If you're looking for an iconic 50s diner experience with great food this is the place in Santa Monica. There's a nice patio and the service was prompt and attentive. I had a chorizo omelette and corned beef hash which were excellent and filling before I went to see a play at the Morgan Wixson theatre down the street. Prices are also very reasonable for an expensive town. Recommended. read more

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The food isn't that good, but it kind of doesn't matter. Weird statement for a restaurant but hear me out. I live in Santa Monica which means I'm surrounded by overpriced trendy restaurants that capitalize on their location by overcharging on their menu. No qualms with that. That's what you have to expect when you live here. And then you have a spot like Rae's. Rae's is a classic diner vibes in every sense of the word. It almost looks like a place out of time with how retro it is, but it works. Can you expect the best meal of your life? Absolutely not. Can you expect an authentic diner experience with questionable but unlimited coffee and everything you expect a diner to have on the menu for under $15? Absolutely. Personally, I like that places like this still exist and there is no better cure for a hangover than a breakfast at a diner like Rae's. read more

Boy am I lucky to have found Rae's! The best Diner on the WestSide. The food is freshly made and delicious. I ordered "The Hobo" which includes 3 eggs any style, 2 sausage, ham, and 2 slices of bacon along with 3 pancakes! We were there Sunday morning and the place was packed. Nothing fancy here, a casual atmosphere with affordable good eating! read more

Rae's Restaurant - "The Hobo" 3 pancake....with 3 eggs, sausage, ham, and bacon!!! - Diners Near Me - Santa Monica, California

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Came here on Labor Day morning for breakfast. The place is nice and cozy inside. It was busy but I got seated quickly. The staff are friendly. I ordered eggs, sausage and potatoes with whole wheat toast. The food came out at a pretty descent time. The food was good. It was breakfast, I didn't order much. They do have a decent amount of stuff on the menu. Definitely will be back. Prices are very good. I paid $12.65 read more

A Small Place Where The Locals go For a Great Meal, Cooked Properly at a Great Price. Parking may be Diffcult to Find ... But Hey, Welcome to California! I Love This Place. Worth Every Penny! Can't Wait to Go Back! read more

Rae's Diner in Santa Monica is one of those spots that just feels iconic the second you walk in. Hollywood's shot movies and music videos here for years, and you can see why, it's pure classic diner energy. Stopped by for breakfast and got their fried chicken steak with gravy. It was crispy, tender, and the gravy ties it all together. Rae's isn't trying to be anything fancy, it's just a real piece of Santa Monica history that still hits. read more

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Still the best chicken fried steak in LA county, probably all of California!! They still got it...and going strong! I will occasionally get an itch for chicken fried steak perfection and that's an itch not many places can scratch - but Rae's is at the top of the list for those places. Come especially if you can't find anyone to join you for a beautifully "unhealthy" breakfast and sit at the counter where you can watch these amazing short order cooks work their magic - it's a well-oiled machine! But take note that they stop serving at 2:00 pm so don't think you're coming for a late lunch or dinner. As mentioned I got the Chicken Fried Steak breakfast ($12.95) under Farm Style Breakfasts. It is chicken fried steak which is breaded & fried ground beef (which makes it easy to cut with a fork) seasoned and cooked to perfection, smothered in cream gravy worthy of such a meal. It comes with 3 eggs, potatoes and choice of bread (or $.92 for biscuits and gravy - which I highly recommend! - their gravy is homemade in-house and is fantastic!!) This has been consistently amazing over the past decade for me. Again, if you are craving an amazing chicken fried steak, read more

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Ted Delgado, Rae's owner, is the main reason why Rae's is alwayss busy. He sets a very high standard for service and food. He really knows how to make the customers happy. Over the past three decades I have probably been to Rae's several times a year. This has to be the most consistently good restaurant in Santa Monica. I cannot help myself. I often have the 2+2+2. hotcakes, over medium eggs and sausages or canadian ham. Rae's always makes it perfect. I cannot remember what my friend had but they were also very happy with their food. The prices are very affordable. Rae's wait staff were very attentive and professional. They made a very enjoyable experience on the outdoor patio. They also did not mind that Shmoo was sunning himself and sometimes in the way. They brought him a big bowl of water. read more

