Cozy Restaurants in the South Bay for Valentine's Day

It’s that time of year again! Paper cut-outs of hearts strewn through store windows, chocolate, and candy are all of a sudden acceptable in our diets, and frantic husbands flood the flower isles of grocery stores to snag the last bouquet of roses. That’s right, it’s Valentine's Day! Although flowers and chocolates are appreciated, the best gift you can give your loved one is, without a doubt, the gift of time. And what better way to spend that time than enjoying a delicious meal in a cozy/romantic atmosphere? Whether your loved one is a vegetarian, meat-eater, or prefers a table by the ocean - we have a restaurant that will be sure to impress. We’ve crafted the perfect guide for lovers of all dining experiences, all you have to do is make the reservation. Be sure to make your reservation as far in advance as possible to avoid the classic “well it looks like we’re ordering Chinese food again.” See below for our hand-picked Valentine's Day restaurants! 

On a Budget
Jetta Thai
Went all out on the flowers and didn’t leave enough room in the budget for dinner? Jetta Thai is El Segundo’s newest cozy spot for authentic Thai food. Owned and operated by two sisters originating from Thailand, Jetta Thai is about as close as you can get to authentic Thai food, without hopping on a 20+ hour plane ride. The portions are large, and the prices are incredibly reasonable! After Valentine’s Day, Jetta Thai may be your new go-to Thai food spot. Check out their menu here!

Michelin Rated
Gabi James
For our fancy foodies, Gabi James is one of the three Michelin-star-rated restaurants in the South Bay. Bringing a taste of Spain to the California coast, Gabi James provides award-winning food, top-notch service, and an impeccably designed interior. If you take a look at the reviews, it’s hard to pin down which dish is the best, because all are mentioned heavily as being the best. Our suggestion – try them all! Book your reservation here.

For the Sushi Lover
FanSea Sushi
You’ve passed by FanSea sushi a million times, but I bet you had no idea it was there. Located at the West end of Rosecrans, FanSea sushi serves some of the best sushi in the South Bay - complete with a view of the ocean. Everything on the menu is delectable but they are known for their yellowtail scallion roll. Enjoy an intimate setting paired with some hot sake at FanSea. For Valentine's Day, they will be offering a special pre-fixed menu for 2, including an exclusive specialty roll only for Valentine's Day! Check out their menu here!

For the Meat Eater
MB Post 
No stranger to being at the top of almost every “South Bay’s Best” list, MB Post is a true staple to the South Bay. If you haven’t been since the new remodel, do yourself a favor and make a reservation. The tapa-style restaurant evolved its menu to cater to guests of all likings, but the meats here are unmatched. Start with a custom charcuterie board, have a few glasses of small-batch red wine, bite into the best steak you’ve ever had, and then finish the night with one of their delicious desserts. Incredible food mixed with a candle-lit interior sets the tone for a romantic dinner. MB Post has curated an immaculate 7-course premixed meal for the special day. Book your reservation here!

For the Vegetarian
RICE 
As far as sushi goes, RICE does a phenomenal job of curating the healthiest sushi in the South Bay and offering cult favorites in vegan form. Crispy rice has become everyone’s go-to appetizer lately. The only issue being crispy rice traditionally has only been offered with spicy tuna. RICE offers not one, but two vegan options - tofu and sweet potato crispy rice! Along with 7+ specialty vegan rolls and all vegan and gluten-free dessert options! Don’t worry, RICE’s menu is full of fish for our fish-eating counterparts. Book your reservation here!

Waterfront
R10 Social House
A true hidden gem in the South Bay, R10 sits overlooking our beautiful Redondo Pier and marina. With its coastal California vibe, R10 provides a 5-star experience, without the stuffy attitude or quiet lounge music. Sip on craft cocktails and spirits and watch as the sun sets over the marina. Our suggestion - the skirt steak with fries and extra chimichurri sauce. For our seafood lovers, their clams and market fish are always delectable. Looking for more of a bar vibe without the crowd?  Head on upstairs and enjoy the view while chatting with locals. Book your reservation here!

New & Trendy
RYLA 
RYLA is where incredible food and aesthetics meet together for a symbiotic experience like none other in the South Bay. A favorite of Dave Caskey's, you can catch him frequenting Hermosa’s newest infatuation. From the owners who brought us community staples like The Arthur J and Fishing with Dynamite, you already know that RYLA will soon become a household name. Both the interior and menu are heavily inspired by Japanese culture. Highlighting minimalism and precision of craft. Everything on the menu is spectacular, but you can’t miss out on the black truffle fried rice. If you’re lucky enough to snag a reservation around sunset, you’ll be engulfed by stunning filtered golden-hour lighting. You can access their special Valentine's Day Menu and book your reservation here!