Friday night dinner and the only seating available was at the bar. I was hesitant at first and almost skipped going, but it ended up being such a great experience. The bar has a lively energy while still feeling intimate. The food was outstanding. We split everything so my photos are all half orders. The sweet corn ravioli was perfectly balanced and full of flavor, the veal scaloppini was tender and beautifully prepared, and the soufflé was an absolute must. Note: the ravioli stuffing is definitely sweet from the corn, so be prepared for that, but SUCH a unique flavor. Service truly made the night. Sarah was incredible. She was patient, knowledgeable, and genuinely warm. She was so understanding of my pickiness. Honestly, every staff member we encountered was fantastic, but Sarah really stood out. It's definitely a splurge, but completely worth it. I'll absolutely be back read more

See all

This review is long overdue. I've been dining at CAPO for over 10 years, and last night reminded me exactly why it remains one of my all-time favorite restaurants. I took a close friend here for his birthday and, as always, the experience was exceptional from start to finish. One of my favorite seats in the house is at the bar, right near the grill, where you can watch the expert chefs prepare the steaks and other meats with absolute precision. It's dinner and a show. From the moment you walk in, CAPO feels different. The wine selection is outstanding, the atmosphere is warm and elegant, and the artwork -- Picasso and Lichtenstein pieces greeting you at the entrance -- immediately sets the tone. Add to that the seamless valet service. When you enter the welcoming presence of Frank the maître d', who always makes you feel genuinely at home, and you know you're in good hands. Sarah behind the bar is an absolute gem -- always smiling, incredibly knowledgeable, and spot-on with her wine pairings. The service overall is consistently top-tier without ever feeling stuffy or rushed. As for the food: you truly can't go wrong with anything on the menu, but a few standouts deserve special mention. The octopus is phenomenal, the romaine salad is perfectly balanced, and the tuna tartare is outstanding. Last night we also shared the bone-in steak and filet, both cooked to absolute perfection. CAPO isn't just a great restaurant -- it's a dining experience, and one that has stood the test of time. Consistent, elegant, welcoming, and unforgettable. If you're looking for a place that delivers every single time, this is it. Highly recommended. read more

you want to order the rigatoni tartufo you want to order the rigatoni tartufo you want to order the rigatoni tartufo dont look at the prices they are all made up numbers. also bring a flashlight read more

I want to caveat that this is an expensive restaurant and you need to go into it knowing that. With that said the food was unbelievable and the wine selection is amazing. They do a lot of the dishes over a wood fire that you can see from the dining area (very Tuscan vibe). The caesar salad for instance is a half head of lettuce that is cooked over the fire (it is one of the best I've had). We actually sat at the bar, which was a real fun experience. read more

I would rate this place 100/10 if I could. Customer service is truly extraordinary. We didn't make dinner plans because we arrived late and decided to just figure it out. The maitre d was phenomenal and did everything he could to accommodate seating us even tho they were booked. He sat us by the fire to wait for an open seat. I felt like we were special even tho we were underdressed and exhausted. Our server was also exceptional. Literally every single staff member had a smile on their face. The Ragu was the best I've ever had as well as the steak and mashed potatoes. Soufflé was divine. If I have one critique so this doesn't come off fake, it's that the mashed potatoes were cold but they were so silky and the flavor was phenomenal. It is on the pricier side but totally worth it if you're looking to treat yourself. Updating bc I just realized when I checked our to go bag that our server gave us a little container of the dessert biscuits, I'm crying. That was so sweet. read more

See all

Nice dining experience as close as you can get Beachside in Santa Monica. Walking through the front door's curtain has a cool effect. Space feels like a rustic seaside cabin, but it is tightly lined with tables. We started with the Bluefin Tuna Tartare and Grilled Octopus & Calamari, and the Ceasar Salad. First time to have a grilled Salad but I particularly loved it. All others were tasty enough as well. For an entree, I took a chance on my first taste of Venison that was on special. Not Bad, but it is definitely a strong gamey taste. A nice size cut though. Dessert was an assortment of pastries and fresh fruit by request. Some quality items and berries came out that we could barely finish. I didn't want to be too discouraged by the reviews I saw. Yes Capo may be in a prime location. Servers were still polite and communicated well. Didn't fall in love with this restaurant but had a good experience and would not say no to going back. read more

