Best Family Friendly Restaurants in Long Beach
43 hand-picked restaurants, critic-reviewed and ranked
Last Updated: February 2026
Our Top Pick
Open Sesame
Lebanese recipes passed through generations with emphasis on fresh daily preparation
Notable Picks
#1
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
8.6
Family-owned brunch destination serving organic seasonal ingredients with specialty coffee. The kitchen gains inspiration from Levantine cuisine with California influences, offering dishes like lobster omelette inspired by Chef Ludo Lefebvre and seasonal pancakes that draw weekend lines wrapping around the block.
Must-Try Dishes:
Lobster Omelette with Boursin, Sweet Potato Pancakes, Crispy Smashed Potatoes
What Makes it Special: Hospitality-first approach with owners greeting guests by name and fresh roses on each table
#3
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
8.4
Vibes:
Quick Bites Champions
Family Friendly Favorites
Hidden Gems Heaven
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Authentic New York-style pizzeria serving thin-crust pies and Sicilian squares since opening downtown. The Brooklyn Square pizza with vodka sauce and mascarpone draws transplants and locals alike to this subway-themed spot where you can watch pizzas being hand-tossed.
Must-Try Dishes:
Brooklyn Square Pizza, Pepperoni Slice, Grandma Pizza
What Makes it Special: Real NYC-style pizza from Brooklyn native owner with authentic thin crust
8.4
Belmont Shore's Italian sandwich institution crafts authentic deli sandwiches with house-made garlic spread that locals swear by. The meatball sandwich and Torpedo sub showcase premium imported meats on fresh-baked bread, while the attached market stocks Italian groceries and fresh pasta.
Must-Try Dishes:
Meatball Sandwich, Torpedo Sub, Pastrami on French Roll
What Makes it Special: Signature garlic spread elevates every sandwich with authentic Italian market attached
8.4
Vibes:
Family Friendly Favorites
Birthday & Celebration Central
Sports Bar Central
Group Dining Gatherings
Family-owned BBQ institution serving Long Beach since 1992, specializing in baby back ribs, St. Louis ribs, and beef ribs slow-smoked with hickory wood. The cabin-style dining room features cozy booths perfect for celebrations, while the bar area draws sports fans with craft beers and cocktails.
Must-Try Dishes:
Baby Back Ribs, St. Louis Ribs, Beef Ribs
What Makes it Special: Over 30 years of fall-off-the-bone ribs with signature BBQ sauce and warm towel service
#7
Nettuno
8.4
Vibes:
Business Lunch Power Players
Family Friendly Favorites
Brunch Bliss Spots
Birthday & Celebration Central
Fairmont Breakers' signature Italian restaurant features handmade pasta crafted by Executive Chef Giuseppe Musso and authentic Italian home cooking in an elegant coastal setting. The bright contemporary space balances refined elegance with warmth, making it suitable for both business lunches and family celebrations with accessible high chairs and accommodating service.
Must-Try Dishes:
Carbonara, Ricotta Pancakes, Lobster Florentine Benedict
What Makes it Special: Hotel restaurant with executive chef expertise and coastal Italian authenticity
8.3
Family-owned Roman osteria since 2004 serving wood-fired pizzas and homestyle pasta in a casual atmosphere decorated with Ferrari collectibles and Italian soccer memorabilia. The expansive street-side outdoor deck seats about 40 guests with umbrellas and awning coverage, creating a lively neighborhood gathering spot.
Must-Try Dishes:
Cheese Wheel Pasta, Linguine with Clams and Artichokes, Wood-Fired Calzones
What Makes it Special: Roman family recipes and theatrical cheese wheel pasta service on outdoor deck
Family-owned since 2008, this Eater LA essential and LA Times award winner delivers authentic Korean comfort food with standout tofu soups that locals claim rival Koreatown's best. The gastropub-style space balances traditional Korean BBQ with creative fusion items like bulgogi tacos, while maintaining an extensive vegan menu that draws plant-based diners from across Long Beach.
Must-Try Dishes:
Soon Tofu Soup, Bulgogi Beef, Korean BBQ Short Ribs
What Makes it Special: Eater LA essential with tofu soup that competes with Koreatown's finest
8.2
Vibes:
Family Friendly Favorites
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Quick Bites Champions
Hidden Gems Heaven
Family-owned neighborhood pizzeria serving Long Beach since 2000 with a unique cornmeal crust and generous toppings. The casual spot offers huge slices and whole pies at budget-friendly prices, with locals returning for decades to this East Side staple.
