Long Beach has been called the ‘culinary crossroads of Southern California,’ and whether you believe it or not, one thing is true: We know how to craft a damn good meal. The fact is, you can easily find any variety, from authentic Cambodian street food to sustainable seafood towers, artisanal vegan tasting menus, and historic diners serving legendary breakfast burritos.
Panxa Cocina
$$ | (562) 433-7999 | WEBSITE
This Long Beach spot has an open bar side where you can watch the game and chat with the friendly staff, who’ll serve up close to 100 happy hour deals per night. The vibe here can be relaxed, but you won’t even mind once you take a bite of something off their killer menu. It always includes a chili relleno and vegan options that go beyond basic, with creative twists on traditional dishes, and are so satisfying you won’t miss the meat.
Take a seat near the vibrant outdoor patio (pet-friendly, of course) and snack on some vegan appetizers while you wait for the beer, shot, and taco special, with unexpected value from the $15 price tag. Order whatever the daily special is—that’s where you’ll find seasonal touches like fresh herbs and local produce that make the vegetarian dishes sing.
PS fast food 168 restaurant
$ | (562) 999-6721 | WEBSITE
The folks at PS Fast Food 168 in Long Beach are Cambodian comfort food masters who are doing things right. The oxtail noodle soup simmers for hours—a full afternoon—which deepens its rich flavor, and the fall-off-the-bone tender oxtail that melts better than most is strategically paired with a crispy Chinese donut for dipping.
Yes, there’s beef stick and sizzling beef on the menu, but the more standout dish like the signature oxtail noodle soup, plus that special pandan soy milk, is the dreamy savory combo you’ll be craving for days. Get a bowl to enjoy yourself or bring a friend and order the sizzling beef, with its fun sizzle and customizable hot sauces. It’s delicious homage to Cambodian and Chinese traditions.
The Green Olive Mediterranean Cuisine
$ | (562) 912-7030 | WEBSITE
Long Beach’s go-to Mediterranean spot is also serving some of the best Mediterranean food in town. It’s tucked away in a bustling neighborhood where parking can be tricky, but it’s turning out fresh dishes that hit every time. They’re perfectly cooked with juicy, flavorful ingredients. We love the straightforwardness of the chicken kabobs, though the salmon kebabs with a side of that spicy green sauce are the move for anyone tired of the usual seafood options.
With warm, soft pita bread, saucy potatoes, and fresh vegetables that are tasty additions, prepare to see families sharing plates. The Works Combo reheats beautifully and comes with amazing garlic sauce—it’s a solid choice that never misses.
Abuelita’s Birria & Mexican Food
$ | (951) 264-4266 | WEBSITE
The birria tacos at this ghost kitchen concept tend to fly under the radar and would get more attention in a more traditional restaurant setting. Give them the attention they deserve by heading out to Long Beach for their signature Menudo and chicken taquito combo, a solid, straightforward take on Mexican classics with rich broth, tender chicken, and crisp tortillas. It’s a reliable meal that’s both satisfying and more comforting than a fast-food burrito.
Dishes that combine birria with consommé for dipping, or asada quesadillas that aren’t overly greasy are the occasional hits, and if you swing by for takeout, the convenient packaging and street parking make it a practical choice.
One Zo Boba/Myungrang Hotdog
$ | (562) 354-6330 | WEBSITE
The finest Korean-style corn dogs feature a crisp, golden exterior. One Zo Boba/Myungrang Hotdog in Long Beach nails that texture with their sweet potato version. Its signature mustard cheese sauce, crafted from quality ingredients (no artificial flavors), clings perfectly and is surprisingly creamy.
You can savor it in creations that read like playful street food experiments, like the potato hot dog crowned with hot Cheetos and that irresistible cheese mustard sauce, and a satisfying lychee lemon green tea that makes excellent use of the bright, fruity boba pearls floating within.
A&J seafood shack
$ | (562) 386-2000 | WEBSITE
A&J Seafood Shack is the old guard in Long Beach’s short seafood history. And while every aspiring fishmonger now vibes with fresh-caught seafood, cooked-to-order preparations, and generous portions, this wasn’t the norm when A&J opened their rustic seafood operation in that busy location nearly two decades ago. The corner shack maintains its casual neighborhood feel, despite hungry visitors killing time outside until it’s their turn to try these world-class plates.
