Best Date Night Restaurants in Long Beach
37 hand-picked restaurants, critic-reviewed and ranked
Last Updated: February 2026
Our Top Pick
Olive & Rose
Michelin-pedigreed zero-waste cooking in a chic mid-century motel setting
Essential Picks
#1
Olive & Rose
9.1
Michelin-starred Chef Philip Pretty's neo-bistro brings California flavors with French technique to a restored mid-century motel courtyard. The 32-seat open-air space emphasizes zero-waste practices and seasonal ingredients from the siblings' urban farm.
Must-Try Dishes:
Octopus with Potato & Pimento, Aged Rib Cap with Frites, Amberjack Crudo with Cucumber
What Makes it Special: Michelin-pedigreed zero-waste cooking in a chic mid-century motel setting
Notable Picks
#2
Viaje
8.9
Contemporary Mexican restaurant from Baja Fish Tacos co-founder Julio Gutierrez brings multiregional Mexican cuisine to Belmont Shore. Chef Ricardo de la Vega executes refined dishes like Barbacoa de Cordero and octopus alongside craft cocktails with housemade ingredients in a modern bohemian setting.
Must-Try Dishes:
Barbacoa de Cordero, Octopus, Ceviche
What Makes it Special: Chef-driven multiregional Mexican with modern techniques since 2022
8.9
Chef Eduardo Chang Ogata brings Michelin-recognized Peruvian-Japanese fusion to Belmont Shore, blending traditional sushi technique with vibrant Peruvian flavors. The intimate space buzzes with energy as bright yellow bowls of ceviche and lemon-coated parmesan scallops arrive alongside creative Nikkei-style rolls drizzled with acevichado sauce. Ocean-fresh seafood meets eye-catching presentation in a stylish atmosphere that elevates this beyond typical neighborhood sushi.
Must-Try Dishes:
Parmesan Scallops, Crispy Tuna Tacos, Tiradito Nikkei
What Makes it Special: Michelin-recognized Peruvian-Japanese fusion with innovative flavor combinations and impeccable seafood quality
#4
Chez Bacchus
8.8
Farm-to-table New American dining from Advanced Sommelier John Hansen and Chef Danny Le showcases seasonal California ingredients with refined technique. Open since June 2022 in the Arts District, this intimate spot earned People's Choice Best Fine Dining in 2025 and offers everything from weekend brunch to tableside desserts.
Must-Try Dishes:
Maple Leaf Duck, Miso-Glazed Norwegian Salmon, Bananas Foster (tableside)
What Makes it Special: Only fine dining in downtown with tableside service and sommelier-curated wine pairings
#5
Open Sesame
8.7
This 26-year Lebanese institution draws crowds for generous portions of charbroiled kabobs, shawarmas, and chicken tawook alongside exceptional vegetarian mezze. Chef Ali Kobeissi's commitment to fresh ingredients and authentic flavors has made this Belmont Shore fixture a Mediterranean food destination where reservations are strongly recommended.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chicken Tawook, Mixed Kabob Plate, Open Sesame Salad
What Makes it Special: Lebanese recipes passed through generations with emphasis on fresh daily preparation
8.7
Established in 1990 inside the historic 1906 First National Bank building, L'Opera features Chef Walter Cotta's award-winning Northern Italian cuisine with live opera performances on weekends. The stunning restoration showcases marble columns on mahogany floors with an exhibition kitchen, while the Wine Cellar basement offers intimate private dining in the original bank vault.
Must-Try Dishes:
Veal Piccata, Homemade Ravioli, Butternut Squash Ravioli
What Makes it Special: 35-year institution in stunning historic bank with Chef of the Year
8.7
Vibes:
Date Night Magic
Business Lunch Power Players
Birthday & Celebration Central
Outdoor Dining Oasis
Upscale casual taverna delivering classic American comfort food since 2008 in Belmont Shore's heart. Exhibition kitchen showcases culinary talent behind signature items like prime rib dip and butter cake dessert. Glass walls and spacious patio create sophisticated people-watching setting with consistently stellar service.
