If you ask me where to eat in Hawthorne, I’ll smile and say, “I wouldn’t know, I don’t really eat out.”

But between you and me and the breakfast burrito wrappers in my passenger seat, I’ve been known to explore the local food scene from time to time. Okay… maybe a little more than “from time to time.” Let’s just say I support local business… one plate at a time.

Mornings in Hawthorne – Fueled by Family (and Sometimes Coffee)

My day usually starts early. I’m a real estate broker based right here in Hawthorne, and my mornings begin by dropping off my two boys at school. We eat breakfast in the car (thanks to my amazing wife, who truly deserves all the credit or else we’d all be starving).

Sometimes, my 14-year-old surprises us and makes breakfast for me and his older brother. Not bad for a kid who also has to juggle school, baseball, and an inconsistent batting average (sorry, son, I had to sneak that in!).

Their mom’s usually working from her home office or off at a fitness class with her sister (also here in Hawthorne), so it’s a real team effort in our house.

Now… hypothetically, if I didn’t have breakfast at home, I’d have a few options…

Where This Realtor “Doesn’t” Eat Breakfast

  • Starbucks? Never heard of it. But if I had, I’d maybe order the Spinach, Feta & Egg White Wrap with a Pike Place coffee. Hawthorne has two locations right on El Segundo Boulevard, just in case you need a backup location.
  • Ziggy’s? Okay, maybe I’ve been there once or twice (a week). Their breakfast burritos are the real deal—big, hearty, and made with love.
  • Delicious Argentinian Empanadas at Continental Gourmet Market on Prairie Avenue? Don’t get me started. These empanadas are warm, flaky, and packed with flavor—perfect for a quick morning bite that definitely wasn’t planned but totally hit the spot.
  • Donuts next to my office? Only if I’m in a rush and need “just one.” You know, for energy.

Lunchtime Vibes – Staying Local (For Research, Of Course)

Now that I’m “not eating out” for lunch either, I definitely don’t head to:

  • Bangkok Grill for their spicy and flavorful Chicken Basil Plate (because who needs all that deliciousness at lunchtime, right?).
  • Chicken Maison – the new location is opening soon on El Segundo & Prairie, right across from Hawthorne Memorial Park. I’m very excited for the neighborhood. For them. Not for me.
  • Cougar’s Burgers – For those days when you just need a good ol’ burger and fries. I hear the locals love it.
  • Craving international cuisine? Hawthorne has it all:
    • Salvadoran pupusas
    • Guatemalan plates
    • Mediterranean kabobs
    • Indian curries
    • And of course, amazing Mexican food. We’re truly spoiled.

Business Meetings or… More “Research”?

When I need to meet a client or partner for lunch or coffee, I try to keep it local:

  • Eureka! near the Hawthorne airport is a favorite for casual business lunches.
  • Tapville offers a relaxed vibe and is great for connecting over a quick drink or small bite.
  • I keep things professional, of course. But if you see me laughing too loud over sliders, just know it’s market talk. Probably.

And Dinner? Oh, I Eat at Home. Always. Totally.

Look, after a full day of helping clients, touring properties, and sneaking in a burrito… I do my best to head home for dinner. There’s nothing better than a home-cooked meal with the family.

(Unless, of course, someone mentions tacos…)

Why This All Matters in Real Estate

You might be wondering why a real estate broker is talking about food. But here’s the thing:

Real estate is local. Community is everything.

When someone buys a home, they’re not just buying walls and a roof. They’re choosing their favorite coffee shop, their go-to lunch spot, their weekend tradition with the kids. They’re picking a lifestyle—and it’s my job to help them find it.

So whether you’re looking for the perfect starter home, upsizing, or relocating to the South Bay, know that you’re getting a local expert who lives here, eats here (obviously), and knows this city block by block.

Final Thoughts

Hawthorne is a vibrant, culturally rich city with diverse cuisine, growing development, and deep community roots. From brand-new spots like Soft Café across from my office to longtime favorites and new gems like Chicken Maison, there’s something for everyone here.

And while I “don’t eat out” (wink), I’d love to share my favorites with you and help you discover yours.

Let’s grab coffee sometime, your pick.