Set the scene.
When people think of Venice Beach they may assume it is just window-shopping on Abbot Kinney and Barbie rollerblading down the boardwalk. However, this suburb is full of sweet spots and hidden corners. In between the more touristy hotspots, Rose Ave is adorned with the stylish cafes and local restaurants that make this area so beloved by locals.
American Beauty is a neighborhood steakhouse that emulates that idyllic, laidback glamor that gives Venice its charm. Located just a 15-minute walk from the beach, American Beauty’s patio is colorful and sandy. Their indoor seating offers a lively bar as well as quieter, plush booths.
This outdoor area comes alive in the warmer months – which are plentiful in Los Angeles – but it also feels cozy and warm in the winter. The space is outfitted with fire pits, heaters, and blankets, making it as inviting as a beach bonfire or backyard barbecue.
What can we expect from the food?
American Beauty’s menu features a range of beef cuts, grades, and aging techniques. Each steak is grilled over an almond wood fire and finished with butter and salt. This gives them a rich, nutty flavor, allowing the meat to shine without too many frills.
American Beauty is also known for its fantastic appetizers and seafood plates, which are perfect for sharing. Although it may seem ironic that bread is one of the most popular dishes at a steakhouse, its grilled flatbread blends sweet and savory flavors with labneh, smoked honey, and salt crystals.
Their calamari also features a unique pairing with furikake seasoning and lime aioli. Each piece is perfectly fried with a crispy, flaky skin that is balanced by the citrus subtlety of the sauce.
While American Beauty is best known for their dinner dishes, their casual daytime menu, the Win-Dow, also offers fantastic lunch deals for beachgoers and neighbors. This affordable menu serves classic burgers, fried chicken sandwiches, and grain bowls.
Don’t skip the drinks.
American Beauty’s wine list boasts 200 selections from around the world. However, they prominently feature their California-based wines, including Chardonnay from Mendocino County and Cab Sauvs from Napa. They intentionally offer multiple red options that are meant to be paired with steak.
The bar offers any classic cocktail you can think of – including their take on a dirty martini that uses bay leaf-infused vodka – but you can’t skip the custom cocktails. Their “Do It For Your Health” cocktail looks more like an Erewhon juice with tamarind, carrot, ginger, and a mint garnish. But don’t worry, it does also contain rum. The “I’m Not Down” is a delicate gin drink with Earl Grey, honey, lemon, and egg white.
They also have some of the most affordable canned beverages and draft beers in town, making it easy to indulge and relax after the inevitable food coma hits.
Final thoughts?
In a city that is often mistaken for shallow or showy, American Beauty shines as a food destination that is welcoming, unpretentious, and truly delicious. Dining here feels like going to a bonfire, except that it has a far better wine list.
Top Takeaways
Location: Venice Beach, California
Address: 425 Rose Ave, Venice, CA 90291
Cuisine: Steakhouse that also offers seafood and top-notch appetizers.
The vibe: Beachy neighborhood spot with outdoor fire pits and an open-air bar.
Pricing: $$
Takes reservations? Resy. While this spot has a laid-back vibe, book ahead for weekends.
Attire: Casual. Come after a beachy day with salt in your hair or bundle up by the fire.
Breakfast, lunch, dinner: Dinner. The window serves lunch but has a different menu.