Must-Try Dishes:
Prime Rib Dip, Chilean Sea Bass, Butter Cake
What Makes it Special: 17-year neighborhood institution balancing casual warmth with upscale execution and exceptional hospitality
Authentic Neapolitan pizzeria from Naples opened in January 2024, bringing wood-fired tradition and imported Italian ingredients to Belmont Shore. The restaurant transformed a former dreary space into a bright, modern setting with both indoor fireplace charm and dog-friendly outdoor patio seating with firepits.
Must-Try Dishes:
Margherita DOC Pizza, Marinara Pizza, Chocolate Lava Cake
What Makes it Special: Family-owned Naples pizzeria tradition using imported Italian ingredients and wood-fired ovens
#9
La Traviata
8.6
Vibes:
Date Night Magic
Live Music Showtime
Birthday & Celebration Central
Family Friendly Favorites
Operating since 1997 in the historic Willmore Building, La Traviata delivers award-winning Nuevo Italian cuisine with live piano music on weekends. Owner Mario creates an operatic dining experience with ornate nineteenth-century opera house décor including crystal chandeliers and silk drapes, while the kitchen turns out fresh pasta and theatrical presentations.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chilean Sea Bass, Chestnut Mushroom Ravioli, Linguini de Mare
What Makes it Special: Historic venue with live piano and operatic ambiance since 1997
#10
Kihon
8.6
Naples Island sushi restaurant focusing on traditional Japanese fundamentals with pristine fish quality. Modern izakaya style with tapas plates makes it suitable for business meetings despite dinner-only hours.
Must-Try Dishes:
Garlic Albacore, Miso Black Cod, Yellowtail Sashimi with Jalapeño
What Makes it Special: Chef-quality fish with Japanese authenticity rare in Long Beach
8.6
Vibes:
Date Night Magic
Birthday & Celebration Central
Business Lunch Power Players
Luxury Dining Elite
Since 1984, this classic American steakhouse has built its reputation on hand-cut USDA Prime steaks dry-aged in-house for 30 to 120 days in a pink Himalayan salt brick room. The clubby, old-school interior with plush booths and dark wood paneling creates an atmosphere that has earned recognition as one of OpenTable's most romantic restaurants in the country.
Must-Try Dishes:
45-Day Bone-In Ribeye, Filet Mignon, Japanese Satsuma Wagyu A5 Strip
What Makes it Special: Long Beach institution with award-winning wine cellar and in-house dry-aging program
Authentic Turkish cuisine arrives in Belmont Shore with tender doner kebabs, house-made baklava, and Ottoman-influenced dishes served in an intimate space decorated with traditional Turkish lamps. The halal menu draws from Mesopotamian, Armenian, and Greek culinary traditions while maintaining distinctly Turkish flavors and exceptional hospitality.
Must-Try Dishes:
Lamb Doner Plate, Galata Special Grill, Kunefe
What Makes it Special: Fresh halal Turkish cuisine with attentive service rarely found elsewhere
#13
Panxa Cocina
8.5
New Mexican cuisine specialist founded by Chef Arthur Gonzalez brings authentic Hatch chiles and blue corn to Southern California. Chef Richie Ramirez continues the legacy with dishes like Navajo Tacos and stacked enchiladas rarely found outside New Mexico, complemented by mezcal-forward cocktails.
Must-Try Dishes:
Stacked Enchiladas, Navajo Taco, Green Chile Panxa Burger
What Makes it Special: Rare authentic New Mexican cuisine with Hatch chiles in SoCal
8.5
Vibes:
Luxury Dining Elite
Business Lunch Power Players
Birthday & Celebration Central
Date Night Magic
National steakhouse chain's Long Beach outpost sits steps from the Convention Center, serving USDA Prime steaks on signature 500-degree sizzling plates. Modern interior with booth and bar seating offers prix fixe specials and weekday happy hour alongside classic sides like lobster mac and cheese.
Must-Try Dishes:
Center-Cut Filet with Crab Stuffed Shrimp, Salmon with Bay Scallops, Potatoes au Gratin
What Makes it Special: Convenient Convention Center location with consistent nationwide Ruth's Chris quality
8.4
Family-owned since 1999, this Belmont Shore mainstay follows Mama Rodou's traditional recipes using first cold-pressed Greek olive oil and hormone-free New Zealand lamb. The Friday night Kleftiko special features lamb slow-roasted for eight hours, while Thursday evenings bring live Greek music from local legend Sotos Kappas.
