The Lobster

@thelobster.com

The Lobster is not just another fine-dining venue, it’s a legacy seafood restaurant that has been serving Santa Monica for over a century. Established in 1923, The Lobster continues on today in a new way. 25+ years after its expansion to a second story, The Lobster continues to deliver seafood cuisine at its finest. Experience fine casual dining, great staff, and breathtaking 180+° views alongside other International Guests, A-Listers, Local Foodies, Destination Restaurant Seekers, and Celebrants, making lasting memories. Situated at the corner of Ocean Avenue and the top of the Santa Monica Pier, The Lobster restaurant is an internationally recognized dining destination that is as much a part of Santa Monica's history as is the Santa Monica Pier. Originally opened in 1923, the 900 square foot building, fondly referred to by locals as the quintessential 'seafood shack,' sold locally caught fresh fish. It wasn't until dishwasher-turned-owner, Mateo Castillo, took the helm in the 1950's, that The Lobster became a favorite seafood diner. Its popularity was often evidenced by the line of hungry customers, wrapping out the door, in anticipation of ordering a meal from the menu of 60 prepared fresh seafood options. Seating was comprised of 30 stools that encompassed the building. So beloved by LA residents and tourists alike that the restaurant thrived well throughout the 1950's, 60's and 70's.

thelobster.com

The Lobster's Company Logos

The Lobster's Brand Colors

Hex Code

Color name

RGB

HSL

CMYK

#B62A29

Tall Poppy

182, 42, 41

0, 63, 44

0, 77, 77, 29

#CE8483

My Pink

206, 132, 131

1, 43, 66

0, 36, 36, 19

#323232

Mine Shaft

50, 50, 50

0, 0, 20

0, 0, 0, 80

About The Lobster

The Lobster is a landmark seafood restaurant at the top of the Santa Monica Pier, where it has welcomed diners since opening in 1923. Closely tied to the city’s history, it began as a small seafood shack selling locally caught fish and has grown into an internationally recognized dining destination. Today, the restaurant pairs a polished yet welcoming atmosphere with panoramic ocean views and attentive service.

Led by acclaimed chef Govind Armstrong, its American seafood menu emphasizes fresh, locally acquired ingredients and includes award-winning lobster and seasonal seafood dishes. Guests can also enjoy favorites such as crispy calamari and prawns, Maine lobster salad, lobster rolls, Caesar salad, and truffle Parmesan fries, alongside desserts including warm chocolate truffle cake. The menu has earned The Lobster a Michelin Plate award in both 2019 and 2025.

The restaurant offers reservations, happy hour, drinks, and live music on the third Thursday of each month. Private and group events are available, from intimate window tables and semi-private areas to full restaurant buyouts.