As Thanksgiving approaches, I think of 2 things:
1) Things for which you are thankful; and
2) Pies!
Both of these make me think of Bake n’ Broil, although their pies are only one of the many reasons that I am thankful for this place. Try anything with a crust and you won’t be disappointed.
Bake n’ Broil is what you wish every diner or pie shop could be – a family run restaurant, that makes real food for real people, every day. There is nothing fancy or pretentious about this place. They do something even more impressive – they make the ordinary extraordinarily well.
Don’t believe me? Numbers don’t lie. It is almost impossible to come here morning or night and not have a wait. Weekday or weekend, it does not matter. It’s that good. It’s one of the few places that I look forward to for any meal of the day. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are equally good. And one of my favorite meals – quiche – is a great choice any time you go.
They bake their quiche – like all of their pies, cakes, muffins, etc – fresh every day. Flavors vary daily (I prefer anything with bacon and/or cheese). Just check the board when you walk in to see your choices. If you’re having quiche for breakfast, it comes with a muffin and fruit or home-made apple sauce. Go for the applesauce – where else can you get homemade applesauce? At dinner or lunch, the quiche comes with salad instead. Either way, it is delicious. Rich and luscious egg filling sitting in a delectable flakey crust. I cannot get enough of it.
All of their breakfasts– especially their omelets and other egg dishes – are very good as are their pancakes. I was surprised by how tasty their whole-wheat pancakes are. They are dark brown and sweet – I prefer them without the fruit although that’s heresy to others.
For lunch, you can find a sandwich or burger to satisfy any taste. I think their burgers are some of the best in Long Beach. With dinner, you have a couple extra choices – assuming they’re not sold out. Again, when in doubt, go for the crust! If they still have chicken pot pies, grab one before they’re gone. Flakey crust atop chicken and vegetables in rich gravy. One of my favorite meals as a kid – and it is as good as I remember when I have it here.
Finally, finish off your meal with a slice of your favorite pie or cake. Red velvet cake is a serious weakness of mine but you’ll find something to tempt you no matter what you like.
Real food for real people – if that sounds good, then Bake n’ Broil is for you!
Jongewaard’s Bake n’ Broil
3697 Atlantic Ave
Long Beach, CA 90807
(562) 595-0396
