Rockn’Fish – There are dozens of places that serve seafood in the South Bay – what does RocknFish have that nobody else does? The oak grill is a big part of it – you can smell the smoke wafting from a block away when the wind is just right. It’s not the only thing, though – there are people in that kitchen who wield a mean sauté pan and know their way around an oven, as the crabcakes, blackened halibut, and macadamia-crusted mahimahi testify. The team here knows seafood and turns out reliable delights in an atmosphere reminiscent of old New Orleans.
Rockn’Fish: 120 Manhattan Beach Blvd. MB (310) 379-9900. www.rocknfishmb.com
Runner-up: Bluewater Grill, 665 Harbor Dr. RB. (310) 318-FISH.
