The Dalmatian-American Club of San Pedro: A New Mother’s Day Brunch

By Gina Ruccione, Cuisine Writer
If you really want to impress mom this Mother’s Day, try something you haven’t done before.
The Dalmatian-American Club recently aquired the highly–decorated chef from the Elks Lodge, Tony Pielin. They now offer monthly bottomless mimosa brunches at a fraction of the price that most other venues charge in the Harbor Area.
Since 1935, the Dalmatian-American Club has hosted more weddings, anniversaries, retirement parties and other special events than any other venue in the South Bay. In fact, for the past 80 years it has served as San Pedro’s center of hospitality — famously known for its monthly community fish luncheon, attracting everyone from longshoremen to members of Congress.
The word ‘‘club’’ connotes exclusivity, but the Dalmatian-American Club is anything but. Its members are more than welcoming. Don’t let the stoic outer appearance of the building fool you either; the inside is friendly and inviting. There is an incredible air of nostalgia that resonates throughout and the view from the bar of San Pedro’s great harbor is truly breathtaking.
The Dalmatian-American is historically known for superb food and quality service and the new brunch service is meant to be, “an exclamation to a fact already well known,” explained Rudy Svorinich Jr., president of the club.
Of course, its buffet brunch offers the ubiquitous staples: scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage, eggs Benedict, and the highly popular omelet and waffle station. All of it is delicious, fresh and made from scratch. The eggs Benedict with hollandaise sauce is one of my favorites. I am particularly impressed with the buffet choices that aren’t typically present at brunch. The poached salmon with pineapple and mango salsa is good, and the classic chicken salad is perfect. The bread pudding is so enjoyable that I’m surprised no one stole the sheet pan from the display table. As a special treat this Mother’s Day, expect a ham carving station to accompany the rest of the feast.
Brunch specials vary from $18 for regular brunch to $22 for holiday brunches. Service will be from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. May 10.
Dalmatian-American Club, 1639 S. Palos Verdes St., San Pedro, (310) 223-6970.

Mother’s Day Brunch:
The Old, The New, Some Tried and True
Still haven’t made reservations for Mother’s Day brunch? Well, not to worry—Random Lengths News has a handful of other options in the Harbor Area that won’t disappoint.

22nd Street Landing
Known for it’s beautiful view of the marina and its Zagat-rated food, the 22nd Street Landing has been a San Pedro favorite for more than 25 years. It will be serving its ever-popular champagne brunch this Mother’s Day with many favorites including the blue crab Benedict, the lobster fritters Benedict, and the Hawaiian-style French toast. Brunch service: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Price: $17 (additional $9-$10 for free-flowing champagne or mimosas).
22nd Street Landing, 141 W. 22nd St., San Pedro, (310) 548-4400.

The Queen Mary Champagne Brunch
The legendary, retired ocean liner will be hosting its version of a champagne Mother’s Day brunch with what looks to be the most extensive menu in Long Beach. Featuring a carving station with turkey, ham and ribs, a “rise and shine” menu with classic breakfast options, Asian-inspired options, and an “eggs your way” feature that includes omelets and egg specialties made to order, and several Italian specialties, there is truly something for everyone. For those wanting something on the lighter side, there will be a market salad station featuring fresh salads, cheeses and fruits, a bountiful seafood medley display, and of course, desert — and plenty of it. Brunch service: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Price: $59.95 per adult; $19.95 for children 12 and under (tax and gratuity is additional). Parking is $7 with validation (up to 6 hours). It includes valet parking.
The Queen Mary, 1126 Queens Hwy., Long Beach, (562) 499-1606.

The Aquarium of the Pacific
Enjoy a unique dining experience this Mother’s Day at the Aquarium of the Pacific. Feel free to explore the wonders of the ocean as you enjoy a wonderful brunch featuring assorted pastries with fresh marmalades, creams and jams, seasonal fruits, stuffed croissants with farm fresh eggs, bacon and potato hash, wild salmon and herb-roasted pork loin. Brunch service: 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Price: $59 per adult; $25 per child (3-11). Includes general admission. $49 for aquarium members; $15 for member children.
The Aquarium of the Pacific, 100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach, (562) 590-3100.

Gina Ruccione has traveled all over Europe and Asia, and lived in almost every nook of Los Angeles County. When she’s not rummaging through recipes, she spends her days working as an account manager. You can visit her blog at http://foodfashionfoolishfornication.blogspot.com.