The Steak Library

Sandi treated me to The Steak Library, which was outstanding. The restaurant is in this nondescript mall on Pacific Coast Highway in Lomita. We were delighted by the ambiance when we walked in. A refrigerated section showcased some of the meat with the certificate A5 authenticity. A5, for those unfamiliar with the term, is the highest grade of Wagyu from Japan.

Our reservation was for 3:30 p.m., which was perfect. We were the only ones then and lucky to have Makoto, the manager, as our server.  Shortly after we sat, we were presented with 2 toasted bread with butter and something else, later identified as garlic and herbs. It was delicious. We decided to split a Caesar Salad prepared at the tableside. We also ordered the Cotton Candy A5 Wagyu appetizer as it sounded intriguing. Wow! That was our reaction when it arrived. It was a huge ball of white cotton candy. As Makoto poured some gravy on top, the cotton candy melted, which made a cavity that revealed an egg yolk inside. We mixed it as the yolk was incorporated with wagyu beef slices. Our first bite was mind-blowing. We've never had anything like it, the excellent taste of the beef with the sweet cotton candy; what a combination, but it was genius.

For our entrée, we both decided on the 8-oz Filet Mignon. We could not get over how tender these babies were. Chewing was optional! We had choices on the sauces, even if they did not need any, as they were packed with flavor. I opted for the peppercorn sauce, and Sandi had the garlic sauce. We also ordered a side of mashed potatoes and mac n cheese. We were in 7th heaven. We both finished our steaks; unfortunately, there was nothing to take home.

Makato handed us the dessert menu. We were not sure if we had room but decided that we had to make room. It was unanimously agreed to get the Bananas Foster. I thought for sure this would be their downfall. I was elated to be wrong, as it was one of the best Bananas Fosters I've ever had.

The Steak Library is the ultimate steak place. I've been to some steak places in Redondo Beach, but this takes the cake.  It is pricey, but it is worth every bite. The Steak Library is at 1937 Pacific Coast Hwy. in Lomita, California.