This upscale Spanish eatery near the beach impresses with its vibrant tapas, cozy vibe, and attentive service, making every visit a special occasion.
"Your parents don’t get many ocean views, so they demanded a beach visit, but now Dad is hangry-complaining about the sand and it’s clearly time for dinner. This modern Spanish spot in Redondo Beach is calm without being boring, and is generally filled with locals eating big plates of jamon and getting wine-drunk. Get some clams and the tortilla Espanola - if anything is going to convince them that a family trip to Malaga is a good idea, a giant potato cake is probably it." - jess basser sanders, brant cox, brett keating
"Gabi James is a modern Spanish restaurant in Redondo Beach with a bright space, fantastic cocktails, and a menu that feels different. The oxtail ragu comes with sauteed penne that might remind you of eating a bowl of French fries (this is a good thing), and the tortilla Espanola is basically a giant piece of potato cake that we can’t stop thinking about. If you’re looking for a new date spot in the South Bay, Gabi James is an excellent option." - Brant Cox
"Gabi James is a little fancy for Redondo Beach—i.e. still pretty casual for everywhere else— and a nice option if you want a relatively quiet meal after the beach. The food here is excellent, and the people at the bar all look like they’ve been coming here consistently for the last twenty years (always a good sign), so order a tortilla espanola, some jamon, and a glass of albariño, and brainstorm how to get their kind of life." - Brant Cox, Kat Hong
"Welcome to this modern gem, dressed in earthy hues, vibrant tiles, and leather booths. Unique wall sconces exude an amber glow, while concrete floors epitomize the rustic-chic spirit. Over in the kitchen, the team may be found preparing a litany of Spanish and coastal French plates, finished with California flair. Diners should start though with a creative G&T before digging into the tapas tailed by larger plates—many of which are reimagined classics.Consider the likes of pan con tomate imbued with garlic salt; tortilla Española with paper-thin potatoes and sherry vinegar aïoli; or moruna puerco, marinated pork skewer draped atop fava bean purée and mojo verde with French feta. Daily specials and dessert (churros, maybe?) are a particular highlight." - Michelin Inspector
"What It Is: A modern Spanish restaurant in Redondo Beach Perfect For: Date Night Gabi James is a new Spanish restaurant in Redondo Beach that we’re excited about. Located just a few blocks from the beach, this bright space has a lively atmosphere, fantastic cocktails, and a menu that feels different. The oxtail ragu comes on a bed of fried penne that might remind you of eating a bowl of French fries (this is a good thing), and the tortilla Espanola is a giant piece of potato cake that we can’t stop thinking about it. If you’re looking for a new date spot in the South Bay, Gabi James is a great option. The Verdict: Excellent Spanish food in a modern space by the beach. It’s going on the Hit List." - jess basser sanders, brant cox, brett keating
