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Seafood, lamb, and small plates at Orla, Santa Monica, CA

About

Allow Us to Extend Our Warmest Welcome

We’re so happy that you’re here with us. Our team finds inspiration every day in the famously welcoming and creative cultures that our kitchen celebrates: from Greece, encompassing hospitality and warmth; from Egypt, a zest for life and a deep respect for the power of connecting with one another. Put simply, we embrace life’s rich pageant, and we can’t wait to share it with you at the table.

Experience the Orla Bar

Experience the Orla Bar

Drenched in natural light, soundtracked by the ocean outside, with views of our resort pool deck and all-weather indoor-outdoor seating, Orla Bar is bathed in natural light and echoes with the sounds of the ocean. It’s also your new favorite place for a cocktail. Our gracious team stirs and shakes signature drinks with flair, pours elegant wines with panache, and awaits your input in order to craft something truly special, just for you. Begin – or end – your meal with us, savoring memorable flavors and world-class views.

Orla Bar Hours 
Sun - Thurs | 11:00am - 12:00am 
Fri & Sat | 11:00am - 2:00am 

Meet the Chef at Orla, Santa Monica, CA

About Chef Michael Mina

Chef Michael Mina, originally from Cairo, Egypt, and raised in Ellensburg, Washington, embarked on his culinary journey at the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, NY. During his studies, he honed his skills in Chef Charlie Palmer’s kitchen at Aureole in New York City. His career ascended quickly when he partnered with Chef George Morrone to conceptualize and launch the renowned seafood restaurant AQUA in San Francisco in 1991. Despite a challenging start due to a major earthquake, Chef Mina thrived as AQUA’s executive chef from 1993 to 2002, earning accolades such as Rising Star Chef of the Year (1997) and Best Chef: California (2002) by the James Beard Foundation.

About Executive Chef Fernando Darin

About Executive Chef Fernando Darin

Chef Fernando Darin brings a globally influenced perspective and deep culinary heritage to Orla by Michael Mina. A third generation restaurateur, his cooking is inspired by his Italian roots and Brazilian upbringing, blending vibrant Mediterranean flavors with a thoughtful, ingredient driven approach.

Meatballs and potatoes with herbs at Orla, Santa Monica, CA

Press

Discover what the press is saying about Orla. From glowing reviews to featured stories, explore how our distinctive blend of coastal elegance and Mediterranean flavor is making waves in Santa Monica’s dining scene.

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