Chili
Whiskey Flats BBQ
When Whiskey Flats gets busy they don’t always answer the phone, so sometimes chili fans have to drive over and trust to luck. Chili isn’t made every day, and they sometimes run out, but when they have it, get it. The broth has everything you look for in a real Texas chili, herbal notes and richness with an undertone of heat that builds as you eat it. It’s smoky, spicy, and rich, and will have you reaching for that cool beverage you keep on the side for moments just like this.
Whiskey Flats BBQ
3401 S. Pacific Ave.
San Pedro
(424) 267-6188
Runner-up:
HopSaint Brewing Company
5160 W. 190th St.
Torrance
(310) 214-4677
Chinese
W’s China Bistro
There are many Chinese regional food styles, including some that are not actually from the Asian continent. Overseas Chinese have created items that incorporate local styles, and W’s China Bistro specializes in the version from Peru. It’s close to the traditional Cantonese style, but with a few differences: the sauces are lighter and a bit sweeter and use ginger abundantly and potatoes appear in stir-fries. It’s a slightly different Chinese cuisine than the one you know, and our readers have consistently ranked at or near the top.
W’s China Bistro
1410 S Pacific Coast Hwy
Redondo Beach
(310) 792-1600
Runner-up:
Chin Chin
2041 Rosecrans Ave. #120
El Segundo
(323) 591-2822
Eclectic
The Stanton HB
The menu at The Stanton has been cosmopolitan from the day they opened, with truffle fondue, creative sashimi, a Thai seafood bisque, and wild mushroom cappellini expressing a global attitude. New chef Chuck Kallal arrived late last year, and has kept popular dishes while adding his own. The original ideas are alongside classics like a rigatoni Bolognese that is pure Italian comfort food and braised short ribs with wild mushrooms that will hit the spot for Midwestern appetites. The Stanton is evolving while keeping the things that made them an award winner, and that’s worth applauding.
The Stanton HB
844 Hermosa Ave.,
Hermosa Beach.
(310) 372-7462
Runner-up:
Baran’s 2239, 502 Pacific Coast Hwy.,
Hermosa Beach.
(424) 247-8468
