My most recent overnight sensation took place at The Belamar Hotel in Manhattan Beach, a hidden gem tucked into a residential zone of Manhattan Beach. The hotel’s restaurant Second Story, as named, is located on the second floor. All of the team members that I met were some of the most hospitable folks that I’ve met in a long time.
Rooms here, each with balcony, face an inner tree-shaded courtyard complete with fountain and fireplace. The serene, oasis atmosphere is enhanced by the extra-gentle French L’Occitane room amenities, a sweet-smelling touch. The hotel has a fitness center, heated pool, jacuzzi and complimentary beach cruiser bicycles.
Second Story’s food, described as contemporary American classic, is far more interesting than what many hotels serve in their dining rooms. Each guest in our party of approximately 30 ordered separately and every course arrived hot and together-impressive as the restaurant was very busy the evening of our dinner.
Chef Vania Almeida interpreted each classic in her own way adding delicious personality to the classics.
Chef, originally from Brazil, shares part of her heritage with the Brazilian cut top sirloin roasted tomato demi-glaze & creme fraiche. The ubiquitous caprese salad is dialed up a notch with green beans and spicy chili oil. Her Vietnamese ginger shrimp rolls are served with cashew and ponzu sauce. The filet mignon comes with gorgonzola cheese, red wine risotto and parsnip puree. The bouillabaisse has generous portions of seafood in a fennel orange scented broth.
The daily breakfast buffet includes fruit, juices, waffles, pancakes and omelets for only $13.90
My best bite was grilled rib-eye cap steak with portobella potatoes, grilled romaine, heirloom tomato and chipotle demi-glaze.
3501 Sepulvelda Blvd
Manhattan Beach, CA, 90266
310.750.0312