No, reservations aren’t taken, but it’s worth a little wait for their dreamy crispy salmon, lush with garlic pepper shrimp and thick scampi-like texture, or fish n chips balanced with whole fried squid that are nicely breaded and tender. The fried rice combo and braised pork rice are bright and satisfying, making the slightly expensive but still affordable price worth every penny in this rough-around-the-edges location where the parking lot fills up fast but the food is consistently good.
JT Happy Meal
$$ | (562) 479-7022 | WEBSITE
JT Happy Meal has been a standout for quick, customizable eats in Long Beach since it opened with its tech-forward approach a few years back, and it still pulls in regulars who queue up for their Moonbowls and Tacolicious even during off-hours. That’s because they take the best of fast-casual dining—fresh, flavorful ingredients, and all—and make it hyper-convenient. These meals are more modern in execution, hearty as ever with lots of options.
You can mix and match to suit dietary needs, so try a combo like the vegan Moonbowl with its vibrant veggies and grains, and the Tacolicious, a crowd-pleaser with seasoned proteins, crisp toppings, and zesty sauces. We recommend adding a side of their house-made salsa or guac for an extra kick.
555 East American Steakhouse
$$$ | (562) 437-0626 | WEBSITE
We love this Long Beach steakhouse for its exceptional dry-aged ribeye and attentive service. But we’ll never say no to settling into the welcoming atmosphere for the superb lineup of high-end steak and seafood options. 555 East’s crown jewel is the 45-day dry aged ribeye, a deceptively simple cut cooked perfectly to order with the chef’s meticulous attention to detail.
You’re going to want to add the optional special touches like the live piano player that enhances the overall ambiance once it blends with the warm evening. Come with a group so you can also enjoy outside dining in pleasant weather, which might feature the thin-cut filet prepared to your specifications or the friendly recommendations from staff like Gilbert and Rachel.
Rim Talay Thai Food of Naples
$$ | (562) 343-2088 | WEBSITE
The authentic, flavor-packed dishes at Rim Talay Thai Food of Naples don’t stick to any watered-down Americanized Thai style and are more like a Bangkok street food, home-cooked meal hybrid. They’re hearty, satisfying, and delicious, so you might have a hard time choosing. The solution is to go with a group and share, which lets you try multiple standout dishes, including the rotating specials that might feature the rich pork panang curry or the tangy papaya salad.
We especially loved the pineapple fried rice that echoed the tropical theme, balanced by savory crab fried rice and aromatic green curry. We like sitting in the comfy dining room, but on busier nights grab a seat early where the single server still provides welcoming, top-notch attention.
MVP’s Grill & Patio #3
$ | (562) 434-6877 | WEBSITE
There are a surprising number of burger joints in Long Beach—you could easily eat a different version every day of the week—but the family-owned MVP’s Grill & Patio #3 nails its classic American fare. The generous amount of fresh ingredients in the Michael Jordan sandwich, the well-seasoned fries, and the consistent quality create a satisfying experience, while the friendly staff and clean atmosphere make it a welcoming spot.
They’re mostly variations on the standard fast-casual options, except for the Peyton burger, which stacks its toppings with care and includes the must-try asada burrito as a highlight. A reliable local favorite that’s been serving great food at fair prices for over 15 years.
4th Street Vine
$$ | WEBSITE
4th Street Vine is Long Beach Airport’s answer to the pre-flight lounge (conveniently, it’s located right inside the terminal). It’s primarily a sit-down operation crafting excellent local brews that are equal parts crisp and refreshing. Because it’s an airport, though, you’re not limited to basic bar snacks.
Instead, you’ll find elevated options like the shrimp ceviche and hummus tzatziki duo, with fresh ingredients and a wonderfully bright, clean presentation, finished with homemade potato chips for crunch and texture, served in a pleasant space that leans cozy outdoor patio.
Guisados
$ | (562) 494-5292 | WEBSITE
Authentic street tacos can be hard to find in Long Beach. Guisados’ handmade tortillas and generous fillings come to the rescue. They’re as close as you’re going to get to the ones from a typical Mexico City taqueria. This casual counter-service spot, with a charming patio for outdoor seating, is still pure Long Beach, though, thanks to a breakfast-friendly menu and agua de melón, the sweet and refreshing drink so perfect that it pairs beautifully with every taco.
If basic tacos won’t do, look to the sampler platter (recommended for first-timers), like the chicken tinga that’s a smoky and spicy standout, or the mole taco topped with rich, complex sauce on a warm handmade tortilla. And bonus: Guisados offers a pumpkin spice horchata that’s a seasonal hit.
