Manhattan Beach has become the newest location for Urban Plates, a “chef-driven, fast-casual restaurant serving made-from-scratch meals.” Not only does Urban Plates use sustainably sourced ingredients, but they are served at affordable prices. Customers have their choice of delicious seafood and meat dishes such as: the wild shrimp , sea bass, sustainable salmon, wild caught ahi tuna, cage free chicken, bbq turkey meatloaf, grass fed steak and lamb. Choose from one of their hot sides: rosemary potatoes, roasted Brussels Sprouts, quinoa and one of my favorites – macaroni and cheese. Chilled sides are also served. Try the beet salad, side house or Caesar or sliced avocado. For those wanting something to keep them warm during the cool winter nights, try the braised beef and mushroom or the Moroccan Chicken Braise. The seasonal seafood chowder and tomato basil soup are perfect starters to your meal. Bread lovers get ready because Urban Plates is known for their tasty sandwiches, all served on their grilled rustic bread. The grilled portobello mushroom and caprese are great for vegetarians. The grilled cage free chicken sandwich and chicken club are fan favorites, but the surprise hit for me were the three Bánh mì sandwiches: wild ahi tuna, chicken and steak. Urban Plates unique spin on the classic Vietnamese delicacy is nothing less than spectacular. This eatery is also the perfect spot for plant-based eaters and vegetarians. In addition to their plant-based bowls, the restaurant has meat-free sandwiches, salads and grilled veggies. Each meal can be perfectly complemented by their selection of craft beers on tap and their local and regional wines. Nonalcoholic drinks are also available. Try their natural sodas or kombucha on tap.
After being pleasantly satisfied with your entrée, you must stay for dessert. If the fresh baked cookies or cupcakes don’t tempt you, the banana cream pie, mango tart or hummingbird cake surely will. Gluten free eaters, this is the restaurant for you. Chocolate coconut macaroons, several cookies, chocolate pudding, flourless chocolate cake and my favorite, the pineapple cake are gluten free sweets made daily from scratch.
I thoroughly enjoyed myself at Urban Plates. From the “Talented chefs who use high quality ingredients to make the most flavorful meals,” to the friendly staff, and the fast-casual ambiance, Urban Plates makes for a great date night, family outing, work lunch or meal with friends – all without breaking the bank. Sunday – Thursday, 11 am – 9:30 pm, Friday – Saturday, 11 am – 10 pm; 2650 N Sepulveda Blvd, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
