an undeniably romantic atmosphere.
However, the real showstopper is the view. With floor-to-ceiling windows surrounding the dining room, guests are treated to a 360-degree panorama. Whether you are watching the sun dip below the Pacific Ocean to the west or admiring the glittering city lights stretching out toward downtown Los Angeles, the visual experience is unmatched in Santa Monica.
Culinary Excellence and The Malibu Cabana Experience
The menu at The Penthouse is a love letter to contemporary Californian cuisine, emphasizing fresh, seasonal ingredients and pristine seafood. Dishes like their signature crispy octopus or perfectly seared prime steaks showcase a kitchen that respects classic techniques while infusing modern, coastal flavors.
For those seeking the ultimate dining experience, the “Malibu Cabana Experience” is highly recommended. Priced at $195 per person, this VIP offering secures one of the coveted private cabana tables. It takes the guesswork out of the evening with a complimentary welcome beverage and a chef-crafted four-course tasting menu. It is an ideal option for milestone anniversaries or when you simply want to impress your dinner companion with guaranteed intimacy and top-tier service.
Weighing the Experience: Pros and Cons
Like any high-end establishment, The Penthouse shines in many areas but has a few considerations diners should be aware of.
The Pros: Beyond the breathtaking views, the service is exceptionally attentive without being intrusive. Another major advantage is the operating hours; unlike many LA restaurants that close early, The Penthouse stays open until 11:00 PM on weekdays and transitions into a vibrant lounge open until 2:00 AM on Friday and Saturday nights.
The Cons: The most notable drawback is the price point. The cost of dining here reflects the prime real estate, meaning standard dinners can easily exceed $100 per person even without the VIP cabana experience. Additionally, because the restaurant transforms into a popular nightlife spot on weekends, the atmosphere can become quite loud and energetic after 9:30 PM, which may not suit those looking for a quiet, intimate conversation late in the evening.
Who Should Book a Table Here?
The Penthouse at The Huntley is the quintessential location for a “wow factor” dinner. It is perfect for romantic date nights, special celebrations, and entertaining out-of-town guests who want to experience the glitz of Los Angeles with a beachside backdrop.
If you prefer a quieter meal to savor the culinary artistry, booking an early evening reservation is best. For those who want their dinner to seamlessly transition into a night of crafted cocktails and high-energy socializing, a weekend reservation around 8:30 PM is the sweet spot.
Frequently Asked Questions
The reservation includes a guaranteed private cabana, a welcome beverage, and a specialized four-course tasting menu for $195 per person.
The Penthouse stays open until 2:00 AM on Friday and Saturday nights, offering a vibrant lounge atmosphere beyond standard dining hours.
Guests enjoy panoramic 360-degree views of the Santa Monica coastline and the Los Angeles city skyline from the 18th floor.
While walk-ins are sometimes possible at the bar, reservations are highly recommended due to the venue's popularity and limited window seating.
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- Closed Now07:00 AM - 02:00 AM
- Monday07:00 AM - 11:00 PM
- Tuesday07:00 AM - 11:00 PM
- Wednesday07:00 AM - 11:00 PM
- Thursday07:00 AM - 11:00 PM
- Friday07:00 AM - 02:00 AM
- Saturday07:00 AM - 02:00 AM
- Sunday07:00 AM - 11:00 PM
- $$$$
- Price Range $100 - $150
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