Areg Abramian

Areg Abramian, beloved husband and father, devoted Christian and long-time Manhattan Beach restaurant-owner, died peacefully at home on January 2. He suffered from a host of physically compromising health issues. He was 87. Areg is survived by his wife Adrineh, his brother Hovik, his daughters Angela and Carmen, as well as four grandchildren: Owen, Olive, Alexander and Maria. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made in memory of Areg Abramian to Christian Outreach for Armenians by Zelle to donate@COAChurch.org or to Armenia School Foundation at https://www.armeniaschoolfoundation.org/donate/

Known to many in the South Bay and beyond as “Eric,” he was born and raised in Tehran before immigrating to the United States in 1962. He was married in New York to Adrineh, a fellow Armenian he had originally met in Tehran. The two landed in Gardena and eventually settled in Redondo Beach, California. Areg opened his first restaurant, El Sombrero, in 1975 and expanded to a second location in 1986. Areg enjoyed sustained success for decades, while becoming known as the soft-spoken proprietor loved by many.

Areg and Adrineh enjoyed almost 60 years of marriage and enduring love based on respect and shared values. Together they raised their daughters Angela and Carmen in Redondo Beach, grew their restaurant business, and remained devoted members of Hope Chapel, Kings Harbor Church and ultimately Christian Outreach for Armenians. For many years, they hosted weekly bible study and fellowship at their home. 

To family, friends, and his wider community, Areg was known for his heart, humor, exceptional kindness and endless curiosity. Areg found both meaning and joy in helping others, whether he was supporting the basic needs of members of the church, raising funds for the Armenian Orphanage Society, listening to friends and family, or in countless other ways that he gave of himself. He was an excellent human being.

Areg was a linguaphile, fluent in Armenian, Farsi, English and conversational Spanish. He enjoyed studying French together with Adrineh at the local adult school. A lover of music, particularly jazz, he studied Spanish guitar, with a passion for flamenco.  

Areg was happiest at home, delighting in nightly phone calls from family and friends, whom he entertained with stories and jokes. In his final years he enjoyed daily visits from his brother, Hovik and the presence of Adrineh, his steadfast companion.