Locals Choice Results
New Restaurant
FISHBAR
With a mesquite grill made especially for seafood, the dishes at new hotspot FISHBAR are truly one of a kind. Chef Jessica Jordan serves plenty of sure-fire specialties, including shrimp scampi, lobster tacos and the signature New England clam chowder. Delicious.
{3801 Highland Avenue, Manhattan Beach 310-796-0200, fishbarmb.com}
Finalists: American Farmhouse, Tavern, Palmilla Cocina Y Tequila, The Strand House, Umami Burger
Pizza
Valentino’s Pizza
Family-owned in the South Bay for more than 20 years, this casual pizzeria draws return business with their Brooklyn-style pizza, calzones and sausage rolls. Whether sampling a slice or a whole pie, you’ll be running back for more. That’s a promise.
{975 N. Aviation Blvd., Manhattan Beach, 310-318-5959, 150 S. Sepulveda Blvd., El Segundo, 310-426-9494, valentinospizza.net}
Finalists: Beach Pizza, Charlie’s Italian, Eatalian Café, Fresh Brothers, Lamppost Pizza
Italian Restaurant
Mama D’s Italian Kitchen
The Hermosa Beach outlet may be gone, but the original in Manhattan Beach is going strong. With tasty family fare like Bella’s Bruschetta, any one of Julia’s pastas and that freshly made bread, it’s not hard to see why. Bellissimo!
{1125 Manhattan Aenue, Manhattan Beach, 310-546-1492, mamadsrestaurant.com}
Finalists: Bottle Inn Ristorante, La Sosta Enoteca, Mangiamo Ristorante & Bar, Old Venice, Talia’s Restaurant
Second Date Venue
Dinner at M.B. Post
Isn’t it romantic? One of the South Bay’s most popular eateries clinches the win for that important second date. Excellent food, persuasive cocktails and a seductive setting … you do the math.
{1142 Manhattan Avenue, Manhattan Beach, 310-545-5405, eatmbpost.com}
Finalists: The Comedy & Magic Club, at Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy, Live concert at Saint Rocke, Sunset drink at Nelson’s, Tarsan Stand-Up Paddle Boarding, Wine tasting at Uncorked
Healthy Restaurant
FISHBAR
The new Manhattan Beach eatery serves up another win for healthy menu options. With a full selection of fresh fish offerings like salmon, mahi mahi and trout, you can taste the flavor yet keep off the pounds.
{3801 Highland Avenue, Manhattan Beach, 310-796-0200, fishbarmb.com}
Finalists: Bamboo Thai Bistro, The Green Temple, Number Nine, Poulet Du Jour, The Veggie Grill
Fresh Seafood Market
Captain Kidd’s Fish Market & Restaurant
A South Bay staple since 1976, this salty venue on the pier at King Harbor offers guests a fresh selection of treasures from the sea—from delectable oysters to hearty lobsters and crabs. If you’re not inclined to take your seafood home, stay and taste what the Captain’s serving up that day at the restaurant.
{209 N. Harbor Drive, Redondo Beach, 310-372-7703, captainkidds.com}
Finalists: Grow Manhattan Beach, Quality Seafood, Inc.
Mom & Pop Market
The Green Store
The iconic, olive-green corner store on Hermosa Avenue has served the community for decades and has no signs of stopping. The perfect place to grab a beverage before the beach or a snack after, it doesn’t get more South Bay than this.
{2151 Hermosa Avenue, Hermosa Beach, 310-374-4666}
Finalists: Boccato’s Groceries, Malaga Cove Ranch Market
Place to Meet Westsider for Lunch
Simmzy’s
Winner of best burger last year, Simmzy’s is back with a new reason to stop by. With the MB Pier down the street and the Blvd. bustling outside the patio, your Westside guest will not be disappointed with this authentic taste of the South Bay.