Must-Try Dishes:
Meat Lovers Pizza, Veggie Pizza, Italian Calzone
What Makes it Special: Distinctive cornmeal crust recipe and exceptional value with enormous portions
#11
Taco Shore
8.2
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Quick Bites Champions
Family Friendly Favorites
Late Night Legends
Women-owned taqueria serving Baja-inspired Mexican favorites since taking over from Taco Surf in 2013. The carne asada, fresh guacamole, and signature Baja sauce draw consistent praise from locals who appreciate the generous portions and authentic flavors. Counter-service spot on bustling 2nd Street delivers reliable quality at unbeatable prices.
Must-Try Dishes:
California Burrito, Carne Asada Tacos, Potato Flautas
What Makes it Special: Generous portions and unbeatable value with signature Baja sauce
#12
Kamal Palace
8.2
Vibes:
Family Friendly Favorites
Brunch Bliss Spots
Business Lunch Power Players
Group Dining Gatherings
Operating for over 30 years in Marina Pacifica, this family-run establishment specializes in tandoori preparations cooked in traditional clay ovens alongside North Indian curries. The lunch buffet draws regulars with its reliable spread of butter chicken, saag, and fresh naan, while dinner service offers expanded options including Nepalese momos and specialties like shrimp malai with coconut cream sauce.
Must-Try Dishes:
Butter Chicken, Chicken Tikka Masala, Saag Paneer
What Makes it Special: Three decades of consistent quality with waterfront shopping center location
8.2
Owner-operated Mediterranean grill featuring flame-grilled halal meats and nine house-made hummus varieties including beet, sweet potato, and sweet pea. Generous portions of Lebanese-style kebabs, fresh wraps, and mezze plates draw downtown lunch crowds and early dinner diners.
Must-Try Dishes:
Beef & Lamb Shawarma Plate, Shish Taouk, Shorba Lentil Soup
What Makes it Special: Nine house-made hummus flavors and halal-certified flame-grilled meats
#14
Bruxie
8.1
Culinary-casual concept featuring signature waffle sandwiches since opening in 2023. Belgian-inspired waffle batter serves as bread for both savory fried chicken combinations and sweet options, alongside jumbo buttermilk chicken tenders and artisan custard shakes.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chicken and Waffle Sandwich, Jumbo Chicken Tenders, Nutella Banana Waffle
What Makes it Special: Unique waffle-as-bread concept for both savory and sweet sandwiches
8.1
Vibes:
Hidden Gems Heaven
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Family Friendly Favorites
Quick Bites Champions
Family-owned newcomer established in 2023 by an aunt-nephew team combining 23 years of chef expertise with American hospitality savvy. Specializes in hard-to-find dishes like authentic khao soi and features adjustable spice levels that respect traditional Thai heat.
Must-Try Dishes:
Khao Soi, Drunken Noodles, Pad See Ew
What Makes it Special: Authentic family recipes from a chef with 23 years Thai cooking experience
#16
@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
Vibes:
Family Friendly Favorites
Business Lunch Power Players
Birthday & Celebration Central
Group Dining Gatherings
Since 1993, this corner location at Broadway and Pine serves a daily-changing menu based on fresh market availability. The clubby interior features black-and-white tile floors and inviting booths, with an extensive oyster selection and live shellfish including lobster and crab.
Must-Try Dishes:
Daily Fresh Oyster Selection, Chilean Sea Bass, Lobster Roll
What Makes it Special: Three-generation family expertise with menu printed daily based on fresh catch
8.1
Italian-American grill serving family recipes since 2006 with housemade dough, sauce, and fresh ingredients daily. The casual spot with full bar offers specialty pizzas alongside pasta and sandwiches, with outdoor seating and a welcoming neighborhood vibe.
Must-Try Dishes:
Margherita Pizza, The Carnivore Pizza, Garlic Cheese Rolls
What Makes it Special: Old family recipes with everything made from scratch daily
#19
The Funnel House
8.1
A fun-loving dessert destination since 2005 combining classic fair flavors with inventive twists. While specializing in New Orleans-style funnel cakes, their churro sundaes deliver warm cinnamon-sugar coated churros with creamy vanilla soft serve, caramel drizzle, and crunchy churro bits in perfect harmony.
