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Community Corner

Flying High at Spitfire Grill

This aviation-themed restaurant next to the Santa Monica Airport serves some top-flight dishes.

Spitfire Grill on the south side of Santa Monica Airport serves a variety of American classics. Opened in 1954 by a U.S. Air Force lieutenant, Spitfire was originally a coffee shop for Douglas Aircraft workers at Clover Field (which later became the Santa Monica Airport).

John Clarizio bought the diner in 1991 and renamed it Spitfire Grill in honor of Santa Monica’s aviation history. Clarizio remodeled the restaurant after a 1940s Streamline modern airplane and filled it with aircraft memorabilia.

The day we visited the weather was beautiful and we chose to sit outside where there was plenty of seating both in front and to the side of the restaurant. With the exception of an occasional plane taking off, it was a very peaceful and enjoyable afternoon.

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I ordered the Spirit of St. Louis burger with mushrooms, Swiss cheese and grilled onions. Each burger can be made from a beef, turkey or vegetarian patty. I opted for the vegetarian one and loved it. Unlike some premade frozen patties, this one was more homemade with diced vegetables throughout and was quite flavorful. The combination of mushrooms, onions and cheese is always a winner in my book.

The burger came with a choice of a mixed green salad, Caesar salad, fries or chips. I chose the green salad, which was pretty basic with only a few diced tomatoes added to the salad leaves. Luckily, we ordered a basket of the garlic Parmesan fries, which were the best item we tried. They were crispy and each fry was covered with a delicious combination of shredded Parmesan cheese and garlic (even those at the bottom of the basket).

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My friend ordered the Spitfire classic burger with cheddar cheese and added some grilled onions. The burger was cooked just right, with a nice charbroiled flavor. However, she wished the onions had been grilled more.

The menu here is extensive. For breakfast you’ll find omelets, pancakes, huevos rancheros and burritos. I love the fact that Spitfire serves breakfast until 3 p.m. There are plenty of salads, sandwiches and burgers for lunch and dinner.

I was tempted to order the Glider, a sandwich with melted Jack cheese, red pepper, spinach, avocado, tomato, sprouts and pesto on focaccia bread (grilled chicken or roasted turkey can be added for an additional $3). You’ll also find fish and chips, barcecue ribs, and a Chinese chicken salad with mandarin oranges, Napa cabbage, wonton strips and a hint of ginger mixed with an Oriental sesame dressing.

The only disappointment was the dessert plate of beignets. Instead of traditionally fried French doughnuts sprinkled with powdered sugar, we were presented with crispy “chips.” They came with two thin sauces— chocolate and raspberry. We preferred the latter, but it wasn’t outstanding. I suggest you skip this dessert, but don’t miss out on Spitfire Grill altogether. There are plenty of intriguing items on the menu that are worth the trip.

Spitfire Grill, 3300 Airport Avenue, Santa Monica, CA 90405, 310-397-3455 

Hours:  Open daily from 7:30 a.m.–10:00 p.m.

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