Rae's Restaurant - Shmoo! - Diners Near Me - Santa Monica, California

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What I Ordered: -Chicken Fried Steak w/Biscuits and Gravy $13.17 This classic 50's diner is visually pleasing, and the food is excellent - it's so good, I had to write a review! Finding biscuits and gravy with the right texture isn't easy, but theirs are soft, fluffy (almost like pancakes) and smothered in a rich, white gravy. The Chicken Fried Steak came with 3 eggs, cooked perfectly sunny-side up, and had a nice breading. The homestyle potatoes were excellent, but could have used some chili or salsa. Luckily, I asked, and the server kindly brought some over. The salsa wasn't the best, but it wasn't the worst either, and it added the perfect amount of spice. The service was attentive from the start; they refilled my water without asking and allowed me to choose any seat, even though I was alone. Rae's exceeded my expectations. The biscuits and gravy and chicken fried steak were both delicious; there wasn't a bad dish. I'll definitely be adding Rae's to my favorite diners. You won't be disappointed here! The diner is visually pleasing, with tasty, affordable food - everything you want in a diner and more! read more

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I ordered the chicken fried steak with gravy and biscuits, and wow--the portions are huge! You could easily feed a family of three with one order. Great food at an even better price. The meal was delicious, and while there are a few details I'd rather not share publicly, I'd be happy to discuss them directly if the owners reach out. It's a cozy little diner, very family-friendly, and overall a pleasant place to eat. Highly recommend stopping by--it's definitely worth a visit. Also, shoutout to my server, Pedro, who was incredibly professional and made the experience even better. Thanks for reading! read more

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usually have a great experience at this diner, which is why today's visit was so disappointing. I ordered something I don't normally get--an egg salad sandwich--and it was a letdown from start to finish. The sandwich was about seven-eighths lettuce and tomato, with barely any egg at all. What little egg was there tasted off and unappetizing. When you open a sandwich and can hardly find the main ingredient, it feels like a complete miss. I want to be fair because the ambiance is always pleasant, and the staff--both waiters and waitresses--are consistently friendly and attentive. Unfortunately, the poor construction and quality of this sandwich really stood out. I've never had a worse egg salad sandwich, and it was surprising given how much I usually enjoy this place. read more

How in the world did this place get number 2 on the list? Doors open, flies flying around! Not one but two people forgot my coffee. I sat in front of the grill because I love the show. The show was not good! Never saw either guy wash there hands, even after handling raw bacon! Chopped everything on the same cutting board and just wiped it with the same cloth the whole time I was there. The food was prepared fast, but I want just a little love in the preparation. How has this place stayed open for so long, and gotten such good reviews? I will never go back read more

It's an old school diner which I usually love. But this place ain't it. I sat down and didn't get a menu or attend to until a while later. Not sure if they were understaffed or just slow or both. Food came out fairly quickly for me but the food was kind of bland. The biscuits and gravy maybe came out of a packet. The eggs were not seasoned. I think I might have been better off going to iHop or Denny's read more

Rae's Restaurant - Biscuits & Gravy Sausage Link and Egg - Diners Near Me - Santa Monica, California

The food was fantastic, if your a place that's pristine. This not the place for you. It's old and interior and worn. Never in a long time have I found a breakfast place that has great food. I made my order plates were served in about ten minutes. The Denver omelette was fantastic my wife pancakes and eggs with bacon excellent. I had chili on the side to go with my omelette "Oh My". My wife and will be back very soon. The prices are very reasonable. read more

Rae's Restaurant - Great breakfast food hands Down!!!! - Diners Near Me - Santa Monica, California

