Cuisine: The Manhattan Beach branch of a chain of trendy cocktail and eclectic dishes restaurant, offering a nigh-on perfect weekend brunch — a mix of dishes both old and new, and all good.

Seated on the patio at the latest branch of The Hook & Plow on Manhattan Avenue in Manhattan Beach, it’s easy to get the feeling that beach people live on a diet of ice cream … and more ice cream.

Every year, I make a special trip to New York City for a travel writing event, and each time I’m reminded why it’s one of my favorite cities in the world—especially when it comes to food and some of ...