Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Oldest Steak & Seafood Restaurant in Santa Monica
Established in 1934, The Galley has been a cornerstone of Santa Monica's dining scene for nearly nine decades. Our restaurant combines rich history with a warm, seafaring ambiance featuring authentic portholes, a captain's wheel, and nautical decor. We specialize in prime steaks, fresh seafood, and creative cocktails, including our signature Mai Tai, served in a beautifully remodeled back patio. With a legacy of hospitality, we cater to intimate dinners and large events, offering customizable menus and a dedicated South Seas Bar.Our team, led by Captain Ron Schur since 1989, prides itself on treating guests like family while maintaining the timeless charm of our original 1946 bar. From our famous salad dressing to our award-winning service, we create memorable experiences rooted in tradition and quality.
Services
Prime Steaks
Seafood Platters
Cocktail Bar
Private Events
Outdoor Dining
Wine List
Lunch Menu
Dinner Service
Brunch Specials
Custom Menus
Details
- Year established: 1934
Highlights and features
- Over 80 years of culinary tradition in Santa Monica
- Customizable menus for special events and dietary needs
- Historic nautical ambiance with modern comforts
- Award-winning steak and seafood preparation techniques
- Dedicated event coordination for private celebrations
What people say
Perfect date night spot
Best steak in Santa Monica
Historic ambiance preserved
Attentive staff
Consistent quality
Services
Prime Steaks
Our prime steaks are hand-selected for superior marbling and aged to perfection. Available in multiple cuts including New York strip, ribeye, and filet mignon, each steak is grilled to order using traditional methods perfected over 80 years. Accompanied by house-made sauces and seasonal sides, this classic American staple remains our most popular offering.
Seafood Specialties
Fresh seafood delivered daily from coastal suppliers features East Coast steamers, jumbo shrimp, Alaskan halibut, and Australian lobster tails. Prepared using time-tested recipes, our seafood options range from traditional clam chowder to elaborate surf-and-turf combinations, catering to both casual diners and seafood connoisseurs.
Cocktail Bar
The South Seas Bar offers an extensive cocktail menu featuring classic and contemporary drinks. Signature creations like the 1934 Manhattan and Mai Tai complement premium spirits and a curated wine list. The bar area maintains original 1946 decor while providing modern mixology techniques for both casual patrons and cocktail enthusiasts.
Private Events
We host weddings, corporate events, and private parties in multiple venue spaces including four dining rooms and an outdoor patio. Custom menus, dedicated event coordination, and historical ambiance create memorable occasions. Capacity ranges from intimate gatherings to 200+ guest events with full venue buyouts available.
Outdoor Dining
The remodeled back patio features year-round holiday lighting and nautical decor. Heated seating accommodates seasonal dining with full menu availability. This popular space combines Santa Monica's coastal charm with The Galley's historic atmosphere, offering a unique al fresco experience for both daytime brunches and evening reservations.
People
Captain Ron Schur
Owner
Ron Schur has owned The Galley since 1989 after a decades-long fascination with its legendary salad dressing. With extensive hospitality experience, he preserves the restaurant's historic character while modernizing operations. His leadership maintains The Galley's status as Santa Monica's oldest dining establishment.
Questions
What makes The Galley unique?
As Santa Monica's oldest restaurant since 1934, we combine historic nautical decor with modern culinary techniques, featuring original elements like our 1946 bar and famous salad dressing recipe.
Do you offer private dining options?
Yes, we host events in four dining rooms and an outdoor patio, accommodating groups from intimate dinners to 200+ guest celebrations with customizable menus.
What are your signature dishes?
Our prime steaks, East Coast steamers, jumbo shrimp cocktail, and house-made salad dressing are most requested. The Galley Plank Special serves two with sides.
Can I make a reservation?
Reservations available through our website or phone. We recommend booking weekends in advance, especially for patio seating.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept major credit cards with a 2% processing fee, cash, and checks. Corporate accounts available for frequent event bookings.
Are there vegetarian options available?
Yes, we offer vegetarian dishes including wild mushroom risotto and customizable pasta options to accommodate dietary preferences.
