Santa Monica’s Chicest Brunch Spot: LouLou
- By: Julianne Elise Beffa
French Vibes, Lobster Rolls & Rosé…
Some brunch spots are just that — brunch spots. You show up, sip a latte, eat some eggs, and go about your day. But then there are places like LouLou Santa Monica, where brunch becomes an event. A full-on sensory escape with sun-soaked rooftop views, the clink of glassware, breezy beats in the background, and plates so photogenic you hesitate to take the first bite (but only for a second). Here, brunch isn’t just a meal — it’s a whole mood.
Perched above the iconic Third Street Promenade, LouLou is where California cool meets Parisian charm. Think: airy coastal light, the scent of fresh blooms, rosé flowing like it’s Bastille Day, and stylish guests who look like they just stepped off a magazine shoot. Part Riviera retreat, part chic party, and fully the it spot for your next elevated weekend outing.
Setting the Scene: French Riviera Meets Santa Monica
From the moment you step off the elevator and into LouLou, you’re transported. This rooftop oasis is designed for the effortlessly stylish — the kind of place where the sun hits just right, and every detail whispers luxury without trying too hard.
The décor blends boho elegance with Côte d’Azur sophistication: think woven lanterns swaying in the breeze, whitewashed wood accents, oversized linen cushions, and potted palms that create a secluded garden-in-the-sky vibe. It’s that rare kind of venue where time slows down, the breeze carries your stress away, and even the music — a soft pulse of house and French lounge — feels like part of the design.
Honestly? For a moment, it didn’t feel like Santa Monica. It felt like we were brunching somewhere along the Mediterranean coast, sipping wine and gossiping between bites of seafood and pasta. Whether you’re planning a chill Sunday catch-up or a full-blown birthday brunch, LouLou delivers on atmosphere and energy.
Girls’ Brunch Goals: Dressing the Part
Naturally, a brunch this fabulous demands a fashion moment. My friend Allegra and I weren’t about to show up in just anything. I went with a crisp white mini dress — the kind of look that plays well in daytime lighting and pairs perfectly with a glass of rosé. Allegra, always ahead of the trend curve, wore cream Maison Margiela trousers with a sleek black halter top and kitten heels that made everyone do a double take.
The crowd? Equally curated. Think influencer energy without the pretense — stylish locals, creative tastemakers, and sun-kissed tourists all coming together in one dreamy, rooftop setting. It felt like the perfect mix of glam and grounded.
The First Bite: Fresh, Flavorful, Fabulous
We started our feast with two standout appetizers: the Hamachi Crudo and the Caesar Salad with Chicken. And let me tell you — this was no basic brunch lineup.
The Hamachi Crudo was silky, vibrant, and bursting with freshness. Thin slices of yellowtail were dressed in a light citrus vinaigrette, with just enough heat from the fresno to make things interesting. It was delicate, refined, and absolutely addictive — the kind of dish that leaves you wishing you’d ordered two.
The Caesar Salad might sound simple, but don’t be fooled. LouLou’s version is elevated: crisp romaine tossed in a tangy, house-made dressing with crunchy sourdough croutons and perfectly grilled chicken. It’s a sleeper hit — satisfying, elegant, and grounded in solid technique.
The Main Event: Lobster, Burgers & Pasta Dreams
When it came time for entrées, we did what any brunch duo with no self-control would do — ordered everything. And we have no regrets.
First came the Lobster Roll, which was pure luxury on a plate. Generous chunks of tender lobster were nestled inside a golden, buttery brioche roll, dressed just enough to enhance the seafood without overpowering it. It was the perfect blend of East Coast tradition and West Coast flair — rich, flavorful, and ridiculously satisfying.
Then came the LouLou Burger — and honestly, this thing could start a fan club. It was thick, juicy, and stacked with caramelized onions, melted cheese, and crisp lettuce, all held together by a soft brioche bun. The fries on the side were golden perfection, lightly seasoned and made for dipping into LouLou’s signature sauces. If you’re more into comfort food, this burger delivers.
And finally, the dish that made us close our eyes and moan in delight: the Spaghetti Carbonara. Creamy, salty, and speckled with crispy pancetta, it was rich without being heavy and had just enough bite to the pasta. It felt like something a nonna in Italy might make — if she moved to California, got a rooftop job, and added a DJ to Sunday dinner.
Weekend Rituals: Brunch, LouLou Style
LouLou doesn’t just do brunch — it curates an entire experience around it. Every weekend, they host themed events that feel like mini getaways in themselves.
Saturdays are for the Rosé Brunch, where parties of six or more are gifted a complimentary bottle of Minuty Rosé — aka the chicest pink pour in existence. Add in DJ sets, sunshine, and a few spontaneous dance moments, and you’ve got a brunch that turns into a rooftop day party real fast.
Sundays, on the other hand, lean into LouLou’s French roots with their Pardon My French! Brunch. Expect elegant Parisian-style bites, flowing bubbles, and a crowd that knows how to keep things breezy and fabulous. It’s the closest you’ll get to Saint-Tropez without boarding a plane.
And for seasonal affairs? LouLou nails those, too. Their Easter Brunch with a French Twist is the stuff of springtime dreams — pastel floral arrangements, fresh spring produce, and a menu that balances indulgence with charm. It’s ideal for families, friend groups, or solo celebrators ready to sip and soak up the sun.
The Vibe Makers: Service That Shines
As flawless as the setting and food were, what really tied our experience together was the service. From the moment we arrived, every team member at LouLou made us feel like VIPs. Our server was attentive without hovering, enthusiastic without being pushy, and had spot-on menu recs (we owe the Carbonara choice to him).
Cocktails arrived quickly, water glasses stayed full, and every course came out with perfect timing. It was the kind of hospitality that makes you linger longer than you planned — and maybe even book your next brunch before the check arrives.
Final Thoughts: Main Character Brunch Energy
LouLou Santa Monica isn’t just a restaurant — it’s a destination. With its unbeatable rooftop views, fashion-forward crowd, standout menu, and signature weekend events, it turns your average brunch into a full-on celebration. Whether you’re clinking glasses over lobster rolls or twirling pasta like nobody’s watching, this is where your main character energy gets its moment.
So next weekend? Rally your brunch crew, throw on your most fabulous fit, and make a reservation at LouLou. Trust us — your Instagram, and your tastebuds, will thank you.
Make a reservation here!
LouLou Santa Monica, 395 Santa Monica Pl #300, Santa Monica, CA 90401
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