Malibu
Manhattan Beach Restaurants With a View
Last Updated: July 25, 2026
Manhattan Beach is a coastal gem where laid-back California charm meets elevated culinary craftsmanship, making it a standout destination for dining and culinary excellence. With the Pacific Ocean as its backdrop, the city offers everything from refined, chef-driven restaurants and fresh, sustainably sourced seafood to stylish cafés and vibrant wine bars—all infused with a relaxed beachside sophistication. Local chefs emphasize seasonal ingredients and coastal flavors, creating menus that feel both innovative and approachable. Whether enjoying sunset views over dinner or discovering a tucked-away neighborhood favorite, Manhattan Beach delivers a dining experience that effortlessly blends luxury, creativity, and the easy elegance of Southern California living.
The Strand House delivers one of the most iconic oceanfront dining experiences in Southern California, pairing sweeping 180-degree views of the Pacific with refined coastal California cuisine. Perched just steps from the Manhattan Beach Pier, the restaurant is known for its seasonally driven menu that highlights pristine seafood, market-fresh produce, and thoughtfully sourced meats, all executed with modern elegance. Floor-to-ceiling windows flood the dining room with golden sunset light, while the rooftop StrandBar offers craft cocktails and front-row views of the shoreline. Sophisticated yet relaxed, The Strand House strikes the perfect balance between fine dining and beach-town warmth, making it a go-to destination for special occasions, romantic dinners, and unforgettable sunset evenings.
Since its establishment in 2008, Nick's Manhattan Beach has been devoted to crafting an exceptional dining experience by consistently pushing the boundaries of innovation. With an unwavering commitment to excellence, Nick's prides itself on delivering the finest quality food and beverages, while upholding impeccable standards of hospitality. At the heart of the Nick's experience are the dedicated professionals, known as Ladies and Gentlemen, who embody the deeply ingrained Nick's culture. Their singular focus is to provide outstanding service and create unforgettable moments for each and every guest, ensuring that positive and lasting memories are made. From start to finish, Nick's Manhattan Beach strives to exceed expectations and leave a lasting impression on all who enter its doors.
Esperanza Cocina de la Playa has finally arrived, marking the highly anticipated opening of the South Bay's newest dining and social hotspot. Led by Corporate Chef Raymond Alvarez and Head Mixologists John Fox and Kevin Williams, Esperanza lures guests with its modern take on traditional Sonoran cuisine and meticulously crafted bar offerings. Renowned architect and designer Gulla Jónsdóttir was enlisted to bring Esperanza's sophisticated coastal design to life, incorporating handcrafted materials, furnishings, and décor sourced from across the globe. Situated just a few blocks from the majestic Pacific Ocean, Esperanza seamlessly merges the elegance of a beachside town with a contemporary coolness. Drawing inspiration from the stunning coastline of Cabo San Lucas and the vibrant neighborhoods of Mexico City, the interior design of Esperanza blurs the boundaries between art and functionality. Masterfully curated by Gulla Jónsdóttir, the interiors exude a refined coastal ambiance, evoking the grandeur of a luxurious beachfront villa. Overseeing the culinary experience is Chef Ray Alvarez, who showcases his expertise by presenting fresh interpretations of Sonoran cuisine. Complementing the delectable fare, Head Mixologists John Fox and Kevin Williams have crafted a bar program that not only offers delightful and playful cocktails but also boasts the largest tequila list and mezcal collection in the South Bay. Whether seeking an exquisite dining experience or a vibrant social gathering, Esperanza Cocina de la Playa stands ready to captivate guests with its enticing blend of culinary artistry, sophisticated design, and coastal allure.
Love & Salt in Manhattan Beach delivers a lively, Italian‑inspired dining experience that feels both elevated and rooted in Southern California coastal vibes. Just steps from the beach, the warm, bustling atmosphere sets the tone for a memorable night out, whether you’re on a date or celebrating with friends. The menu shines with house‑made pastas, wood‑fired pizzas like the much‑praised duck egg pie, vibrant salads, and inventive small plates that celebrate seasonal ingredients with simplicity and flair. Complemented by a thoughtful wine list and creative cocktails, each dish reflects a philosophy of letting quality ingredients speak for themselves. While the energy can be vibrant and service varies by night, many guests find the combination of bold flavors, casual elegance, and a sense of occasion makes Love & Salt a standout in the South Bay dining scene.
Nestled in the South Bay, Manhattan Beach Post (M.B. Post) is a soulful and intimately crafted restaurant helmed by the talented Chef David LeFevre. With a focus on sharing and community, M.B. Post offers a playful and artisanal menu featuring small plates, expertly crafted cocktails, and a thoughtfully curated selection of small-batch wines. Chef David LeFevre's culinary journey, spanning 15 years of exploration and refinement in vibrant culinary destinations across the world, including Michelin-starred experiences at Water Grill, has culminated in the creation of M.B. Post. Here, he returns to his culinary roots, showcasing his mastery of seafood and a more rustic culinary style that celebrates the joy of sharing. M.B. Post invites guests to savor its inviting and hospitable atmosphere, where the emphasis is placed on creating a gracious and welcoming environment for all.
A tight, 32-seat oyster bar and seafood house from chef David LeFevre (of M.B. Post), Fishing with Dynamite has earned a Michelin Plate distinction and repeat spots on OpenTable's 100 Best Restaurants in America list for its "old school" raw bar classics alongside globally inspired seafood plates. Sunlit and cheerful even on busy nights, it's one of the toughest reservations in the South Bay, drawing a well-heeled local and industry crowd who come specifically for the oysters, lobster rolls, and a wine list built to match. Walk-in counter seats are available for anyone willing to wait, but booking ahead is strongly recommended on weekends.
The Arthur J is chef David LeFevre's retro-mod take on the classic American steakhouse, all mid-century brass fixtures, dark leather booths, and a clubby bar built for an Old Fashioned. Wood-fired dry-aged steaks, a Wagyu tomahawk for two, and a raw bar share the menu with old-school sides like creamed spinach and popovers, and the $100-plus-per-person price tag hasn't stopped it from becoming a go-to for client dinners, milestone celebrations, and date nights since opening in 2015. It's the kind of place that draws a genuinely dressed-up crowd for the South Bay, so request the patio if you'd rather avoid the noise on a packed weekend night.