Hudson House – It wasn’t the first gastropub in the South Bay and others have opened since, but Hudson House hits the spot with our readers. You can get bar traditions like a steak sandwich and fries or a burger on pretzel bread, but the wild side is well represented too – Jerk-spiced tiger prawns with plantains and coconut, anyone? How about Indian-spiced lamb meatballs, cauliflower fritters, or a roasted beet, avocado, and watermelon radish salad? It’s ambitious, creative, affordable, and most importantly at a bar, goes great with they’re pouring. Even a non-drinker can have a great time and savor some fine snacks, salads, and sandwiches – Hudson House gives bar food a good name.Hudson House: 514 N. PCH, RB (310) 798-9183. www.hudsonhousebar.com
Runner-up: Bouzy’s, 1611 S. Catalina Ave., RB. (310) 540-1222.
