Restaurant of the Month: BALEENkitchen.

South Bay Events presents its pick of the month for June 2013!

The nuances of another South Bay summer recycle again with predictable gloomy mornings, some warmer water, and a second helping of sunshine placed at the backend of the day. Summer in the South Bay, more than any other season, is less sea-change and more emotional change. The days are tacked together with happy hour cravings, daytime drink ideas, and potential dinner plans. Next to the Portofino Hotel & Marina in Redondo Beach’s King Harbor sits a two-story, up-scale dining establishment with a lounge and a restaurant that is ready and able to capture summer’s mood. Harbor views of boats and the tops of sails, a revamped small plate menu, live music, and delectable entrees make BALEENkitchen a fundamental eating out summertime excursion.

Snacking has become an art form thanks to the small plate movement and BALEENkitchen has selectively embraced an array of tapas that have global influence from Spain, Mexico, Asia and America. The Lobster Mac & Cheese plate is a glorious mixture of white-cheddar cheese and generous pieces of lobster with a crisp browning at the top. It is a comforting twist on a classic that should be shared to leave room for other tasty bites like a Beef Slider, Truffle Fries, or Loaded Potato Chips. Some lighter summer fare comes in the form of a Spicy Tuna Taco. It is a finger-ready, two-bite sensation that combines crispy and creamy textures to successfully redefine the standard spicy tuna roll. All small plates are reasonably priced from a range of $3 - $16 and are built for sharing. An order of Carnitas comes topped with fresh salsa and cheddar cheese that sit above a bed of deep-fried flour tortilla chips ready to munch.

The tapas are artful and the atmosphere blends contemporary styles with a beach casual feeling. Live music is also on the menu this summer Thursday through Saturday nights as an eclectic array of laid back & soulful artists like Lindsey Harper will be getting up close and personal in the lounge. It’s an intimate setting with a signature cocktail menu perfect for a summer night out no matter what the occasion may be: some drinks, a date, or a sit down dinner complete with tapas, an entrée, and dessert. The larger portioned dishes that feature a Pork Chop, Snapper, or Filet Mignon as the source of protein are served with all types of different international accents and aesthetics.

TThe Ahi Tuna Nicoise is plated with fresh, slighty seared Ahi Tuna medallions that sit atop a Romesco sauce with earthy tones and a hint of Sriracha (the hot sauce) flavor; all covered with fried French green beans. Next to the tuna is an olive tapenade fixed with some young potatoes and a fried egg. It’s a French-infused creation that is sure to inject joy to all the taste buds. Pair with a glass of Pinot Noir from the wine list and enjoy. The Sautéed Snapper is also worth a look too.

Waterfront views, a daily happy hour menu from 3-7 p.m., live music, and a stellar tapas menu make BALEENkitchen a worthy summertime destination. All patrons visiting BALEENkitchen for drinks or a bite have the courtesy of complimentary valet parking or free self-parking.

BALEENKitchen is located at 260 Portofino Way, Redondo Beach. Give them a call at(310) 379-7329 or visit their website.