South Bay Through a Local’s Eye: Kate Carruth
Photo by AllieDeariePhotography
They say home is where the heart is, and after seven years in the South Bay, I can say this is officially true for me. As an Oklahoma transplant, I appreciate every moment of sunshine and glimpse of the ocean that the South Bay offers. This area truly has it all — from the fabulous food scene tucked away in unexpected corners, to the stunning outdoor activities that make every day an adventure, to the unique little shops that always manage to surprise and delight me. I'm excited to share some of my favorite spots in this vibrant community, and I hope they inspire for you the feelings of wonder and awe that I experience every day.
Topaz Street Surf Break
REDONDO BEACH
As a novice surfer, the El Porto break can be intimidating for me even on a good day, so my favorite spot to paddle out in South Bay is in Redondo Beach at Topaz Street! Not only is the view gorgeous from the top, but the waves below are much kinder to those of us still getting our sea legs.
Jame Enoteca
DOWNTON EL SEGUNDO
Hidden away in the corner of an El Segundo shopping strip is the not-so-secret Jame Enoteca - a husband & wife run Italian restaurant with California influences that I always seem to be craving! Having just opened in 2019, Jame survived the pandemic and has been flourishing ever since. I love their charred veggies and hand rolled pastas, especially the spicy rigatoni! They just expanded their bar as well, and the vibe is as satisfying as their wine selection.
Pancho's Comedy Night
EL PORTO
Every Monday night at 9pm, Pancho’s in El Porto hosts a Standup Comedy Show for FREE99 in their bar! This show has been going on for 10 years and the comics that come through are some of the best in the biz wanting to test out new material and have a good time with good people. Most Monday's this is probably where you'll find me - laughing a little too loud with my margarita and fresh guacamole!
Pursue Coffee
HERMOSA BEACH
I discovered Pursue Coffee quite recently. A new-to-me coffee shop that's been a long time favorite for many Hermosa & Redondo residents. The owners are behind the counter every morning baking fresh banana bread, gluten free blueberry muffins, and possibly the best scones I've ever had! Rumor has it they make the best matcha latte in LA too (ceremonial!), though I've yet to stray from their Signature Real Vanilla Bean Latte with Oat Milk...YUM!
Early Morning Bike Rides
THE STRAND
So South Bay basic, I know! But having grown up in Oklahoma, living next to the beach is a luxury never lost on me. Cruising down the strand during the quiet hours of sunrise, I'm still in shock that I get to have the beach in my backyard. My favorite start to the day is a strand bike ride to a neighboring beach city to enjoy a latte and the local company before biking home.
Tapas at Barsha Wines & Spirits
MANHATTAN BEACH
Sometimes I want to be in one place where I can do it all - shop, sip, snack - and Barsha Wines & Spirits lets me do that! This Wine Store turned Tasting Room turned Tunisian Tapas Bar is a favorite for my ladies nights, weekend dates, or when I have the munchies and want to feel internationally sophisticated about it. With a knowledgeable staff and excellent menu, their full restaurant in Hermosa Beach is never far from my cravings either.
photo by WorkofArt
Card Section of "Curious..."
HERMOSA BEACH
I take an unusual amount of joy from greeting cards. I've been lingering in the aisles of Walgreens and CVS' reading cards for decades, but nothing is better than the cards at Curious…! Original, creative, sassy, thoughtful, appropriately crass, and most of all hilarious, these cards are basically staple reading material and have become my go-to gift accessory.
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There's always more to explore in the South Bay! Keep following along with South Bay Days and find your new favorite hidden gem. Or, join our newsletter for up and coming non-spammy intel such as The Best Taco Tues Deals, Outdoor Workouts Beyond the Strand, and the Ultimate Guide to South Bay’s Happy Hours!
