The Rockefeller

The Rockefeller Restaurant Review:

When the weather allows, this gastropub’s glass front wall opens completely, creating a breezy, comfortable setting. Aged wood panels line most of the interior walls and exposed light bulbs emit a soft glow. A bar acts as the centerpiece of the space, and a few nooks accommodate diners seeking a quieter experience. While the menu offers gastropub standards, it also slips in a few surprises. Braised pork belly is covered in a tangy barbecue sauce and sweet caramelized apples; alternatively, yellowtail ceviche has a lighter touch, accented by crisp jícama and slightly spicy coconut-lime dressing. A burger with traditional fixings serves its purpose, but the seared duck breast is unexpected, cooked medium rare, and presented on a bed of creamy polenta and topped with a sour cherries sauce. For dessert, we suggest the cinnamon bread pudding. The entirely by-the-glass wine list is brief and its selections globally sourced, and there are over twenty beers, many local, on draft. Also located at 1209 Highland Ave., Manhattan Beach, 310-372-8467.