On a Saturday morning, my husband and I wanted to sit on a patio, have a cocktail, and score a delicious breakfast. Naturally, the relatively new Tavern on 2 hit the spot. This was not my first visit to Tavern on 2 in Belmont Shore, but I had been waiting to go back because the first time was amazing. My husband, Ryan, had never been so he was pretty excited since I hadn’t stopped talking about this gastropub that is quickly becoming a Shore staple.

Ryan decided to start with a beer; I wish I knew something about beers but I don’t know a thing. It was made by Anderson Brewing Company based up north in Mendocino County. Though he did mention that he felt it was a little bit pricey for a draft, he enjoyed it nonetheless. The beers — especially the bottled ones — are rather pricey but, given the caliber of their drafts, it is probably because they are equally high-quality craft beers. I had a mimosa and it was $8.50 – at first I was thought that might be more than I usually pay for one, but when they brought me out a little bottle and my own small jug of OJ, I knew I’d be getting at least 2.5 mimosas out of this. To say the least, it was well worth it.

The menu for breakfast isn’t that large but everything on it sounds amazing. The prices ranged from $9 to $13 a plate, which wasn’t too bad when one considers the proportions. I decided to have the Tavern On 2 Omelette, which is pulled pork, queso fresco cheese, tomatoes, mild green chilies, avocado, and smoked ancho chile sauce. However, due to my garlic allergy, they used diced ham instead and then gave me the ancho chile sauce on the side — just in case. This also came with potatoes and big Texas toast — totally different but think fluffy and if you add the housemade raspberry preserves, think delicious. In short: it was heavenly. The omelette was so stuffed full of veggies, but not to the point of being excessive. Particularly tasty! 

Ryan decided to go all out with having the Monte Cristo Sandwich, a generous portion of ham, turkey, and cheddar cheese stuffed between two slices of French toast and topped with maple syrup and sugar; in addition, it’s served with two eggs any style and potatoes. I was shocked and amped: this is not something he would usually order so I get my chance to sneak in on his plate and take a bite of my own. The sandwich itself was gigantic and, when I asked for a bite, I nervously took it knowing I would be ordering this next time. Something about the cheddar cheese and french toast really freaked me out but after one bite, it was like they had always been served together. Your hands end up covered in powdered sugar and it is just amazing. His breakfast was exactly what he had hoped for and we both left very happy and very full.

We decided we need to go back more often. After all, with all the beers and wines they offer, we could try everything and not get tired of their delicious food while experimenting with new libations. This is a must try on 2nd Street when you want something that isn’t the same ol’ 2nd Street fare.