GREAT EATS HAWAII: BLUE PLATE OYSTERETTE

Sunday, March 27, 2011

BLUE PLATE OYSTERETTE - SANTA MONICA

BLUE PLATE OYSTERETTE

SANTA MONICA, CALIFORNIA

We were looking for Blue Plate Oysterette when we stumbled upon Lobster Restaurant while walking the Santa Monica Pier. We ate at Lobster but something told me to go back and find Blue Plate. We ventured out on Ocean Avenue on a cold and rainy evening. Our GPS took us to Blue Plate and we were happy to see they had valet parking directly in front of this very small restaurant. We were greeted by a smiling lady wearing a nice hat. She offered us a table on the outside patio and asked if we would like to sit at the bar inside. I said the outside table was fine and she seated us with more smiles. A waitress arrived quickly with even more smiles and great attitude. As the rain began to fall, the hostess requested that we move inside because she saw that my daughter was very cold. She offered us a nice spot in the back of the restaurant along a side bar. It was warm and perfect for a light dinner. I did not know it but my girls were setting me up. They were saying they just wanted oysters and were full. Their real mission was to let me be happy with my oysters and then go to In N' Out for a burger. We started with the Raw Bar Combo for Two ($38). This is a tower of seafood that included a variety of fresh oysters and a huge bowl of squid and shrimp ceviche served with tortilla chips plus a few large grilled shrimp. Whats not to like about any of this. The oysters were great, the ceviche was delicious with the tortilla chips and the shrimp were grilled to perfection. We liked the oysters so much that we ordered another dozen. The waitress took the time to go over each variety of oyster with us. There were Malpeque, Kusshi, Hama Hama, Fisher Isand and Fanny Bay. Keli went for a bowl of Clam Chowder ($7). It was thick, creamy and delicious. Time and time again the staff here went out of the way to make sure we had everything we wanted, were happy and liked the food. I have rarely seen a staff of employees this happy and caring. Even the owner or manager came to the tables to greet each patron. I actually turned to one of our waitresses and commented on the great service and attitude here. She said they were like family and enjoyed making people feel good. I was so impressed with the service that I left a really good tip. As we were waiting for our car outside, the waitress walked outside and thanked me sincerely for the tip. Said it made her day. Well, they made my day too. I absolutely love Blue Plate Oysterette. It is A TASTE OF HAWAII FAVORITE and in the top 10 of all restaurants for service. I will visit this place every time in am in Los Angeles if time permits.