After having a tough week, sometimes you look forward to an excellent comfort breakfast. Many of these diners exist throughout LA, but in Torrance, one, Clutch and Coffe, which opened in 2016, is currently a local popular favorite.
Clutch and Coffee is an off-road racing-inspired cafe in Old Town Torrance, a few doors from Torrance Bakery. The area is populated with throwback businesses like an old-school barber shop, a locksmith, and a shoe repair shop. Some are historic buildings, some fully restored to their former glory.
I first visited them in May 2020, during the height of the pandemic. Like many restaurants, the lights were off; they had a crew consisting of the kitchen staff and a single person taking orders. It was sad to see them operating solely as a takeout restaurant.
During recent visits, I was delighted to see the restaurant’s popularity. We had to submit our names to the hostess and, fortunately, seated moments later. Their stools resemble shocks on a car which reflects their “clutch” theme. Overhearing other tables, you can immediately see that many are regulars.
The chef-driven menu makes it difficult for the indecisive to make a selection. An example is the Breakfast BLT with pork shoulder bacon, tomato confit, arugula, fried eggs, creme fraiche, balsamic reduction and their PB & J Belgian Waffle ($13.95) with housemade peanut butter mousse, whipped cream, and housemade strawberry and blueberry compotes.
Traditional classics like Greek and Denver omelets ($16.95) and burgers are also available. If you lean towards veggies, plan to be surprised with their country-fried portobello mushroom and eggs, grilled portobello burger with truffle onion strings, and melted swiss with a spicy aioli spread.
Yearning Southern cuisine? The Southern-style gravy is thick and includes bits of sausage. The gravy is also used on their Country Benedict, which includes smoked sausage and poached eggs over a split freshly made biscuit. The Southern Fried Chicken and Waffles ($17.95) include sweetpepper bacon and housemade jalapeno jam.
Clutch and Coffee will appeal to kids that seek something besides grilled cheese and chicken fingers. They feature “Toad in the Hole just like Mom made” and smaller portions of their classics such as the Baby Benedict and pancakes with bacon or sausage. Apple juice and chocolate milk as well!
In addition to their quality regular coffee (unlimited refills), they have a full spread of upscale drinks such as flat white, seasonal lattes, mochas, and macchiatos.
Free street parking is available, but you may have to park a block away at peak hours.
I’m thrilled they could pivot beyond takeout operation and resume full indoor dining. If you enjoy well-executed breakfast dishes, Clutch and Coffee is worth a visit.
Clutch and Coffee, 1321 El Prado Ave., Torrance; 424.532.5444