From its stunning ocean views to its buzzing nightlife, Long Beach, California is also home to a wide variety of culinary experiences.
From classic American diners to trendy sushi eateries, the city is full of delicious eats that are sure to satisfy your cravings.
But if you’re stuck on where to eat, we’ve compiled a list of the 12 best Long Beach restaurants you gotta try below!
1. Ellie’s
If you’re looking for exquisite Italian food, look no further than Ellie’s. Located on a quiet stretch of coastline, this little restaurant is a hidden gem where you can enjoy a superb meal before taking a stroll.
As you step in, you will be welcomed by mostly-white interiors with friendly staff who will greet you with the warmest smile. While inside is charming, the patio is where the real action is: skies, breeze, and amazing vibes you should not miss.
Fluffy and flavorful, Ellie’s Buttermilk Pancakes are a must-have. The Breakfast Pasta replicates the atmosphere of a Venetian breakfast with its combination of truffle, poached egg, bacon, and aged parmesan crumbs.
Their Ravioli with handmade pasta and Grilled Whole Fish are irresistible for dinner! No doubt, this place certainly has a lot of boxes checked off.
What to order: Buttermilk Pancake, Breakfast Pasta, Ravioli, Grilled Whole Fish
Address: 204 Orange Ave, Long Beach, CA, United States
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2. Saint & Second
Saint & Second has a long history of critical culinary acclaim and a passion for constantly improving what they can provide, putting them at the top of the Long Beach restaurant scene along with others on the list.
Saint & Second is known for their sustainable approach to procuring ingredients for a variety of mouthwatering American dishes, expertly selected whiskies, and delightfully eccentric drinks.
If you’re searching for the ideal lunch or dinner, try one of these must-try favorites: Duck Meatballs – sweet and savory, crispy on the outside while juiciest on the inside; Roasted Bone Marrow – cooked to perfection and elevated to the next level with the salad and bread on the side; Truffle & Artichoke flatbread – the perfect crunchy texture you’re looking for.
For their cocktails, sip on the Queen’s Park Swizzle with rum, organic cane sugar, fresh lime juice, and bitters, or perhaps a classic Last Word with gin, Maraschino, and Green Chartreuse.
What to order: Duck Meatballs, Roasted Bone Marrow, Truffle & Artichoke Flatbread, Specialty Cocktails, Classic Cocktails
Address: 4828 2nd St, Long Beach, CA 90803, United States
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3. Nick’s on 2nd Long Beach
Nobody in Long Beach doesn’t know about the grip Nick’s has on the entire restaurant scene.
High ceilings with contemporary lighting coupled with neutral tones, phenomenal food and drinks, and impeccable service working together to create comfortable and exciting vibes.
Whether you’re in the bar watching your fav baseball game or on the couches sitting like royalty, Nick puts a spell on you, making you feel you have finally found the perfect venue for any occasion.
Proof of their fame is the long line of hungry goers who want to experience great food, amazing ambiance, and exceptional service from Nick’s. Therefore, you should reserve a table in advance.
We highly suggest you sample their Bacon Deviled Eggs for an appetizer, Pan Seared Scottish Salmon for the main dish, and a soft Butter Cake for dessert.
The Bacon Deviled Eggs are lightly fried and have the ideal mix of creaminess and crunch. Meanwhile, the Salmon is a savory melt-in-the-mouth perfection with mashed potatoes on the side — a match made in heaven, indeed.
Lastly, the delicious Butter Cake topped with vanilla ice cream and strawberry syrup is the sweetest finish you can’t forget.
What to order: Deviled Eggs, Prime Rib, Butter Cake, Pan Seared Scottish Salmon
Address: 4901 2nd St, Long Beach, CA 90803, United States
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4. Phnom Penh Noodle Shack
There is something about Cambodian culture that leaves you in awe. It goes the same for their fare; in this case, Phnom Penh Noodle Shack is all about keeping things basic, with just the essentials of traditional Cambodian cooking to set your day on the right track.
Fans flock to the tiny noodle shack out of reverence, and once inside, they quickly line up to try the many fresh noodle soups on offer.
The restaurant only has a small dining space inside, but such limited seating could only conjure the positives: warm and attentive service and a sense of exclusivity. Besides, you can clearly see which dishes are often on these tables: House Special, Mo’s Special Rice Porridge, and Loat Cha.
The House Special is a meaty and flavorful choice that doesn’t feel heavy at all. Meanwhile, their Loat Cha showcases chewy and savory noodles that go perfectly well with beef. The Rice Porridge is always a good choice for the cold weather, but you can definitely enjoy it any time.
What to order: House special, Loat Cha, Mo’s Special Rice Porridge
Address: 1644 Cherry Ave, Long Beach, CA 90813, United States
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5. The Ordinarie
Want a place to relax and unwind after a stressful day at work? Your best bet is at the Ordinarie. An excellent hideout to eat and drink with a star-studded menu offering a wide variety of dishes, each with its own unique spin on American classics.