{229 Manhattan Beach Blvd, Manhattan Beach, 310-546-1201, simmzys.com}
Finalists: Crème De La Crepe, M.B. Post, Petros Restaurant, Zinc Lounge at Shade Hotel
Frozen Treat
Manhattan Beach Creamery
Old-fashioned and just steps from the MB Pier, it’s always summertime at this adorable ice cream parlor. Once you wade through the incredible candy selection, try a cone of one of their tasty flavors—like fudge brownie, red velvet or cotton candy.
{1120 Manhattan Avenue, Manhattan Beach, 310-372-1155, mbcreamery.com}
Finalists: Froyo Life Hermosa Beach, Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream & Yogurt, Paciugo Gelato & Caffe Hermosa Beach, Tiki Mon Ice Cream Shop Café & Beach Rentals
Afternoon Beer
Baja Sharkeez
Stop in for happy hour deals and beers on tap paired with delicious Mexican food and the latest sports game prominently in view. Local. Legendary. Lunch Specials. Enough said.
{52 Pier Avenue, Hermosa Beach, 310-318-0004, 3600 Highland Avenue, Manhattan Beach, 310-545-8811, sharkeez.net}
Finalists: Hot’s Kitchen, Old Tony’s, Rock & Brews, The Rockefeller, Silvio’s Brazilian BBQ
Cheap or Free Corkage
Fritto Misto
The friendly neighborhood Italian café offers guests a fine wine selection of its own. But if you want to bring your own bottle, they will happily uncork it for a mere $2 per person. Cheers to that!
{316 Pier Avenue, Hermosa Beach, 310-318-6098}
Finalists: Buona Vita TrattoriaChez Melange, Darren’s Restaurant and Bar, Tin Roof Bistro
Best Margarita
Palmilla Cocina Y Tequila
With sexy, tattooed bartenders and a posh, lounge setting, you may think you stepped off Sunset Blvd. and not the Hermosa Pier. Fresh margaritas with top shelf tequila and ingredients like jalapeño, cilantro and serrano chili only turn up the spice factor.
{39 Pier Avenue, Hermosa Beach 310-374-4440, palmillarestaurant.com}
Finalists: Coyote Cantina, Mucho Ultima Mexicana Restaurant ,Ortega 120
Hole in the Wall
Ercole’s
A pool table, a jukebox and Mai Tais for everyone, this divine dive has plenty of fans and enough regulars to keep it going since the ‘20s. Stop by in the afternoon and ask bartender Mike to flip one of his epic burgers. Never change, Ercole’s.
{1101 Manhattan Avenue, Manhattan Beach310-372-1997}
Finalists: The Bull Pen, The Hangar Inn, Hermosa Beach Yacht Club, Naja’s Place, North End Bar & Grill
Hangover Remedy
Bloody Mary at Hennessey’s Tavern
You have two convenient locations where you can drag your weary Sunday self and cure last night’s damage. A little tomato juice, vodka and spice pick-me-up at Hennessy’s should be just what the doctor ordered. Every Saturday and Sunday until 1 p.m. for just $4.
{8 Pier Avenue, Hermosa Beach, 310-372-5759, 313 Manhattan Beach Blvd, Manhattan Beach, 310-546-4813, hennesseystavern.com}
Finalists: Bacon omelet at Ocean Diner, Breakfast at Eat at, Joe’s Diner, Double cappuccino at Neighborhood Grinds, Organic smoothie at Planet Earth Eco Café
Beachwear
Diane’s Beachwear
Bikinis, flip flops, cover-ups and every accessory under the sun awaits you at this casual corner. Find stylish numbers from Vitamin A, Luli Fama, Billabong and local favorite Body Glove.
{125 Manhattan Beach Blvd., Manhattan Beach, 310-546-9868, dianesbeachwear.com}
Finalists: Allison by the Beach, Becker Surfboards, Bella Beach, SpyderSurf
Denim
Manhattan Denim
Need a nice pair? This popular boutique in downtown Manhattan Beach carries big names like 7 for Mankind, Joe’s, AG and Citizens of Humanity for men and women. Dark, washes and everything in between; they’ve got you covered.
