Depot

Depot Restaurant Review:

Chef Michael Shafer is one of the better-known restaurateurs of the South Bay. He designed and helped build this restaurant in a converted trolley depot, and while the atmosphere is one of subtle elegance, the creativity on the menu is unrestrained. Find starters like ahi tuna and wasabi caviar tartare; rock shrimp sausages; and Thai ale-steamed dumplings. The ever-changing repertoire often features spirited Asian and Southwestern ingredients. Entrées include Shafer’s signature Thai-dyed chicken with tempura shrimp, and fig jam- and Gorgonzola-crusted steak. Executives from nearby corporate offices frequently lunch here, enjoying the bento box presentations. For dessert, there’s a brûléed lemon tart and banana cream pie. The wine and beer list is well chosen, and the lively bar is the place to be seen in downtown Torrance. Chef Shafer is also engaged in the community and offers monthly cooking classes.