Chef Philip Wojtowicz is known for his work in the Monterey Bay area, including his co-founding of Big Sur Bakery. He has also opened his own oyster bar, Oystertown, in Monterey.
Insights
BakerySteakhouseAmericanSeafoodDinnerFarm To Table
Last updated: 9/29/2026, 5:56:55 AM
Key Information
Big Sur Grill offers wood-fired cuisine inspired by the California coast, emphasizing a farm-to-table approach. It is located at 2518 Wilshire Blvd in Santa Monica.
Customer Perception
Customers generally appreciate the wood-fired cooking and the California-inspired menu. The ambiance and the quality of the food are often highlighted in reviews.
Additional Details
The restaurant's name suggests a connection to the scenic Big Sur region, though it is located in Santa Monica.
Went here for a random date night. Food is good, nothing blew our socks off but everything was fresh, flavorful and attractive plating. Service was attentive but missed a few things. Ambiance is A+, they could be serving McDonald’s and I’d go here for the ambiance; beautiful space. Prices are on the higher side for portions but in line with other restaurants in the area.
I appreciate a local restaurant featuring fresh seasonal items. Next time we go might just be for apps and drinks with friends- they have many appetizer options. The space is gorgeous, the food is fresh, slightly above average taste, and average value.
I've been to Big Sur Grill twice now and both times were fabulous. The filet, half chicken, and mezze platter are all an absolute must. But I must say, the pea soup is something you can't pass up! The entire place is beautiful.
5
This is a MUST for anyone who loves genuinely good food. Not only are the dishes made without seed oils, they are also farmers market fresh and grass fed, wood fire grilled so you get that delicious wood fired flavor. We used to frequent the previous restaurant Jonah’s and that was also a testament to the incredible ownership. Service was quick, friendly and attentive, additionally, the ambiance is romantic, dreamy and upscale. We can’t wait to return! Shout out Joseph for the hospitality.
5
Big Sur Grill is a very cool, independent restaurant on Wilshire in Santa Monica. There’s plenty of free parking on Wilshire or the side streets. We try a different restaurant every Saturday on the west side, and this one kind of surprised and blew us away. Everything we tried - summer salad, potato wedges, grilled Halloumi, rib meat with cauliflower, chicken with mashed potatoes, and the warm cookie with ice cream, honey, and almonds (called “Milk and Cookies”) was outstanding. Most dishes are grilled, which I love. They include an 18% tip. Vibe is cozy, lots of plants, great for a get together with friends or a date night. You could bring kids, but it’s not really designed for them. It’s one block east of Fia and Fia Steak.
5
What a wonderful addition to Santa Monica. This restaurant lives up to its inspiration of its namesake. Big Sur Grill has a wonderful ambiance. The music is fabulous. The owner, Joey, greets you and is absolutely passionate about his business, which is refreshing. My dinner companions could hear me even with my soft voice, which was also nice. The food was ethically sourced, organic and very tasty. I would accurately give the food a 4.5-4.8. The service was also almost a five as the owner was great, and the waiter Glen was also excellent. The reason I cannot give a 5 is because the person (maybe a maitre D?) who was supposed to be at the door saw us and walked away. Then he came back and I told him we had a reservation. He took my name and found the reservation, and then walked away again. A few minutes later the owner approached me, and seated us promptly. From there it was a wonderful evening. We tried the Mezze plate, the octopus, the salad, the salmon and mash, the Branzino and Risotto. All of the food was made well. I would visit again. And Kudos to the owner Joey for such thoughtfulness. Anytime someone adds to a community, there is always a little more space to make them at home. Check it out!!