Must-Try Dishes:
New Zealand Lamb Chops, Kleftiko (Friday Special), Saganaki Flaming Cheese
What Makes it Special: 26 years of family recipes handed down from grandmother to daughter Nicky
#16
The 4th Horseman
8.4
Horror-themed pizzeria with gothic macabre atmosphere featuring pizzas named after horror films, vintage arcade games, and extensive craft beer selection. House-made sourdough crust supports creative combinations like Memento Mori Bulgogi and Death to Piggy alongside vegan options.
Must-Try Dishes:
Death to Piggy, Memento Mori Bulgogi Pizza, Hellfire Pizza
What Makes it Special: Unique horror-metal theme with pizzas named after horror icons
8.4
Established French bistro since 2003 serving authentic buckwheat and sweet crepes with outdoor Parisian-style seating. The menu extends beyond crepes to include French onion soup, eggs benedict variations, and pasta carbonara, with genuine French cafe ambiance that transports diners to the streets of Paris.
Must-Try Dishes:
Crab Cake Benedict, Nordique Crepe with Smoked Salmon, French Onion Soup
What Makes it Special: Over 20 years serving authentic French crepes with Parisian outdoor seating
#18
Kimu Sushi
8.3
Vibrant izakaya experience featuring a sushi bar styled like a Japanese street-side restaurant complete with roof overhang. Creative specialty rolls blend traditional techniques with modern presentations, while the yakitori and small plates program appeals to groups seeking variety.
Must-Try Dishes:
Star Roll, Grilled Skewers, Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice
What Makes it Special: Authentic izakaya atmosphere with theatrical sushi bar design transports diners to Tokyo
8.3
Family-owned Spanish restaurant group bringing Barcelona's culinary traditions to Long Beach's waterfront at 2nd & PCH. Chef Oscar Cabezas leads a kitchen rooted in the Padrosa family's pintxos expertise, delivering authentic tapas and saffron-rich paellas in a Mediterranean-meets-coastal California setting with marina views and a lively atmosphere.
Must-Try Dishes:
Lobster Paella, Gambas al Ajillo, Pulpo Telefèric
What Makes it Special: Authentic Barcelona experience with Spanish-speaking staff and Michelin-starred Trenchs Studio design
8.3
Operating since 2003, this intimate Persian grill specializes in Mediterranean cuisine with Tehran-inspired flavors including lamb shank, Turkish chicken kebabs, and vegetarian options. The family-run establishment near Belmont Pier offers cozy indoor seating and a small patio for those seeking authentic Persian-Mediterranean fusion.
Must-Try Dishes:
Lamb Shank, Turkish Chicken Kebab, Beef Kubide
What Makes it Special: Persian flair on Mediterranean classics with 22 years experience
#21
Ellie's
8.3
Chef Jason Witzl's Southern Italian restaurant in Alamitos Beach specializes in handmade pasta made fresh daily with California-sourced ingredients. The intimate neighborhood bistro features a charming front patio and small dining room where the chef's energy bounces between kitchen and table, creating a warm familial atmosphere despite the upscale sensibility.
Must-Try Dishes:
Tagliatelle with Shrimp and 'Nduja, Potato Croquettes, Grilled Bread with Pork Butter
What Makes it Special: Chef-driven pasta showcase with California seasonal ingredients
8.3
Located on the third floor of Parkers' Lighthouse since 2011, this supper club-style steakhouse offers unmatched 360-degree views of the Queen Mary, Long Beach Harbor, and downtown skyline. Live jazz performances Tuesday through Sunday nights complement prime steaks, chops, and fresh seafood, creating a scene reminiscent of classic mid-century dining.
Must-Try Dishes:
Prime Porterhouse for Two, Dry-Aged Ribeye, Bacon-Wrapped Dates
What Makes it Special: Rotating panoramic harbor views paired with nightly live jazz in elegant supper club setting
8.3
Vibes:
Date Night Magic
Birthday & Celebration Central
Outdoor Dining Oasis
Business Lunch Power Players
Since 1983, this waterfront landmark delivers mesquite-grilled fresh seafood and award-winning wine selections beneath a working lighthouse. The menu features innovative Southern California preparations alongside creative sushi, all served with panoramic views of Long Beach Harbor and the Queen Mary.
