It’s 2 in the morning, and what do I want more than anything...Zucchini Strips from The Kettle (extra side ranch dressing & BBQ sauce of course). For years this 24hr eatery has fulfilled my drunken cravings in a way that makes it feel like a second home. It’s an upscale coffee shop that is pure American cuisine. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner, this neighborhood staple to the Manhattan Beach community is where the locals go for comfort food and taste of tradition.

For example, Sunday brunch is an institution and it offers Pomosas (pomegranate mimosas), which I think are the right way to start any day. On Friday and Saturday nights they have a doorman/bouncer b/t 12pm and 4am, just to manage the herds of people desperate for greasy goodness. The Kettle never sleeps, and for that I am grateful.

What you have to order:

Breakfast – The Crabcake Benedict is surprisingly good and extremely filling. They offer healthy options including Scrambled Egg Whites & Chicken-Apple Sausage (92% lean); it is a beachside crowd after all. They also make homemade muffins everyday (take your pick of Honey Bran, Blueberry Yogurt, Carrot Raisin, Banana Nut, Orange Zest, it’s all good) that always sell out & you can take home.

Lunch & Dinner – Sandwiches and Burgers and Pot Roast, Oh My! The variety on the menu is vast & wholesome. The Braised Pot Roast is a Kettle classic, while the slow-roasted Baby Back Ribs could rival any steakhouse chain. On any general occasion I am a fan of the Tuna Melt, Turkey Burger, & Original Reuben sandwich. Fish Entrees & Pasta Dishes are also offered.

Late Night – …Chicken Strips, Mac’n’Cheese, & most definitely Zucchini Strips are the definition of late-night indulgence & gluttony. I say “Who cares?” If it’s just one night a week that you pop the button off your jeans, then you done good. If you feel the urge to continue your drinking quest, The Kettle also has Beer & a not so bad Wine List (I’ve seen worse)……..oh yeah, did I mention the Hot Fudge Sundae.

It’s apparent I’m a fan, but I’m not alone in my groupie status. The vibe is cool & relaxing. They play jazz all day and with the rustic wood décor and vaulted ceilings, you feel like you’re in a log cabin. Next time you’re in South Bay, you’re hungry, hung-over, or just needing to come down off your day, The Kettle will be there.

The Kettle
1138 Highland Ave.
Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
(310) 545-8511
24 Hours Everyday

Author: Erin Landsberg