M STREET KITCHEN
DRINKS…DINING…DESSERTS…A-OK AT SANTA MONICA FAVE

A crowded and popular Main Street favorite of Santa Monica Beach locals, M Street Kitchen, formerly LGO (La Grand Orange), is known for its out-of-this world desserts (their cookies are legendary) and its stellar seasonally based dishes. Before Stella Rossa Pizza Bar opened on the same block, the folks at M Street Kitchen steadily built their loyal following before expanding.

Sleek and modern looking inside, there’s an intimate candlelit mood at M Street Kitchen, although many diners love to take advantage of the comfy and refreshing outdoor patio dining, taking full advantage of eating so close to the beach.

During our recent visit, we started with the tasty $5 sangria. And yes, it’s only $5 all day long. We also shared the impressive Fire-roasted Vegetable Quesadilla, served with corn salsa and pico de gallo. It’s a big dish and is perfect to share. Quite delicious, this one is good enough for repeat visits as a meal on its own.

Next we spit the Brussels Sprouts Salad, made with manchego cheese, almonds, dried berries and honey-mustard vinaigrette. Light, tasty and a solid healthy option, it’s pricey at $14 as an entrée, but a winner when splitting. While it is very time consuming to de-leaf Brussels sprouts, it’s well worth the effort. And it’s not like you’re doing the pealing, just reaping the savory rewards.

Offering a solid selection of entrees, including burgers, fresh fish, Dixie Pan-fried Chicken and Asian-style Short Ribs, I went with the Braised Chicken Enchilada, prepared with cheddar and Oaxaca cheese, and tomatillo sauce. While chicken enchiladas are a pretty safe order in Los Angeles, the sauce was extremely satisfying. I left behind a spotless and sauce-free plate. We also ordered the “Surfer Style” Tuna Tacos with sushi-grade tuna seared rare. Served with housemade corn tortillas griddled to order, along with black beans, jasmine rice, guacamole and pico de gallo, this one is now a favorite.

While the lack of restaurant lighting can come off as a bit pretentious, M Street Kitchen offers a sophisticated yet laidback vibe without being too beachy casual. Cheap drinks, reasonable appetizers and kick ass desserts make for a good night out on a budget. Otherwise, indulge without regret. 
           
M Street Kitchen is located at 2000 Main Street in Santa Monica. Hours: Mon-Thurs 8a.m.-11p.m.; Fri-Sat 8a.m.-12a.m.; Sun 8a.m.-10p.m. Breakfast available from 8a.m. to 4p.m. Call 310-396-9145.

 

 

Some Photos & Review by: Jose Martinez

Photos courtesy of: M Street Kitchen