The service: Excellent The food: Good. The price: WILDLY overpriced. $350 for my wife and I (includes 2 beers and a glass of wine) read more

Fantastic service, best ambiance, not much more I could ask for. Food was superb also, although the dessert wasn't loved by my companion I really liked it. read more

Capo - Dessert - Italian Near Me - Santa Monica, California

See all

Been a few times to Capo now and we're always so complimentary of the service and experience. Food is consistently executed well and the little luxuries of the glassware and service-ware really make you tip your cap to the restaurant. Conversation always seems seemless with no concern of how the night will go. Timing is paced but comfortable and am happy to pay a service charge with such a professional staff. read more

See all

First time visiting the restaurant and it is by far the best Italian restaurant I've been to for quite a while. Their signature Rigatoni Fartufo Ragu dish was 10 out of 10! The service was excellent. Old world style restaurant and ambiance with people enjoying their food was pleasantly satisfying. read more

Ngl, I never tell people abt this place bc it's my favorite and I don't want the possibility of never being able to get a reservation. Everything from the food, staff, and cleanliness is great. Always a treat to dine at Capo! read more

Outstanding, the corn ravioli with truffle was divine. A beautiful restaurant with impeccable service

Food was ok. There are better authentic Italian restaurants all over the city. The meatballs were way too salty and they were so small. The seared foie gras was ok - nothing to rave about. The lamb ragù was ok. The short ribs was not tender enough - it still had a chew. I was expecting fall of the bone, but it wasn't. The pumpkin ravioli was forgettable. Eggplant parm - nothing special. The chocolate soufflé was fluffy & tasted good at least. The place is small and can get stuffy when full. Menu is in Italian only & price is much higher than many Bev Hills Italian restaurants- you won't see any young crowd or influencers here. But you may bump into your friend's parents or aunts. Our waiter was off that night. Was trying to tell me that the Polpette on the menu was the octopus - he was nice, probably just an off day. $70 corkage fee. Valet only with fee. read more

See all

Good lord. Right when I thought I'd tried all the best Italian food in LA, I get humbled by simplicity. Tonight, I was invited to Capo by one of my top restaurant connoisseur friends, and a pretty well-known businessman. We had a late reservation, which I initially thought was odd that he was ok with, but then he assured me, "Trust me..... with Capo, it's worth the wait." That alone told me this was going to be anything but typical. Now, my friend is part of the uber-elite, so my experience may have been slightly skewed. Even though I made the reservation myself (a "nobody"), the host's tone may have shifted when he realized who I'd be dining with. The service was exceptional, reminiscent of the high-brow hospitality found at the Peninsula in London, the Four Seasons in Hong Kong, or the highroller VIP desks at the Bellagio or Wynn in Vegas. It is a proud, almost restrained service style that could be mistaken for pretension by some, but for me, it was a mark of their finesse and experience. Capo's decor isn't your classic Italian, but rather an eclectic, high-end display of art that feels both intentional and eccentric--think Andy Warhol meets Ian Schrager. Every piece works together to create an ambiance that feels luxurious without cliché. Capo's focus on simplicity is where they shine. By using the finest ingredients with precision, they achieve an incredible depth of flavor in every dish. Portions are refined, a nod to European dining where quality in small quantities reigns supreme. Here are my food highlights: - Rigatoni Tartufo Ragu, is probably one of THE best pasta dishes I've ever had. The aftertaste lingered so well, that I almost avoided dessert to preserve that sensation on my palate. If there is ONE dish you must try, it is THIS. The flavor is absolutely passionate, as if to kiss you back. 11/10. - Corn Ravioli, is another fantastic dish. Unfortunately for me, we were having dinner family style, and they paired this with the tartufo ragu, and I had already fallen in love with the other dish. But this ravioli, is easily the twin sister paramour. Soft, gentle to the palate, I never thought a "corn pasta" could taste so indulgent. 9/10. - Grilled octopus, was absolutely outstanding. I almost misbehaved tonight, and took more than my fair share, but I also didn't care. If you love your octopus, this will easily be one of your favorites. 10/10. - Chicken pomodoro, was another showcase of simple ingredients done to perfection. Beautifully presented and almost too good to share. 10/10. We finished with the chocolate soufflé and tiramisu--both excellent, though I admit I was still savoring that rigatoni. Capo isn't cheap, but neither is flawless craftsmanship. Like the Maine highway sign that reads, "The way life should be," Capo's mastery of simple perfection leaves you feeling this is how Italian food is supposed to be. read more