What is the matter with these reviewers. Rae's is not, by any stretch of the imagination, the "charming albeit slightly shabby classic iconic retro LA diner" that they've somehow deluded themselves into thinking it is. I went on a busy day so I had to sit at a janky countertop seat that was right next to the cash register and I did not see EVEN A PEEP of "retro design." It's literally just a shabby old restaurant in there!! Fairly indistinguishable from other restaurants built over various decades in LA. It's also super cramped, messy, not the cleanest, and not particularly friendly or welcoming. The overworked staff only had enough energy to perform the bare minimum of table service. About the only thing these clueless westside reviewers get right is the mediocrity of the food. There are much better diners in LA but I won't be naming any here. Y'all can just keep on patronizing Rae's. read more

Rae's is a nice old-school reliable diner--While it has it's hick-ups we will definitely return. Service was very friendly, though the food took too long, even while sitting at the counter. While waiting we enjoyed the coffee, it's much better that Pann's or Mel's. Don't sit by the bus station, it's unbelievably loud. We had to move because they crash the dishes into the bus tray constantly like it's a carnival game. After moving, we really enjoyed ourselves. The breakfast sandwich is very generous and tasty. I really liked the coleslaw with its lighter, vinaigrette-style dressing. Be sure to check their quirky hours before heading out. I prefer this solid diner over others in LA county. read more

I usually only post one- and five-star reviews, but I'll make the odd exception for these older, diner-type restaurants. This one really didn't merit either, but it's still worthy of comment. I'm trying to work my way through some of the notable old-school restaurants in the LA area, while I'm still here, so this was another check mark on the bucket list when I was in the area recently. I've heard from several people that this Unfortunately, this one didn't live up to the hype. It's certainly a historic venue, as it dates to 1958. The turquoise interior/exterior and mid-century mod sign are right out of the space age, and it appears that few upgrades have been made over the years, so it's very authentic. It's been featured in several movies, which at least contributes in part to its reputation, but I've been to several that are far superior in quality. Not great; not terrible - just kind of, meh. And, be forewarned: it's VERY small, so even on a weekday afternoon, be prepared to wait. There is now a small, outdoor seating area, which alleviates the pressure somewhat. I had a breakfast sandwich and pancakes, but honestly, it wasn't anything that I couldn't have made at home. Very basic, fairly small portions - but, on the flip side, the price was right - would have been under $20, but for the mug and the tip. Overall, I think I'd try somewhere else before returning, but I'm glad I did experience it. read more

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I'm still waiting to hear back on the status of my review. I can't believe that anyone would be ok with a staff member being rude to not just one customer but many. I'm so disappointed in the fact that anyone would hire someone like this person. read more

Rae's Restaurant - The host - Diners Near Me - Santa Monica, California

I've returned to my beloved Rae's after a year away. I'm happy to report that ,despite the new ownership, it seems like the staff has remained unchanged. Rae's has seen some changes in the past year but I'm happy to say the changes have been minimal. The food is still simple and delicious. No frills. Just classic American diner food. One thing that has changed that I always felt was missing from this Classic American Diner was some classic 1950s Doo-Wop music. I am pleased to say the music is finally present and my only complaint about Rae's for the past 37 years has now been addressed. I was originally disappointed with the changes I saw in Rae's at the beginning but after a year under new ownership it does appear that Rae's has kept its charm. Stop reading this review and head down to Rae's already! Just make sure you read all the parking signs before walking away from your car :) read more

Rae's Restaurant - The famous 2+2+2. Unchanged in almost 40 Years. - Diners Near Me - Santa Monica, California

Just left from Father's Day breakfast. Place is a bit small so there was a wait for 8. Food was amazing and service was good. Not bad 8 people for $170 including tip. read more

Marie's is a perfect throwback to the LA diners of old. Now sadly few survive. But Rae's is the real deal from architecture to food to vibe. Service was quick event after being seated read more

Rae's Restaurant - Diners Near Me - Santa Monica, California

First time visit. Needed a diner experience for an early morning breakfast on the west side, and Rae's did not disappoint. Simple, tasty food, served fast. If I'm ever back in town looking for breakfast on the west side, will surely return. read more

