The highly popular Selanne Steak Tavern in Laguna Beach kicked off its Sunday Brunch about two months ago. The menu showcases brunch menu items by Chef Joshua Severson which best reflects what the restaurant is all about.
I start with Breakfast of Champions “The Bloody Mary” ($15) which sees Tito’s Vodka and Selanne’s bloody mix, served in a lowball glass, complete with a cilantro-salt rim, garnished with a pearl onion and olive skewer, and a plump poached shrimp.
Chef Severson sends out a refreshing Midori Shooter amuse bouche for all diners to enjoy before the meal arrives. The smooth, creamy melon puree is garnished with sour apple creme fraiche, and a fresh mint leaf. A great palate tantalizer for what’s to follow.
We love Avocado Toast ($12) and we eat it at least once a week at home. Here, we see a spectacular thick crusty slice of pain de campagne (from Bread Artisan), topped with crushed Pinkerton avocados, and a sunny side up fried egg. The pickled onions, micro cilantro, and espelete pepper add splendid tart and spicy flavors to the plate. Micro cilantro is not only pretty but also, lends another level of brightness to an already delicious plate.
I can’t help but order Chicken and Waffles ($24) whenever I see it on a menu. I’m a huge sucker for fried chicken. The country fried Jidori chicken possesses a lovely flavor, however, the coating does fall apart when I cut into it, which takes away a little from the whole experience. I love the Belgian waffles served alongside. There is a little Bourbon maple syrup drizzled on the plate, and more should you want it. The rosemary butter is lovely and adds a savory components to the waffles!
Teemu’s “Brunch” Burger ($22) is an indulgent choice featuring a patty made with a mix of American wagyu beef and house sausage, and thick Kurobota pork belly slices. A runny fried egg sits atop the patty with avocado, butter lettuce, tomato, a smear of baconaise, and served with a side of frites.
The burger is deceiving. It may look like an average burger, but it will satiate even the appetite of the extremely hungry.
If you wish to order some sides for the table to share, definitely order Hash Browns au Gratin ($9) a luscious concoction of grated Yukon potatoes mixed with Italian Crucolo cheese, and scallion. Decadent and oh, so good!
Bacon & Eggs Poutine ($12), though listed as a side, can easily be enjoyed as an entree. Large wedges of potato is swathed with white cheddar, bits of lardon, and chipotle aioli spooned over the top, finished with two runny fried egg on top. It is debauchery at its best! I wanted to take more bites of it, but alas, I was WAY too full.
The restaurant offers valet parking during brunch, just like it does during dinner service for $6. The best part? You’ll get find those delightful thin mint chocolate squares when you slide into the seat of your car when you leave.
Selanne Steak Tavern
1464 S Coast Hwy
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Tel: 949-715-9881
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