Sam's by the Beach

Sam's by the Beach Restaurant Review:

This charming, shoebox-size restaurant is one of Santa Monica’s best-kept secrets. Sam’s seafood, hand-selected at the city’s fresh fish market, dominates the seasonal menu. Yellowfin tuna tartare is mixed with parsley and chili paste, while Japanese calamari is grilled with green onions and dry spices and served over couscous. Fish presentations include grilled butterfish in a citrus sauce and Mediterranean bouillabaisse with saffron and loads of shellfish. The menu also features handmade paper-thin ravioli that changes regularly, roasted and smoked quail stuffed with apples and goat cheese, and braised lamb shank. Desserts are highlighted by an apple tarte Tatin and an oft-changing bread pudding. The wine list is quite limited but carefully chosen in an attempt to satisfy every preference. There are also some interesting cocktails and an ample list of dessert wines and cordials.