The 20 Best Restaurants In Long Beach

Long Beach is a coastal city located in Los Angeles County. Though it is still technically within the county, it's far enough away from the hustle and bustle of the city to feel like a totally different world. That said, the culinary scene in Long Beach is similarly diverse and unique, spanning a variety of cultures and cuisines. Whether you're in the mood for authentic street tacos or you're planning an upscale date night at a steakhouse, Long Beach has plenty of solid eateries and establishments to choose from.

There's no denying that the drive to Long Beach from more central parts of LA can be a bit brutal, especially during high-traffic times. That said, foodies will find the innovative and exciting restaurant scene to be well worth the time spent in the car. The same goes for foodies coming up from the south in nearby Orange County. Whether you're a Long Beach local or an out-of-town visitor, our list of the 20 best restaurants in Long Beach is sure to satisfy.

Selva is a new Long Beach hot spot that specializes in Colombian-inspired cuisine and cocktails. Despite the fact that the vibe is casual and laid back, the food is premium and the plating is artful. The entire menu at Selva is designed for sharing, and there are some popular favorites that you won't want to miss. If you're craving a cocktail, start off with the refreshing, passion fruit-forward Colombian Punch.

When it comes to the small plate section, the mushroom croquettes and crispy pork belly chicharron are both worth ordering. Other dishes that offer a true taste of Colombia include the corn arepas and yucca fries. For proteins, the smoked pollo is one of the most beloved options. However, if you're a seafood fan, the succulent sea scallops hit the spot. That said, be sure to save room for the seasonal panna cotta.

Queensview Steakhouse serves up quality cuts, craft cocktails, and epic views of the iconic Queen Mary (hence the restaurant's name). The restaurant is located on the third floor of the Parkers Lighthouse in Shoreline Village, making Queensview Steakhouse a solid spot for a romantic date night or celebratory evening in Long Beach.

Though Queensview is coined as a steakhouse, many come here for the fresh seafood selection. From sushi rolls to snow crab, Queensview Steakhouse has plenty of luxe ocean favorites. Start off with oysters or a seafood tower from the raw bar before digging into cooked apps like the jumbo lump crab cakes or shrimp scampi. For the main course, get the best of both worlds by building your own surf and turf with seared scallops or a tender lobster tail.

Caught a craving for Italian? L'Opera is a legendary Italian joint that has mastered the art of handmade pasta and wood-fired proteins. The menu focuses on food from the northern region of Italy. Traditional dishes like the bruschetta and beef carpaccio shine in the Antipasti section of the menu and make for some solid starters. Since the handmade pastas are considered the star of the show, it's important to order at least one for the table, if not your main course. 

The mushroom rigatoni is cooked in a decadent white wine sauce, while the seafood spaghetti can be served in either a white or spicy red sauce. When it comes to meat-heavy entrees, the New Zealand rack of lamb with crispy baby artichokes is a popular option, as is the osso bucco with creamy polenta.

If you're craving classic American comfort food with an upscale twist, head to Nick's on 2nd. This restaurant is a true crowd-pleaser as the dishes and drinks are consistently fresh and there's something on the menu for everyone, from vegans to meat lovers.

Plus, the restaurant offers a high level of service to match. However, the biggest downside to Nick's broad appeal is that it gets pretty crowded on the weekends, so be prepared to wait if you don't have a reservation. Fortunately, Nick's is located in Belmont Shore's shopping district, so there are plenty of shop windows to peruse while you wait. If you get lucky, you can also snag a seat at the bar. You'll be glad you stuck around after your first bite of their famous butter cake.

If you don't feel like waiting two hours for a table at Nick's but you're still craving modern American fare, Saint & Second is a catty-corner away. The restaurant spans two stories, with a conventional dining room occupying the downstairs space and an upstairs area that hosts a more casual patio. Because of this additional square footage, Saint & Second is also more easily able to accommodate large groups.

The restaurant takes pride in highlighting seasonal, local ingredients, and this passion extends to the spirits, which are sourced from artisan distillers. On weekdays from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m., Saint & Second also hosts a "social hour" with solid deals on their drinks and small plates. Whether you're craving a house cocktail, an ale, a cider, a non-alcoholic drink, or a glass of wine, the bar has you covered.

Want to impress the vegan in your life? Take them to Seabirds. Owner Stephanie Morgan initially started cooking up great plant-based dishes in the back of a food truck in 2010. However, the venture proved to be so popular that Seabirds now boasts three brick-and-mortar locations, located in Costa Mesa, Los Feliz, and, of course, Long Beach. The vegan cuisine is defined by an artisan approach — Seabirds' staff make most of the dishes from scratch, using locally-grown, seasonal produce.

You can't go wrong with any of their tacos, and in theory, their jackfruit nachos are shareable, but you'll be fighting over each chip. And, if you're craving something sweet, their churro/waffle hybrid (dubbed the chaffle) is the perfect way to round out your meal.

