Brickworks Roasthouse and Grill succeeds with outstanding menu

By Will Sevy
Staff Writer

The closing of the restaurant L.A. Food Show initially seems like a loss to Manhattan Beach; however, its shoes have been more than filled by Brickworks Roasthouse and Grill.

Brickworks, a new restaurant that opened on Nov. 18, specializes in wood fire-roasted meats and seafood. Although it has some weak spots, it is a casual setting that combines modern cooking techniques and flavorful food as a fresh, original restaurant.

The menu is filled with high quality meats, fresh seafood, salads and veggies. Most of the food is prepared in distinctive almond wood-burning stone ovens, mesquite wood-burning wheel grills or cherry wood-burning smokers, which gives it a zesty taste.

Of the multitide of appetizers, one dish that stands out is the roasted grilled vegetable plate. It is a medley of zucchini, squash, eggplant and asparagus all grilled with a blend of spices that add to the dish’s contrasting salty and sweet flavors. The roasted ratatouille and goat cheese is another notable plate that, through a sweet tomato taste, blends perfectly with the vegetables.

As for entrees, the ribeye steak is also worth noting, cooked to perfection and served with garlic confit and au-gratin potatoes. This tender and high-quality cut is juicy, savory and goes well with the meal’s creamy, sweet potato side dish.

Another savory meat entree is the free range chicken, herb roasted with salad and mashed potatoes. The chefs’ use of fresh ingredients like potatoes and herbs complement each other through the blend of salty and sweet elements. Without inspiration, chicken can be a bland, boring meal, but here the common meat is succulent and revitalized.

The roast duck with plum sauce proves to be the most unique option on the menu. Although slightly flavorless alone, the sweet sauce adds a kick of intriguing undertones. The dish is served with scallion pancakes, which perfectly contrasts the rich taste of the duck.

For dessert, the cookies and milk give off a warm, homey feel, wrapping up the entire meal on a positive note. The cheesecake is also impressive, which although tastes more like a tart, is sweet and fruity.

It is not just the food that impresses, though. The hosts and waiters are constantly checking in without ever becoming overbearing, which is a plus that only adds to the already-friendly atmosphere. Servers know the menu well, which is impressive given the restaurant has only been open for a short time, and the service is quick without ever feeling like the dining experience is rushed.

Although the food and service are significantly above average, the lighting is far too dark and the booths are too upright and uncomfortable. Obnoxiously loud music that makes conversations at the table difficult only adds to these discomforts.

However, a thoroughly fulfilling menu, paired with friendly service, overcomes Brickworks’ minor discomforts and results in an overall satisfying experience. Brickworks has what it takes to become a reputable part of the Manhattan Beach community.