Business Details
47 Years
experience
Trusted Cafe & Catering in Torrance Since 1979
Founded in 1979, our journey began with Lisa Eriksen's passion for culinary excellence, cultivated through decades of hosting family gatherings and mastering her craft. We opened our first Torrance location on Vista Montana, quickly gaining recognition for our signature Chinese Chicken Salad and fresh, handcrafted dishes. Over the years, our family-driven business expanded, introducing catering services and relocating to more accessible locations while maintaining our commitment to quality ingredients and exceptional service.In 1999, we moved to Pacific Coast Highway, solidifying our position as a South Bay lunch destination. Our catering arm developed partnerships with local venues and nonprofits, earning Best Caterer accolades from the Daily Breeze and Easy Reader. Today, under the leadership of the next generation, we continue to innovate while honoring Lisa's original vision of creating memorable dining experiences through food that brings people together.
Services
Catering Services
Cafe Dining
Bakery Items
Chinese Chicken Salad
Online Ordering
Details
- Year established: 1979
Highlights and features
- We offer 45 years of culinary expertise since 1979
- Our team includes third-generation restaurant professionals
- Recognized as Best Caterer by Daily Breeze and Easy Reader
- We maintain partnerships with local venues and nonprofits
- Military veteran leadership ensures operational excellence
What people say
Amazing Chinese Chicken Salad
Outstanding catering service
Fresh ingredients daily
Family-run excellence
Reliable event catering
Services
Catering Services
We provide full-service catering for weddings, corporate events, and private parties. Our experienced team handles menu planning, on-site preparation, and service coordination. Clients benefit from decades of event expertise and partnerships with local venues.
Cafe Dining
Our Torrance cafe offers breakfast and lunch service with made-to-order sandwiches, fresh salads, and baked goods. Guests enjoy casual dining in a welcoming atmosphere featuring our signature Chinese Chicken Salad and daily specials.
Bakery Items
We produce fresh-baked goods daily including breads, muffins, and specialty desserts. Our bakery team combines traditional techniques with modern flavors to create items that complement both cafe meals and catering orders.
People
Lisa Eriksen
Founder
Lisa began her culinary journey in the 1950s, developing recipes that became the foundation of our business. She established the company in 1979 and retired in 1989 after building a strong industry reputation.
Susanne Alexander
Former Owner
Lisa's daughter Susanne joined the business in 1982, managing accounting and operations. She led the company from 1989 through its expansion phase, overseeing the 2015 rebranding initiative.
Leif Alexander
Operations Manager
Susanne's son Leif returned from Marine service in 2009 to help modernize operations. He applies military logistics expertise to streamline catering and cafe management processes.
Questions
What makes your Chinese Chicken Salad special?
Our signature salad features a unique blend of crispy chicken, house-made dressing, and fresh vegetables perfected over decades. It's our most requested menu item.
Do you offer catering services for large events?
Yes, we provide full-service catering for weddings, corporate events, and private parties with customized menus and professional service.
Where are your cafe locations?
We operate one cafe location in Torrance at the Town & Country Plaza, with catering services available throughout the South Bay area.
How long have you been in business?
We've served the Torrance community since 1979, making us one of the area's longest-established family-owned restaurants.
Can I order online?
Yes, our cafe menu is available through DoorDash and GrubHub for convenient ordering and delivery options.
