Indian: Akbar
Akbar. Photo (CivicCouch.com)
The Indian Emperor Akbar was an adventurous and ambitious ruler who learned from other cultures, which makes it quite fitting that this restaurant is named for him. Chef Avinash Kapoor has an adventurous take on Indian food, serving Southern seafood dishes and items that use nontraditional combinations of spices and ingredients. There are sometimes daily and seasonal specials – unusual in the local Indian restaurant community – and the wine and beer lists are well-chosen for this cuisine. Though as a Muslim he would not have drunk alcoholic beverages, the wise Mughal emperor was tolerant and surely would not mind that others do so in this excellent namesake restaurant. — RF
1101 Aviation Blvd., Hermosa Beach. (310) 937-3800
Runner-up: Addi’s Tandoor, 800 Torrance Blvd., Redondo Beach. (310) 540-1616