To win this category with only three desserts on the menu, Nick’s must make them very well. The caramelized banana split is very good, but the warm butter cake crusted with caramelized sugar is better and the Irish whiskey cake topped with fresh whipped cream is absolutely amazing. These are gourmet versions of American classics, which pretty well summarizes the whole menu here. Try the desserts with a good craft cocktail or a fresh espresso and end your day with a smile. — RF
 451 Manhattan Beach Boulevard, MB, nicksrestaurants.com, (310) 545-7373.
Runner-up: Tin Roof