{920 Manhattan Avenue, Manhattan Beach, 310-798-5326, manhattandenim.com}
Finalists: CAMI, Deep Pocket Jean Company, Lucky Brand Jeans
Coastal Style Boutique
Gum Tree
Cute as a button on Pier Avenue in a Craftsman-style house, Lori Ford’s beachy boutique knows its seaside roots. Jonathan Adler ocean-themed pottery, pillows adorned with anchors and fish, and knotted rope doorstops are only a few of the coastal goodies on display here.
{238 Pier Avenue, Hermosa Beach, 310-376-8744, gumtreela.com}
Finalists: Almu Design, Fringe, Maison Luxe, Quatrine Custom Furniture, Waterleaf Interiors
Bling
23rd Street Jewelers
Purveyors of glistening diamonds and lustrous pearls, sisters Mary Kelley and Diane Allen have been creating bespoke pieces for adoring clients for more than 30 years. Let them create a one-of-a-kind treasure that speaks to your personal South Bay style.
{1009 Manhattan Avenue, Manhattan Beach, 310-374-9923 23rdstreetjewelers.com}
Finalists: Jolie’ Designs, Medawar Fine Jewelers, Morgan’s Jewelers, Modern Jewelry Mart, South Bay Gold
Toy Store
Bella Beach Kids
Proving her boutiques are more than just kiddy clothes, owner Kris Mackerer D’Errico turned up the volume on her toy inventory, making her kid’s companion store a playground to curious tots.
{225 Manhattan Beach Blvd., Manhattan Beach, 310-529-5645, bellabeachkids.com}
Finalists: Aiko Gifts, Bloume Baby, Child’s Play Toys, Landis’ Labyrinth Toy Shop, The Pampered Tot
Boutique With A Little Bit Of Everything
Gum Tree
Everything from table décor and books to pillows and candles to kid’s stuff and chic jewelry awaits your perusal. You won’t leave empty-handed.
{238 Pier Avenue, Hermosa Beach, 310-376-8744, gumtreela.com}
Finalists: Curious…, Deep Pocket Jean Company, Magpie, Tabula Rasa, Wicked +
Shades
Jack’s Surfboards
Men’s, women’s, aviator, plastic, polarized, classic or sporty, this surf shop has the glasses you need for an active lifestyle. Find familiar brands like O’Neill and Von Zipper and a few lesser-known designers.
{1630 Pacific Coast Highway, Hermosa Beach, 310-374-7873, jackssurfboards.com}
Finalists: Dan Deutsch Optical Outlook, marea Boutique at Terranea, Olympic Optics
Nursery
Deep Roots Garden Center
It’s easy to get lost among the rich foliage at Deep Roots, a green oasis off busy Sepulveda. Choose from a wide variety of pots, succulents and a celebrated section devoted entirely to water-efficient native plants. Well done.
{201 N. Sepulveda Blvd., Manhattan Beach, 310-379-3634, deep-roots.net}
Finalists: Elwood Nursery, Lucky Plants, Performance Nursery, Pete’s Garden Center
Stationer
ErinCondren.com
The Hermosa Beach resident and mom launched her own stationery business years ago and has never looked back. She fills her site with colorful, eye-catching items, from thank-you cards and address labels to iPad folios and iPhone cases. Don’t miss her custom holiday cards this season for that unique touch of personalization.
{310-937-6822, erincondren.com}
Finalist: Card De A Too, Christie, Wrapsody Invitations
Tutoring
Miss Bee’s Tutoring
The educated, specialized tutors at Miss Bee’s make the grade in our book. Private or paired, English or math, summer or fall, this team of teachers will help your kid with homework and study skills so he/she can move to the top of the class.
