The Lobster

This Santa Monica institution, which has stood sentinel at the mouth of the pier since 1923 (and 1999 in its current form) features glass-siding to accentuate the views, along with a seafood focus. Chef Collin Crannell cooks up fresh seafood options for brunch, lunch and dinner, including Dungeness crab enchiladas, pan seared crab cakes and a shrimp and pork belly sandwich. Sometimes his food takes a playful turn, like with the lobster corn dogs on the bar menu. The casing-free sausage showcases Maine lobster meat, lobster roe, Mexican white shrimp and pork fat for moisture’s sake.