Sura Korean BBQ is the ultimate destination for authentic Korean BBQ in Long Beach. This interactive dining experience is met with traditional sides, bold spices, and vegan options for plant-based dinners. After ordering a beer or soju cocktail, dig in on the various meats and proteins. If you don't feel like doing the grilling, there are also tons of chef-prepared dishes to choose from. The Bibimbap Bowls are a major hit, ranging from beef to chicken to tofu.

Sura Korean BBQ also has a solid happy hour that takes place from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. daily. Enjoy discounted drinks and bites such as scallion pancakes, panko shrimp fries, and bulgogi nachos. Some vegan favorites include the veggie dumplings, shitake 'shroom fries, and crispy rice cake skewers with spicy sauce.

La Parolaccia has been family-owned and operated since 2006, and that family-oriented focus shines through the restaurant's welcoming atmosphere and quality cuisine. Founder Stefano Procaccini originally hails from Rome, and uses La Parolaccia as a platform to spotlight classic homestyle Roman fare. The Italian staples that stock their menu have kept Southern Californians wanting more, and over the course of its 17 years in business, the restaurant has become a go-to favorite for many locals.

In 2010, La Parolaccia expanded, installing a wood-fired oven and upping their pizza game. Stefano's son, Michael Procaccini, went to Italy to study pizza making and returned to Long Beach to cook up classic Roman-style pizzas. If you get your hands on some pizza and pasta from La Parolaccia, it's been a day well spent.

Located in the Arts District of Long Beach, Utopia Good Food and Fine Art blends a laid-back atmosphere with fine dining cuisine. The restaurant is known for having an amazing wine list that pairs well with a combination of bites from the dinner menu. Start off with some Mediterranean-inspired appetizers like calamari or garlic shrimp. The clams and mussels are also cooked in a white wine broth that you'll actually want to drink.

The artichoke hearts salad is a light and refreshing option, but the Caribbean scallops are the ultimate entree for any seafood lover. If you prefer red meat over fish, the ribeye steak with a brandy-forward mushroom cream sauce is a great contender, as are the lamb chops. No matter what you order, it's wise to ask your server or bartender for a recommended wine pairing for an optimal dining experience.

Quality Peruvian food can be hard to come by, even in a place like Los Angeles. Thankfully, Aji Peruvian Cuisine is spicing things up by offering traditional Peruvian fare in Long Beach. The empanadas can be ordered with beef, chicken, or corn, and are served with a side of bright chimichurri for dunking and dipping. Ceviche is one of, if not the most famous Peruvian dish, making it a must-order when dining at Aji. The classic ceviche is made with a traditional leche de tigre sauce that pairs perfectly with the light and refreshing raw halibut.

Those looking to get the most out of their experience at Aji Peruvian Cuisine will definitely want to order family-style. Some other popular menu items include the many traditional causa's, the wok-fried chicken rice, and the panko-breaded beef tenderloin.

Long Beach hosts one of the largest and oldest Cambodian communities in the country, so it's no surprise that the city has some quality Cambodian food to match. Phnom Penh Noodle Shack is a family-owned and operated restaurant located in the center of the city on the corner of Cherry Avenue.

The Tan family first started serving up noodles with only five tables in the restaurant in 1985, and Phnom Penh Noodle Shack has been a community staple ever since. The restaurant is usually packed with people waiting to get their hands on a bowl of the famous noodle soup. Luckily, a limited menu of noodle dishes and a pork broth that's cooked up every day at 5 a.m. ensures that you won't have to wait too long to get your hands on a bowl.

Little Coyote in Long Beach has brought a true taste of New York-style pizza to the greater Los Angeles area. The concept comes from Jonathan Stradler and Chef Jack Leahy, both of whom have impressive resumes in the culinary and restaurant industries. The collaboration between the two friends has produced some truly great old-school New York-style pizzas. However, if you're able to save some of your appetite for something else, the classic Italian sub is also a local favorite.

When it comes to the pizza pies, Little Coyote keeps things simple. From pepperoni to margherita, the 16-inch pies are perfect for sharing. However, if you're only in the mood for a single slice, you can choose between cheese, pepperoni, white pizza, and Sciciilian-style focaccia.

Heritage is a farm-to-table favorite that serves seasonally-inspired dishes using local ingredients and produce. The charming restaurant is open Tuesday through Saturday for dinner. It's important to note that Heritage does not offer a la carte ordering and the only option for dining is to partake in the tasting menu. That said, if you're an adventurous foodie who is willing to try most things, you'll love each innovative and upscale course.

The six-course tasting menu is $90 per person, which isn't too bad when compared to the prices of most tasting menus in LA. Patrons are able to choose between a couple of options for each course. The menu is subject to change, but regular dishes include the crudo and braised octopus. You can also opt-in for the additional wine pairing for $40.

