The Surfing Fox: Santa Monica's Coastal Gem

Santa Monica is known for its sun-drenched pier and vibrant boardwalk, but a new wave of culinary creativity is making its mark just steps from the sand. The Surfing Fox, nestled within the Pierside Hotel, offers a dining experience that perfectly captures the city's relaxed yet sophisticated energy. It’s a place where market-fresh ingredients and innovative techniques come together, creating a menu that is both exciting and deeply satisfying.

During a recent visit, the coastal-chic atmosphere immediately set a welcoming tone. The space is bright and airy, blending modern design with a laid-back beach vibe. But it's the food and drink that truly define The Surfing Fox. Guided by the culinary philosophy of Chef Irene Verceles and the inventive spirit of expert mixologist George (last name undisclosed), the restaurant is a testament to the power of fresh, local ingredients.

A Menu Inspired by the Market

Chef Irene Verceles has a clear and passionate approach to her cooking: let the ingredients speak for themselves. Her commitment to freshness is evident in every dish, sourced directly from the nearby Santa Monica Farmers Market. This connection to local purveyors allows the menu to evolve with the seasons, ensuring each plate is vibrant and full of flavor.

Standout Savory Dishes

This philosophy shines through in the dishes we sampled, each a carefully composed plate that balances complexity with clean, distinct flavors.

Harvest Bowl A perfect example of Chef Verceles's market-driven approach, the Harvest Bowl is a celebration of autumnal flavors and textures. Hearty farro provides a nutty base for tender delicata squash, which is elevated by a subtle maple chili glaze. The dish is grounded by a rich, caramelized onion puree and sauteed kale and mushrooms. A final sprinkle of pomegranate gremolata adds a bright, citrusy crunch that cuts through the earthiness, making every bite a dynamic experience.

Spring Pea Falafel Reimagining a classic, the Spring Pea Falafel offers a fresh and vibrant take. The falafel itself is light and crisp, with the sweet taste of spring peas at the forefront. It’s served with a Thai green curry sauce that provides a gentle, aromatic heat without overwhelming the delicate falafel. A cool, crisp cucumber salad on the side adds a refreshing contrast, completing a dish that is both innovative and comforting.

Fish Tacos A Southern California staple gets a refined update at The Surfing Fox. The tacos feature perfectly grilled mahi-mahi, flaky and moist. The fish is complemented by a smooth avocado crema and the satisfying crunch of purple cabbage and carrot escabeche. The combination is a masterful balance of textures and flavors—creamy, crunchy, tangy, and savory all at once.

Hot Chicken Sandwich For those craving something with a bit more kick, the Hot Chicken Sandwich delivers. A substantial, koji-brined chicken thigh is fried to a perfect golden-brown and seasoned with complex Oaxacan spices that offer layers of smoky heat. Served on a soft Portuguese bun with a cooling cabbage slaw to balance the fire, this sandwich is a standout. The accompanying fries, dusted with a spicy furikake, are addictively good and a brilliant touch.

Ceviche The Hamachi Ceviche is a testament to the kitchen's skill with pristine seafood. Silky slices of hamachi are cured in a bright, citrus-forward Mandarin-coconut leche de tigre. The "tiger's milk" is both creamy from the coconut and zesty from the citrus. Thinly sliced red onion and Fresno chile add a subtle bite and warmth, while bits of charred orange provide a surprising, smoky sweetness. It’s a sophisticated and refreshing start to any meal.

Craft Cocktails with a Personal Touch

The bar program at The Surfing Fox, led by mixologist George, is just as impressive as the kitchen. His approach is meticulous and creative, with a focus on house-made ingredients that elevate classic and contemporary cocktails. The cool part is that they make everything they possibly can in-house. George noted that all their syrups, all their cordials are made in house. We even dehydrate our own fruit for garnishes. It’s about controlling the quality and creating something unique."

This dedication is apparent in every sip. The espresso martini is rich and perfectly balanced, a far cry from overly sweet versions found elsewhere. It’s a smooth, sophisticated drink that showcases quality coffee and spirits.

The signature cocktails are where George’s creativity truly shines. The Prickly Pear cocktail is a visual and flavorful delight. Made with Lunazul tequila, the vibrant pink hue comes from prickly pear and a house-made hibiscus cordial. A splash of lime juice adds the perfect amount of tartness, resulting in a drink that is refreshing, floral, and beautifully balanced.

Another standout is the Grapefruit cocktail. This drink pairs Lunazul tequila with fresh grapefruit and lime, but the secret ingredient is a touch of gochujang. The Korean chili paste adds a subtle, savory umami and a gentle warmth that builds with each sip, transforming a familiar flavor profile into something entirely new and exciting.

The Verdict

The Surfing Fox is more than just a hotel restaurant; it's a culinary destination in its own right. The synergy between Chef Irene Verceles’s market-driven kitchen and George’s craft-focused bar creates an experience that is both authentic and inventive. It’s a place that honors the bounty of Southern California while pushing creative boundaries. Whether you're a local resident or a visitor exploring the coast, The Surfing Fox offers a delicious and memorable taste of Santa Monica. This is absolutely some of the best food in Los Angeles.

The Surfing Fox

Location: 120 Colorado Ave, Santa Monica, CA 90401

Website: https://www.thesurfingfoxsm.com

Hours of Operation:

• Sunday–Thursday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM

• Friday & Saturday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM

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I hope your hungry!!

Matthew Tropp | Food Journal Magazine