See all

Capo surpassed my expectations entirely. My girlfriend was recommended this place and I was a little hesitant due to the price. Let me tell you, it was totally worth it. The food was outstanding. The service was fantastic. We made a reservation an hour before and were seated at the bar. It was freezing outside and the host had us wait inside by the fire. They were so thoughtful and attentive throughout our entire dining experience. I rarely care enough to leave a review, but Capo and their staff truly deserve it. I will definitely be back! read more

Celebrated our anniversary here and the service was impeccable. The ambiance is cozy, unpretentious, and refined. The food was perfect and the portions were larger than I anticipated. The feeling inside the restaurant was relaxed, yet the quality of service was perfect. Thank you for a memorable evening! read more

See all

Went on a double date and ordered the toro tartare, grilled octopus, two different pastas, wagyu, ribeye, and berry cobbler. The two pastas and the ribeye were out of this world. Would definitely get those again. The other items were fine, but didn't stand out enough for me to want to order them again. read more

See all

Amazing Italian food. In particular the calamari- so uniquely done-- it's not deep fried like everyone else does it. Excellent wine list as well. Service was great. Pricy but worth it. We Definitely a solid choice for a special night out. read more

The only good were the atmosphere, the service and the bread basket. The tricolore instead of being tossed was arranged in three little tasteless piles. The veal scallopini came in a giant and unappetizing slab with tendons attached. The rack of lamb was not succulent or tasty. The chocolate souffle just tasted sweet without a deep chocolate flavor like a piece of Walmart cake. The prices were shocking. In addition to food my wife and I had a total of three glasses of wine. The complete bill-the restaurant tacks on twenty percent gratituity- came to 600! Don't bother wasting your money here. You'd be better off eating fifteen dinners for two at Denny's! read more

Capo's provided us with a delightful evening. The wait staff was by far the most professional and attentive I have encountered. Their recommendations for entrees and wines show their depth of knowledge. Each appetizer, entree and dessert was prepared and served flawlessly and tasted delicious. I will definitely be returning on my next trip to LA. read more

The kind of place that is loved by unintelligent people who equate expensive food with good food. The food is ok. I have been there twice. The second time was against my will. Both experiences were average. There are much better restaurants in LA. The prices are insulting. read more

After two people had suggested that I try your restaurant I was so excited to finally get to experience it. I must say that I love the location and the restaurant is nice and cozy. Great selection of wines . The food was just okay and overpriced. OK is not necessarily bad I just thought it was going to be more fine dining. The service was a bit rushed! The part that was most disappointing was the conversations among the servers and personnel. It was loud and not comfortable to hear things we don't need to know. Hopefully others won't have to experience the same. read more

I would say it's one of the best Italian restaurants in Santa Monica, but it does have some issues. It's really small and intimate on the inside, you feel like you are eating in someone's house. It reminds me of a few restaurants that I ate in when I was in Italy last so it had a very authentic feel to me. I am also half Italian so I feel I know good and bad Italian food. The issue we had is that a lot of the items are overpriced. For example steak tartare is $48 and a simple grilled Branzino is $85. For these prices we all felt the food wasn't special enough to justify the prices. They don't have a parking lot but metered street parking is easy to find or your other best option would be their valet for $15. Our server was very polite and all of our items came out very quickly. They were a bit slow on the drink refills, but aside from that everything else was very fast. I started off with the Filet Mignon Tartare and it was very good, although it didn't have any spice to it so wish it had some mustard or horseradish to it because it felt a little dry to me. Also expensive for $48 which I don't understand, but I did enjoy it. For my entree I chose the Bucatini with Lamb Ragu and it was fantastic. The portion was a bit small but it had really great and deep flavors. After I finished with the Chocolate Soufflé and it was A+. I truly loved it and would highly recommend ordering it. Overall a nice dinner in a beautiful location although it is overpriced. I would recommend but the price points are really strange. read more

