Leave a Message

Thank you for your message. We will be in touch with you shortly.

The Ultimate South Bay Guide: Our Favorite Restaurants, Coffee Shops, Date Night Spots & Local Favorites

July 27, 2026

The Ultimate South Bay Guide: The Best Restaurants, Coffee Shops, Date Night Spots & Local Favorites

One of the questions we get asked most often isn't actually about real estate.

It's, "Where should we eat?" or "What's your favorite brunch spot?" or "Where should we take friends who are visiting?"

After helping hundreds of buyers and sellers throughout Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach, Redondo Beach and the Palos Verdes Peninsula, we've come to know the places that locals return to again and again.

Whether you're planning your next date night, looking for the perfect coffee shop, or searching for a family-friendly restaurant with room for the kids to play, here's our South Bay guide to some of our favorite local businesses.


Best Date Night Drinks in the South Bay

Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a sunset cocktail, these are some of our favorite places to unwind.

Surfer Girl — Hermosa Beach

Ocean views, a lively atmosphere, and beautifully crafted cocktails make Surfer Girl one of our favorite places to start an evening.

The Strand House — Manhattan Beach

An iconic South Bay restaurant overlooking the Manhattan Beach Pier. Perfect for sunset drinks before dinner.

California Surf Club — Redondo Beach

One of the newest additions to the South Bay dining scene, California Surf Club has quickly become a favorite for its coastal design, elevated cocktails, and unbeatable waterfront location.

Arthur J — Manhattan Beach

If you're looking for classic steakhouse ambiance paired with exceptional cocktails, Arthur J is always a solid choice.

Lobby Bar & Terrace at Terranea Resort — Rancho Palos Verdes

Few places rival the ocean views from Terranea. Whether you're staying at the resort or simply stopping by for drinks, it's one of the most scenic locations in Southern California.


Best Sushi in the South Bay

The South Bay has no shortage of incredible sushi, but these are the places we recommend most often.

Izakaya by Katsu-Ya — Manhattan Beach

Creative rolls, fresh fish, and a consistently great dining experience.

Sugarfish — Manhattan Beach

A local favorite for perfectly prepared sushi and one of the best omakase-style experiences in the area.

Flying Fin — Redondo Beach

A neighborhood favorite known for fresh seafood and creative Japanese-inspired dishes.


Best Brunch in Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach & Redondo Beach

Weekend brunch is practically a South Bay tradition.

Martha's — Hermosa Beach & Redondo Beach

A longtime local favorite for breakfast classics, outdoor seating, and a relaxed beach-town atmosphere.

Yellow Vase — Redondo Beach & Palos Verdes

Known for delicious breakfasts, pastries, coffee, and beautiful patio dining.

Good Stuff Restaurant — Redondo Beach, Hermosa Beach & Palos Verdes

Healthy options, generous portions, and one of the best casual brunch menus in the South Bay.

Rockefeller — Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach & Redondo Beach

Great food with an energetic weekend atmosphere that makes it perfect for gathering with friends.

MB Post — Manhattan Beach

A South Bay staple famous for its brunch menu and shareable dishes.


Best Family-Friendly Restaurants in the South Bay

Sometimes you just want great food while the kids have space to move around.

The Point — El Segundo

With plenty of outdoor space, casual dining, and shopping nearby, The Point is an easy choice for families.

Vista

A beautiful coastal setting that offers plenty of room to relax while enjoying ocean views and great food.

Nelson's at Terranea Resort

Oceanfront dining, expansive lawns, and some of the best sunset views in the South Bay make Nelson's a favorite for families and visitors alike.


Best Restaurants for Sunset Dining

There's something special about dinner overlooking the Pacific Ocean.

If you're searching for the best sunset restaurants in the South Bay, these are hard to beat:

  • California Surf Club
  • Vista
  • The Strand House
  • Surfer Girl
  • Great White (opening July 31)

Whether you're celebrating, entertaining guests, or simply ending the day by the water, each offers incredible views alongside memorable dining.


Best Local Shops for Gifts

Looking for a thoughtful gift or something unique for your home?

We love supporting local boutiques like:

  • Gum Tree
  • Fringe
  • Alandrea
  • The Aloha Bungalow

These independently owned shops offer everything from home décor and candles to clothing, jewelry, books, and locally inspired gifts.


Best Coffee Shops in the South Bay

Every neighborhood has its go-to coffee spot. These are some of ours.

Good Neighbor Coffee

A welcoming neighborhood café with excellent coffee and a relaxed atmosphere.

Offset Coffee

Known for exceptional espresso, modern interiors, and consistently great drinks.

Hi-Fi Espresso

A favorite for handcrafted coffee and a laid-back coastal vibe.

Two Guns Espresso

One of the original specialty coffee destinations in the South Bay and still one of the best places to grab your morning cup.


Why We Love Sharing Local Favorites

Real estate is about so much more than buying or selling a home—it's about finding a community that fits your lifestyle.

One of the best parts of living in the South Bay is having incredible beaches, locally owned restaurants, neighborhood coffee shops, and unique boutiques all within a short drive of one another. From Manhattan Beach and Hermosa Beach to Redondo Beach and the Palos Verdes Peninsula, every neighborhood has its own personality and favorite local spots.

As local real estate professionals, we're fortunate to experience these communities every day, and we love sharing the places that make living here so special.

If you're thinking about buying or selling a home in the South Bay—or you're simply looking for your next favorite restaurant—we're always happy to share recommendations.

Because finding the right neighborhood is about more than the home itself. It's about everything waiting just outside your front door.

Work With Us

Tony and his team set out to be not just the best possible realtors but also trusted resources. Their experience goes well beyond their years as South Bay's top-producing Realtors®.