What happens when you meet your girlfriend(s) for a drink? You end up eating WAY too much while you’re having a drink or two, that’s what. SeaLegs Wine Bar in Huntington Beach is a great spot for a glass of wine — or two, or three. The bar is the best spot to do this because whoever is pouring will also give you some great suggestions as to what foods to pair your wine with, or vice versa!
Steven was our barkeep this evening, and I have encountered Steven several times before. In fact, we even have some mutual friends which makes the experience even more relaxing and enjoyable. I do apologize for the photos as I used my phone’s camera to capture everything we ate.
We wanted some things to nibble on and were in luck as there were several spring items recently added to the menu. Grilled Turkey Meatballs ($12) are tender, seasoned with harissa, just a tad under-salted for me. A tzatziki dipping sauce accompanies. These were paired with our first pours of Chacewater Sauvignon Blanc and Haus Creek Cuvee White Blend. The latter possessed scents of honey and honeysuckle while the sauvignon blanc was refreshing and lighter than what I’m normally accustomed to.
Beef Carpaccio ($14) is always perfect with wine and the one here is good. Fried crispy capers add a nice salty tartness and the well-dressed arugula is spicy. Don’t be afraid to ask for more lemon — I do — to drizzle over the thin beef slices. I love that burst of citrus on my palate!
Farm Fresh Flatbread ($14) was absolutely perfect. The combination of burrata, mozzarella, parmesan nestle between the vibrant vegetables is fresh and delightful. Included are asparagus, zucchini, squash, micro arugula and basil. Not only was this visually pleasing but we agreed it was absolutely delicious as well.
I am a fiend when it comes to Mussels and Clams ($16), never missing out on the opportunity to devour some. We were amazed by how plump the littleneck clams and Prince Edward Island mussels were. Add to that a briny broth dotted with bacon, shallots, garlic, leeks and white wine, it was all too scrumptious to stop. If I wasn’t sharing, I would have picked the bowl up and slurped it.
Our next drinks came in the form of reds, the Chateau Coutinel is a light red, one we all enjoyed with the next of our dishes.
Braised Chicken Tacos ($9) are so flavorful and the pickled onions are a great touch. Even so, I spritzed a little lemon juice on them for extra freshness.
The Lobster Sliders might not be on the menu when you go, but it comes back from time to time and are pretty good to share, or as an entree for yourself.
I wasn’t planning on ordering Quinoa Crab Fried Rice ($18) but I saw someone eating it across the bar, someone who ravished it under five minutes, and I couldn’t resist. The shards of crab meat ran throughout and the runny egg adds a creamy dimension to the plate. I loved the crunch of the bean sprouts making it deliciously addicting. I think this was our absolute favorite!
If you’re on your own, SeaLegs Wine Bar is the perfect place to dine at the bar. If you’re with a group, the lounge is great for a casual get-together. Soon, SeaLegs will offer outdoor patio dining as well.
SeaLegs Wine Bar
21022 Beach Blvd
Huntington Beach, CA 92648
Tel: 714-536-5700
I’ve been here twice now, both for Yelp events, and the owner couldn’t be more gracious and generous. The food is great and so are the wines. I really need to go back soon 🙂