MB WEEKLY – EXCLUSIVE READER POLL:
Reader Poll Reveals Startling Truth – 1 in 4 Young Adults Feel Lonely in South Bay
In a recent MB Weekly Reader Poll, nearly 25% of respondents under the age of 30 admitted to feeling lonely, highlighting a silent but growing emotional crisis among South Bay’s younger residents. “What a horrible, sad statistic,” said Paula P., a longtime Hermosa Beach resident. “This is supposed to be paradise.” Despite living in one of the most beautiful and vibrant communities in California, many young adults report feeling disconnected and isolated, attributing this to social media, remote work, and a lack of authentic community. Mental health experts say the results mirror national trends, showing an increase in loneliness among Gen Z. The findings should spark conversations among local leaders and wellness advocates, who argue that more needs to be done to foster genuine connections, especially for those just starting out. One poll respondent summed it up: “Everyone’s online, but no one’s together.”
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MB WEEKLY:
The Faces of Manhattan Beach
Michael Zislis
(Zislis Group)
Q: WHAT WAS YOUR ORIGINAL IDEA IN FORMING ROCK’ N FISH?
A: I wanted to create a place I’d love to hang out at! A restaurant that serves big portions, even bigger pours and has unforgettable hospitality. Somewhere you could come in off the beach or after a long day of work, grab a great steak, some fresh seafood, and a strong drink. I have been lucky enough to travel a lot and I wanted my menu to reflect some of the best dishes I’ve ever had. We call our menu, “American Regional Cuisine.” That means we’ve taken the best American dishes from around the country and interpreted them at their best with the freshest local ingredients. Our guests whether locals or visitors are treated like family. There is always great, vibrant energy in this restaurant.
Q: TWENTY-FIVE YEARS IS AN EXTRAORDINARY ACHIEVEMENT IN THE RESTAURANT BUSINESS. WHAT DO YOU THINK YOUR SECRET SAUCE IS FOR THE SUCCESS OF ROCK’ N FISH?
A: It’s all about hospitality for me. True consistency and caring for everyone who walks in our door – caring about the food, the people, and the experience. I’ve always believed if you treat your guests like family and your staff with respect, good things happen. We try to give back to our amazing Manhattan Beach community as much as possible and in return I think we see the support from the people that live here. Plus, we’re in a pretty unbeatable location just steps from the pier.
Q: WHAT ARE YOUR PLANS FOR THE RESTAURANT NEXT YEAR?
A: We’re always looking for ways to evolve without losing what makes us special. Next year, we’re planning to freshen up the menu a bit, bring in some new flavors, maybe even some fun events like a Sunday Crab Boil. But at the core, Rock’ N Fish will always feel like home base in Manhattan Beach and we will continue with our generous quality portions no matter what.
Q: WHAT IS THE MOST CHALLENGING ASPECT OF RUNNING THE RESTAURANT IN A POST-COVID WORLD?
A: Staffing and supply chains / food costs have definitely been tough, but we know how to roll with it by now. Our staff is incredible and knows that my biggest goal is to send my guests home satiated and smiling. We want to be that spot guests come back to again and again.
Q: WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE THING TO EAT AT ROCK’ N FISH?
A: That’s a tough one! But if I had to pick? I would start with our legendary Navy Grog rum cocktail with an Oak-grilled Artichoke or Blue Cheese Wedge salad. Follow it with our Macadamia Nut crusted Mahi Mahi or hand-cut Kapalua Rib-Eye (that is marinated 72 hours!) and then end with our Kona Pie. That is the perfect meal for me.
www.ZislisGroup.com
MB WEEKLY EXCLUSIVE LENS VIDEO:
An exclusive MB Weekly video featuring South Bay Cycle in Manhattan Beach.
https://youtu.be/N3_j1ubayjI
Joey Restaurants:
Szechuan Chicken Lettuce Wraps
sweet soy ginger glaze, peanuts, crispy wontons, spicy aioli
www.JoeyRestaurants.com
MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Ed Kaminsky (Kaminsky Real Estate Group)
The tragic fires in Pacific Palisades have certainly had ripple effects across the Los Angeles real estate market – including right here in the South Bay. In the first 60 days following the fires, we witnessed a noticeable spike in buyer demand – particularly from displaced homeowners who were either unable or unwilling to rent long-term in the Palisades. As a result, prices on certain home types – especially those comparable to what one might find in the Palisades – saw temporary appreciation of nearly 10%. However, that surge was short-lived. What has endured, however, is a greater sense of stability in our market. While many areas around the country are experiencing rising inventory and price softening, Manhattan Beach and Hermosa Beach remain relatively balanced. Well-located, move-in ready newer homes continue to attract strong buyer interest and in some cases, modest price increases. On the other hand, older homes – typically 20 to 30 years old and lacking recent upgrades – are facing longer market times and require pricing adjustments to compete effectively. That said, for buyers looking for something specific – and they plug in their specific criteria, buyers always say, there is not enough to pick from still. As for the longer-term effects of the Palisades fire, many displaced families remain in short- or medium-term rentals throughout the South Bay. While some are undecided on whether to return or make a permanent move, I believe a percentage of these families will ultimately choose to purchase here. That gradual absorption could support continued stability in our local market over the coming years.