Must-Try Dishes:
Churro Sundae, Funnel Cake Sundae with Ice Cream, Ice Cream Cookie Sandwiches
What Makes it Special: Fresh-cooked funnel cakes and churros combined with premium ice cream
#20
Simmzy's
8
Vibes:
Brewery & Beer Garden Republic
Family Friendly Favorites
Pet Friendly Paradise
Outdoor Dining Oasis
Coastal-chic gastropub from Simms brothers brings Manhattan Beach success to larger Belmont Shore space. Craft beer focus with house brews like Beach Cruiser Blonde pairs with creative comfort food from Brussels sprouts to wood-fired pizzas. Family-friendly vibe welcomes dogs on patio with communal tables creating neighborhood energy.
Must-Try Dishes:
Brussels Sprouts with Capers, Simmzy's Burger, Ahi Poke Tostada
What Makes it Special: Regional gastropub chain's largest location emphasizes craft beer selection with playful California-coastal menu
8
Vibes:
Brewery & Beer Garden Republic
Family Friendly Favorites
Outdoor Dining Oasis
Group Dining Gatherings
Sprawling two-story harborside brewery with 60+ beers on tap overlooking Alamitos Bay. The award-winning San Diego-based operation serves American pub fare alongside their craft beers, featuring fire pits on outdoor patios for sunset viewing.
Must-Try Dishes:
BP Wings, Beer-Steamed Mussels, Baked Short Rib Mac and Cheese
What Makes it Special: Waterfront brewery with panoramic bay views and extensive beer selection
#22
Super Mex
8
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Family Friendly Favorites
Comfort Food Classics
Happy Hour Hotspots
Family-owned since 1974, Super Mex serves Manuel and Socorro Orozco's traditional recipes from Villa Jimenez, Michoacan. The signature Super Mex Burrito exemplifies classic Mexican comfort food with distinctive homemade authenticity. Recently remodeled Belmont Shore location maintains the original vision while offering solid value.
Must-Try Dishes:
Super Mex Burrito, Carnitas Plate, Chicken Flautas
What Makes it Special: Over 50 years serving authentic Michoacan recipes passed down through generations
Worthy Picks
7.9
Vibes:
Quick Bites Champions
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Outdoor Dining Oasis
Family Friendly Favorites
Northern California-based fresh pasta cafe established 2014 at 2nd & PCH shopping center, offering customizable pasta dishes with imported ingredients from Italy's Romagna region. Counter-service format with both indoor and outdoor marina-view seating creates a casual, affordable Italian experience.
Must-Try Dishes:
Gnocchi with Pesto, Fettuccine Bolognese, Butternut Squash Ravioli
What Makes it Special: Build-your-own fresh pasta with authentic Northern Italian ingredients under $20
7.9
Chef Nicky's 14+ years of experience shines in this neighborhood spot offering both traditional sushi and an extensive vegan menu featuring plant-based fish from roots and vegetables. Thai-fusion options like vegan curry shrimp rolls showcase creative innovation.
Must-Try Dishes:
Tangy Salmon Roll, Crispy Rice Spicy Tuna, Vegan Curry Shrimp Roll
What Makes it Special: Separate full vegan menu with house-made plant-based fish elevates dietary inclusivity
#25
Potholder Cafe
7.9
Vibes:
Brunch Bliss Spots
Family Friendly Favorites
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Comfort Food Classics
No-frills neighborhood diner serving massive portions of American and Mexican breakfast classics in a homey, vintage atmosphere. Famous for the 18-inch "Mac Daddy Frankie" pancake challenge and hearty scrambles that draw weekend crowds willing to wait.
Must-Try Dishes:
18-Inch Pancake, Chilaquiles, Turbo Scramble
What Makes it Special: Giant pancake challenge and generous portions at budget-friendly prices
#26
& Waffles
7.9
Family-run North Hollywood expansion bringing celebrity-endorsed Belgian waffles and chicken to Downtown Long Beach in 2025. Brothers Raffi and Serge Damadyan follow their father's restaurant legacy, offering dishes like the Carlitos Churro Waffle and Cajun fried chicken, with celebrity photos adorning the walls.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chicken Wings & Waffles, Cajun Country Skillet, Carlitos Churro Waffle
What Makes it Special: Celebrity-frequented concept recommended by Gabriel Iglesias with family restaurant DNA
Vibes:
Family Friendly Favorites
Sports Bar Central
Group Dining Gatherings
Instagram Worthy Wonders
Pizzeria and sports bar combo in a visually striking space with eclectic decor and arcade games. The loaded specialty pizzas feature generous toppings and slightly spicy sausage, appealing to families during early hours before transitioning to bar atmosphere.
