In the Nick of Time: Nick’s Manhattan Beach Restaurant (above) opened in early November and has quickly established itself as a quality restaurant, despite some mediocre appetizers and a slightly overpriced menu.
By Kathryn Cross
Staff Writer
It’s professional, palatable and pristine; it’s Nick’s Manhattan Beach.
Although the restaurant Nick’s Manhattan Beach has a moderately overpriced menu, its attentive service, elegant furnishings and delectable food pair well with its family-friendly ambiance.
Nick’s Manhattan Beach, an American bistro-style chain restaurant, has recently replaced the restaurant Sake, a sushi and sake lounge in downtown Manhattan Beach. It opened under the management of Alix Weisen-Todd.
In terms of the food, the appetizers are mediocre. Although the shrimp taquitos have a distinctive spicy flavor, they lack substance as they only consist of one piece of shrimp wrapped in a small tortilla covered with an insufficient amount of sauce.
In contrast, the entrees are the highlight of the restaurant. For instance, although it could have had more flavor, the pan-seared Chilean bass has an ideal texture because of the manner by which it is cooked.
Additionally, the side dishes that come with the entrees, particularly the spinach and the mashed potatoes, are a major selling point. The spinach contains almond slices and a savory garlic sauce, while the mashed potatoes are garnished with flavorful spices.
Not only is the flavor of the side dishes commendable, but their presentation is as well. They are aesthetically pleasing with clean lines, having just enough decoration to be appetizing without being overdone.
Nick’s staff is welcoming and hard-working, constantly accommodating the customers and ensuring that they are satisfied. Each hostess, waiter and waitress consistently and efficiently refills drinks and takes orders, all while maintaining a friendly and patient attitude toward the customers.
Additionally, because of Nick’s location, the restaurant is easily accessible for South Bay residents.
Nick’s inviting, laid-back ambiance adds to its friendly service. The patio extends into the Metlox plaza, creating a casual feel typical of the beach community. Additionally, Nick’s light-colored wood panels and scallop-like light fixtures that hang over each individual table brighten the restaurant and its tone. Moreover, each table has aromatic candles that are placed in sand within a glass covering. These beach-themed candles emphasize the relaxed tone of the restaurant.
Despite having some average appetizers and a slightly overpriced menu, Nick’s interior decorations, hospitality, and entrees make it a noteworthy restaurant. In addition, the prime location makes the restaurant easily accessible. Overall, Nick’s is a relaxed and accommodating restaurant with several flavorful dishes.
Nick’s opened in early November. Its prices range from $11 to $30, and its hours are 11 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. Monday-Wednesday, 11 a.m. to 12 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, and 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Sundays.
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