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MB WEEKLY – LENS:
Sausal, a popular Mexican restaurant in El Segundo.
MB WEEKLY:
The Faces of Manhattan Beach
David Slay
(Slay Hospitality Group)
Q: WHAT’S YOUR BIGGEST LESSON ABOUT CUSTOMER LOYALTY IN A TOWN WHERE LOCALS ARE KNOWN FOR HIGH STANDARDS AND FIERCE OPINIONS?
A: Loyalty is earned not a given by anyone in any business. The guest today has so many options and we retain guest loyalty as well as most or even better. It is my experience in any town that has a bit of sophistication and people are well traveled that high standards are expected. … and opinions well, we all have them.
Q: HOW DO YOU BALANCE MAINTAINING A CONSISTENT EXPERIENCE FOR REGULARS WHILE KEEPING THE MENU FRESH AND EXCITING?
A: Consistent can sometimes be mistaken for repetitive or complacent. My take and what I preach to our staff is that if we are serving Jim and Mary from The Palisades for the first time currently, that they deserve to experience what guests received how ever many years ago when we started. Fresh flowers, maintain cleanliness, keep the paint fresh and so on. Consistency is the key in my opinion to success in our business.
Q: IN A BEACHFRONT COMMUNITY LIKE MANHATTAN BEACH, HOW MUCH DOES THE VIBE AND DESIGN OF THE SPACE INFLUENCE YOUR SUCCESS COMPARED TO THE FOOD ITSELF?
A: 100% Hand in Hand.
Q: WHAT’S THE MOST SURPRISING TREND YOU’VE NOTICED IN DINER BEHAVIOR SINCE OPENING YOUR DOORS?
A: Well COVID changed so much. Late dining (8:00-9:30), theatre and dinner after, sharing isn’t as common. And most importantly the elegance of just having a wonderful dinner and evening out. Everyone is in a hurry.
Q: IF YOU COULD MAGICALLY TRANSPORT YOUR ENTIRE RESTAURANT FOR ONE WEEK ANYWHERE WORLDWIDE, WHERE WOULD YOU GO – AND WHY?
A: Gotta really believe in Santa Claus for that magic. So much goes into a pop up, or as you are asking a week. At our vineyard would be the magic place for me.
www.Slay.la
MB WEEKLY – LENS:
Lido Di Manhattan waitress Heidi holding a Spicy Summer Mango Margarita.
MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Paul Wafer (Manhattan Beach Community Activist)
Let me start by saying that I agree with Mr. Holmes, Mr. Lesser and Mr. Stern that the city does not need a COO. I don’t think we need an assistant city manager either. The point I was trying to make is that since the current city council nor the current city manager has the where-with-all to realize that more people and higher salaries does not necessarily equal improved service, we need someone in the government that can review and modify work flows and processes, control overtime, and hold all department directors accountable for budget improvement. Unfortunately, all of the data that I have presented on these pages has been completely ignored. Once the new approved budget is posted online, I will continue to point out the incongruity that exists in our city.
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MANHATTAN BEACH FOOD & WINE:
The 2nd Annual Manhattan Beach Food & Wine Returns
Friday, September 12th & Saturday, September 13th, 2025!
PRE-SALE TICKETS NOW AVAILABLE!
www.ManhattanBeachFoodAndWine.com
MB WEEKLY EXCLUSIVE LENS VIDEO:
An exclusive MB Weekly video featuring Lido Bakery in Manhattan Beach.
https://youtu.be/Mx-GS2bBvRA
MB WEEKLY – READER QUESTION:
ARE YOU CONCERNED ABOUT “OVER-PARENTING”?
Please share your comment with thousands and thousands of your neighbors in Manhattan Beach and surrounding South Bay communities.
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MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Mark Burton (Former Mayor, Manhattan Beach)
In last week’s MB Weekly, several former Mayors opined that the City doesn’t need a COO since that was the job of the City Manager. With a great deal more city employees now working with higher and higher compensation, and pension/medical plan costs continuing to soar, something needs to change if our residents really want true transparency, timely accountability and ultimate efficiency in our City’s government. How about electing Councilmembers that have demonstrated core beliefs of being fiscally prudent? Or, electing Councilmembers that are truly committed to complete transparency in all city business? Or, get this, Councilmembers who will not only listen to the needs and wants of our city’s residents but will fight for our residents’ needs and wants? The culture of our City Councils needs to change if any of this could happen.