Must-Try Dishes:
The Works Pizza, Godfather Pizza, Potato Wedges
What Makes it Special: Heavy, topping-loaded pizzas in striking interior with vintage arcade games
7.9
Vibes:
Brewery & Beer Garden Republic
Outdoor Dining Oasis
Family Friendly Favorites
Happy Hour Hotspots
Long Beach's oldest brewpub since 1990 sits at the base of Belmont Pier with sweeping ocean views and spacious patio. Seven-barrel brewing system produces over 1,000 barrels annually while the kitchen serves elevated pub fare including American Kobe beef burgers alongside craft beers, lobster bisque, and seafood specialties.
Must-Try Dishes:
American Kobe Burger, Bison Burger, Lobster Bisque
What Makes it Special: LA County's oldest brewpub with 35-year legacy and oceanfront location
#29
Blue Burro
7.9
Modern fast-casual concept combining Baja ranch traditions with efficient service since 2019. Made-from-scratch salsas, all-day breakfast burritos, and creative options like Surf-N-Turf Quesadilla set this apart from typical quick-service Mexican. Fresh ingredients and house-made aguas frescas keep quality high despite rapid service.
Must-Try Dishes:
Carne Asada Burrito, Surf-N-Turf Fries, Breakfast Burrito
What Makes it Special: Fast-casual format with scratch-made salsas and all-day breakfast
#30
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
7.8
Vibes:
Family Friendly Favorites
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Quick Bites Champions
Comfort Food Classics
Family patriarch Nicolaniello Buono brought Old Country traditions to America in 1967, maintaining hand-kneaded dough made fresh daily, homemade sauces and sausages, and gas-fired brick ovens. The third-generation pizzeria serves authentic Italian specialties like lasagna and linguini e vongole alongside their signature pizzas with fresh mozzarella.
Must-Try Dishes:
Classic Pizza with Homemade Sauce, Lasagna, Eggplant Parmigiana
What Makes it Special: Three-generation family operation since 1967 with Old Country authenticity
7.8
California-based chain serving scratch-made Mediterranean fare with flame-grilled koobideh and chicken kabobs since 1997. Daily-delivered ingredients and in-house preparations create consistent quality for downtown workers seeking healthy, budget-friendly options near City Hall.
Must-Try Dishes:
Koobideh Kabob, Chicken Shish Kabob, Atlantic Salmon Kabob
What Makes it Special: True scratch kitchen with daily-delivered ingredients and flame-grilled kabobs
Vibes:
Hidden Gems Heaven
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Outdoor Dining Oasis
Family Friendly Favorites
This waterfront market and counter-service eatery sits in a corrugated metal bungalow next to working fishing boats, serving fresh-caught seafood grilled or fried to order. Picnic table seating overlooks the industrial harbor, where locals have been coming for over 20 years for no-frills quality at fair prices.
Must-Try Dishes:
Clam Chowder in Sourdough Bowl, Grilled Seabass Plate, Fish Tacos
What Makes it Special: Three-generation family favorite with live crab selection and harborside authenticity
#34
Eat Fantastic
7.8
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Quick Bites Champions
Family Friendly Favorites
Brunch Bliss Spots
Family-owned fast casual operation evolved from Burger City Grill heritage, making everything from scratch with locally-sourced ingredients. Buns hold up impressively on long drives while quality house-made patties deliver freshness that stands apart from typical food service suppliers.
Must-Try Dishes:
Fantastic Burger, Lunch Box Combo, Breakfast Burrito
What Makes it Special: Multi-generation LA burger legacy with everything made in-house from scratch
7.8
Long Beach's oldest restaurant operating since 1954, famous as one of California's first pizzerias serving ground pepperoni pizza and maintaining original recipes. The old-fashioned booth-filled dining room offers warm, cozy ambiance perfect for hearty Italian-American comfort food, though outdoor seating is limited.
Must-Try Dishes:
Ground Pepperoni Pizza, Rigatoni with Link Sausage, Classic Italian Salad
What Makes it Special: Oldest restaurant in Long Beach with 71-year pizza tradition
#36
JJ Italian Deli
7.8
Vibes:
Quick Bites Champions
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Hidden Gems Heaven
Family Friendly Favorites
An Italian-Vietnamese deli counter built around Boar's Head cold cuts, scratch-made eggplant parmesan, and homemade meatballs — with Vietnamese coffee as a quiet left-field addition that regulars know to order. The portions run generous for the price, making it a reliable lunch stop for anyone who treats a good sandwich as a serious meal. Expect a bare-bones deli setup next to a Taco Bell parking lot; come for what's between the bread, not the ambiance.
