M.B. Post
Saturday, 07-02-2011
Manhattan Beach, CA
Former executive chef of Michelin-starred Water Grill David LeFevre left the fine dining scene to start his own place in the South Bay. His concept was (surprise surprise) causal upscale dining featuring small plates to share. Reservations at prime times have been difficult to come by, particularly on short notice. However, on the weekend I decided to give this place a try, he just newly introduced a limited happy hour menu. Thus I arrived late on a Saturday afternoon for some drinks and stayed at the bar to sample the full menu.
MORT SUBITE WHITE LAMBIC [$8.50]
Brouwerij De Keersmaeker, Kobegem, Belgium
MICHARONA [$7.00]
Tequila, Tomato, Corona
BACON CHEDDAR BUTTERMILK BISCUITS [$5.00]
Maple Butter
GRILLED NECTARINE TART [$11.00]
Whipped Ricotta, Arugula, Candied Walnuts
ZISSOU [$7.00]
Rum, Luxardo Cherry, Tangerine
PAN ROASTED BRUSSEL SPROUTS [$9.00]
Emmental, Hazelnuts, Sage
SLOW STEAMED TAI SNAPPER [$15.00]
Bok Choy, Sudachi, Lotus Root, Kaffir Lime
MEYERS FARM 'NEVER EVER' SKIRT STEAK [$17.00]
Grilled Broccolini, Red Chimichurri
MOROCCAN BBQ LAMB BELLY [$13.00]
Creamy Semolina, Cardamom Carrots
VERDICT:
Though the happy hour didn't really include any eye-opening deals, it did open the door to a great dinner menu. Each item ordered was better than expected and packed with bold flavors. Since the chef hails from a fine dining seafood establishment, the tai snapper was a no-brainer and it definitely compared favorably with any fish dish I've had in recent memory. The biscuits were so tasty it inspired my friend to create her own variation at home the next weekend. The vibe of the restaurant was right up my alley: relaxed and low-key. By the time 7olcock rolled around, the dining room was packed with people and with food so delicious, I could see why.
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