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DO YOU HAVE UNIQUE NAILS?
Please send in a photo of your unique nails and share them with all your neighbors in the South Bay. Send to: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net
Bertha Mae’s Brownies:
www.BerthaMaesBrownies.com
MB WEEKLY – LENS:
Two happy team members at AttaGirl in Downtown Manhattan Beach.
MB WEEKLY – RESTAURANT REVIEW:
by Darby Winston
Lido Di Manhattan Ristorante & Bar
Tucked away in Manhattan Beach, Lido Di Manhattan Ristorante & Bar has been a neighborhood staple for over 25 years, offering a contemporary spin on Italian cuisine with California-fresh sensibilities. I started my meal with the Beet Salad. The sweetness of the roasted beets played off the crunch of hazelnuts, while creamy goat cheese and a citrus-forward dressing added layers of tang and freshness. The main course – an 8 oz prime filet – arrived perfectly cooked, well-rested, and juicy. On the side, Gorgonzola mashed potatoes came steaming and decadently creamy, the bold blue cheese offering just the right amount of funk to complement the steak. Service was warm and attentive throughout the evening, though the ambiance tilted toward the overly dim, which made the restaurant feel dark and sleepy. Still, the warm atmosphere and thoughtful menu more than compensated for the lighting. Overall, Lido Di Manhattan delivers a charming blend of Italian tradition and California flair, ideal for a relaxed yet refined night out. Whether you’re a longtime local or just visiting the South Bay, it’s worth a reservation.
Food: B+ • Atmosphere: B • Service: A
www.LidoDiManhattan.com
MB WEEKLY – LENS:
Kreation in El Segundo.
MB WEEKLY – TRIVIA:
Top Ten Trivia Facts About Manhattan Beach
- The Beach Volleyball Capital: Manhattan Beach is often referred to as the “Beach Volleyball Capital of the World.” It hosts the prestigious Manhattan Beach Open, the longest-running beach volleyball tournament in the U.S.
- The Pier: Manhattan Beach Pier, built in 1920, is one of the oldest concrete piers on the West Coast. It’s a popular spot for fishing, surfing, and walking, and houses the Roundhouse Marine Studies Lab and Aquarium.
- Affluence: Manhattan Beach consistently ranks as one of the wealthiest communities in California, with some of the most expensive real estate in the U.S. The median home price often exceeds $2 million.
- A Hollywood Favorite: Many films and TV shows, including Point Break and Jerry Maguire, have filmed scenes in Manhattan Beach due to its picturesque scenery and proximity to Hollywood.
- The Sand Dune Park: Manhattan Beach’s Sand Dune Park is a favorite workout spot, boasting a massive sand dune that athletes, including NFL players, use for training.
- Historical Oil Industry: In the early 20th century, oil wells dotted the landscape of Manhattan Beach, although today it is better known for its pristine beaches and residential charm.
- The Name’s Origin: The name “Manhattan” comes from Stewart Merrill, a land developer from New York City who named it after his home borough.
- World War II History: During World War II, the U.S. government used parts of the beach for military training, particularly the El Segundo sand dunes, which are just north of the city.
- The Manhattan Beach Post Office: The city’s post office is historically significant as it was designed by noted architect Charles Luckman, who also designed the Prudential Tower in Boston and the NASA Manned Spacecraft Center in Houston.
- Eco-Friendly: Manhattan Beach was one of the first cities in Los Angeles County to ban single-use plastic bags and straws as part of its strong environmental sustainability initiatives.
DID YOU KNOW?
Did you know that 44 students from Mira Costa High School are MB Weekly readers?
www.MBWeekly.net
1. ** What happened in New York is a five-alarm fire for LA County. A radical socialist just took down Andrew Cuomo, and DSA leaders here are cheering. Their agenda is dangerous: defund police, erase local control, and destroy neighborhoods. Thank God for Thrive LA – finally, a group fighting back with common sense! —- B.S., Hermosa Beach
2. ** Memo to Manhattan Beach! Erewhon is officially opening its doors at 1700 Rosecrans Avenue on Wednesday, July 2nd. Experience their signature blend of wellness, sustainability, and premium products – right here in the South Bay. The healthy lifestyle hotspot has finally arrived. Let the organic goodness begin. —- Tate O.
3. ** I am f—king tired of being told to “coexist” with coyotes while our pets get eaten and we fear walking our neighborhoods. This isn’t coexistence – it’s surrender. We didn’t create this mess, yet we suffer the consequences. Enough is enough. Stop prioritizing the protection of predators over the safety of our families and pets. —- Leslie M., Redondo Beach
4. ** The Butchery has officially opened in Manhattan Beach at 1121 Artesia Blvd! Known for its premium meats, chef-driven cuisine, and community vibe, this full-service butcher shop also offers artisanal groceries, seafood, craft beer, and fine wines. A delicious new chapter begins for South Bay food lovers. —- The Butchery
5. ** Gas tax hikes go in effect in California today. The price of gasoline is so high in Los Angeles that it costs you more to mow your grass than to smoke it. —- Oscar N.