See all

I don't miss much about living in LA, but Capo is one of the few. I've never had a bad meal here. Everything from the food, to the service, to the - ambiance is top notch. The restaurant is very unassuming from the road, vut once you enter you'll understand. I personally prefer sitting inside- there's art everywhere (even the glassware) and the bar is super intimate and comfortable. However, there's also a nice patio (since covid). While the food/drinks are expensive, it's worth it for the experience. The wine list and cocktail menu are out of this world, and the complimentary tray of cookies at the end of your meal are always a delight. Additionally, if you can't decide on a pasta dish, you split a dish to contain 2 which is so appreciated. Some of my favorite dishes: - White corn ravioli with black truffles -Rigatoni with truffle meat sauce -Artichoke hearts -Souffle -Grilled caesar -Octopus Some things to note: - Definitely make a reservation (even for the bar) - If you bring your own wine it's a $75 corkage fee (there was one instance that we were not advised of the price prior to them opening it which was a little frustrating, so just be aware) read more

See all

Way overpriced! The atmosphere is nice and the food was good, but not amazing. The service was okay. The staff seem to all run around, but still don't refill drinks timely. I always have a problem with a set 20% service charge. It is not the responsibility of customers to pay good wages to their workers. I am not planning to return again. read more

Easily will become one of your favorite spots to go to. Everything is great. The service, food, bevies, ambiance is chill and lively.

Dear Capo Management, I am reaching out to bring a deeply disappointing and unacceptable experience to your attention. On Saturday February 1st 2025, I dined at Capo and spent over $700 expecting a high-end experience that matched your restaurant's reputation. While the food and service at our table were excellent, my experience was completely overshadowed by the behavior of your kitchen staff. As I am bilingual in both English and Spanish, I understood everything being said behind the scenes. Unfortunately, I overheard multiple inappropriate and transphobic jokes being made by the cooks. As a trans woman, it was not only hurtful but also deeply unprofessional and unacceptable. No guest--especially one supporting your business at a premium level--should ever be subjected to discrimination in any form. I expect Capo to take this matter seriously. Your restaurant's reputation is built on excellence, and that should extend to ensuring a respectful and inclusive environment for all guests. I would like to know what steps will be taken to address this behavior so that no other guest has to endure a similar experience. I look forward to your response. Sincerely, Lana read more

On short notice they were amazing!! ! They put us at a table squeezed in when they really didn't have the room. That was sooooo kind!! The food was PERFECTION!!! And the wine recommendation was SUPERB!! Kosi Brown pino noir is a new favorite! Service impeccable. Capo should be on the 10 best Italian places in America! Loved the original art! The Italian rustic charm was endearing! Good Gracious, the food stole the show it was so good! read more

See all

Great service, delectable food. Quality is their mantra. Atmosphere is warm and the decoration original but not overwhelming. It's perfect. I recommend the wagyu zabuton and of course the berry crumble for dessert. Been here a few times and it never disappoints. read more

This was our first time at Capo. The food was outstanding and the service was wonderful. What put a bad taste in our mouth was putting on the menu "20% service charge automatically added so we can give our staff a living wage". Do you mean to tell me that when people are paying $300 a head for a meal, you cant afford to give your staff a living wage? Just pay them properly. On top of it, at the end, the server said we were welcome to leave an additional tip so that it could just go to the wait staff and not have to be split with the kitchen. When you are charging $41 for a piece of burrata and a couple of vegetables on a plate, the margins are there, and I shouldn't have to pay extra on top of that so you can pay your staff properly. If you are going to have what amounts to a built-in surcharge, fine, but suggesting additional "gratuity", and the way it was presented, was obnoxious. read more

