UCLA Santa Monica Medical Center - Cafeteria

1250 16th St, Santa Monica, CA 90404, United States
+1 310-794-5335
$$$ Cafeteria
(27 Reviews)

Welcome to the UCLA Santa Monica Medical Center Cafeteria, a hidden gem offering more than just a meal within the heart of one of LA's leading hospitals. This cafeteria represents the perfect blend of culinary care and comforting ambiance, making it a vital stop for visitors, families, and staff alike.

As the sun streams through large windows, the warm and inviting space buzzes with activity—nurses sharing a laugh, patients enjoying culinary delights, and families gathering over a shared meal. The atmosphere here is remarkably friendly, echoed by consistency in customer feedback, which highlights the exceptional service provided by an attentive and professional staff.

What sets the UCLA Santa Monica Medical Center Cafeteria apart is not just the warm welcome but the quality of food on offer. With an eclectic menu that steers clear of typical cafeteria fare, customers rave about dishes that range from palate-pleasing pastas and perfectly broiled salmon to refreshing salads and rich soups. The attention to culinary detail transforms hospital dining into a delightful experience, making it a favorite not just for patients and families but for anyone seeking quality meals at budget-friendly prices. For example, breakfast options like fluffy scrambled eggs and savory turkey patties can be enjoyed for less than $5, making it a fantastic value for those on the go. And if you're in the mood for something made-to-order, the friendly staff, like the ever-smiling Diana, are always ready to whip up something fresh just for you.

The heartfelt reviews from customers bring this cafeteria to life. Mark Lyon's touching account highlights the compassion and professionalism of the entire staff during a challenging time. He noted the frequent updates on his wife's surgery, showcasing the sincere care that transcends standard service. Meanwhile, guests like Frank Zhou declare this cafeteria as "the best hospital cafeteria in LA,” impressed by both the tantalizing food and the genuine warmth exuded by the team.

Additionally, feedback suggests that the cafeteria is not just for patients—it's a place where locals would gladly return for the culinary experience, with Christopher White noting the need for transparency in operational hours to ensure everyone can enjoy a delicious meal. The cafeteria's popularity is evidenced by its crowd, ensuring that even as a hospital dining option, it stands head and shoulders above many restaurants in the vicinity.

In conclusion, the UCLA Santa Monica Medical Center Cafeteria is far more than just a place to grab a bite; it’s a comforting space that provides nourishing food and exceptional service during critical moments. Whether you’re visiting a loved one or simply in search of good food at a reasonable price, this cafeteria is sure to leave a lasting impression—one bite at a time.

Service options
Takeaway
Dine-in
Delivery
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible car park
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Payments
Credit cards
Openings Hours
Checking

Monday

06:30 AM - 12:00 AM

Tuesday

06:30 AM - 12:00 AM

Wednesday

06:30 AM - 12:00 AM

Thursday

06:30 AM - 12:00 AM

Friday

06:30 AM - 12:00 AM

Saturday

06:30 AM - 08:00 PM

Sunday

06:30 AM - 08:00 PM

27 Reviews
Mark Lyon

24 Sep 2025

Wonderful experience with my wife's surgery. Literally everyone there was friendly, professional and helpful. From the valets to the docs. Frequent updates by phone eliminated the need for me to sit in the waiting room. Wife home the same day, but also thrilled with the kindness, understanding and professionalism. Thank you!

Time2danz

05 Sep 2025

This place is amazingly warm and friendly. If you bring someone they must show their Vax card or wait in the lobby

WJ MirSan

04 Sep 2025

The food is really descent here from the pastas to salmon, the salads to soups and pastries unlike other hospitals. Not to brag but overall UCLA is a class on its own and the staff from the medical professionals to the cafeteria staff members are great.

Christopher White

03 Sep 2025

The culinary experience was exceptional. However, it would be greatly appreciated if you could provide the specific hours for senior dining, particularly the start time for dinner, which is currently listed as 3:30 p.m.

eriko p

12 Aug 2025

Great bang for your buck! The breakfast is very reasonable. Scrambled eggs with 2 turkey patties are less than $5. There is a nice selection of pre-made items such as the scrambled eggs and sides, but they can also make breakfast for you as you wait. Diana was working when I arrived and she always has a wonderful personality and smile. For breakfast, arrive before 10am, when they switch out and prepare for lunch. The staff are friendly. You can either sit inside or outside in the patio, or take it TO GO. Nothing fancy or special, but the food is pretty good for breakfast on the go. The atmosphere is a hospital cafeteria. However it is very clean and organized. There is indoor dining areas as well as outside patio seating.

John Yanagisaws

28 Jun 2025

This was a trip of it's self. As a cafeteria in a hospital the food was good. Better than places on Wilshire across the street. It was a real pleasant surprise. Over a week breakfast meals were good and lunch with a pizza not bad. Dinner was really good.The price very reasonable.

Frank Zhou

15 Jun 2025

The best hospital cafeteria in LA!!! All of the staff here are so friendly and welcoming, the food is tasty and has lots of variety, and the prices are CHEAP! I would come here for food even if I didn't need to come to the hospital.

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