I’ve never been to BLK Burgrz in Mission Viejo, however, I hear from many they have excellent burgers. Recently, I visit its sister restaurant, BLK Earth Sea Spirits in Huntington Beach and am surprised to find such a stunning restaurant with a beautiful eco-friendly theme throughout. At first, I’m thinking the plants are all succulents, perfect for our hot sunny weather. Upon closer inspection, BLK has taken it a step further by using non-living plants which is a highly conscious move during this drought we’ve been experiencing.
The dining room has a clear view of the ocean, an absolute draw for both tourists and locals alike. There is also parking underneath the building — validation available — which takes the stress out of looking for street parking in this area.
I am in the mood for seafood and so we start with Tuna Tower ($14) layered with ahi tuna marinated in Asian seasonings, edamame, diced fresh mango, and creamy avocado. There is Sriracha on the plate spelling out “BLK” and I use this to accentuate each bite I’ve scooped onto a crispy wonton triangle. It is fresh, bright and really good.
Steamed Mediterranean Black Mussels ($12) is a generous portion and while it isn’t a tomato broth it is sitting in — more like stewed tomatoes — the flavor is powerful on the palate. A little crushed red chiles adds a welcoming punch and all I want to do is soak the sourdough bread into the sauce. A couple of the mussels are overcooked, but most remain plump and tender.
If you’re in the mood for something green, check out Apple Chicken Salad ($15), a bowl of mixed field greens, sliced apples, dried cranberries, candied pecans and crumbled feta cheese. Grilled Mary’s free range chicken adds protein to the mix and the raspberry honey vinaigrette everything is tossed in is enticingly sweet tart. A stellar salad indeed.
When have I not ordered wings? Never! Spicy Wingz ($12) is a little misleading as they’re not exactly wings, but rather, chicken drumsticks presented like wings. The chicken is juicy, however, the BLK spicy buffalo sauce is not very spicy and lacked the punch I am looking for. Perhaps a side of the sauce might have done the trick?
Of course, one can’t leave BLK without trying a burger — that’s what some of my readers have told me — and while I’m not in the mood to eat a huge burger, I opt for Kobe Sliders ($16). The Kobe grade ground beef is topped with sharp cheddar cheese, crispy fried onions, between a pretzel bun smeared with a spicy mustard spread. It is delicious! Everyone who tried it loved it!
However, my friend and I enjoy the Salmon Sliders ($16) even more. Moist blackened salmon marries together with lemon tarragon and pesto sauce, chile garlic aioli, lettuce, tomatoes, roasted red peppers, feta, red onion, all between a soft Hawaiian bun. It is a dish pescatarians and everyone else will love.
There is so much more on this menu I’d like to try so I guess I’ll have to visit again soon. This is a indeed a great addition to Huntington Beach!
BLK Earth Sea Spirits
300 Pacific Coast Hwy
Huntington Beach, CA 92648
Tel: 714-960-0996
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