Very surprised by the high ratings this restaurant has. I'll preface this by saying that we love to dine out and are very accustomed to high pricing at LA restaurants. While Capo had a nice vibe and the food was tasty, it was extremely overpriced. You can't get a glass of wine for less than $35 a piece and it's far from a generous (or even standard) pour. In fact, we had to say something when we saw the waiter pour the wine, because it was a bit unbelievable (offensive even). When asked to top it off, he looked at us bewildered and poured the tiniest splash, making zero difference. The value is not quite there with the exorbitant pricing. The experience was fine, but overall, it's not very special. They also include a 20% service charge "to pay their employees a livable wage" AND ask for a tip on top, which really rubbed us the wrong way. While we support wait staff receiving a livable wage, that shouldn't rest on the guests to cover in addition to the expectation that we tip on top of that. Your money can go much further at other incredible Italian spots in the area (Barrique is a must!) read more

What a fantastic experience and the best Italian meal I have honestly ever had! From the drinks, dinner and dessert I can't express how delicious it was!! And the staff was incredible!! What ambiance this restaurant has!! I could go on and on. Just incredible read more

Capo - Tiramisu! - Italian Near Me - Santa Monica, California

Outlandishly overpriced remarkably ordinary food ! The decor looks like kitsch picked up at a flea market . Service people were nice but I haven't had issues with service people anywhere . Would definitely not recommend this restaurant ! read more

Wow. Very intimate restaurant. Perfect for small groups or date night. It's full of vintage art. The waiter was very insightful about wine and the menu. I got the filet and it was worth the price. Well worth the price. One of the best steaks I've ever had. The appetizers were good too. And of course had to finish off with the chocolate lava cake. stunning. read more

See all

Out if town guests, trying out this restaurant. Saying it was awesome is an understatement. We had the best experience from service to food and ambiance. Everything was way above expectations, which where high!! Our server Demetri guided us through the menu, had great suggestions and was so kind to explain everything. My husband and son got to look into the kitchen and watch everything made from scratch. Our food was delicious. We had the crab cake, rigatoni, fettuccine (special), fillet mignon and espresso martinis. All was delicious and we would order again. 10 out of 10!!! read more

Capo - Espresso martini - Italian Near Me - Santa Monica, California

See all

I discovered CAPO by a local that told us it was one of the best restaurants around this area and he was right, I LOVED IT! If you live in LA or you just visiting but want to have a nice, elegant, intimate dinner away from the craziness and business of other restaurants in the city, this is the place. The room is small but cozy, it has a chic bar and there's art in all the walls. The server was very attentive and knowledgeable. He made us some suggestions about some cuts of meat and fish that can be cook in a fireplace-grill. On your way to the restroom you pass by the open-fire grill and can appreciate how effortlessly the man cook each cut to perfection. We ordered the tuna tartar, the corn ravioli and the branzino which was OUTSTANDING! It was cooked in the fire-grilled that gave it the smoky taste yet so tender. Everything was delicious. By the way, the wine-list is incredible, so many options. To pair with our meal we had an amazing white wine (chardonnay) that the sommelier suggested for us from Burgandy. The whole experience was lovely and we are definitely coming back. read more

See all

I had a great experience here and would have come back again until the snarky waiter asked for a tip over and above the 20% service fee included on the bill. Cringe. Ruined my experience and I doubt I'll return. Too bad, otherwise loved the food and ambiance. read more

The food here is fantastic. One of the best restaurants in this area! The white asparagus was amazing read more

Capo is an elegant 5-star experience...with outstanding food, romantic ambience and stellar service. Food selection is outstanding...all amazing choices for appetizers, fresh pastas, various meats, seafood, and of course desserts. We loved their cocktails and the server suggested some fantastic bold red wine that we enjoyed, and our favorite dishes included: Octopus 'al forno' Piccante Romaine 'alla Griglia',Tartufo Bianco Caesar (wonderful smoky flavor) Corn Ravioli, Tartufo Bucatini Lamb Ragu Prime Rib Chop Short Ribs Chianti Hot Apple Tart The atmosphere at Capo is intimate as it is a smaller restaurant - and I recommend dining in the main, formal dining room. Capo is not a restaurant to be missed when in Santa Monica. Amazing food, great service, awesome cocktails and wine, with a fantastic near-ocean Santa Monica location. read more

Cap catered our surprise beach engagement and went above and beyond to make it special. They were extremely helpful with organizing and even walked some of the food to the beach. Amazing service--I highly recommend them read more