Do we make the same old resolutions by vowing to exercise seven days a week, suffer through juice cleanses and deep-clean our closets? I could easily go back to my life of agonizing over who “A” really is in “Pretty Little Liars,” dreaming of becoming a judge on “Iron Chef” and waiting for that next big idea that’s going to make me a best-selling author. But we survivors need — and deserve — something more. After all, some people sold all of their worldly possessions before “The End” and are probably wishing it had really come.
For the rest of us, this day should be a reminder of how important it is to celebrate each new day by doing the things we love the most and making every moment count.
And who doesn’t love eating? That’s where I come in. No more will you be relegated to the same old thing. Instead I have resolved to help you experience gastronomic life like you never have before. Join me on this weekly adventure where I will explore new and exciting restaurants within your reach (in terms of both distance and price) and feature some of the best food you’ve ever had in some of the trendiest, coziest and friendliest spots you never knew existed. You’ll be glad you did — and thank the Mayans for being wrong.
Our adventure begins this week with the Misfit Restaurant and Bar located in Santa Monica, right around the corner from the Third Street Promenade. I find that this title is rather appropriate for all us college folk. Most of us pretend to act really excited about our upcoming graduations when, in reality, we’re casually having panic attacks about what we’re actually going to do with our lives. But no matter how neurotic or intense or cool you might be, you’re guaranteed to fit right in at the Misfit.
I stumbled upon this place with a group of friends on a late Friday night in hopes of finding something new, different and delicious. It certainly fit the criteria. We opened the doors and pushed back long black drapes that unveiled the perfect dive bar. It was like walking through a Heineken commercial. Cue the stylish people laughing with drinks in hand, waiters walking by with sizzling plates and music pumping. We approached the host who then entered our name and number on an iPad, saying he would text us when the table was ready. Could the Mayans do that?
After a long day of work, school or walking around the pier, this happening place is the ideal spot for a night out. Misfit offers a contrasting urban vibe near the coast with high ceilings, cascading light fixtures and an inviting bar area. Bartenders in black ties and vests stand behind the dark wooden counter top and take orders from guests in red leather chairs. The walls behind them are lined with rows of different wine bottles and above those are rows of books that reach the top of the ceiling.
If the atmosphere isn’t enough to entice you, the incredible food and fast service takes this place to the top of the charts. While the menu is tapas style, the food portions are undoubtedly filling. The diverse menu offers a twist of traditional American food with unique flavor combinations and an array of signature cocktails (If you’re 21, of course). Despite the cool, casual atmosphere, the food is far from mediocre. My personal favorite is the crispy lobster tail nik niks, which are fried lobster tails served in a soft bun with pancetta, heirloom tomato and Russian dipping sauce. Another scrumptious dish is the hamachi crudo with avocado, chiles, cilantro, peppercorns and ponzu sauce. If your mouth isn’t salivating already, maybe this will do the trick: Their fried chicken sandwich made with jidori chicken breast, fennel apple slaw and spicy mayo is absolutely outstanding.
For vegetarians, vegans and gluten-free people out there, I have not forgotten about you. This place has sensational options for you as well. One of the most delectable dishes is the shredded kale and quinoa salad with sunflower seeds, preserved lemon, grapes, manchego and Parmesan cheese. For something more filling, choose the chickpea wraps with organic butter lettuce, smoked almonds, pickled melon and house-made sambal. They’re amazing!
In this new year, whether you’re counting calories or wanting to try new things, give your taste buds a treat! After all, we did survive the apocalypse.
