Where flavors meet
Welcome to Milo & Olive
Milo & Olive is a charming Santa Monica restaurant specializing in fresh, simple Italian cuisine. With a welcoming atmosphere and attentive staff, diners enjoy a front-row seat to the culinary magic as chefs prepare delectable dishes right in front of them. The menu, known for its quality, features standout items like the mushroom pizza and baked garlic knots, while refreshing salads and flavorful pasta contribute to a satisfying dining experience. Guests rave about the vibrant flavors and freshness, making Milo & Olive a beloved go-to spot for those seeking a taste of authentic Italian food in a casual setting.
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Inside the Experience
Milo & Olive
Welcome to Milo & Olive, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Santa Monica. This charming eatery invites you to indulge in a delightful experience where fresh ingredients converge with Italian culinary tradition. Upon entering, you are greeted by a casual yet inviting atmosphere, accented by the lively sounds of a bustling kitchen where chefs prepare each dish with care and precision.
One of the standout elements at Milo & Olive is the commitment to fresh, homemade fare. Patrons have raved about the deliciousness of the bread and pasta, both crafted from scratch. The sensational mushroom pizza has won the hearts of many, beautifully showcasing a balance of textures and flavors that awaken the palate. The burrata salad with basil, tomato, and peach is another exquisite option, offering a refreshing burst of flavor that perfectly complements the rich main courses.
For those seeking comfort on a plate, the garlic knots are a must-try. Infused with fragrant olive oil and seasoned to perfection, they deliver a comforting richness that pairs beautifully with the vibrant flavors of the other dishes. Customers have noted how the baked garlic bread, while decidedly rich, is an essential addition to any meal here. The menu is straightforward but holds wonderful surprises that keep guests returning for more.
The attentive staff enhances the dining experience at Milo & Olive. Diners have consistently praised the friendly service, further elevating the welcoming ambiance. Watching the skilled chefs at work adds an engaging layer to your meal, transporting you into a culinary journey where passion meets artistry.
Milo & Olive is not just a restaurant; it’s a place where the love for food and the Italian philosophy of sharing converge. Each visit promises a feast for the senses, making it a goto spot for those craving simple yet superb Italian cuisine in Santa Monica. The delightful combination of welcoming vibes, exceptional service, and tantalizing dishes ensures that your experience at Milo & Olive will be unforgettable.
Voices & Impressions
Guestbook
“ While walking around Santa Monica, I came across a charming little restaurant and decided to stop in for lunch. The atmosphere was casual yet inviting, and the staff were very friendly and attentive. Since there were just two of us, we chose seats at the counter, where we could watch the chefs preparing the dishes right in front of us. It was enjoyable to see everything made fresh, from the dough being stretched to the toppings being carefully placed and the pizzas going straight into the oven. There were also plenty of table seats available, and the restaurant wasn’t overly crowded, so it felt relaxed and comfortable. I would describe it as the kind of place you can easily drop by without feeling too formal. The menu had more variety than I expected, with a nice selection of wines to pair with pizza, along with coffee, tea, juices, and even mocktails, which made it stand out compared to many casual restaurants. One of my favorites was the prosciutto and melon plate the balance of sweetness and saltiness was excellent and left a lasting impression. For the main dish, we ordered a pizza topped with tomato, burrata, prosciutto, and arugula. The crust was freshly baked, the flavors were well-balanced, and the portion was generous. Although we went for lunch, I would love to return for dinner to try more of their dishes. The staff gave us thoughtful recommendations and made the experience even more pleasant. While there wasn’t an outdoor terrace, the space still felt welcoming for both adults and families. Overall, I truly enjoyed both the food and drinks, and I would happily visit again in the future. ”
“ Wow! Excellent service, and the food was terrific. The bread and pasta tasted amazing; you can tell they are made fresh. I have to stop again to try the pizza, which looked amazing as well. ”
“ Really good food, we had burata salad with basil, tomato and peach very refreshing! For main course we shared pizza with for type of mushrums with some lemon dressing and cheese - great vegeterian option and we shared also Milanese chicken with arugula and cheese! You can check the potis as well, dish looks very good and taste excelent! ”
“ We tried a few dishes, the squash pizza, one of the salads, and the garlic bread. Everything tasted fresh and flavorful. The squash pizza had a great balance of textures and a nice depth of flavour. The salad was crisp and well-dressed, a perfect complement to the heavier dishes. The garlic bread, while delicious and incredibly fragrant, was very rich — practically swimming in olive oil and garlic. It was fresh and satisfying, but definitely on the heavier side. We also had a few cocktails, which were thoughtfully crafted and very tasty. Prices were on the higher end, but the quality of the food and drinks mostly justified it. The restaurant is relatively small with limited seating, and we didn’t notice any outdoor dining area. Parking is street-only and can vary depending on the time of day, so be prepared for metered spots or a bit of a walk. ”
“ Milo & Olive has become one of our favorite go-to spots in Santa Monica for simple, delicious Italian food. The menu is straightforward but consistently tasty, and the quality keeps us coming back. Our must-haves every single visit are the chopped salad and the baked garlic knot—both are absolute standouts and set the tone for the meal. The mushroom pizza is hands-down our favorite and usually our order, but on our most recent trip we decided to branch out and try the vegetable pizza. It was still good, though we felt it could have used just a touch more flavor compared to the mushroom. The pastas are always solid as well—fresh, comforting, and flavorful. The service here is consistently good, and the staff make the experience feel easy and welcoming. The space itself has a nice, relaxed vibe, perfect for casual dinners with friends or family. You can’t go wrong coming here any day of the week. Prices are on the higher side, but not crazy. Overall, Milo & Olive never disappoints. Even with a few minor preferences, it’s a place we’ll keep coming back to time and again. Highly recommend! ”