Wednesday, October 7, 2009

Eat Cape Cod-style at SaMo's BP Oysterette


Catch casual seafood between the Pier and the Promenade at Santa Monica’s BP Oysterette.

It’s a bustling scene all day long, with an open kitchen and small marble bar facing a virtual Endless Summer tribute (wicker chairs, surfing videos and a faux thatch wall).

Skip LA-style concessions like Kobe hot dogs in favor of traditional New England-style beach fare. A light, creamy chowder is hearty without being wintry. Steamers are East Coast-authentic, served with broth and butter. Oysters from all over come with standard fixings.

For entrees, keep it simple with the fresh fish. Today’s catch is scrawled on a chalkboard behind the counter. They’ll cook it any way you like, with sauces from pesto to black bean ginger chutney.

A high-end wine and draft beer list is prerequisite for the neighborhood but you’re on your own with pairings: the staff’s enthusiastic, but they’re not sommeliers.
BP Oysterette
1355 Ocean Ave., Santa Monica
(310) 260-8877
blueplatesantamonica.com

Price: 3 (out of 4) Noise: 2 (out of 4)
Parking: $7 valet after 5p, or multiple public parking garages along 2nd St.
Scene: Hungry westsiders and adventurous tourists
Best bets: Steamers; New England clam chowder; butter lettuce salad with Gorgonzola and crispy shallot vinaigrette
Hot seat: If you get there before 6p, snag one of the few outside tables for a view of the ocean.
Long lines: Leave your cell number and have a beer at Boa while you’re waiting.
Nearby: Bar Pintxo; Boa; Ye Olde King’s Head Tavern

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