Birthday Brunch at Chez Melange

We almost achieved a 100% attendance for Mertz's birthday bash but, unfortunately, Sujata couldn't make it for health reasons. This year is the start of a new tradition. We got rid of the traveling birthday balloon and replaced it with a singing and dancing birthday cake that even blows its own candle out. We also now have a "happy birthday" headband.

We all got to the restaurant before the celebrant who invited us all so when she approached the table, we all yelled "Happy Birthday". It is always fun to not act your age and that we did. Mertz even brought a couple of bottles of La Montina Sparkling Wine from Franciacorta; our favorite!

Our server Lisa had just celebrated her own birthday so Mertz insisted she have some of the wonderful wine. Before we could even decide on what to order, we unanimously agreed to share an order of their addicting Truffle Fries. The birthday girl decided on Steak with scrambled eggs and fries.  Amy ordered the always delicious Fried Chicken Salad. I had something new on the menu and it was Fried Oysters with bacon and mushrooms on scrambled eggs with country potatoes. Sandi and Cindy had the Fried Chicken Nuggets with Brioche French Toast.

To add to the celebration, the jazz band sang Happy Birthday to dear Mertz. It was a nice celebration. We all had so much fun.

Chez Melange is located at 1611 S. Catalina Ave. in Redondo Beach.