Sushi Nikkei recently rounded out its first year in business, but the Japanese-Peruvian fusion that the restaurant serves has already made its mark on the local food scene. It has already joined the ranks of the Los Angeles Michelin guide, and the restaurant has expanded from its Bixby Knolls location into a second location on 2nd Street in Belmont Shore.

The restaurant was founded by Long Beach local Daiwa Wong and her husband, decorated Peruvian chef Eduardo Chang. The pair showcase Peruvian ingredients using Japanese culinary traditions (and some Southern Californian flair) to dish up some of the most beloved seafood and sushi in Long Beach. Their dining rooms are lively, and seating is limited, so reservations are recommended. The nigiri and sashimi dishes are what truly shine here, and it's a great place to try something totally new.

If you catch a craving for classic tacos while strolling the streets of Long Beach, look no further than Tacos La Carreta. This beloved food truck operates Thursday through Sunday and serves some of the most popular street tacos in the area. Upon walking up to the truck, patrons are struck with a strong and spicy aroma of grilled peppers and onions. From carne asada to birria vampiros, Tacos La Carreta ensures that there are bold flavors and spices on each and every plate.

The quesadillas are also a big hit and can be made either with meat or left vegetarian. The freshly-made salsas are a must no matter what you order, and you'll also want to ask for some extra limes for a classic and zesty topping to your tacos.

Liv's on 2nd highlights the importance of sourcing locally and sustainably. Seafood is the main focus at this airy and modern eatery, but the seafood used is always sourced with the planet and people in mind. Liv's on 2nd also serves a variety of beer and wine, allowing you to sip on something light and refreshing while you savor a variety of seafood dishes. One of the best things about Liv's on 2nd is the fact that many days of the week feature discounted specials and deals. For example, Tuesdays include a $15 combo of tacos and beer for Taco Tuesday.

On Wednesdays and Thursdays, patrons can visit between the hours of 4 p.m. and 9 p.m. for Social Hour and enjoy $5 off any half-dozen order of oysters. Standard menu favorites include the Nashville hot fish sandwich, scallop crudo, and seafood chowder bowl.

The Ordinarie in Long Beach pays tribute to the style and food of the 18th century. This tavern-style eatery has a timeless interior met with a huge gallery wall of vintage paintings and photos. From craft beers to vintage vino, The Ordinarie is just as great for drinking as it is for eating. In fact, it closes at 12 a.m. most nights, making it a popular spot for locals looking to grab a nightcap with some friends.

In regards to the food, The Ordinarie has hearty options like beef and barley soup, macaroni and cheese with short rib, and chicken pot pie bites. The elevated take on 18th-century tavern fare is both fun and innovative, and chances are you'll probably want to share a handful of dishes among your group.

When it comes to Thai food, Kin Long Beach reigns supreme. Whether you're looking to dine in or order takeout, Kin Long Beach offers consistent service and quality every time. In addition to classic Thai dishes like tom kha soup and papaya salad, Kin Long Beach also serves more modern takes on traditional flavors and recipes. The golden tofu is a deep-fried favorite for plant-based diners, while the bang bang shrimp offers a sweet and spicy start for seafood lovers.

Some other popular entree options include the yellow curry and orange chicken. However, if noodles are more your thing, the pad see ew is a sweet and savory dish that you won't want to miss. Be sure to save room for dessert so you can indulge in some mango sticky rice, which is probably the most popular Thai dessert of all.

The year 2023 marks the 10th anniversary of Michael's Downtown, a restaurant that offers a winning combination of locally sourced ingredients and Italian cuisine. The kitchen cooks up Italian food with a distinctly Southern Californian style ranging from hand-made pasta to wood-fired pizza to hearty salads. No matter what you order, the dishes are fresh and generally pretty healthy.

Michael's Downtown is one member of a family of Long Beach-based restaurants helmed by Michael Dene, including the upscale Michael's on Naples, and the more casual Michael's Market, which serves Napoli-style pizza alongside fresh pasta and charcuterie. The downtown location differentiates itself through its cultivation of a relaxed, warm atmosphere, and by serving up breakfast. The restaurant opens its doors at 8 a.m. to bring coffee to the masses.

At 15 years old, Open Sesame founder Ali Kobeissi became entranced with herbs and spices while spending a summer working in a local spice factory in Lebanon. In 1999, he channeled this passion into the creation of Open Sesame, and the restaurant's Lebanese cuisine has been a local hit ever since. Kobeissi cites Phoenician, Greek, Arab, Roman, and Ottoman traditions as inspiration for the restaurant's ingredients and cooking techniques, which combine to create some innovative and vibrant Mediterranean fare.

You can't go wrong at Open Sesame, but don't skip the chicken tawook, the garlic potatoes, or the spicy hummus. If you want to taste a bit of everything, opt for one of their main plates, each of which is served with a pita, a dip, and a salad.