Nestled within the iconic Petersen Automotive Museum is the Meyers Manx Café, a charming oasis that pays homage to the 1960s Southern California beach culture and the legendary Meyers Manx dune buggy. During a recent visit, my companion and I were transported back in time to an era of sun, surf, and good eats, surrounded by the nostalgic ambiance of this unique cafe.
As we approached the café, we were immediately drawn to its 400 square foot patio, bathed in Southern California sunshine. Equally enticing was the indoor seating area which set the stage for a memorable dining experience, promising a fusion of vintage vibes and fun, flavorful food. The interior of the Meyers Manx Café exudes rustic charm, with shades of green adorning the walls and decor reminiscent of the 1960s. The atmosphere is cozy and relaxed, making it the perfect setting for a leisurely lunch or in our case, brunch.
Immerse yourself in the 1960s vibes and nostalgic decor at Meyers Manx Café. A journey through the past awaits within these charming walls
One of the standout features of the cafe is its thoughtful and craveable menu, catering to all-day breakfast and lunch enthusiasts. On top of their existing offerings, the cafe has recently introduced an exciting weekend brunch menu that includes delectable items like chilaquiles, cinnamon French toast sticks, and vegan quinoa tacos, alongside their signature breakfast burritos and clay oven-baked pizzas.
My companion and I were eager to explore both the brunch and default menus. We started our meal with a Strawberry Cold Foam Matcha, a refreshing drink that beautifully balanced the natural bitterness of matcha with a subtle sweetness. For a warmer beverage, we tried the Ube Latte featuring a vibrant, purple yam popular in Filipino cuisine. The first sip introduced a velvety, creamy texture followed by earthy notes of Ube. The Ube lends the latte its distinct, mildly sweet flavor, which is often described as a fusion of vanilla, sweet potato, and a subtle floral undertone. Aesthetically, the warm beverage is visually appealing as it is delicious, showcasing the Ube’s vibrant purple hue.
Unwrap the goodness of the signature Breakfast Burrito
For our mains, we decided to indulge in the diverse offerings. I opted for the Hanger steak which is served medium and generously topped with a luscious béarnaise sauce. A side of crispy fries and an arugula salad dressed with a zesty lemon vinaigrette and sprinkled with fresh parmesan cheese provided the perfect accompaniment to the steak, adding a satisfying balance of flavors and textures to the plate. My friend opted for the breakfast burrito filled with copious amounts of jack and cheddar cheese, crispy potatoes, over easy eggs, and mashed avocado.
My companion and I also couldn’t resist trying the chilaquiles, a dish that quickly became our favorite. The signature Mexican dish featured a combination of red salsa, scrambled eggs, roasted corn poblano, black beans, creamy avocado, pico de gallo, crumbly queso cotija, and a dollop of rich creme fraiche. Each bite was an explosion of flavors, a harmonious blend of savory and creamy notes with just the right amount of heat from the salsa.
Sweet simplicity at its finest
To balance our savory brunch dishes and at our server’s suggestion, we indulged in the Honeycomb Toast, a perfectly toasted sourdough slice generously topped with almond butter, honeycombs, and drizzled with golden honey. The toast was not only a visual delight, adorned with delicate edible flowers, but also a symphony of flavors, combining the nuttiness of almond butter with the sweetness of honey and the unique crunch of honeycombs.
Aside from their entrees, the cafe also boasts a wide range of beverages, including their signature coffee which is roasted in-house using a state-of-the-art Bellwether roaster. The menu also features unique offerings such as the strawberry cold foam matcha, which we thoroughly enjoyed.
Sip, savor, and experience the allure of the Ube Latte
For those looking for something beyond caffeine, the cafe offers a selection of mocktails, cocktails, and other beverages. Additionally, guests can explore Lemon Perfect cold-pressed lemon waters and indulge in chocolates, teas, and gifts from the Highland Park botanical provisioner, Flamingo Estate.
Meyers Manx Café also offers Happy Hour from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. that includes a 25 percent discount on their food menu, a $2 reduction on signature cocktails, beer, and wine, as well as $8 well drinks.
Our visit to Meyers Manx Café was a delightful journey through time, filled with delicious food, refreshing drinks, and an ambiance that celebrates the vibrant spirit of Southern California. Whether you’re a car enthusiast exploring the Petersen Automotive Museum or simply seeking a unique dining experience, Meyers Manx Café promises a taste of nostalgia and a memorable culinary adventure.
