Steve Farzam, COO @ Shore Hotel on Places To Eat In Santa Monica

Santa Monica is a hotspot for some of California's trendiest restaurants. Each place has its unique cuisine and its atmosphere that makes it a favorite with locals. Tourists and locals can get a great idea of the culinary scene in California when they dine at just the right places.

The artsy crowd flocks to Birdie G's. Located in an industrial building, its cement floors and air ducts exposed in full view show that it isn't out to impress. The open kitchen lets diners get a glimpse into the heart of the restaurant's operations. As for the menu, it isn't the typical choice. Highlights at Birdie G's include texas toast sloppy joes, and noodle kugel, a dish that perfectly combines sweet and sour flavors.

Those who are looking for more traditional comfort foods feed their appetites at Huckleberry, Santa Monica's favorite bakery. They are quick to serve up hearty meals of turkey meatball subs, fried egg sandwiches, and huevos rancheros. To eat as the locals do, breakfast or lunch at Huckleberry can't be beaten.

Little Prince is the go-to restaurant for an authentic Santa Monica brunch. Getting a seat isn't too hard or too easy, but worth the wait to most. Its menu includes green pancakes made with peas, a patty melt, and even a unique breakfast salad. On weekday afternoons, diners come in for Happy Hour, featuring cocktails, snacks, and full meals.

Another restaurant that attracts a crowd at Happy Hour is Lula Cocina Mexicana. Also open for lunch and dinner, the restaurant specializes in margaritas and full-blown fajitas.

Bay Cities, a personal favorite is a popular Italian deli known all over California for its stacked menu. It's the place in town to get a hearty sandwich, Italian style. The crowning jewel of the deli's sandwich menu has Capocollo, ham, mortadella, prosciutto, and salami. Enhanced with peppers and cheese, it's a taste of old-world Italy in the heart of Santa Monica.

One of the most unique restaurants in the city is Dialogue. Its menu features a multi-course tasting popular with diners. While dining there doesn't come cheap, most agree that it's worth it. More than just a place to get a great meal, diners love learning from the resident chef, who concocts dishes that have to be seen to be believed.