Must-Try Dishes:
The Longshoreman, Eggplant Parmesan, The Long Beach Special
What Makes it Special: Italian-Vietnamese deli built on Boar's Head premium meats, homemade meatballs, and scratch-made eggplant parmesan — with Vietnamese coffee on the side.
A charming shoreline shop with decidedly seaside vibes serving 16 gourmet ice cream flavors and 6 non-fat frozen yogurts daily. Signature waffle sundaes feature warm, crisp handmade waffle bowls filled with creamy ice cream, fresh fruit, and decadent syrups with 25+ toppings to customize your creation.
Must-Try Dishes:
Waffle Sundae, Banana Split, Handmade Waffle Cones
What Makes it Special: Waterfront location with handmade waffle cones and bowls for sundaes
7.8
Vibes:
Brunch Bliss Spots
Family Friendly Favorites
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Comfort Food Classics
Popular Long Beach breakfast chain serving American and Mexican comfort dishes with legendary challenges like the Mac Daddy Frankie 18-inch pancake. The downtown location opens at 8am daily with generous portions of classic breakfast fare and creative items like Flaky French Toast stuffed with cream cheese.
Must-Try Dishes:
Mac Daddy Frankie (18-inch Pancake), Flaky French Toast, Baja Omelet
What Makes it Special: Local institution with four Long Beach locations offering legendary pancake challenges
7.7
Vibes:
Family Friendly Favorites
Comfort Food Classics
Quick Bites Champions
Business Lunch Power Players
Family-owned Jalisco-style restaurant rethinks classic Mexican dishes with quality ingredients and massive portions. Traditional favorites like pork shank and steak tampico draw loyal neighborhood following with gluten-free and low-fat options available in a kid-friendly setting.
Must-Try Dishes:
Pork Shank, Steak Tampico, Chile Verde
What Makes it Special: Jalisco-style preparations with generous portions that satisfy any appetite
7.7
California chain featuring Dirty Secret Sauce baked into Dutch Crunch bread with over 500 sandwich combinations. Extensive menu includes meat, vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options with creative names like the Dirtbag and Matt Cain, served with signature caramel apple lollipop.
Must-Try Dishes:
Dirtbag (Pastrami & BBQ Habanero), Matt Cain, Love Triangle (Vegan)
What Makes it Special: Dutch Crunch bread with proprietary sauce and massive vegan selection
7.7
An all-day brunch operation on Atlantic Ave that stretches well beyond standard egg-and-toast territory—potato pancakes, shrimp and grits, and a meatloaf that signals comfort-food ambitions alongside the expected morning plates. The pet-friendly patio and downtown Long Beach location make it a reliable default for groups that need to satisfy brunch purists and lunch-leaning eaters at the same table.
Must-Try Dishes:
Potato Pancake, Breakfast Burrito, Meatloaf
What Makes it Special: All-day brunch destination on Atlantic Ave with a menu that ranges from stacked pancakes to comfort-food meatloaf, plus a pet-friendly patio steps from downtown Long Beach.
7.6
Vibes:
Family Friendly Favorites
Outdoor Dining Oasis
Quick Bites Champions
Birthday & Celebration Central
California chain restaurant at The Pike Outlets serving innovative pizzas with creative toppings since 1985. The spacious location offers patio seating overlooking Pine Avenue, kids menu, and the famous Original BBQ Chicken Pizza alongside salads and pasta.
Must-Try Dishes:
Original BBQ Chicken Pizza, Margherita Pizza, Thai Chicken Pizza
What Makes it Special: Reliable chain with California-style creative pizza combinations and kids menu
7.6
Vibes:
Outdoor Dining Oasis
Family Friendly Favorites
Business Lunch Power Players
Birthday & Celebration Central
This 9,000-square-foot waterfront restaurant at The Pike Outlets features expansive harbor views from the patio overlooking the Queen Mary and Lighthouse. The diverse menu includes large portions of fresh seafood, grilled steaks, fresh sushi, and the famous Mile High Chocolate Cake, catering to convention center crowds and tourists.
Must-Try Dishes:
Live Maine Lobster, Truffle Lobster Mac & Cheese, Daily Fresh Fish Selection
What Makes it Special: Massive portions and prime location steps from Aquarium of the Pacific