Water Grill (1401 Ocean Ave., Santa Monica, 90401; 310.394.5669) has now opened on the west side. It’s a brighter version of the Downtown spot that serves up incredible oysters, fish, and the best soup I have ever had. You’ll find a copper bar, sailing books, a raw bar, and an oyster shucking station.
Get ready to slurp down a dozen Kumamotos and wash ’em down with some Airmails (champagne, rum, lime and honey syrup). They also have 20 ounce lobsters; chilled shellfish; chowder; 14 types of oysters; wild Alaskan sablefish (black cod) with spring peas, pearl onions, fines herbes, and vermouth cream; king salmon with asparagus chutney; and salt caramel bread pudding. Full menu here.