Tomato Soup and Grilled Cheese for “Big Kids” at Panera

One of the first menus that come to mind when thinking about winter foods is a crispy, grilled cheese sandwich paired with a warm bowl of tomato soup.  Panera puts a grown-up spin on both with their Vegetarian Tomato Soup and Big Kids Grilled Cheese sandwich.

Making Tamales, Ortega 120 Style

If it’s December, it’s tamale season.  A close friend of my wife and I gave us an early Christmas present; a “Tamales 101” cooking class at Ortega 120 in Redondo Beach.  Read on for the adventure…

Salads and Signature Beverages at Lemonade, Manhattan Beach

I was first introduced to the cafeteria style offerings of Lemonade during Taste of Abbot Kenney a couple years ago. I had no clue at the time, but was soon swept away by their puckeringly tangy lemonade and expertly made salads and proteins. I’m so happy they’re in Manhattan Beach!

Top Chef and New Menu Items at Hudson House, Redondo Beach

Hudson House is an unassuming, cozy little gastropub on Pacific Coast Highway not far from the Redondo Beach harbor area. On any given night you can find regulars and newcomers sharing tables in the small dining room, ordering from a menu crafted by of a Top Chef.  Recently, I stopped by Hudson House to find out what was new on the menu. Spoiler alert: the drinks, appetizers, and dessert are highly recommended.

Hurricane Sandy Fundraiser This Friday at Barsha Wines in Manhattan Beach

Efforts are underway to help New York and New Jersey residents recover from the effects of Hurricane Sandy. It might seem like we’re 2000 miles away but we can still help. This Friday you can get in the spirit of fundraising by letting the spirits get in you at Barsha Wines and Spirits (formerly Sepulveda […]

Get it While You Can: Groupon for 50% off at Samba in Redondo Beach

There’s a Groupon available offering a dinner at Samba for two at half off the regular price.  Its bascically a BOGO: buy one get one, but the deal for four people eeks out another 4% from the deal.  Either way, I say buy the Groupon and dance your way over to Samba!

The Oven: A Slice of New York in Torrance

Your next slice of authentic, New York style pizza might be closer than you think. The Oven, located in the El Camino area of North Torrance, has a menu that brings the taste and vibe of a New York City pizzeria to the South Bay.

South Bay Family Fun for Halloween 2012

The foggy marine layer and the full moon are providing the perfect backdrop for a spooky good time this Halloween!  If you’re not going door-to-door to do your begging, here are a couple fun, all ages events close to home for your sweet tooth indulgences.

New Mexican Hatch Green Chiles are now available in SoCal!

Chile experts recognize and appreciate chiles from Hatch New Mexico.  In fact, Melissa’s Produce is aware of this phenomenon and trucks Hatch chiles from New Mexico to selected Southern California locations each year.  For the past few years, Bryan and his wife have visited Bristol Farms to enjoy this wonderful experience and to pick up a year’s supply of this amazing chile.  Read on for details….

South Bay Serenity at the Torrance Marriott

The Torrance Marriott South Bay recently landscaped a portion of their property and converted it for outdoor events.  The Rain Wine Bar and Lounge services this area and Bryan had an opportunity to attend the grand opening of the latest South Bay outdoor dining venue.