The South Bay isn’t exactly a place of pilgrimage for regional Chinese food, but one place stands out for its style and character. W’s is unusual in that they feature many items invented by overseas Chinese, such as the Peruvian tamales that are one of the more unlikely things to find on an Asian menu. Owners Robert and Fernando Chong grew up in the Chinese community in Peru and there are subtle hints of South American spicing in many dishes here. The beautifully served food in an elegant setting have made this place a popular date restaurant since it opened over a decade ago.It’s where we go when we’re craving Chinese food with modern flavors. — RF
1410 South PCH, RB, wschinabistro.com, (310) 792-1600
Runner-up: Bobo’s