{565 Pier Avenue in Hermosa Beach, 310-376-0600, missbeetutorme.com}
Finalists: Blue Train Tutoring, Fusion Academy, Mathnasium, Study Hut Tutoring, The Tutoring Center
Independent Auto Repair
Dr. Auto Tech
Mercedes malaise? Broken BMW? No worries. Dr. Auto Tech will see you now. This complete auto facility in Hermosa has the top service, quality parts and reasonable prices you need to cure your vehicles woes. Peace of mind guaranteed.
{600 Pacific Coast Highway, Hermosa Beach, 310-379-4474, drautotech.com}
Finalists: Auto Werkstatt, Independent Repair of Redondo Beach, Osborn’s Automotive
Vet
Hermosa Animal Hospital
Put your precious pets need in the skilled hands of the veterinary doctors at Hermosa Animal Hospital. Whether Fido needs a yearly check-up or important surgery, the helpful and compassionate staff will do what they can to ensure your furry friend has many good years to come.
{560 Pacific Coast Highway, Hermosa Beach, 310-376-8819, hah-vet.com}
Finalists: AMG Animal Medical Group, Bay Animal Hospital, Point Vicente Animal Hospital, Redondo Shores Veterinary Center, Redondo Veterinary Medical Center
Dog Trainer
Dog’s Best Friend
Accentuate the positive. That’s the philosophy behind Rebecca Mandell’s respected dog training service in the South Bay. The longtime Hermosa Beach resident uses compassion and understanding to help secure a bond between owner and dog with impressive results. Two paws up!
{dogsbf.net, 310-990-6735}
Finalists: The Balanced Dog, K9Klass, Way of the Dog
Tattoo
Hermosa Ink
Show the one you love just how much you care with a little ink. This new parlor, founded by local businessmen Gene Smith and Shane McColgan, offers the perfect—if not entirely painless—way to imprint your affections via one of their talented tattoo artists. I heart you, “Mom.”
{802 Hermosa Avenue, Hermosa Beach, 310-376-0415, hermosainktatoo.com}
Finalists: 3rd Street Tattoo, Union Electric Tattoo, Yer Cheat’n Heart Tattoo
Zumba Class
You Can Dance Studio
Shake. Shake. Shake. Shake it South Bay. Find your inner ballroom champ at this fun and effective dance studio headed by Dancing With the Stars pros Anna Trebunskaya and Jonathan Roberts. Their exciting Zumba classes prove you can get in shape and have a ball at the same time.
{1089 Aviation Blvd., Hermosa Beach, 310-374-5222, ycdstudio.com}
Finalists: Equinox South Bay, Spectrum Athletic Club
Place To Get Buff
Level 10 Fitness
Getting in shape this summer? The trainers at Level 10 would like to help you reach that goal. A small but effective gym in North Manhattan, this dedicated studio promises to get you the beach body you want through dedication, technique and persistence. No level-9s here.
{3219 Highland, Manhattan Beach, 310-802-8888, l10la.com}
Finalists: CrossFit South Bay, Equinox South Bay, Hangar 18, The Yard
Blowout
Drybar
Only recently opened and already making new fans, Drybar is a cute, convenient blowout salon that does just that and nothing more. No cuts. No color. Just blowouts. Also great for private parties. Darling, you look marvelous.
{2005 Park Plac, El Segundo, 310-442-6084, thedrybar.com}
Finalists: Cielo, Hush Hush Hair Salon, Kasai Hair, Whimsy Salon & Garden
Facial
Trilogy Spa
The winner of Best Day Spa last year returns with a top spot in the treatment department. Their individually-formulated, natural-fruit-enzyme, custom facial provides exfoliation and light extractions to unveil soft and radiant skin. Guy, try the Manhandler. A relaxing massage and special repair to distressed shaven skin will make even a macho man melt.
