IS IT JUST ME OR ARE MORE PUBS GOING GASTRO?
The Shoppes at Chino Hills is a fun and relaxing escape. The expansive plaza has a nice outdoor village atmosphere with an interactive fountain and weekly entertainment. Among boutiques and high-end shops you will find Limericks Tavern, a modern Irish gastropub. Throughout Southern California, there are four locations total including a new Downtown Los Angeles soft opening.
It's nice to see more and more pubs step up their culinary game. Recently, Limericks created a brunch menu that is far from basic pub grub. They have take American, Mexican and Irish classics and created comforting dishes that are unique, yet familiar.
Limericks has something for everyone. I enjoyed my brunch experience on a beautiful sunny day with a large group of friends, in their spacious patio. The establishment is also family friendly and a go-to for sports fans. UFC PPV fights are shown on all HD screens and there is never a cover charge.
Limericks Omelet ($10)
Add an Irish twist to your morning omelet. Fluffy eggs are stuffed with housemade corned beef, wilted spinach and topped with melted Swiss cheese. Limericks Omelet is served with seasoned roasted potatoes.
Chicken Mole Benedict ($12)
Nothing is more Mexican than bright colors and a rich mole. A pleasant surprise arrives at our table with the Chicken Mole Benedict. Aside from enmoladas, I have never seen mole transformed like this, in my life. From the green avocado, orange potatoes, to the mole's deep hue, the dish's striking presentation is absolutely drool-worthy.
Butter toasted English muffin serves as the base for a tower of shredded chicken breast in mole, creamy sliced avocado and a perfectly poached egg coated in mole drip. This brilliant creation is finished with toasted sesame seeds and pepitas.
My foodie friends and I approve this mole. It is not too sweet and not too bitter, it is just right! It is not easy to achieve a well balanced mole. A concoction of ingredients impart a distinct flavor that doesn't compare to anything else. If you know anyone who makes good mole, cherish them... and ask for the recipe.
Steak & Eggs ($20)
A brunch menu isn't complete without the proverbial Steak and Eggs. Coulotte, a flavorful lean cut of beef, is grilled to perfection and served with two eggs. Herbatious chimichurri adds brightness to grilled meats or opt for black pepper sauce. Seasoned roasted potatoes and toast completes this classic dish.
Chilaquiles ($10)
Chilaquiles are popular in a Mexican brunch and is a dish that is becoming commonplace in California. Limericks uses housemade tortilla chips and red sauce as the main ingredients. Fried eggs are nestled in the bowl and finished with micro cilantro and queso fresco.
Happy Hour
If BOGO is music to your ears, let it be the theme song when you visit Limericks. Monday through Friday, buy one beer at regular price and get the second one for only $1. Drink what your hearts desire with 60 beers on draught, house wine ($6) or well drinks ($5). While you're at it, why not hum to the tune of appetizer specials ($6 - $8).
Salmon Lox Bagel ($14)
From a small business to a casino buffet, it is evident that any legit brunch spread includes smoked salmon. Lox is served with classic accouterments—dill, capers, tomato, red onion and cream cheese.
Corned Beef Hash ($12)
Being that I haven't had a hash like this before I become very curious. Corned beef is made from scratch daily and cooked with potato. It is served with fried eggs and toast. The tasty hash is actually meaty and hearty—a great way to start any day. I really like when my curiosity helps me discover tasteful things.
Country Fried Steak ($10)
Pick up a knife and fork for the Country Fried teak. The breading on the steak is crispy without it being greasy. This classic dish comes with mashed potato, fried egg and smothered in country gravy (or black pepper gravy).
Loco Moco ($10)
A thick Angus beef patty sits on a bed of white rice with gravy and fried egg atop. It is garnished with chives and served with toast. We begin to eat by digging into the beef patty. I can tell immediately that the patty is housemade. It is well seasoned and the quality is obvi. However, I didn't know which dish it was and keep wondering if I'm eating it the right way. It all made sense once I find out it was a Loco Moco. But of course!
Breakfast Plate ($8)
If all you want for breakfast are the basics, Limericks has you covered. The Breakfast Plate has two eggs made to perfection with bacon or sausage. While I'm team bacon, I have to give it up to the breakfast sausage here. The crispy exterior bursts with flavor when you sink you teeth in. Rounding out the dish are seasonal veggies, country potatoes and toast.
Short Rib Benedict ($12)
The benedicts at Limericks are on point! I love the creative use of ingredients, flavors and presentation. Short rib is a dish I really like and I get to eat it here, in a brand new way. Butter toasted English muffin is the base for a tower of delicious short rib and poached egg. The breakfast is served with roasted potatoes and garnished with chives.
You can also catch a late night happy hour, Sunday through Thursday, between 9 pm to closing. Prices may vary at each location. Find out if there is a location near you.
3920 City Center Dr
Chino Hills, CA 91709
909.306.7005
Daily Hours: 11am - 2am
Sunday Brunch: 10am - 2pm