The reinvention of Baleen Kitchen [RESTAURANT REVIEW]
The baleen whales that migrate along our coast are some of the most majestic creatures in nature, and any time I can get out on a boat to watch them I seize the opportunity. To wonder about their minds and senses and what they think of the land-based creatures who intrude into their watery world is endlessly fascinating. The only whales visible from Baleen Kitchen, the restaurant at The Portofino Hotel & Marina in Redondo Beach, are the ones painted on the power plant across the marina. They’re not a substitute for the real thing, but along with the masts of sailboats in the harbor they do make a nice view from the restaurant’s outdoor terrace or second floor windows. Baleen Kitchen, the restaurant named after those finned giants, replaced Baleen earlier this year, and with the departure of former Executive Chef Jesse Souza the restaurant has gone back to basics. Not all the way back – there are still some surprises on the menu – but the emphasis is on uncomplicated flavors stylishly presented. Figuring out just what some of those items are can be a challenge, as the menu takes terseness to a new level. For instance, the item listed in the “Small” column as “Warm blue cheese…
Read this story on easyreadernews.com