I’ve always thought of Hermosa Beach as a bar town and not somewhere you can dine on anything except bar food. Despite driving, bicycling, and skating on Hermosa Ave right in front of Chef Melba’s Bistro, I never felt the urge to visit. Due to a friend’s recommendation, my wife and I recently dined there.
After visiting Chef Melba’s Bistro, I was shocked to learn that they have has been in business for 17 years. In my defense, I suppose it was because I was cruising by during daylight hours, and I never saw anyone inside. Still, the fact that they have been open that long should have registered with me.
Looking at the menu, Chef Melba favors seafood, and why not, since they are steps away from the Pacific. The majority of the entrées are seafood-focused, then a vegetarian dish, and a Lamb Shank. Peruvian Scallops are presently trending, and she featured them on her menu as far back as 2016. A few pasta dishes round out the menu.
The interior is small, and the kitchen occupies a portion of the space. Chef Melba was working that day, and I found her extremely friendly and outgoing. Because she is there so often, she knows her customers and makes them feel at home in her kitchen. She often poses for pictures with her customers.
She likes to play with flavors. Even the simple Roasted Carrots ($12) include honey, coriander, chili salt, and chimichurri. Our appetizer consisted of sliced Bartlett pears, taro chips, hummus, and a fresh tapenade with olives, lentils, and fresh tomatoes mixed with balsamic and olive oil ($14). It was a fun way to begin the meal.
It is rare to see a dish like Seafood Asopado ($45) on the menu, and she describes it as “infused saffron rice full explosion of flavors”. Asopado is a Puerto Rican stew typically made with chicken thighs. Chef Melba’s version is loaded with seafood – scallops, fish, calamari, clams, chorizo, and topped with a jumbo prawn. The broth blends a myriad of flavors and should be savored.
My wife selected the Beef Stroganoff, the special that evening – fresh pappardelle mixed in a savory brown sauce combined with cubes of beef. Another customer in the restaurant said, “I know stroganoff because I am from Russia and added that it was one of the best I have ever had.” My wife agreed.
Pro Tip: Free Corkage, Wednesday, Thursday, and Sunday.
Even if you don’t enjoy seafood, Chef Melba’s Bistro is worth visiting. She is often in the kitchen and ensures the quality of the dishes. Chef Melba is extremely friendly and enjoys cooking for her guests as if they were in her home.
Chef Melba’s Bistro, 1501 Hermosa Ave. Hermosa Beach, CA 90254; 310.376.2084; chefmelbasbistro.com