Landmark Hermosa: Hennessey's Tavern

Many Hermosa Beach residents flocked to on St. Patrick’s Day last week to drink a pint of beer and eat Irish-inspired cuisine, including the restaurant’s Southern Irish Tenders or the Red Irish Chicken Sandwich.

Another celebration soon will hit Hennessey’s—but this one will be in honor of its 35th anniversary on the Strand. 

One of Hermosa’s oldest Irish pubs, Hennessey’s has served residents and visitors since 1976.

Owner Paul Hennessey moved to the West Coast, following a career as a Wall Street stock trader, and sought a location to open a tavern.

He found the perfect spot facing the Hermosa Beach Pier, where Hennessey’s Tavern instantly “became one of the most popular spots on Pier Avenue,” according to the 2009 Hermosa Beach Visitor’s Guide.

An Irish flag and slew of shamrocks now surround the pub, which since has been expanded with a second bar, dining area and rooftop deck.

Coined “The Neighborhood Meeting Place,” Hennessey’s popularity in Hermosa led to the opening of several locations throughout Southern California.

Two years after the first tavern opened on the Strand, Hennessey found its next location in Redondo Beach. Others that came to follow include Seal Beach, Manhattan Beach, San Diego, Dana Point, Laguna Beach, La Jolla, Pacific Beach and Carlsbad.

Hennessey’s has even graced a location in Las Vegas, making a total of 11 Hennessey’s in the West Coast area. But its origins will always trace back to our backyard in Hermosa Beach.

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