Best drinks
Bob Beverly, the man behind the bar behind the bar. Photo
Shellback– “From yester-year into the new millennium,” touts the website of this “jewel of the South Bay.” The Shellback Tavern’s building was built in 1922 by the great-great granddaughter of famous composer Sebastian Bach to be used as a feed store. Finally after World War II somebody smartened up realizing the site would make a great pub and opened it as The Knothole which became famous for well-priced food and great drinks. In 1973 it was renamed Shellback Tavern and in 2000 longtime Grunions owner Bob Beverly bought the joint. Headed up by this year’s Best Waitress winner Jen Osbourne, the staff serves up the coldest suds in the South Bay via their Blizzard System which keeps draughts at an icy 28.1 degrees, well-priced pitchers, wine, cocktails and daily Happy Hour specials. Bob recently added 10 more TVs to the already well stocked walls and bought the rights to show any and every game you can imagine. The view, the sports, the service, the food and drinks have kept this place at the top of the bar scene for years and it shows no sign of slowing down.
Shellback Tavern: 116 Manhattan Beach Boulevard, Manhattan Beach. (310) 376-7858. shellback tavern.com
Runner-up: Zane’s 1150 Hermosa Ave, Hermosa Beach. (310) 374-7488.