Fia

When you enter Fia from the street, the first thing you’ll see is the patio. It’s gigantic—an incredible space in Santa Monica that’s cozy and romantic, filled with wooden furniture, aggressive string lighting, and enough pine trees to make you feel like you’re on the Mendocino coastline. It's one of the best outdoor spaces on the Westside. The Italian-ish food is just OK (we prefer what's being served inside, at their "sister" restaurant Fia Steak), but stick to the fried smoked burrata, raw bar, and solid pasta options and you'll be fine. Crowd-pleasing and easy on the eyes, Fia is on our shortlist for high-stakes dates and life celebrations.