Coucou Opens in Manhattan Beach

Coucou, the beloved neighborhood French bistro known for its aperitif culture and effortlessly elegant atmosphere, has expanded to the South Bay with the opening of Coucou Manhattan Beach at 1131 Manhattan Avenue, just one block from the Manhattan Beach Pier. Founded by husband-and-wife team Jesse and Hayley Feldman, the new location marks the brand’s third outpost, following the success of Coucou Venice (2023) and West Hollywood (2024).

Inspired by the timeless bars and bistros of France, Coucou celebrates the spirit of the French aperitif – where great drinks, simple yet thoughtful food, and good company come together. The menu blends traditional French fare with Coastal California ingredients, with many dishes prepared over a live-fire grill.

“Manhattan Beach has always had a sense of community that’s hard to find; neighbors who actually know each other, locals who take pride in where they live.” says co-owner, Hayley Feldman. “After the devastating fires in Pacific Palisades, we watched so many of our guests start over here with incredible resilience. Being part of this community wasn’t just a business decision, it was personal.”

The Manhattan Beach location continues the Coucou ethos of effortless French dining: elegant but never fussy, where the experience begins the moment guests walk through the door. The Feldmans also led the interior design of the space, reimagining the former Nando Trattoria location into a warm, convivial restaurant that reflects Coucou’s signature aesthetic, with thoughtful details like burgundy leather banquettes, Calacatta marble, vintage European accents, and hand-crafted signage creating an atmosphere that feels both timelessly French and distinctly Manhattan Beach.

Chef Jacob Wetherington, a Bouchon alum, is behind the menu which features a mix of French bistro staples and seasonal dishes highlighting California produce. Guests can expect fan favorites from the Venice and West Hollywood locations, including the L’Haute Dog, Burger Américaine, and Coucou’s beloved Soft Serve Sundae, alongside standout dishes such as Bone Marrow, Tuna Tartare, Gnocchi Parisienne, Lobster Spaghetti, and Steak Au Poivre.

Another highlight of the Manhattan Beach opening is Coucou’s Apero Hour, a daily tradition inspired by the French ritual of early evening drinks and light bites. Available seven days a week from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM, Apero Hour offers guests a relaxed way to start the evening with classic cocktails, French aperitifs, and small plates.

Coucou’s beverage program is equally central to the experience, featuring ice-cold classic cocktails, California and French wines, and a curated selection of French aperitifs designed to complement the menu and encourage lingering, convivial meals.

Coucou Manhattan Beach is open Sunday to Thursday from 4 PM to 9:45 PM and 4 PM-10:45 PM on Friday and Saturday. Guests can also enjoy Apero Hour, available daily from 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Reservations can be made by visiting www.coucou.la or directly through the Resy booking link, and by following @bar.coucou on Instagram.

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