Food + Drink Guide to LA Lifestyle Travel

A Foodie’s Guide to Where to Eat in Manhattan Beach

One of the cutest and coziest towns in Southwestern LA is none other than Manhattan Beach. A place perfect for vacations and weekend getaways. While there, indulge in local activities such as strolling the beach, playing volleyball, or trying some of their amazing restaurants. Check out our following list of recommended places  of where to eat in Manhattan Beach.

1. Esperanza

Location: 309 Manhattan Beach Blvd. Manhattan Beach, CA 90266

Just a short walk from the pier, Esperanza brings resort-chic Baja energy to Manhattan Beach – where familiar white walls with under toned lighting, decor, and elevated cocktails make every dinner feel like a getaway. The ambiance strikes that perfect balance between laid-back coastal luxury and elevated night-out, and the friendly staff make it feel like the kind of place you’ll want to linger long after the last margarita. Every table starts with freshly made tortillas served alongside honey butter, and two freshly made salsas, a craveable signature that instantly sets the tone (we’re choosing this over bread and butter any day). The appetizer menu is full of highlights, from fresh, citrusy bites like the Ceviche Tres Maneras to crispy, flavor-packed Short Rib Taquitos — just a taste of the delicious options designed to share. The star of the night? The Steak Fajitas — perfectly seared, sizzling, and seriously some of the best we’ve had. Wash it all down with the Frozen Mango Margarita for a drink that’s as vibrant as the atmosphere. From the music to the energy, Esperanza delivers a 5-star experience that beats a club any day.

Image Courtesy of Esperanza

2. Saint & Second

Location: 309 Manhattan Beach Blvd, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266

Tucked into the stunning Manhattan Village, Saint & Second is Manhattan Beach’s newest elevated hotspot – a polished, coastal-cool and our definite go-to pick for girls’ night or a cozy date night. Only a few months in and already buzzing, the space nails that modern, luxe-but-laid-back vibe with locally sourced, seasonal dishes and a standout bar program. The drink menu is literally a book, and we love it. The menu hits all the cravings: rich ricotta meatballs, perfectly cooked steak frites, a toasted tableside s’mores bar (yes, really), and a cappuccino that’s worth ending the night with. And with an extensive cocktail list and whiskey flights, the bar alone is a reason to go. Stylish, lively, and effortlessly elevated, Saint & Second is quickly becoming Manhattan Beach’s go-to for nights that feel special without the fuss.

Image Courtesy of Saint & Second

3. Manhattan Beach Post

Location: 1142 Manhattan Ave, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266

A warm and welcoming environment, Manhattan Beach Post offers a cozy ambiance and rustic inspired menu. Check out their brunch options which includes a variety of breads and pastries, hot griddled banana bread, apple cider churros, and shareable options like the grilled Mexican white shrimp, pan roasted salmon, and MB Post burger. With an extensive wine list including bubbles and rose, there are plenty of pairing options to go along with your dish. Dinner menu includes pasta, seafood, and meat options and delectable desserts such as the “Elvis” (inspired by the King of Rock n’ Roll) which contains bittersweet chocolate pudding, peanut butter mousse, and caramelized bananas and bacon brittle.

4. Tin Roof Bistro

Location: 3500 N Sepulveda Blvd, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266 

A beautiful and picturesque atmosphere, Tin Roof Bistro is a popular destination for many locals and tourists alike. Known for their vast amount of wines, guests will enjoy their many drink selections and outdoor patio space, perfect for date nights! Check out their appetizers such as the spicy tuna spring rolls, Indian-spiced spinach dip, and pan-roasted crab cake. Their dinner menu also consists of delicious  entrees from wood fire pizzas to pasta and seafood including fish n’ chips, the bistro burger, pan-roasted swordfish, and wine-braised beef short ribs. Offering a little bit of everything, Tin Roof Bistro has something for everyone’s appetite.

5. Brewco Social 

Location: 124 Manhattan Beach Blvd, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266

Just steps from the sand, Brewco Social is a Manhattan Beach favorite that recently had a facelift. Blending coastal charm with an elevated comfort-food twist. Start with their famous chicken wings or dive into fresh sushi rolls before moving on to the show-stopping mains. The Fish Tacos feature grilled branzino, cabbage slaw, chipotle aioli, and grilled pineapple salsa on artisan corn and flour tortillas—served with creamy Mexican street corn for the perfect coastal bite. The Fuch’s Office Burger  is equally unforgettable, stacked with a ½ lb. wagyu patty, gruyère and Maytag blue cheeses, caramelized onions, applewood bacon, arugula, tomatoes, and garlic aioli on a toasted brioche bun. This was to-die-for. Our favorite part of a restauramnt is truly the vibe, and the warm undertone lighting, ocean views, and an incredible staff set the mood for a relaxed yet refined dining experience – ideal for date night, happy hour, or an easygoing weekend meal. Did we mention their Happy Hour menu includes $10 apps and drinks, perfect for sharing and an after-work catch-up. And whatever you do, save room for the churros – crisp, golden perfection that ties together the entire Brewco experience. Pair it all with a local craft beer or beachy cocktail and let the ocean breeze do the rest.

6. North End Caffe

Location: 3421 Highland Ave, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266

Serving breakfast and lunch daily and dinner on Friday and Saturday nights, North End Caffe is the perfect place to try some delicious breakfast sandwiches and a variety of light bites. For their breakfast menu, check out their egg tacos, dos burritos, blueberry bacon pancakes, and sonoma toast. Also available are breakfast light bites including bagels, granola, and their chicken, beef, turkey, and veggie sandwiches. For heavier dishes, check out their hamburgers, hotdogs, and chicken strips. Using fresh ingredients, North End Caffe alos has outdoor seating available, and serves tapas style brunch all day everyday.

7. Ocean View Cafe

Location: 229 13th St, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266

Utilizing fresh and local ingredients, Ocean View Cafe prides itself on it’s Mediterranean, American, and veggie dishes. Offering a variety of cuisine, their menu features so many great options including chicken quesadillas, ceviche tostadas, chicken pesto pasta, belgian waffles with fruit, and desserts such as their chocolate croissants. Be sure to check out their drink menu which includes fresh lemonade and coffee options. A cute cafe with ocean views, outside patio seating is offered and is a perfect spot to grab breakfast or lunch. 

8. Beach Pizza

Location: 3301 Highland Ave, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266

Featuring a variety of flavors, Beach Pizza offers a wide range of pizza selections made with homemade sauce. Try their Manhattan Man Pizza featuring pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, peppers, and mozzarella or they Surfer Pizza with chicken breast, carmelized onions, bacon, and peanut sauce. Also available on the menu are their delicious calzones, buffalo wings, pasta, hoagies, and desserts such as chocolate cake, cheesecake, cookies, and vanilla ice cream. A perfect place to grab a bite to eat while you stroll the beach and take in some sun. 

9. The Strand House

Location: 117 Manhattan Beach Blvd, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266

Locally owned, The Strand House is an adorable beachside restaurant which has sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean plus amazing food. Providing a refreshing menu, guests will enjoy diverse options containing ingredients from local markets and thoughtfully curated dishes. Offering a five star hospitality experience, choose from some amazing options from their brunch, lunch, and dinner menus. Find dishes such as bluefin tuna tostadas, shrimp cocktail, eggplant mole, crab cakes, pizza, plus a variety of sandwiches and other seafood.

For more food options, check out these locations for the best cookies in LA here

Featured Image Courtesy of The Strand House