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

Five years of coming here for convenience--not because the food is special (it isn't), but because it's close. What is special is the selective visibility: female customers are optional, male customers get eye contact and service. Today confirmed it. I asked a waitress--card terminal in hand--to let us pay. She suggested I navigate the crowded counter instead. Seconds later, my husband returned from the restroom and suddenly she reappeared, smiling, with takeout containers and the card terminal. Amazing how service improves with a Y chromosome present. I paid, tipped, and left unimpressed. Kindness shouldn't be gender-specific. If you're visiting Santa Monica looking for a warm American diner experience, I'd look elsewhere. read more

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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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

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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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

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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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

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

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

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

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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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

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

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

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

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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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

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

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.

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

I'm a woman who doesn't eat large portions so Rae's portions suit me just fine - and the price is perfect. I like their patty melts, chicken salad and egg salad sandwiches and their Denver omelet (tho' this used to come as a sandwich with two eggs (the omelet comes with 3 eggs and is usually too much for me to finish, so I take leftovers home) but I would prefer the 2-egg sandwich. Occasionally I get their breakfast of 2 eggs, 2 slices of bacon, potatoes and toast. Again, you can get bigger portions at other places (at a cost of almost twice as much) but with my small appetite, Rae's portions suit me fine. I like the place, tho' it might not be everyone's cup of tea. 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

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

A diner on Pico! We walked in at almost 9 on a Saturday morning and they were packed. We thought we might have to eat at the counter (which might have been fun) but there was a 2 seater tucked away in the corner. We were quickly asked our drink order and it was brought in less than 2 minutes. The coffee was very good. Served in old school thick white mugs, it added to the diner feel. Soon after the waiter took our order. Because they were busy I expected to have a bit of a wait. But no, it felt as fast as my husband cooking breakfast at home. The server was pleasant and checked on us just enough so we felt noticed but not ignored. I ordered 2 eggs over medium, sausage, potatoes and toast. Pretty basic but at a new place its that or Benedict. Sort of a test breakfast. They passed though if I had to be picky...my over medium egg could have been a hair, just a hair jammer. Hubby ordered the pork chop, eggs, potatoes and biscuits & gravy. I ordered toast and he ordered biscuits & gravy so we could share. He said the pork chop was cooked as expected. It's hard to get a pink center on a thinner cut pork chop. It was tasty. It honestly reminded me of my mom's cooking. His eggs were cooked just as he asked, over easy. Both our potatoes were good. Nothing special but good. Now to the biscuits & gravy. I didn't want to rave and cally friends to tell them to go there but also won't complain. The biscuit ( a single for breakfast side as I expected) was flaky. It was hard to tell if it was a true homemade or a mix but it was good. The gravy was, again, good but not " OMG" good. Overall I would happily return and recommend others visit. It has a "locals" feel to it and we felt welcome. Good food. Good service. Good review! Enjoy your visit for breakfast or lunch. read more

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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I went there today for the first time and it will be the last one. No a/c nor. ventilation in a hot day. The seats covering is all worn out. I decided to try anyway. I had a Cobb salad abs fries. Fries were ok but the Cobb was poor. The dressing was milky with a couple of blue cheese crumbs. 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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Rae's have good breakfast here. I went for the Fried Cheese steak and Eggs breakfast. It taste delicious. It was our first time at the nice hidden gem inbetween Santa Monica and Westwood. The food has that 1950's diner taste and look to it. Nice owners and staff here. I will be back for more. read more

I accidentally submitted my Square review before saying how great the restaurant and the staff were so I'm doing it here. Love going to Rae's - like everyone else in the neighborhood. Lucky to get a patio table this morning with no wait. read more

Cute & Fun diner. Great food & friendly service. Lots of variety on the menu. Lots of specials. read more

Rae's Restaurant - Chicken Fried Steak Lunch Special - Diners Near Me - Santa Monica, California

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Rae's is a legendary spot that is what it is. A true dirty spoon that is cash only and has not had anything updated in decades Like many eating establishments I noticed the quality of food has gone down since the pandemic. It is still good but certainly not the best spot to get breakfast or lunch in town. For example the quality of egg in my Mexican omelette tasted almost fake. Everything else was fresh and delicious. What has not changed is how great the staff is. Friendly service and prompt. read more

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It's like going into a time warp.Back to the eighties or nineties, old school prices extremely fast service, courteous staff, and delicious food. I'll be back for sure!!! read more

Super cool vibes. An old school diner all the way Service was quick and the food was hot and delicious read more

Best diner in Los Angeles. Great food and quick service! The employees are really kind.

Wow, I'm sad to leave my regular spot, but I had such an unfriendly experience that I don't plan to return again. I checked in today for the waitlist and one of the regular servers points me to an empty counter spot as there were several open spots at the counter for solo diners. I sit down where she told me to sit and I'm drinking my coffee when the employee with the blunt chopped bangs angrily approaches me and yells at me about the wait list. I'm confused and try to explain that I'm sitting where I'm told to sit and she yells at me some more and the server that seated me explains what happened and they argue and I'm moved to a different counter seat. One of the other servers just gestures to ignore that woman. I would have brushed it off as a misunderstanding and it would have been nice to hear "whoops sorry, can you please move" or something, but then I watch how the other solo walk-ins are treated and suddenly she's nice as pie to all the men that walk-in and seats them with no problems. The woman with the bangs has always been unfriendly/hostile and I know she's aware of how she impacts others because I've heard her joke about her attitude with others during a previous visit. So I doubt this is an isolated incident, so that's why I'm writing this review. read more

Best Diner on the west side! If you want an old school diner experience with great food this should be your first stop. Great service as well. Highly recommend. read more