Baleen Kitchen Becomes the Latest Blue Zones Designated Restaurant

I’ve observed a number of people that have lived a long life, but what I’ve admired are the people that have truly enjoyed their later years in life. Even as my wife’s grandmother advanced well into her 90’s, she was always smiling and truly appreciative of everything she had. Back then, she was an inspiration to me and I still think about her on a regular basis.

We wrote about the Blue Zones project in an earlier article. In summary, it’s about building cities and communities built around active living. It’s about creating an environment where public policies provide people with healthy opportunities, giving them a supportive nudge toward eating healthier and moving more in a natural way.

Baleen Kitchen in Redondo Beach recently hosted a ribbon cutting event to celebrate the fact that they were the latest restaurant to be designated as a Blue Zones restaurant. The attendees were extremely fortunate because it was a beautiful picture perfect day in the Redondo Beach Marina. The event was held at Baleen Kitchen’s lower patio directly facing the harbor.

Representatives from the Redondo Beach City of Commerce as well as the Redondo Beach City Council’s office were present to support the event.

Executive Chef Richard Crespin states how he evolved his menu to meet Blue Zones criteria.

Executive Chef, Richard Crespin, explained that it was somewhat a challenge for him to modify the menu to meet the criteria. He mentioned that he had to work on modifying the ingredients to emphasize overall taste. In doing so, he had to remove a number of items and modify the ingredients of other dishes to achieve that goal.

Baleen Kitchen staff offered the attendees appetizers and beverages. — Baleen Kitchen staff served the attendees appetizers and beverages.

Attendees enjoyed complimentary refreshments and appetizers served by Baleen Kitchen staff.

Lauren Nakano Director, Blue Zones Project at Beach Cities Health District, was present to welcome everyone. She acknowledged the Power 9 team as well as the Redondo Beach Council representatives. Nakano expressed her appreciation to Baleen Kitchen for becoming the latest restaurant to be added to the list of Blue Zones designated restaurants.