Must-Try Dishes:
Mesquite-Grilled Fresh Fish, Oysters Rockefeller, Sesame-Crusted Ahi Tuna
What Makes it Special: Wine Spectator Award of Excellence and unmatched harbor views from every table
8.2
Marina-view restaurant at 2ND & PCH blends authentic Mexican comfort food with coastal California influences. Generous portions include standout lobster quesadilla and tequila-agave salmon alongside handcrafted margaritas on an expansive outdoor patio overlooking Long Beach Marina.
Must-Try Dishes:
Lobster Quesadilla, Tequila-Agave Salmon, Chile Relleno
What Makes it Special: Unobstructed marina views from nearly every seat in the house
#25
Ammatoli
8.2
Chef Dima Habibeh's James Beard-recognized Levantine restaurant brings her Amman, Jordan roots to Long Beach through daily-baked pita, musakhan, and a mezze spread that regulars consider essential ordering. The $$ price point with generous portions makes it one of the region's better values for Mediterranean food at this quality level. Two expansions since the 2018 opening have added private dining space while maintaining the warm, bustling energy that works best for groups.
Must-Try Dishes:
Musakhan, Batata Harra, Kibbeh
What Makes it Special: Chef Dima Habibeh brings Amman, Jordan to Long Beach with daily-baked pita, fresh-delivered produce, and Levantine dishes rarely found at this quality in Southern California.
#26
@Sushi
8.1
Contemporary sushi restaurant on Belmont Shore's bustling 2nd Street serves innovative specialty rolls with fresh ingredients and artistic presentation. The modern decor and friendly ambiance create an approachable date-night atmosphere where traditional cut rolls meet fanciful creations like baked salmon rolls. Professional waitstaff maintain efficient service in this neighborhood spot steps from Alamitos Bay.
Must-Try Dishes:
Baked Salmon Roll, Rainbow Roll, Aloha Roll
What Makes it Special: Contemporary fusion rolls with fresh seafood in a modern, accessible setting on 2nd Street
8.1
A straightforward Japanese sushi bar from an owner with 20+ years in the trade, emphasizing fish freshness over theatrical presentation. The waterfront location inside The Current draws regulars who appreciate the nigiri quality and hand rolls without destination pricing—expect a small room that fills up at peak hours. Works best for sushi-focused meals where the fish does the talking.
Must-Try Dishes:
Baked Crab Hand Roll, Salmon Truffle Hand Roll, Scallop Crudo
What Makes it Special: Chef Kay's traditional Japanese technique with premium fish selection in a waterfront setting at The Current
8.1
California-French comfort food meets urban rooftop beer garden in downtown's heart. Part of the Cohn Restaurant Group, this casual eatery features Brussels sprouts that have achieved cult status, plus an indoor fireplace and covered rooftop space perfect for people-watching.
Must-Try Dishes:
Bo-Beau's Famous Brussels Sprouts, Steak Frites, French Onion Soup
What Makes it Special: Only downtown spot with both rooftop beer garden and French-inspired menu
#29
Cafe Gazelle
8
A nine-table, walk-in-only Italian bistro in Belmont Shore where handmade pastas and classical preparations come out of a kitchen barely larger than a closet. The 18-seat room rewards couples and regulars who treat dinner as the main event rather than a prelude to something else. Expect tight quarters, no reservations, and the kind of neighborhood loyalty that keeps a place at 87% five-star reviews across 337 ratings.
Must-Try Dishes:
Veal Carciofi, Polpette Di Pollo, Spaghetti with Meatballs
What Makes it Special: Nine-table, walk-in-only Italian bistro in Belmont Shore where handmade classics are cooked in a kitchen smaller than most home kitchens
A polished outpost of the 15-year-old ramen chain known for 20-hour tonkotsu broths with customizable spice, richness, and noodle texture. The moody interior and outdoor fireplaces position it as a date-night option in the 2nd & PCH shopping center, though service pacing can lag during peak hours. Works best for ramen enthusiasts who want bowl control and appreciate the vegan-friendly menu depth.