They are a famous entertainment spot in downtown Long Beach for locals and tourists alike; don’t expect to be seated immediately. But as they say: good things come to those who wait.
Step inside a bar with tons of lights and decorations to boost your spirits high. Get excited as you enjoy unforgettable entertainment, exceptional food, and funky vibes!
There are numerous food items to choose from, but their Chicken Pot Pie Bites, flavorsome flaky crust hosting a savory treasure inside; luscious soft Short Rib that seems to melt in your mouth; and the Ordinarie Fries that will show you what perfect crispness tastes like.
The first bite will be all it takes to convince you! Finish it all with one of their house special cocktails, such as the Tang-a-Lang or Fruit Stand.
What to order: Chicken Pot Pie Bites, Ordinarie Fries, Short Rib, French Dip Sandwich, Tang-a-Lang, Fruit Stand
Address: 210 The Promenade N, Long Beach, CA 90802, United States
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6. Tacos La Carreta
Treat your taste buds to something special on the weekends at Tacos La Carreta! Don’t be fooled by its modest appearance because this no-frills food truck serves up mouthwatering carne asada tacos that will have you drooling.
How can you tell this is THE spot? Well if see a crowd and you’re the only one ordering in English, you know you’re in for authentic Mexican fare.
Menu-wise, Tacos La Carreta has it plain and simple with just a couple of items. But you’ll want to go for the Tacos Vampiros and Papas Locas, which are cooked to perfection and still have the juiciness that will make your heart SING with each bite.
What to order: Tacos Vampiros, Papas Locas
Address: 3401 E 69th St, Long Beach, CA, United States
7. Aji Peruvian Cuisine
In a modern brick-walled setting showcasing a head-turner of a wine shelf, Aji serves freshly prepared dishes and exciting beverages that highlight the best of Peruvian cuisine. You may have already heard many good things about Aji; this is your sign that you must go ASAP.
The menu at this hidden gem features a wide variety of options that have all been beautifully prepared. All your Peruvian cuisine needs may be met here, from ceviches and appetizers to anticuchos and causas and main courses!
With that said, their Empanadas with chimichurri are a must-order; the shell is crisp, and the inside is a chewy trove of goodness. The Lomito Saltado is a god looking down at others on the menu: tender and juicy meat in heavenly savory chunks. Dare we say, this is one of the best lomo saltados in town!
Another standout is the Ceviche Mercado, a package deal that is not too bland and too overwhelming; add the greatness of yucca fries, and you have a dish with a taste engraved in your mind for a long time.
For dessert lovers, Aji’s Picarones, Peruvian squash-yam doughnuts with cinnamon, is waving! Ask the staff for a wine recommendation that perfectly goes well with your order — and wow, what a great time!
What to order: Empanadas, Ceviche Mercado, Arrocito Norteno, Picarones
Address: 2308 E 4th St, Long Beach, CA, United States
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8. Liv’s
New in the food scene, Liv’s has definitely proven they are a seafood force to reckon with. In just a short time, they have managed to create hype, live up to it, and amassed fans from all over the city.
There are a number of seafood establishments in the area, but what sets Liv’s apart is their dedication to innovation and creativity in their offerings.
Here, OOTD has nothing to do with your outfit — all the spotlight is on their freshest and most delicious oysters! Whether you dine inside behind large glass walls or feel the summer heat in their covered patio, you can’t resist surrendering to your oyster-rific fate!
Tacos & Beers are on Tuesdays, and Wednesdays and Thursdays are for social hour, where you can take advantage of the oysters at a discount.
Besides their oysters, you ought to check out some items. You might have believed that all fish and chips are created equal, but not Liv’s. Theirs highlight hand-cut fries, herb-battered striped bass, and tartar sauce to enhance the flavor.
Cap everything off with a glass of wine or a bottle of beer, and you’ll thank the heavens for Liv’s.
What to order: Oysters, Fish and Chips, Chargrilled Oysters, Lobster Carbonara
Address: 5327 2nd St, Long Beach, CA, United States
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9. Sura Korean BBQ & Tofu House Restaurant
Korean comfort fare is a favorite no matter where you are in the world. In Long Beach, you can be sure that the KBBQ experience will always be exciting thanks to Sura’s affordable prices, generous amounts, and delicious food.
Get to enjoy authentic Korean cuisine in a contemporary interior with black, gray, and brown hues. Their Korean Chicken is a star dish, expertly done with the ideal mix of sweet, savory, and spicy.
From their sizzling barbecue options, their Rib Eye Bulgogi with garlic soy and the newly introduced Spicy Salmon in chili sauce with Korean greens or yuchae are superb choices. Each dish is seasoned and cooked to perfection, with the right levels of spiciness.
