Al M.
Yelp
When it came time to plan something special for someone close to my heart, I knew I had to pull out all the stops. So, I decided to take a scenic drive up to Long Beach and visit the Queen Mary--because what says "special occasion" better than a historic ocean liner? Of course, no grand evening is complete without a stellar meal, so I made reservations at Chelsea Chowder House & Bar, hoping to get that dinner-with-a-view experience. Let me just say, my expectations were not only met, but exceeded--though I do have one tiny regret: not wearing stretchy pants.
Finding Chelsea Chowder House & Bar turned out to be a bit of an adventure. The restaurant is tucked away so discreetly that it almost felt like we were on a treasure hunt. There's only a small, modest sign that says "restaurant," as if it's trying to keep the place a secret. But a quick inquiry with one of the friendly Queen Mary staff, and we were directed right to it. The moment we walked in, I knew we were in for a treat. We were seated quickly, and from our table, we had a view that could make a postcard jealous.
We started the evening off with an espresso martini because why not kick things off with a little sophistication? This drink wasn't just good--it was exceptional. It was like the perfect blend of smooth, rich coffee flavor and just the right kick of vodka, topped with a creamy foam that made each sip feel luxurious. It set the tone for what would be an unforgettable meal.
Our server, Angel (and yes, the name was perfectly fitting), was an absolute gem. He wasn't just serving food; he was crafting an experience. He offered spot-on suggestions for both the drinks and the food, and we took his advice on just about everything. For our main course, we went all out and ordered filet mignon--one done medium, and mine rare, because I like to live a little on the wild side. When the steaks arrived, I swear time slowed down. They were cooked to absolute perfection. My rare steak was seared on the outside, with a tender, melt-in-your-mouth center that was as flavorful as it was juicy. The medium filet was equally flawless, earning an immediate seal of approval from my dinner companion.
But we didn't stop there. We added sides of buttery mashed potatoes, grilled asparagus, and grilled carrots. The mashed potatoes were so smooth and rich, I briefly considered asking if they offered it in bulk to go. The asparagus had just the right amount of char from the grill, adding a smoky depth that was irresistible, and the carrots were caramelized to sweet perfection, almost making me forget they were vegetables.
Just when we thought we couldn't possibly eat another bite, Angel swooped in with the dessert menu. We caved and ordered the apple tart with vanilla ice cream, and let me tell you, it was the cherry on top of an already amazing meal. The tart was warm and flaky, with just the right amount of sweetness from the apples. The vanilla ice cream was the perfect complement, melting over the tart in a way that made each bite better than the last. I'm pretty sure I experienced a moment of pure bliss with that dessert.
As we wrapped up the evening, I couldn't help but think how Chelsea Chowder House & Bar nailed it on every front. From the hidden-gem atmosphere to the impeccable service and out-of-this-world food, this place is a must-visit for any special occasion--or just whenever you want to treat yourself to something extraordinary. I'm already planning my next visit, and this time, I'll definitely be wearing stretchy pants. Take it from me: you're going to want the extra room!