Best Restaurants in the South Bay with a View
There is nothing like savoring a meal where the view is as spectacular as the food. While restaurants in South Bay are known for their innovative menus and fresh Californian ingredients, these four South Bay restaurants have also managed to harness the beauty of the area. Next time you’re looking for a meal that is a sensory experience beyond your tastebuds, let your eyes take in the view from any of these spots.
Flora Rooftop Lounge
El Segundo is lucky to have Flora Rooftop Lounge, a whimsical New American restaurant in the AC Hotel that serves farm-to-table cuisine with a twist. With a menu composed of small plates, Flora encourages diners to create a shareable experience. Take in the scenic views from their garden rooftop as you sip on specialty cocktails like a Port of Call or Divya Spritz. Lean into the vibe on the weekends, and grab a cabana or sit by the fire pit while live music plays. Signature truffle fries are always a win, as are their flatbreads and innovative salads.
The Strand House
Located just above the shoreline, Manhattan Beach’s The Strand House offers 180 degree sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean. This family-owned restaurant is owned by South Bay locals that were inspired to create a sophisticated but comfortable restaurant designed to celebrate great food, wine, and friends. With a farm-to-table approach, The Strand House sources from local farmers' markets to infuse their menu with Californian products. Try one of their wood-fired pizzas, or chilled seafood offerings before finishing with house-made glazed donuts.
Vista
It’s almost impossible to get closer to the beach than Hermosa Beach’s Vista. Immediately adjacent to the soft sand beach, Vista may offer a view that epitomizes the area's laid-back beachy feel, but the menu demonstrates an elevated elegance well beyond a swim trucks and sandals vibe. Your tastebuds will thank you for your visit to Vista as you indulge in katsu calamari fries, dry-aged duck, and charred broccolini. Sip a featured Cali Coast or Summerland as you watch the sun set. The presentation of the food is sophisticated and plated to let each element of the dish stand out.
Sea Level
If you’re looking for views from Palos Verdes to Malibu, then Sea Level is for you. Located in Redondo Beach’s Shade hotel, this luxury restaurant and lounge will welcome you from the moment you settle on their plush outdoor seating to ending the evening by a fire pit. Enjoy modern cuisine with Californian influences at breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Try the Hamachi crudo from their raw bar, or slow braised short ribs at dinner. Weekend brunches offer a variety of dishes like lobster mac & cheese and green chilaquiles, while their aptly named Shade Hour gives happy-hour deals like oysters and $8 cocktails.
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