Now, half of Sura entails vegan cuisine, and there’s no better way to simmer in this experience than with a bowl of Tofu Soup and a set of Vegetable Dumplings that are so good even non-vegans would devour in an instant.
Who would have thought a Korean BBQ restaurant could be a famous vegan must-visit? Finish the night with a bottle of soju that leaves you wanting for more.
What to order: Vegan Tofu Soup, Korean Fried Chicken Wings, Shiitake ‘Shroom Fries, Spicy Salmon, Rib Eye Bulgogi
Address: 621 Atlantic Ave, Long Beach, CA, United States
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10. Gusto Bread
Have you ever wondered what organic bread made from ancient techniques and heirloom recipes taste like? Say no more — Gusto Bread is the epitome of this very feat.
In the opinion of many Long Beach locals —and we wholeheartedly agree—this bakery is among the city’s greatest. Imagine the loaves running out so quickly that you wouldn’t even get a chance to see all the bestsellers!
Upon entering the mostly white pastry paradise, surrender your fate to the alluring aroma of freshly baked bread. While you’re there, a typical choice, if you want something straightforward yet moving, is to get their California Loaf.
They also have Hueso or long bread, Pan de Maiz with corn and honey, Concha, which is a bun with a semi-sweet chocolate coating, and Oreja, which is homemade puff pastry. With all these unique selections, Gusto Bread is undoubtedly a heaven for pastries!
What to order: Pan de Maiz, Hueso, Cocha, California Loaf, Oreja
Address: 2710 E 4th St, Long Beach, CA, United States
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11. The Breakfast Bar
Who would be the best candidate for setting up the tempo of your day at Long Beach? Locals, of course! The Breakfast Bar is owned and operated by two LB locals who are most familiar with the city’s workings and have extensive experience.
Their food offerings are supported mainly by recipes and secrets passed down from one generation to the next. Here, you can taste some homemade food delivered boiling hot and fresh with good service, friendly staff, and a welcoming ambiance.
Start your day right with Uncle Marcee’s Omelet Casserole, a brunch favorite prepared a day in advance for an enhanced flavor; cheesy, soft, and flavorful. Not too overly sweet or too salty.
Another fantastic option is their Meatloaf Steak & Eggs, which includes house-spiced meatloaf with yummy and solid potato pancakes. Touch down to an incredible finish with a glass of OG Mary with vodka or an all-time favorite mimosa. Just divine!
The Breakfast Bar can get too crowded as they are among the most popular spots for homey food in LB. You may have to wait before getting a seat, but what is a couple of minutes to an hour if you get to taste the best breakfast or brunch in town?
What to order: Uncle Marcee’s Omelet Casserole, Meatloaf Steak & Eggs, OG Mary, Mimosa
Address: 70 Atlantic Ave, Long Beach, CA, United States
12. Kin Long Beach Kitchen
You can never go wrong with Thai cuisine. Kin Long Beach Kitchen understood this assignment and made sure they are well-loved by everyone who lays their eyes (and mouths) on their amazing offerings.
Kin focuses on elevating your favorite foods to new heights. Thai food is already well-known on its own, but a fresh take on old favorites may be your new favorite.
You’ll be astonished by how lovely the inside decor is, given how unassuming the outside appears to be. With their black ceiling, white walls, and creative lighting, get ready to expand your gram aesthetics with a new post!
We heartily recommend this mind-blowing lineup: Colossal Crab Meat Pad Thai that is to die for with large chunks of crabs and the right amount of sauce; Seafood Tom Yum Soup with lemongrass that enhances the flavor; a Mango Curry with mango offering a distinct flavor which you can have with a tofu or soy nugget (either way, this dish has cast a spell upon us).
What to order: Colossal Crab Meat Pad Thai, Orange Chicken, Mango Sticky Rice, Seafood Tom Yum Soup, Thai Iced Tea
Address: 740 E Broadway, Long Beach, CA 90802, United States
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That sums up our list of the best Long Beach restaurants to absolutely check at! We hope to run into you in one of them very soon!
California is home to a wide variety of culinary gems. How about we head on over to Pasadena? Here is a cheat sheet for Pasadena’s restaurants!
How We Create Our “Best” Lists
All Noms Magazine’s “best” lists are created using multiple factors and signals to help readers find the best restaurants, things to do, and places to stay at. Some of these factors and signs include personal experiences, correspondence with locals, and compiling experiences from review sites.
Each list is also created to be balanced (in terms of price, cuisine type, ambiance, and more) as possible. This means that the lists are not specifically created in ranking order. You should be comfortable picking from any of the spots on the list and generally have a good time. But of course, YMMV (your mileage may vary) and everyone may have different experiences/palates.