Must-Try Dishes:
Tonkotsu Black, Spicy Creamy Vegan Ramen, Gyoza
What Makes it Special: Proprietary tonkotsu broths simmered 18+ hours with customizable spice, richness, and noodle firmness
Worthy Picks
#31
Louie’s on 2nd
7.9
Relaxed American eatery balances comfort food classics with contemporary touches like triple smash burgers and garlic noodles with shrimp. Wednesday wine specials and live music create neighborhood gathering spot atmosphere. Craft cocktails and bourbon selection complement accessible menu that satisfies without pretension.
Must-Try Dishes:
Triple Smash Burger, Garlic Noodles with Shrimp, Steak Frites
What Makes it Special: Neighborhood newcomer earning quick loyalty with solid execution and Wednesday wine-music nights
#32
Thai District
7.9
Northern Thai specialist in downtown Long Beach where the kao soi and hung lay pork curry represent the regional focus. Chefs with backgrounds from the old Frenchy's Restaurant bring French technique to Thai flavors. The pineapple curry with black grapes surprised reviewers who expected standard fare; the menu accommodates vegetarians and allergy concerns. Parking near downtown Long Beach requires extra buffer time.
Must-Try Dishes:
Kao Soi, Hung Lay Pork Curry, Panang Curry
What Makes it Special: Northern Thai specialist in downtown Long Beach with photogenic plating
#33
Tokyo Wako
7.8
Vibes:
Birthday & Celebration Central
Family Friendly Favorites
Group Dining Gatherings
Date Night Magic
Established teppanyaki theater combined with full sushi bar creates dual dining experiences under one roof. Theatrical chefs perform tableside while sushi artisans craft specialty rolls, making it ideal for celebrations and groups seeking entertainment with quality Japanese cuisine.
Must-Try Dishes:
Garlic Edamame, Alaskan Roll, Hibachi Filet Mignon
What Makes it Special: Dual concept offering theatrical teppanyaki and quality sushi bar in single venue
Located in Belmont Shore's dining corridor, this family-operated restaurant combines Indian and Nepalese cuisine with outdoor patio seating steps from the beach. The menu spans traditional curries and tandoori dishes alongside Himalayan specialties like chicken momos, with customizable spice levels and a strong vegetarian selection including the praised aloo gobi.
Must-Try Dishes:
Lamb Tikka Masala, Aloo Gobi, Chicken Momos
What Makes it Special: Dual Indian-Nepalese menu near beach with customizable spice levels
#35
A PCH
7.8
River Jetty Restaurant Group's 2023 addition to 2ND & PCH brings seasonally-focused modern American cuisine with Alamitos Bay views. Executive lineup from partners McG Nichol and Jordan Otterbein showcases signature land and sea dishes from their portfolio of coastal restaurants.
Must-Try Dishes:
Table-Side Chicken Pot Pie, Seasonal Seafood, Craft Cocktails
What Makes it Special: Waterfront views in 2ND & PCH shopping center from proven restaurant group
#36
Sushi Ai
7.8
Intimate neighborhood sushi bar with dark atmospheric dining and traditional Japanese preparations. Lunch bento boxes and professional sushi chefs create authentic experience for business dining.
Must-Try Dishes:
Monkey Brain Roll, Sashimi Lunch, Lunch Bento Box
What Makes it Special: Traditional Japanese sushi chefs and affordable lunch specials
#37
Sapporo Sushi
7.7
A high-volume sushi operation on PCH that runs BOGO 50% off rolls Monday through Thursday, making it one of the stronger weeknight value plays in Long Beach. The menu leans into crowd-friendly rolls and bento boxes rather than omakase-level precision, and the Bixby Village Plaza location delivers a surprisingly immersive dining room for a strip-mall anchor. Best treated as a reliable rotation spot for casual sushi nights rather than a destination dinner.
Must-Try Dishes:
Baked Salmon Roll, Bento Box, Crispy Rice with Spicy Tuna
What Makes it Special: High-volume Japanese spot on PCH with 2,000+ reviews, all-day BOGO 50% off rolls Monday through Thursday, and a dining room that regulars say feels like stepping into Japan.