The South Bay, that stretch of Los Angeles County just south of LAX and north of Long Beach, often feels like its own distinct corner of Southern California. With its beachy vibe and cultural diversity, the area – which includes Torrance, Gardena, Redondo Beach, Carson, Manhattan Beach, and several other municipalities – boasts a robust and varied food scene.
While the region was historically home to major Japanese car companies, its restaurants still offer an array of excellent Japanese options, now complemented by prominent Korean, Brazilian, Hawaiian, and even Oaxacan fare. Matthew Kang, a lifelong Angeleno who moved to Torrance in 2017, has thoroughly explored the area's culinary offerings, from old-school Japanese spots to casual Korean establishments like his go-to Jang Su Jang.
Recently, some notable updates have refreshed the dining landscape, with Onki, Waraku, and Radici joining the list of recommended establishments, while Nando Trattoria and Lunasia have closed their doors. Among the current highlights:
For those craving New York City-style pizza, El Segundo Brewing Co. is a busy brewpub serving thin, crispy pies that pair well with their craft beers. They recently opened a larger outpost in Redondo Beach along Pacific Coast Highway.
In Manhattan Beach, a fancy steakhouse by David LeFevre offers a midcentury modern atmosphere and wood-grilled steaks described as some of the best in Los Angeles. Standout dishes include the dry-aged prime T-Bone and the Wednesday night veal parmesan, considered by some to be the best version in Los Angeles.
Chefs Ray Hayashi and Cynthia Hetlinger's modern Japanese and Taiwanese restaurant, a 2022 opening in a former Laurel Tavern space, offers a Tokyo-inspired cocktail bar and dishes like tonkotsu miso ramen and Hokkaido milk bread. For weekend brunch, a pork tonkatsu sandwich or fluffy Japanese pancakes are available.
Hermosa Beach is home to Radici, a family-owned Italian restaurant cherished by locals for its impressive pastas and beach-adjacent setting. Their menu features familiar Italian favorites, from burrata Caprese to potato and spinach gnocchi.
In Redondo Beach, Dumpling Mix provides Chinese and Taiwanese classics in a modern setting, with a focus on mixed-and-matched dumplings. Also in Redondo Beach, The Rex offers a flashy but refined steakhouse experience with wood-grilled steaks and thoughtful side dishes, like paccheri with lamb sugo. The city's baking scene received a boost in July 2023 with the opening of Tommy & Atticus, by Gjusta alum Garrett McPerry and his wife Lauren Rosen, offering everything from sourdough bagels to flaky croissants.
For a more casual Italian experience, Handmade in Redondo Beach allows diners to select their pasta shape and sauce, with options like pappardelle with carbonara. And for Vietnamese cuisine, Pho Hue Oi, a chain with a shiny new Redondo Beach location, is noted for its deep, umami-rich broth and excellent banh mi, standing out in the area. These establishments, among others, continue to shape the South Bay's vibrant and diverse dining scene.