The Habit Burger Grill
$ | (562) 425-1500 | WEBSITE
A classic American burger joint is easy to recognize, and you’ll find it in the straightforward offerings at The Habit Burger Grill. This reliably consistent spot delivers the form of hot, juicy burgers, crispy French fries, and crunchy onion rings. The meals served here are satisfyingly familiar, but expect a few pleasant surprises that go beyond the basics, including the occasional complimentary gummy hamburger dessert and an acceptable vegan option among the limited vegetarian choices.
You can also come just for the service, with equally praised efficiency from the helpful staff and excellent customer care from the manager. This nice-atmosphere restaurant with outdoor seating and shared hotel parking doesn’t require reservations, so be prepared for occasional order mishaps—or trust that the restaurant will address any issues with their positive attitude.
Joliza’s Tacos
$ | (562) 612-4200 | WEBSITE
This unassuming, counter-service spot in Long Beach sticks to the big flavors and generous portions approach to Mexican food, minus the fussy presentation that’s become common in LA. What comes from the simple kitchen at the heart of the casual space are satisfying tacos and burritos that are hearty, with fillings like tender beef cheek and potato taquitos that don’t skimp.
We especially love how Joliza’s isn’t afraid of distinctive touches like topping off horchata and offering a good selection of Mexican sodas. While the restaurant atmosphere is friendly, it feels special enough for breakfast—the vegetarian options are outstanding and the service is surprisingly attentive—or bringing hungry friends.
Buvons Natural Wine Bar + Shop
$$ | (562) 342-6557 | WEBSITE
Buvons Natural Wine Bar + Shop captures that cozy neighborhood wine bar vibe, with intimate indoor seating and a charming outdoor patio—all that’s missing is a crackling fireplace. Even the natural wine selection conjures up a sense of discovery, though we prefer the simple pleasure of a crisp, light orange wine paired with nothing more than a plate of olives and a slice of charcuterie.
For more adventurous sips, it’s hard to beat the robust reds Benjo might suggest, earthy and complex with notes of dark fruit and spice, or the sparkling pet-nats, bright and effervescent with a hint of wild yeast. Bring a date or a small group of friends—the relaxed atmosphere is perfect for unwinding after work.
Bushfire Kitchen – Long Beach
$ | (562) 342-4134 | WEBSITE
Bushfire Kitchen is one of the standout spots in Long Beach delivering healthy, flavorful cuisine. (The attention to seasoning is the key.) The results are consistently impressive: fresh, high-quality ingredients combined into well-balanced dishes. Take the Surf and Turf, with perfectly cooked seafood and tender meat—it’s a more elevated take on classic comfort food.
Since this place has such a welcoming environment, we like to settle into the cozy dining room over a meal that feels like excellent value for the money. The enthusiastic staff makes every request, like how the salmon is prepared, feel thoughtfully accommodated.
Pho America Vietnamese Cuisine
$ | (562) 218-0204 | WEBSITE
Pho America Vietnamese Cuisine are pho specialists and the spot for authentic Vietnamese dishes, minus the traditional street food setting. These bowls get gently simmered in a prominent broth pot covered in steam, producing extra aromatic bowls with perfectly balanced flavors.
Take a seat at one of the wooden tables inside and savor the standout grilled chicken pho, rich and comforting with a clear broth base, topped with fresh herbs, bean sprouts, and a generous squeeze of lime, might be better than the chicken soup it was inspired by. If you’re a beef loyalist, there’s no beating the charbroiled beef Banh Mi sandwich, teeming with pickled vegetables and cilantro.
The Teriyaki Grill
$ | (562) 612-1564 | WEBSITE
The Teriyaki Grill is run by a friendly owner, so it’s no surprise that this Long Beach spot is doing justice to the teriyaki. It’s made from fresh ingredients that are both addictive and perfectly charred. Notably, the bowls are served in generous portions and by the plate from the clean counter display. We like the classic combination of the Chicken Teriyaki’s moist rice, healthy vegetables, and savory sauce contrasted with the tender chicken.
The Beef Bowl with avocado will wow anyone who seeks flavor with its creamy avocado, fresh beef, and rich teriyaki glaze—plus, a hint of chewiness that adds texture. The counter-service restaurant with plenty of seating and a kid-friendly atmosphere feels like a neighborhood secret that more teriyaki lovers should know about.