NEWS FLASH: The venerated Royal Hawaiian is upping the ante in Laguna Beach with a shaka brah weekend brunch inspired by Polynesian island favorites as well as popular breakfast and lunch entrees!
There’s an allure to the lush tropical setting and island tiki decor of the Royal Hawaiian that transports you to the beaches of Hawaii and has established them as a landmark in Laguna Beach since opening in 1947. Famous for their Lapu Lapu and Mai Thai cocktails, new ownership in 2006 brought a much needed refurbishment to the beloved Hawaiian restaurant. With a sophisticated, yet relaxed ambiance, the Royal Hawaiian continues to offer a warm and inviting place where locals and visitors feel welcome.
In February, Chef James Harris, formerly of French 75, came to the Royal Hawaiian and has created an outstanding menu reflecting his young spirit and creative talent in the kitchen. The new menu successfully combines Chef Harris’ fine dining style with the kitschy personality of the Royal Hawaiian and introduces new menu items as well as contemporary twists on popular signature dishes.
Highlights of the brunch menu include Portuguese Sausage and Eggs with fried rice and green papaya slaw (shown in the opening photo); Chef Harris’ award-winning Ahi Poke appetizer (below);
Coconut French Toast made with sweet bread, Portuguese Sausage and coconut syrup (above); and a Kalua Pork Scramble with Swiss Cheese, green onions, peppers, and breakfast potatoes.
Guests may also choose from their favorites like the Ala Moana Style Spare Ribs and Royal Hawaiian Burger and finish with one of an array of luscious desserts such as the Passion Fruit Cheesecake (below).
This weekend, make time for a leisurely drive along the coast to picturesque Laguna Beach and a brief sojourn to the islands with Royal Hawaiian’s brunch: Saturdays and Sundays from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., dishes priced from $5 to $17.00.
In addition to this new brunch menu, Chef Harris has also recently launched a fabulous new dinner menu and a ‘Taco Tuesday’ that is very popular with the locals.
331 North Coast Highway
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
(949) 494-8001
That’s so funny I thought you meant the Royal Hawaiian Hotel in Waikiki and thought you were in Hawaii on vacation! haha! I have to say the Portugese sausage egg and rice is a staple breakfast here in Hawaii – even McDonalds serves it!
Hi Jamie – I wish 🙂 Being at the Royal Hawaiian makes me homesick for Hawaii tho!
Makes me want to visit Hawaii even more! Never been, but would love to go!
I’ve never heard of the Royal Hawaiian in Laguna! Thanks for posting this, now I know :o) I grew up in OC and spent a lot of time in Laguna, not sure how I missed it…lol Nice write up! I will have to take a drive down from LA soon!
Oh I am going to have to remember to try that next time I am down in the OC! I had never heard of this one before. I agree with Jamie- it does sound pretty authentic. The real test- what kinda shoyu did they have on the table? Hahaha
You always find the best places to eat and relax!
I say this is such a perfect spot to enjoy your meal! Everything Looks really beautiful!
This looks like such a great place to dine! It must have been so much fun!
I have never been but have seen it a few times. Sounds like they have a great new menu 🙂
Since this place is so far away, I can only drool at the menu… That coconut French toast looks so tempting, I might just have to recreate my own Royal Hawaiian kitchen over here!
I’m sure you could, Maya, and it would be even better with your special Diva twist 🙂
Wow Priscilla, came over here to see what I was missing and I hardly recognize the place. Looks amazing, I giggled when I saw spam, it reminds me of Hawaii, but more of my husband, when he goes hunting with his dad his dad always makes sure and bring spam, lol.
-Gina-
Hi, Gina! Yes, I changed my look at the beginning of August 🙂 And spam reminds me of Hawaii, too!
And here I thought I was going to have to catch a plane!! I’m just down the road… this one is on my list.
Love the look of you blog!!