Best Hidden Gems Restaurants in Long Beach
28 hand-picked restaurants, critic-reviewed and ranked
Last Updated: February 2026
Our Top Pick
Sushi Nikkei - Belmont Shore
Michelin-recognized Peruvian-Japanese fusion with innovative flavor combinations and impeccable seafood quality
Notable Picks
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
#2
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
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
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
#5
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
Celebrating its 10th anniversary in 2025, this organic ice cream maker crafts seasonal flavors using locally sourced ingredients from Long Beach farmers and small businesses. The signature Saltine Dream delivers playful contrasts of buttery caramel, fudgy ribbons, and crunchy crushed saltines that have made it an iconic local creation.
Must-Try Dishes:
Saltine Dream, Burnt Caramel, Whiskey Vanilla
What Makes it Special: Organic, handcrafted ice cream with inventive seasonal flavors using hyperlocal ingredients
#7
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
8.4
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
#10
Crack
8.3
Golf course deck restaurant serving elevated smash burgers and tri-tip sandwiches with craft root beer. Owner-operated spot features signature bacon jam on the Dirty Burger, rotating daily sides like white bean chili, and views overlooking Bixby Village Golf Course greens.
Must-Try Dishes:
Bacon Jam Burger, Dirty Burger, Ortega Burger
What Makes it Special: Smash burgers with bacon jam overlooking golf course
#11
Broadway Donuts
8.3
Family-run neighborhood institution serving classic glazed, crullers, and apple fritters since 1998. The legendary coffee bar features 30+ house-blend varieties and artisan creamers creating a self-serve experience locals swear by. Fresh-baked donuts sell out by early afternoon, with the nutty doodle coffee earning cult status.
Must-Try Dishes:
Glazed Donut, Apple Fritter, Ham & Jalapeño Croissant
What Makes it Special: Self-serve coffee bar with 30+ blends and unmatched creamer selection
#12
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
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
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
#16
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.
#17
OBRA HandBakery
8.2
Latin American-inspired bakery specializing in scratch-made baked empanadas since 2014. Chef-owner Cesar Villarreal brings Colombian heritage to creative fillings like chicken curry and BBQ pork, plus Cuban sandwiches and breakfast burritos served alongside specialty coffee drinks.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chicken Curry Empanada, Cuban Sandwich, BBQ Pork Empanada
What Makes it Special: Hand-made empanadas baked every half hour with Colombian family recipes
#18
Lazy Dough
8.2
Chef-driven Asian-fusion brunch spot opened in 2025 by Providence-trained Chef Hen Nguyen and his sister Lin. The menu blends Vietnamese spring rolls and Korean-inspired dishes with breakfast staples, featuring housemade croissants and creative fusion items like the Dubai croissant with pistachio paste.
Must-Try Dishes:
Prosciutto Croissant Sandwich with Thai Basil Pesto, Dubai Croissant with Pistachio, Loaded Breakfast Burrito with Aji Sauce
What Makes it Special: Michelin-trained chef bringing fine dining technique to creative Asian-fusion brunch
#19
Kique’s Taqueria
8.1
Chef Enrique Perez brings Jalisco street-taco traditions to this counter-service spot where thin white corn tortillas cradle super-fresh carne asada, al pastor, and crispy shrimp. A salsa bar lets diners customize their tacos, with the avocado salsa earning particular praise from regulars who appreciate the no-frills approach and quick service.
Must-Try Dishes:
Carne Asada Tacos, Fried Shrimp Tacos, Al Pastor Tacos
What Makes it Special: Authentic Cuquio, Jalisco street-taco techniques with exceptionally fresh meat and house-made tortillas
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
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
#22
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
Worthy Picks
#23
Good Day Cafe
7.9
A health-forward brunch counter in Alamitos Beach that builds its menu around house-made pastries, specialty drinks like the cardamom latte, and a deep gluten-free and vegan lineup that goes well beyond token options. The sidewalk parklet seating sets the tone for a relaxed, neighborhood-paced morning. It runs lean on reviews but the small crowd that knows it returns with unusual loyalty.
Must-Try Dishes:
Cardamom Latte, Veggie Frittata, Biscuit Sandwich
What Makes it Special: Health-forward brunch cafe with house-made pastries, specialty coffee, and an extensive gluten-free and vegan menu served from a charming sidewalk parklet
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
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
#26
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.
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
#28
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