6. ** Do you deserve a treat? Head to Salt & Pearl in the Hermosa Beach Village! Incredible lunch today – delicious food, warm service, stunning decor, and a restroom so cool, it’s a must-see – total gem of a spot. I’ll be back soon… and you should check it out too. Yum. —- Addie B., Hermosa Beach
7. ** Be on alert in Redondo Beach: A suspicious door-to-door pest control rep from Aptive raised red flags. Friendly and vague, he avoided specifics – turns out it’s a front tied to the Church of Latter-day Saints. Do your homework before signing anything. It fooled my friend – don’t let it fool you. —- Gabe and Alis, Redondo Beach
8. ** SCAM ALERT: El Segundo PD warns of a rising “sextortion” text scam targeting South Bay residents. Scammers claim to have explicit photos and demand crypto or Zelle payments. Don’t respond or pay – block and report the number. Stay alert, and remember: it can happen to you. —- El Segundo Police Department
9. ** The Black Angus in Torrance quietly closed last month, marking the end of nearly 50 years of service. A local landmark, it was a beloved spot for steaks, cocktails, and celebrations, especially among longtime, older patrons. —- Editor’s Note
10. ** A Hawthorne couple was convicted on July 2 of torturing and murdering 7-year-old Amaiya Dawson in 2021. Jurors found Ida Brockman and Malachi Whalen guilty of first-degree murder after a nearly two-month trial. —- Editor’s Note
11. ** Regarding your recent reader poll on men in women’s sports. I’m surprised it’s only 74%. It should be 99.8%. Sad. —- John A., Manhattan Beach
12. ** Growing up, I was taught to dislike the American flag and all that it represented. This year, for the first time, I hung one outside my house. —- Aaron L., Redondo Beach
13. ** People who get arrested on July 4 lose their freedom by overcelebrating their independence. —- Larissa P.
14. ** Burger and breakfast favorite Great White is gearing up to open in Manhattan Beach soon, taking over the former Pitfire Pizza space. —– Editor’s Note
15. ** Hating your country is like hating your parents and still living at their home. Move out and be happy elsewhere. —- Stuart Z., Hermosa Beach
16. ** Sadly, MBUSD is $3M short on its budget; A victim of CA’s equity policy on local taxes, an ideology they touted for years as good. —- Fred T., Manhattan Beach
17. ** Drumroll, please… the first wave of chef headliners joining us at Manhattan Beach Food & Wine has arrived! Secure your spot today and stay tuned – more incredible chefs will be revealed soon. Tickets are on sale now at www.MBFoodAndWine.com.
18. ** Boundless Media USA is seeking two exceptional entry-level candidates for a remote, part-time (15 hours per week) opportunity in media and storytelling. Includes flexible hours, mentorship, and weekly Zooms – a chance in a lifetime in a life of chance. Apply fast! Visit www.BoundlessMediaUSA.com or email AmandaK@BoundlessMediaUSA.com.
19. ** Regardless of personal views on the schools, the Manhattan Beach Unified School District (MBUSD) has earned a strong national reputation over the past 50 years. Despite economic challenges, it remains one of California’s top-performing districts, a testament to its enduring commitment to academic excellence and student achievement. —- Lyle J.
20. ** The Manhattan Beach Food & Wine Festival at Manhattan Village was a blast last year, and my wife and I are thrilled to be going again. —- Sean J., Manhattan Beach
21. ** Let’s face it – I’m screwed. $200K in student loans, a shaky career, chronic health issues, and not even a whiff of the life I was promised: six-figure salary, home, family, stability. Instead, I’m middle-aged, exhausted, and stuck in a system that sold me a dream and delivered a nightmare. —- Orli P., Hermosa Beach
22. ** The Tin Roof happy hour is the bomb! Love it. —- Amanda T., Manhattan Beach
23. ** Just a note to inform anyone in North Redondo who has visited Beach Cities Cafe – Tim, the beloved owner of Little Bits, passed away … His warm spirit and kind presence touched many. He will be sincerely missed by the community he served with heart. Rest in peace, Tim. —- Allison J., Redondo Beach
24. ** Simms Wine Club: We bring together wine lovers with hand-selected wines, along with unique benefits at Simms restaurants, designed to elevate your dining and social experiences. —- Simms Wine Club
25. ** Is Boa restaurant in Manhattan Village? When I’ve been there for lunch in the past, it’s been empty! —- Tara K., Manhattan Beach
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