Serendipity

This relatively new restaurant opened recently on Pacific Coast Highway in Redondo Beach. It used to be the Mexican restaurant Ortega 120. I received a flyer that showed the Happy Hour menu. Who could resist $4.99 drinks? We had just seen a movie, and since Sujata's birthday was the day before, it was a cause for celebration.

Zohreh and I ordered a glass of Bonanza (Caymus) Cabernet Sauvignon, which was not bad; it was pretty good! Amy had a Merlot, and Sujata chose the Mango Tango Margarita, which she loved.

We decided to order Brussels Sprouts and Fried Zucchini for appetizers. Three of us settled on Fish and Chips with fries, and Amy had Fried Chicken Bites with Chili Soy Glaze. We were surprised as the entrées came before our appetizers, which defeats the purpose of the definition of "appetizers."

Our fish was a disaster. We all thought it was too bready, and the fish had absolutely no flavor. The fries were good, and the Brussels sprouts were also good, but the zucchini was just like the fish, with no flavor at all. It was just fried. Amy's chicken had flavor, but she did not care for it. 

A young lady came to ask us if everything was good. So I gave her my opinion, which everyone put in their 2 cents worth. She apologized and said she would talk to the chef. Our server was very nice, but he said he was sorry when we told him we were unhappy. 

The question was, would we come back to this place? It was unanimous that no one intended to return. They did not offer to give us a break on the bill, which wasn't much, but it was the principle. Funny, when I mentioned this to Amy's daughter, she commented, "I've had breakfast there before, and it was terrible."

This was unfortunate because it is a nice place. I won't be surprised if they do not last. 

Lobster Guys

Cindy, aka Puts, asked me if I had been to Lobster Guys in Redondo Beach. The answer was no, but my question was where in Redondo Beach. It turns out it was not far away.  While Sandi was still in town, Sandi, Amy, and I went for Happy Hour. 

Amy ordered the Lobster Taco, Sandi had the Shrimp, and I decided to have the Grilled Cheese Lobster with Tomato Soup since it was a chilly day. Having some fries to go with everything was a good idea. 

We were all very happy with our order. I could not wait to return and try one of the heavy-duty Lobster Rolls. Two weeks ago, I ordered the Cali Truffle Roll, which includes chilled Maine lobster/truffle oil, herb, mayo, avocado, cucumber, old bay, and green onions. All their rolls are made with a well-buttered brioche bun. I could not wait to get home to try it. 

The lobster roll had a generous serving of chunks of succulent lobster. It was totally delicious. The only thing was that there was no hint of truffle taste. I called the restaurant after I finished my sandwich to inform them that they had forgotten to add the truffle oil. I spoke to Kyle, who was apologetic and insisted I return the following day and that he would ensure I got the correct order. 

So I returned, and he assured me this was indeed the Cali Truffle Roll. When I got home, I poured myself a glass of champagne to accompany my dinner. I was disappointed I still had not detected any truffle flavor, so I left it at that. If you like truffles, order something else so you will be satisfied.

Their Lobster is genuinely delicious, so after seeing a movie last week, I thought it would be good to return and have Zohreh try the Lobster. Zohreh and Amy did order the Lobster Tacos. I ordered the Lobster Grilled Cheese with the Tomato Soup. No fries this time. We were all very pleased with our choices. 

Kyle was our server, and I told him I really appreciated his efforts the last time in getting my order right. Unfortunately, it had no truffle flavor, but it was not his fault. Kyle entertained us and kept us in stitches. He is also a stand-up comedian on the side. He is from Texas, and we all loved him. He should be running the place. He truly understands people and, most importantly, great service.

Lobster Guys has several locations. The one we went to is located at 800 S. Pacific Coast Hwy. in Redondo Beach, California.