{451 Manhattan Beach Blvd., Manhattan Beach, 310-760-0044, trilogyspa.com}
Finalists: Burke Williams Spa, Abbracci Medical Spa & Boutique, Aesthetic Edge Medical Spa, Elegance Boutique Spa, Molly’s Skin Care Boutique, Murad Inclusive Health Spa
Eyebrows
Mimosa Salon
Shape up your brows at this lovely salon for all your beauty need. Wax on, unwanted eyebrow hairs off. It’s that simple.
{405 Pier Avenue, Hermosa Beach, 310-372-9411, mimosasalon.com}
Finalists: All About Me! Waxing & Skincare Studio, The Brow Duchess, Panaché Beauty & Threading Salon, Vicara Salon
Beach Court
4th Street in Manhattan
The one Manhattan Beach entry takes on all four Hermosa contenders for top prize for beach volleyball court. Is it the sand, the scenery or something in the air? Bring your best game to the beach and find out for yourself.
Finalists: 11th St. in Hermosa, 16th St. in Hermosa, 21st St. in Hermosa, 29th St. in Hermosa
Bike Shop
Hermosa Cyclery
Tucked away just off the Hermosa Pier, this small yet stocked shop has served the community since 1974, offering bikes for sale, rental and quality service. The friendly and professional staff will ensure your two-wheeler gets you from here to there in true South Bay style.
{20 13th Street, Hermosa Beach 310-374-7816, hermosacyclery.com}
Finalists: Aviation Cyclery, Corbin’s Redondo Beach Bicycle, The Old Bike Shop, Sprocket Cycles, Triathlon LAB
Family Photographer
Kat Monk Studio
Well-known in the South Bay for the last 20 years as a cutting-edge fine arts photographer, Kat Monk went digital and began shooting memorable portraits of newborns, teens, engaged couples, pregnant moms and more. Kat keeps active with an amazing family of her own, so get on her calendar soon … she’s quite in demand.
{katmonk.com}
Finalists: CL!X Portrait Studios of Rolling Hills Estates, Lauren Pressey Photography, Morgane Davis Photography
People Watching
The Strand
Volleyball players, beach bodies, bicyclists and boarders are only a few of the faces you’ll see any given day on The Strand from Manhattan to Hermosa. The pedestrian thoroughfare truly showcases the South Bay’s diverse population, from afternoon barflies to moms pushing strollers. And we wouldn’t change it for anything.
Finalists: Hermosa Beach Summer Concert Series, King Harbor, Manhattan Beach Pier, Metlox Center
Art Gallery
Bo Bridges Studio
You can’t mistake a Bo Bridges photograph … sharp, stunning and action-packed. His images literally jump off the paper. If you haven’t seen some of this local’s work around town, swing by his gallery and studio for a close-up of recent work. Don’t be surprised if you end up taking one home for your personal collection.
{1246 Hermosa Avenue Hermosa Beach, 310-937-3764, bobridges.com}
Finalists: ArtLife Gallery, Palos Verdes Arts Center, Riley Arts Gallery, ZASK Art Gallery
Community Performance
Norris Center for the Performing Arts
A South Bay tradition for nearly 30 years, the Norris Center brings quality theatrical productions to the community. Whether a rousing farce, a touring comedy act or a musical performed with a cast of young, local residents, each season here will surely inspire a standing ovation.
{27525 Crossfield Drive, Rolling Hills Estates, 310-544-0403, norriscenter.com}
Finalists: Asia America Youth Orchestra, The El Segundo Playhouse, Peninsula Symphony, South Bay Ballet
Kid’s Birthday Party
Sky Zone Indoor Trampoline Park
We’re already planning a staff outing at this new playground for kids and adults alike. Not unlike a giant bounce house, visitors can spring from wall to wall in this all-trampoline area. Plenty of active fun for the young and the young at heart.
{1625 W. 190th Street, Gardena, 310-323-4500, torrance.skyzonesports.com}
Finalists: AdventurePlex, Dance Forever Studio, My Gym Children’s Fitness Center, Scooter’s Jungle
