Le Pain Quotidien

very nice and cozy place with delicious and healthy food options. friendly and helpful employees. one of the best options near 3rd street promenade in santa monica.

We just recently discovered that this Belgian chain has a location in Santa Monica. We loved the quiet and chill ambiance at this location. Staffs are nice and friendly even though it is at the heart of the Santa Monica close to the 3rd street promenade. Of course their croissanta are no match to croissants in Paris but it's good enough for a little afternoon indulgence with a cappuccino.

My first meal in LA after a long flight.

I went there on Saturday morning without reservation. There were many people there but still had a table for us.

The atmosphere was nice and comfort. The food was great too. The price is a little bit high though.

Loved the experience. Would love to go back and try the eggs and toast! I had waffles with fruit which was good but not exactly what I was hoping for. The texture was a bit crumbly and sweet. My husband thought it was perfect. The bacon was thin and crisp...loved it!! Coffee got cold a bit too quick for me but was delicious and we could have had a 2nd pot free. Wonderful ambiance. I want to go back!!

Their breads, pastries and hot beverages are the real deal. You can choose communal seating at a very long table down the middle of the smallish dining room or a private table along the periphery. I once happened to sit across from Arnold Schwarzenegger and a couple of his kids at this place. There’s a pretty extensive breakfast menu with high prices, small portions and sincere quality in the ingredients and the recipes. This is a big national chain, but you wouldn’t know it from any single unit. It feels authentic and European. The dishes are somewhat innovative. The calories printed on the menu will blow your mind if you’re paying attention. You could easily eat your daily allotment of calories just at breakfast. Yikes. Not so different than Starbucks in that sense.