Dinner at Esperanza, Mexican Cuisine In Manhattan Beach
Esperanza Mexican Cuisine Manhattan Beach
There is a lot to contend with when you are Mexican American growing up in Los Angeles. From my experience, there will always be someone with a barometer measuring just how “authentic” your existence within la raza is. It wasn’t until I started traveling regularly as an adult to Mexico that I realized how American this construct of ethnic legitimacy was. When I am in Mexico I feel deeply connected, especially in the moments that I share with my family. This is where the genius of our people is rooted and you can experience it in many ways found through food, art, music, and architecture, to name a few. The levels of sophistication are undeniable when having lunch at Contramar in Mexico City or climbing the Mayan Ruins of Coba. Back in Los Angeles, I had always felt very limited by what it meant to be Mexican American. A pervasive and inaccurate message I was repeatedly subject to was that anything luxurious or outside the narrow construct of our communities was considered white, gringo, or whatever else. I always desired a cosmopolitan lifestyle rich in culture and seeing people who looked like me, in Mexico, allowed me to reevaluate the status quo that had been pushed upon me.
I share that because, at a different point in time, it would have felt unnatural to say good Mexican food existed in Manhattan Beach. But in fact, there is and I’ve eaten in. I would love to return to the South Bay when it warms up again to indulge in the incredible libations at Esperanza and to devour another round of impeccably fried halibut tacos. The restaurant is located 5 minutes from the ocean which ensures a rejuvenating breeze and the taste of salt in the air. Es un lugar perfecto para una buena cita.
The Food
A contemporary twist on traditional Sonoran recipes utilizing fresh and seasonal ingredients, with Chef Ray Alvarez at the helm of the kitchen. The menu is substantial with recognizable entrees such as enchiladas y carnitas but is also abundant with lighter choices such as ceviche, agua chile, y platos del mar (seafood). The Tacos de Halibut Frito with chipotle aioli, garlic mojo, guacamole, y queso fresco were transcendiary. A must-order if you love fish tacos. As a connoisseur of ceviche, the Ceviche de Atún did not disappoint. Since every seafood dish that was coming out was a hit, we wanted to sample some red meat and ordered the Tacos de Filet Mignon topped with roasted salsa, jalapeño crema, and avocado. Filet is not my preferred cut of choice but Esperanza worked some magic and I found them surprisingly delicioso.
The cocktails are a show stopper at Esperanza, so much, I’d come here simply to unwind with a top-shelf margarita if I lived in the neighborhood. Head Mixologists John Fox and Kevin Williams developed the bar program to not only include delicious and playful cocktails, but the two have also created the largest tequila list and mezcal collection in the South Bay. [source] The Dante’s Inferno made with Siete Leguas Añejo, Sombra Mezcal, St. Germain, Frangelico, orgeat, fresh lime, bitters, and tamarid puree was my favorite. Served in a glass pineapple with crushed ice, it had everything I needed for a sexy evening by the beach.
The Scene
Inspired by the luxury found in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, Esperanza was designed to reflect the elevated coastal ambiance of Baja California. Designed by Islandic architect Gulla Jónsdóttir, the interior mirrors a beach town villa with hues of off-white and deep green flora placed throughout the main dining room. The light fixtures are understated elegance. The second floor switches up the vibe with darker tones and a gorgeous patio.
Reflective of Manhattan Beach, the restaurant clientele was not particularly diverse. It was a packed crowd on a weekday, with patrons excited about cocktails or enjoying a cute date. Horny regulars at the bar.
Price & Service
Cocktails ~$13 - $17, Ceviches $22, 3 Tacos: $12-$30, Entrees $15 - $55
Service was excellent, the staff was attentive even overzealous at times, but I appreciated the time and consideration given to our table. It is a difficult time to work in hospitality and the service industry, please remember to always tip 20% and above.
Location
Esperanza
309 Manhattan Beach Blvd
Manhattan Beach, CA 90266, United States
+1 (424) 422-0057
