There’s something about brunching in the Southbay that makes you feel like you’re on a vacation.  Maybe it’s the proximity to the ocean, or maybe it’s the laid back ambience that seems to thrive in the little beach communities.  Either way we were extremely excited to “get away” and give Abigaile in Hermosa Beach a try.

 

 

When we arrived I quickly realized that the surroundings were very familiar.  Abigaile’s was once a local bar –Cattle Union- (with a mechanical bull) where I had enjoyed one too many libations on several occasions. This allowed me to truly appreciate the interior, as it had been completely re-done with large windows exposing ocean views, a quaint patio and enough seating to accommodate large parties. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The cocktails truly shine at Abigaile’s!  We opted to be adventurous, refusing bottomless Mimosas (yes, very rare) and were generously rewarded with delightful flavors!  I ordered the Dog Day Afternoon housemade bloody mix with house-infused bacon & thyme vodka ($9).  Want to try a different bloody flavor?  Choose any of the other three options (house-infused cucumber vodka, house-infused serrano tequila, house-infused garlic vodka).  What’s there not to love about this twist on a classic brunch cocktail?  Kate ordered the Simons18 house-infused cucumber Russian Standard, ginger beer, honey, fresh lime ($11).  She loved how light and refreshing this creative take on a Moscow Mule (and I took a sip and completely agree) was.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ravenous we slowed down on our drink and focused on the menu.  Our server was more than helpful in pointing out the “musts.”  We started with their famous pao de queijo | brazilian ‘chewy n gooey’ cheezy poofs, apricot jam, devonshire cream, crispy prosciutto ($8).  This was/is a definite must when dining here.  These poofs were beyond scrumptious and came out piping hot.  We followed this up with the huevos ranchero con chilaquiles | house made chorizo, fried eggs, avocado, refried beans, pico ($15) and the soft baked eggs | spinach, roast tomato ragout, gigante beans, basil, parmesan cream ($12). Both came out in hot sturdy bakeware giving us the fun farm- to-table charm we love.  Oh and did I mention each one was yummy, hearty and fun to share?  Just when we thought we couldn’t expand our stomachs any further a special treat arrived at our table.  The ‘ooey gooey’ cinnamon roll | medjool dates, bacon crumble, spiced pecans ($6) = heaven!  I have visions of me rolling around in a giant pool of this stuff, equipped with arms made of spoons. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The place was crowded, but not too crowded (with people mainly opting for the patio, can you blame ‘em?).  The music was really amazing and we crooned along to hits of the 80’s in between bites. Beyond the trendy and interesting décor (including a graffiti mural wall, large brewing equipment behind the bar and several very large tv’s) the service was impeccable.  We loved the playful personalities who gave us great advice on ordering and were quick to refill drinks.

 

 

We will definitely be back to brunch here!  Even if the bull is gone (don’t worry we asked, apparently he’s somewhere in Anaheim –possibly out to pasture?).