The Cloverfield
California restaurant honors its historic aviation past
The modern American restaurant with farm to table vibes has an extensive patio outfitted with umbrellas, heaters, and trailing houseplants, and a bright interior for those who prefer the indoors. Located slightly below the field elevation, a southwest-facing seat outside will still grant visitors a partial view of arriving and departing aircraft.
While The Cloverfield’s flying ties aren’t as obvious as the former restaurant (The Spitfire Grill), Southern California aviation historians will immediately see the connection. Before SMO was called Santa Monica Airport, it was Clover Field, named for World War I aviator (and Los Angeles local) Greayer “Grubby” Clover.
In addition to its name, the restaurant also highlights its aviation ties with a series of posters sharing “The Extraordinary History of The Cloverfield,” with such moments as the first flight around the world, to famous aviators who have flown in and the field’s involvement in the Second World War.
The restaurant offers lunch, dinner, and a social hour on weekdays, plus brunch on the weekends (it’s closed Monday and Tuesday). For a special experience, fly in for an afternoon meal, and plan to fly out around sunset. The lights of the Santa Monica Pier will be illuminated, and the departure from Runway 21 will take you right over the shore. Climb up to your cruising altitude as the light changes over the Pacific, the city lights blink on, and the red and white lined highways wait at a standstill below you. On a clear day, you’ll be able to see from Point Dume to the San Gabriel Mountains and beyond.
Not in the mood to fly or interested in trying a beverage? The Cloverfield has a parking lot and offers a smart collection of craft cocktails (including their take on the aviation cocktail, made with Aviation American Gin), local beer, and wine. Whether you fly in or drive (or walk, bike, hitch hike) check out SMO’s elevated airport viewing area before you leave and take a peek at the posters even if you sit outside.
Beyond the aviation ties the food itself is delicious, making The Cloverfield more than just a typical airport restaurant, and worthy of a visit on your next trip to Santa Monica.
