Find 'Secret' Off-Menu Items at Manhattan Beach Restaurants
May 13, 2024 08:26AM ● By Michelle Steinhardt
The "secret" Krikorian pizza at Love & Salt. (Photo via Love & Salt.)
The restaurants in Manhattan Beach continue to outdo themselves with mouthwatering dishes that keep their tables full night after night. But did you know that some of the restaurants in Manhattan Beach have "secret" off-menu items? Here are some new ideas at your old favorites:
Esperanza Cocina de la Playa – Fish of the Day
It is rare to walk past Esperanza Cocina de la Playa
without seeing every table full of happy patrons. One reason is the
food, and another is the margaritas. For those looking to spice up their
order at Esperanza, opt for the fresh fish of the day (often the
seabass) with chimichurri sauce (parsley, minced garlic, olive oil,
oregano, red pepper flakes, and red wine vinegar), green rice, and elote street corn. The dish is playfully known as the
"best cut of meat" in the restaurant. In addition, many of the dishes at
Esperanza can be modified and served as a bowl or a burrito.
Love & Salt – Krikorian Pizza
Loyal customers at Love and Salt
remember the Krikorian pizza, which was on the menu until about two
years ago. However, this secret off-menu dish, inspired by friend-of-the-restaurant Michael Krikorian, is still available. The
Krikorian pizza comes on freshly made pizza dough, served with Calabrian
sausage; a mix of mozzarella, pecorino, and parmesan cheeses; chili
flakes; rosemary; and a drizzle of honey (and no tomato sauce).
Mangiamo Ristorante – Chicken Piccata, Cioppino, and Charbroiled Chicken Over Linguine
Mangiamo Ristorante
has been a staple in Manhattan Beach for more than forty years. Its
consistently reliable and tasty dishes continue to attract loyal
customers. Over the years, Mangiamo has developed new menu items and removed certain
items from the menu. However, some of its classic dishes, like the chicken
piccata, cioppino, and charbroiled chicken over linguine, are still available
for those who want to reminisce about days gone by.
Mercado Restaurant Manhattan Beach – Daily Ribeye
Nando Trattoria – Chicken Parmesan
North End Caffe – Gypsy Stew
Pancho's - Duffy Burger
Frequent visitors to Pancho's know a little-known secret: Pancho's serves a bunless hamburger for lunch. The Duffy Burger is named after a good friend of the restaurant. He was known to order the large ground beef patty mixed with bell peppers and onions, which is served with cheese, French fries, and without a bun. He often ordered the burger with jalapenos and soy sauce, but you have to ask for these extras. Pancho's also has a homemade spicy hot sauce. It is hot and so worth ordering.SLAY Steak & Fish House – Order From Other SLAY Restaurants
The SLAY Hospitality Group owns several popular restaurants in Manhattan Beach, including SLAY Steak & Fish House, SLAY Italian Kitchen, and Fête Bistro by Slay.
Each restaurant offers a unique menu, but sometimes, you might be at
SLAY Steak & Fish House craving a menu item at another SLAY
restaurant. Did you know, for example, when dining at SLAY Steak & Fish
House, you can order pate from Fête Bistro by Slay. (Check with your server for details.)
Tacolicious – Happy Hour All Day
Last but not least, the upscale taco joint Tacolicious has a couple of happy hour menu items that can be ordered all day. The tequila, Tecate, and taco combination and the trio of dips are available throughout the day, not just during happy hour.
Michelle Steinhardt blogs about travel at TheTravNav.com.