I went to Sangria in Hermosa Beach for my 22nd birthday. I have to say, I think it was one of my best birthdays ever! I wasn't sure about it because I don't do the trendy or club scene often, so this was kind of a shot in the dark for me, but thankfully it worked out. I went with five friends of differing types and they all had a good time. First, the ambiance was great - darker, sultry, fresh, a little ""exotic,"" and a little of trendy meets old world charm. Secondly, our waitress was awesome! She was extremely helpful, very nice, engaged in friendly conversation with our table, unexpectedly brought me a dessert (I was a bit too drunk to know whether or not it was free by that time) - the dessert was really good FYI, and she even brought us a round a free shots for the table once she saw me and a couple of my girlfriends drinking Long Islands, which are apparently her favorite. She even took a shot with us and I think she may have also been a bar tender. She really did help to make the experience! Drink wise... the Long Islands were average, maybe a little above, the dirty martini was alright but the restaurant's namesake was GREAT! Simply put, the sangria is definitely worth the price! The food was also really good and worth its price. I had their shrimp which they are known for, the quesadillas were good too. The dance scene was only alright, at least IMHO. One room was sorta Latin/dance music and the other was full of mostly older rap. I prefer rock music, alternative, classic rock and other fun oldies or old school rap, but it wasn't horrible. As the restaurant turned into a club it got much more crowded. We called ahead for reservations and the dress was mostly nice/casual. Great sangria, great food, great customer service. I would go back, but not likely for dancing unless I went on a live music night, or for flamenco (I think they have flamenco shows - check their website).
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