A trek to Pacific Palisades, for me, is quite the haul coming from Mid-City, but there is something very special about the place. Whether my visit includes a stop at Lake Shrine or time spent at Palisades Village, it’s always a welcome escape from life in the fast lane.
While developer Rick Caruso owns both The Grove and Palisades Village, not to mention The Americana at Brand, the smaller Palisades Village offers a comfy and homey feel that is perfect for a lazy weekend getaway. I often like making a day of it at Palisades Village, which may include a bite and drinks at Que Padre or a movie at the Bay Theater or a special meal at Hank’s.
My most recent visit to the Palisades was on a Sunday morning and that meant brunch at Hank’s. There was a vibrant energy there as the weekend farmers market brought a big crowd, which made our al fresco brunch perfect for people watching.
And because I do love a boozy brunch, that meant starting with a Bloody Mary or two. Now that’s how you brunch. Brunch without a Bloody Mary or refreshing cocktail is just a late lunch.
Anytime you’re at Hank’s, consider the Deviled Eggs a must have. There are four to an order and they include Gravlax (graved salmon), bacon, salmon roe, and prosciutto de Parma. Excellent!
Another terrific treat at brunchtime was the Shrimp Cocktail, which features eight jumbo shrimp, cocktail sauce and lemon. The shrimp were tender and tasty and this was a perfect dish to share.
Because Hank’s offers elevated American classics, I always feel that a martini is in order. Choose from the popular Sinatra with Beefeater, dry vermouth, lemon twist served on the rocks or the Vesper Martini with Citadelle Gin, Silver Grin Vodka, and Lillet Blanc. Either of these will really get your brunch going to new heights so be careful.
While Hank’s is beloved for its award-winning burgers, this was brunch so we opted for the #77 Breakfast Burrito prepped with over medium eggs, bacon, sausage, hash brown, avocado, cheddar cheese, and salsa roja. This bad boy did not disappoint. As far as breakfast burritos go, this one ranks sky high as it’s mighty, meaty and marvelous.
If you like some daytime decadence with your brunch, don’t sleep on the PB & J French Toast with caramelized bananas, whipped cream, cinnamon crumble, bacon, sausage, and maple syrup. Wow! This was an absolute favorite. Dessert for breakfast doesn’t get any better.
The portions at Hank’s are generous so they’re perfect for sharing. It all combined to create the perfect day. What could possibly make it better? Maybe one last round of cocktails? The Hank’s Old Fashioned with Redemption Bourbon, maple syrup, Angostura and orange bitters, as well as the Smoked Negroni with mezcal, Campari, Carpano Antica, lime, and grapefruit are top contenders. They proved to be refreshing and the perfect way to finish one memorable brunch.
Hank’s is located at 1033 N. Swarthmore Avenue at Palisades Village in Pacific Palisades. Open daily from 11am to 7pm, except Sunday from 11am to 6pm. Call (310) 525-1380.
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