M.B. Post (Manhattan Beach, CA) (3)

Manhattan Beach Post (M.B. Post)
1142 Manhattan Ave
Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
Dining date: 7/19/14

I’ve visited chef David Lefevre’s M.B. Post a number of times since it opened three years ago. Along with sister restaurant Fishing with Dynamite, the restaurant has consistently served up a reliably good meal. While I dislike the drive, Manhattan Beach just feels like a completely different place compared to my downtown LA dwelling. My last visit was almost a year ago, so a return was definitely due.

While a few years old now, the restaurant still packs tables nightly. I’ve checked OpenTable for reservations a number of times over the past six months, but never felt enough desire to commit to a reservation far in advance. However, I stumbled upon a 7pm Saturday reservation just one day prior; someone’s cancellation was my gain!

We ordered a couple of old favorites and tried some new dishes.

bacon cheddar buttermilk biscuits maple butter

Served lukewarm, these were just about as good as I remembered. Utterly savory with the cheddar and bacon, yet rather fluffy with a slightly crisp exterior. I just wish it was a bit warmer. The maple butter is more than just a condiment; it’s a difference-maker.

speck gasser family, alto adije, italy, fruit spread

Speck, served with a la carte fruit spread, was thinly sliced pork goodness.

broccoflower lemon, chili flakes, parmesan

The broccoflower was tender with a ton of flavor and depth from well-balanced chilies, lemon and grated parmesan.

loup de mer cucumbers, pea shoots, mint, cilantro, nampla, crispy garlic

A crispy skin hid some moist and flavorful meat – loved the contrasting textures. Pea shoots, mint, and cilantro brought some complementary herbaceous, grassy notes.

saffron risotto blue crab, shrimp, sword squid, soy beans, squid ink rice crackers

This rich saffron-accented risotto with perfectly cooked seafood was a hit.

white oak grilled skirt steak grilled broccolini, red chimichurri

Skirt steak came out a perfect medium rare with a crusty sear. Chimichurri provided a zesty, flavorful accompaniment while broccolini helped to balance things out a bit.

Feeling pretty full at this point, we passed on dessert.

M.B. Post presented another good meal. True to my previous visits, the flavors were bold and pronounced yet kept in good balance. I completely understand why the restaurant is still so popular and highly recommend a visit. Brunch is a great option too, especially with a walk to the pier afterwards.