Lianne K.
Yelp
We don't spend a lot of time in the El Segundo area, though in the past couple months, trying to escape the inland heat, we have been close to the shore more than in years! Yesterday, after attending a memorial service in Rancho Palos Verdes, the family hosted a late lunch at North Italia in The Point center. When we pulled up, I was surprised. Never knew about this place, and certainly wasn't expecting the bright, vibrant spot we encountered.
At 3:00 in the afternoon on a Thursday there was plenty of parking (free), and room to stroll. We sat outside at the restaurant, and I was amazed at how many people were off work and walking through the plaza. There were a lot of couples, in particular. With such a variety of places to dine, shop, or just hang out in a pleasant space, I can understand why.
The landscaping is lush, and still growing to maturity. The overall vibe is colorful, with some touches of whimsy, like the signs directing you to various tenants of the center. I'd say that they're going for a "modern tropical" kind of feeling. I fell in love with one of the trees with large bright orange blossoms, which went well with the tropical atmosphere.
A large water feature anchors the central section of the mall, where all the buildings converge. I noticed people reading, or working on a laptop, in the area with tables and chairs under umbrellas near the fountain. It would be a great hang-out spot.
Will try to return another time when we're on our own and can explore at leisure. For a first visit, I was impressed with the bright, clean, colorful spaces with a mix of unique architecture. Good job, El Segundo!