December 6 – The Crooked Duck opened on September 12 at 5096 E. Pacific Coast Hwy. at Granada Avenue. Named after owner Joey Rooney’s (pictured at left) family legend of a resilient duck that obtained a crooked neck after an encounter with a water skier, the eatery offers its customers breakfast, lunch and dinner items that place an innovative spin on traditional favorites. The menu also features more sophisticated signature dishes, such as “Duck Chili” created with five-spice duck, black beans and wonton chips. The self-described “come as you are” restaurant also features daily specials and a happy hour from 3-6 p.m. Tuesday through Friday. The Crooked Duck is open Tuesday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., Sunday from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. and is closed on Monday. For more information, visit www.thecrookedduck.com or call 562/494-5118. (Photograph by the Business Journal’s Thomas McConville)