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Rae's never disappoints and is my favorite diner in LA. I love catching up with the staff and cooks, and the cheeseburger deluxe and fries never disappoints. A gorgeous old school diner with all the charm. I recommend sitting at the counter for the full experience. read more

Rae's Restaurant - Cheeseburger Deluxe - Diners Near Me - Santa Monica, California

Rude staff when I asked if the ownership changed they were offended. Then when they brought the food was even more terrible. How can anyone go wrong with potatoes and eggs Potatoes burned and gravy recipe was completely changed from what Ray's had originally made that was famous for. This place used to be a land mark because of what Ray's standards was for the food the served they have completely changed the menus Quality of the food very poor and gravy absolutely terrible. And they're not as clean as they used have back in Ray's days. Is sad used to be one of the most popular breakfast places but no longer. Waiter didn't speak any English. So sad but we and out friends will never go there again read more

Well damn! It seriously does not get much better than this! Wow! This may very well be my new all-time breakfast place! No joke! Delicious! 10 out of 5 stars! *The chefs and staff are AMAZING! read more

Rae's Restaurant - Veggie omelet with cheddar cheese and avocado added, a fried jalapeño, sourdough toast and coffee. delicious! - Diners Near Me - Santa Monica, California

Straight up diner. Courteous staff. Fast service. Gone here off and on for years. Yelp wants 85 characters but there's nothing more to say.

It does not get better than this for breakfast in Los Angeles. Rae's is a childhood classic for me, this is how I want all my biscuits and gravy to taste. It's simple, comfort food served at comfort prices. When I sit down at Rae's and look at the menu, it feels like the world slows down a little, takes a breath, and I am brought back to simpler, happier days. The food may not be winning any awards, but its hot, good, and honest. The service is good and feels homey, my coffee mug is never empty. Maybe you're an SMC student who needs breakfast. Maybe you're an SM local remembering old times. Or maybe you're just passing through and hungry. Go have breakfast at Rae's. You won't regret it. read more

The Beef sandwich with cheese on sourdough was pretty bad. I've had much better food at Rae's. And... Not 'glad to see you' friendly, just 'May I have your order, I'm busy'. read more

Local Spot. Always welcoming, Great Food, Friendly Staff. One of my favorite diners on the West Side. read more

Rae's Restaurant - Corned Beef Hash side of biscuits and gravy - Diners Near Me - Santa Monica, California

Still love this old-time diner with the classic feel, reasonable prices, fast & friendly service, and tasty food. They have seated service inside, and tables & chairs outside for dining, too. The pork chops & eggs is a favorite, but the chicken-fried steak is great, too. My new favorite is a new item on the board Spanish/Mexican steak & eggs, I think; comes on toast with mushrooms, onions, and chimichuri. Good omelettes, too. The Belgian waffle with strawberries is also very good, but the warm cinnamon roll really gets the morning going. They have funny prices which keep the penny alive. Plenty of street parking. read more

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They take credit card now. Parking is in the neighborhood or metered street parking The price and food quality are still the same. I think more young people know about the place and it has a hype now than when I went a year or so ago. The restaurant is crowded around 12:15pm on Sunday but we were seated immediately for a party of 5. Service was extremely fast, so did the food read more

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Good food and good service. Love the breakfast. very old place. The 1st Chair to your right as you enter the place at the counter is broken. If you sit there the counter is higher and it's weird. Parking is a little bit of hassle. read more

Just moved back to town after leaving 3 years ago. Went to see the homie for a cut and then we went and grabbed breakfast here. I think I may have been here with the wife back in like 2018 but I really don't remember. Regardless I will be back as this place was bomb. Had the Machaca. So good. Appreciate you guys. See you in a few weeks with the homie again soon. read more

