Manchego, a longtime staple on Main Street, has re-opened in its new, larger space just three doors down from its old location.
The restaurant celebrated its official grand re-opening in April with new Executive Chef Vivianna Hernandez and a new expanded menu.
Manchego has retained its charm with intimate seating and candle lit tables in the main dining room.
The new location also boasts a private back patio, adding al fresco dining to the experience.
The restaurant is well known for its BYOB policies (which they still accommodate Monday to Thursday) and is now offering their own hand-selected wine list, consisting mostly of unique, small production Spanish wines as well as some South American and organic local wines.
In addition to a robust wine list, Manchego features outstanding red and white sangrias, which are made in-house.
Hernandez said the restaurant moved to the new location because of its amazing patio and ability to finally offer their own unique wine list and seat more people, just a couple doors down from the original location.
Hernandez said the menu concept was largely the same, with a few new additions such as braised lamb neck empanadas, Manchego truffle mac+cheese, and Yeye’s Flan.
“Our Spanish cheese plate and charcuterie are always a favorite because of the quality of the meats and cheeses that we use,” Hernandez said. “Other popular dishes are our spicy red pepper and feta dip with charred pita, the citrus kale salad, grilled zucchini with goat cheese and pecans, and the goat cheese/truffle honey/fig tostada. We use locally sourced ingredients and allow them to shine.”
Hernandez said Manchego provided for the perfect rustic dining experience.
“Manchego is homey and warm and our food is simple, yet impactful,” Hernandez said. “We have a great wine list and house made sangria.”
The restaurant offers BYO Monday through Thursday with a minimal corkage, although those terms are subject to change based on demand. Happy hour is Monday through Thursday from 5:30 pm to 7 pm.
Manchego is located at 2518 Main Street, Santa Monica. It is open Sunday to Thursday from 5:30 pm to 10 pm and Friday and Saturday from 5:30 pm to 11 pm.
For more information, call 310.450.3900 or visit www.manchegoonmain.com.
