South Bay food lovers take note: Redondo Beach’s most compelling dining spots aren’t always the most obvious ones.
From authentic Italian pasta crafted by a Milan native to Korean-American fusion burgers served from a liquor store counter to Greek-inspired diner classics, these small-but-mighty establishments prove that extraordinary flavors often come from the most surprising places.
Fatto a Mano The Pasta Shop
Hidden in a modest strip mall in Redondo Beach, Fatto a Mano The Pasta Shop delivers authentic Italian pasta that rivals high-end restaurants across Los Angeles.
Owner Marco, a Milan native with deep ties to the Amalfi Coast, brings his aunt’s treasured recipes to life in this intimate space.
Every pasta is made fresh daily, and the dedication to traditional methods shines through in each dish.
Food Highlights
- Cacio e Pepe: A Roman classic featuring perfectly al dente pasta in a creamy cheese sauce with black pepper
- Amatriciana: A spicy favorite combining smoky guanciale, caramelized onions, and ghost peppers with handmade pasta
- Pappardelle Bolognese: A hearty sauce featuring beef, pork, and guanciale simmered for 24 hours
- Roman Style Pizza: Thick-cut squares with a 72-hour matured dough, notably the Romagnola topped with cheese, arugula, and ham
- Pesto Pasta: A Genoa-inspired favorite that keeps regulars coming back
Atmosphere
The tiny restaurant features just three intimate tables, creating a cozy, homestyle vibe.
Marco and his wife greet every customer by name, making the experience feel like dining at a friend’s house.
The open kitchen allows diners to watch their pasta being made fresh.
Bottom Line
Visit for the extraordinary handmade pasta, stay for the warm Italian hospitality and complimentary Italian hot chocolate.
Just remember – this isn’t fast food, so patience is key for these made-to-order masterpieces.
Address: 610 Torrance Blvd, Redondo Beach, CA 90277
Cozy Cafe
Looking for an authentic beach-side diner experience in Southern California?
Cozy Cafe has been serving up hearty portions of breakfast and lunch favorites since 1980 in Redondo Beach.
This tiny box-shaped building, formerly a barbershop, now dishes out Greek-inspired comfort food alongside classic American fare.
Owner George Anagostu’s Greek heritage shines through in several menu standouts, while the friendly staff keeps coffee cups perpetually full.
Food Highlights
- Greek Deluxe Scramble: Three eggs scrambled with gyro meat, feta cheese, spinach, tomatoes, mushrooms, and homemade tzatziki sauce
- The Gaucho: Fresh-grilled Polish sausage with two eggs served over home fries and tortilla, topped with Spanish sauce
- Beach Bum Scramble: Scrambled eggs mixed with veggies and pastrami served over home fries
- Huevos Rancheros: Corn tortillas topped with two eggs, cheese, Spanish sauce and home fries
Atmosphere
The intimate interior features just nine seats around a U-shaped counter, creating a classic roadside diner feel.
A covered patio out back doubles the seating capacity.
Inside, locals and tourists chat like old friends, creating a drama-free family vibe.
The blue and white Greek flag flying outside adds to its charm.
Bottom Line
Visit Cozy Cafe for its unpretentious charm, generous portions, and that rare combination of Greek-American diner fare served with genuine hospitality.
Address: 307 S Pacific Coast Hwy, Redondo Beach, CA 90277
The Standing Room
Talk about a hidden culinary treasure – this burger joint started in the back of a liquor store in Redondo Beach when self-trained chef Lowell Bakke transformed a simple deli counter into what has become a South Bay sensation.
The fusion of Korean and American flavors creates unique combinations that keep locals coming back and visitors making special trips.
The chef’s Hawaiian roots shine through in every dish, making this spot truly one-of-a-kind.
Food Highlights
- Napoleon Burger: Loaded with bacon, caramelized onions, smoked Gouda, cheddar, fried egg, braised short rib, truffle Parmesan fries, tomato jam & Korean aioli
- Short Rib Bibimbap: Succulent short rib served with sticky rice, Korean pickles, assorted vegetables, and a runny egg
- Kimchi Fried Rice: Served with Portuguese Sausage for a unique Hawaiian-Korean fusion
- Hawaiian French Toast: Topped with Nutella, bananas and coconut
- Truffle Parmesan Fries: A fan favorite side dish that keeps customers raving
Atmosphere
The unassuming liquor store entrance leads to an outdoor dining area perfect for casual meals.
The vibe is relaxed and unpretentious, making it ideal for everything from quick lunch breaks to laid-back dinner outings.
Dog-friendly outdoor seating adds to the casual charm.
Bottom Line
This unconventional eatery delivers extraordinary flavors in an unpretentious setting, proving that amazing food can come from the most unexpected places.
Address: 144 N Catalina Ave, Redondo Beach, CA 90277