Open since 1958 the prices have not changed much since then which is one of my favorite parts of this restaurant. It's one of the many classic LA diners but I would say it's one of the best in West LA. It's the classic 50s type diner, which I love. They don't have a very large menu, but have daily specials rotating. Our server was very polite, attentive, and did a great job. They only have parking for handicap right in front, otherwise you'll have to do street parking, which we did not have an issue finding for our Saturday morning brunch. It's larger on the inside and it looks on the outside. I really like the retro, foam green interiors and appreciate that they have booth and counter seating available. We started off with a warm Cinnamon Roll, which was really gooey and delicious. I chose the Hobo Breakfast with a coffee and was very happy after finishing it. It's basically three types of meat, pancakes, and eggs. For under $15 it's a real deal. Overall a great diner, and a really solid breakfast option over in Santa Monica. I would recommend to anyone and definitely plan to be back in the future. read more

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Food - I ordered the Steak and Eggs on Sourdough and it was so good! Cleaned my plate entirely. My friend got the veggie omelette and she felt it was also good - maybe only that the serving was smaller than she's used to. Service - Good! Nothing outstanding or exceptional, but also no complaints. Ambiance - Old school diner vibes were def in effect here. Exactly what I was looking for! Lots of street parking. Christmas decor and songs were cute! Only deducted one star for the host who seated us and was not very welcoming - looked grouchy most of the time. Otherwise, Rae's was great. read more

Ambiance: Feels like a family owned old school American diner. Situated on a corner, small establishment. Need to rely on street parking, no really parking lot. (To be expected being in Santa Monica). Food: Can't say it's the best, can't say it's the worst. Ordered steak breakfast and chili omelet. Steak was cooked right but had no taste of seasoning. I was asked if I wanted cheese on the chili omelet. Assuming that American omelets come with cheese by default, I said yes to cheese thinking they were going to sprinkle or put extra on top of the chili. The reality is there was no sign of any kind of cheese when the dish came. I actually had to dig into the middle of the so-called omelet to find what looked like a melted half-slice of American cheese. I seemed like hardly any at all. They charged me extra for the half-slice of American cheese, on an omelet.... I guess the omelet would not have had cheese otherwise and it basically would have been a rolled fried egg with chili poured on top. All that to say, a bit of a let down on what I thought an omelet would be.... Had to flag down a waiter to ask for water since table check-ins were minimal, guess water is not the norm. The biscuits and gravy side was OK, again not the best and not the worst. Overall: Pricing is what you would expect, food quality matches the ambiance if that makes any sense, and the overall experience is reflected by our rating. Don't think we will be repeat customers. read more

I like the food. I go there once a week for breakfast. I feel I don't get the same treatment as others. I'm Hispanic. And the people that work there are Hispanic. But I feel I don't get good Service. The lady that's there on Saturday or sunday morning has terrible customer service. I do like the food. They just need to treat everyone the same not just because I'm not white doesn't mean I should be getting the same treatment. read more

Unfortunately, this was a terrible experience. I try to never leave negative reviews- but the manager onsite was simply rude, unprofessional, and unpleasant. If you have a list of places to try in Santa Monica like I did- do yourself the favor and skip right over this one read more

Been coming here for over a decade, but after this last experience I will likely never step foot in Rae's again. We serve the community every week and placed a large catering order as a special treat for our guests - to ring in the new year. When I went in to pay the manager had the worst attitude I've ever seen at a restaurant. It was as if I was inconveniencing her to pay for the order that we placed. Another employee went out of her way to apologize to me for the managers behavior. I was really shocked and considered cancelling the order, but figured that she was just having a bad day. The next day one of our volunteers went to pick the order up, and informed conversation mentioned to me that the person who "helped" him was really rude. We pieced together that it was the same person, the manager, who seemed disgusted that we were serving the community. Up until this point I've had nothing but good experiences at Rae's - maybe this was a fluke. But it's enough to make me take my money elsewhere. If you can't practice basic customer service, don't go into a customer service industry! read more

Worst breakfast I've ever had it's definitely not the old Rae's that I remember canned gravy and boxed biscuits they were known for the biscuits and gravy also over cooked omelet definitely won't go back I don't know what lunch is like but I am afraid to try it read more