Best Outdoor Dining Restaurants in Long Beach
42 hand-picked restaurants, critic-reviewed and ranked
Last Updated: February 2026
Our Top Pick
Nick's on 2nd
17-year neighborhood institution balancing casual warmth with upscale execution and exceptional hospitality
Notable Picks
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
8.6
Heavy metal-themed burger destination relocated from Alhambra to Bay Shore Beach in 2024, serving half-pound patties with rock-inspired names. Food Network's Great Food Truck Race winner brings creative toppings from chimichurri-blue cheese to peanut butter-strawberry jam-bacon-sriracha, all served with craft beers and ocean views.
Must-Try Dishes:
Ozzy Osbourne Burger, Napalm Death Burger, Long Beach Dirtbag
What Makes it Special: Only beachfront heavy metal burger joint with rock memorabilia and ocean backdrop
#4
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
#11
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
#12
ISM Brewing
8.3
Vibes:
Brewery & Beer Garden Republic
Happy Hour Hotspots
Outdoor Dining Oasis
Group Dining Gatherings
Award-winning modern brewpub opened in December 2023 by industry veteran Ian McCall, earning two Gold Medals at the 2024 World Beer Cup within months of opening. Head Brewer Gene Wagoner crafts world-class ales and lagers while the kitchen delivers elevated American pub fare from scratch.
Must-Try Dishes:
House-Tossed Wings (Plain, Tatanka, BBQ, or Erawan), Brewery Mac & Cheese, LB Caviar (Pickled Eggs)
What Makes it Special: World Beer Cup Gold Medal winner with 1,500 sq ft promenade-facing patio
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
#14
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
8.2
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Quick Bites Champions
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
Outdoor Dining Oasis
Walk-up smash burger stand delivering LA-quality burgers at prices that recall In-N-Out's golden era. Mini-chain perfected crispy-edged patties with gooey American cheese, caramelized onions, and bright pink house sauce, though the fried chicken sandwich may steal the show.
Must-Try Dishes:
Double Cheeseburger, Fried Chicken Sandwich, Hand-Spun Milkshakes
What Makes it Special: Double patty smashburger for $7.50 rivals pricier competitors
#16
Saint & Second
8.2
Two-story gastropub resembling a ski chalet serves locally-sourced seasonal cuisine with organic cocktails. Executive chef Shelly Bojorquez creates New American dishes from duck meatballs to bison short ribs. Rooftop patio offers prime 2nd Street people-watching while maintaining surprisingly calm ambiance inside.
Must-Try Dishes:
Duck Meatballs, Bacon Burger, Roasted Bone Marrow
What Makes it Special: Multi-level gastropub combining Hofman family hospitality with chef-driven seasonal fare and curated whiskey selection
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
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
8.1
Croatian-run beachside café adjacent to Rosie's Dog Beach offering Mediterranean-inspired burgers and burritos alongside a dedicated dog menu. Opened in 2024 with fairy lights creating magical evening ambiance, agility courses for pups, and sourdough bun burgers that impressed first-year visitors.
Must-Try Dishes:
Sourdough Bun Burger, Breakfast Burrito, Ceviche
What Makes it Special: Only Long Beach beach bar with dog agility courses and dedicated canine menu
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
@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
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
#24
Sushi on Fire
8
Contemporary sushi spot on 2nd Street serving innovative fusion rolls with fast midday service. Outdoor seating and no-reservation policy make it accessible for spontaneous business lunches.
Must-Try Dishes:
Refreshing Roll, Magic Mountain, Crunchy B Roll
What Makes it Special: Fast lunch turnover with creative specialty rolls and patio seating
#25
The Attic
8
A converted 1920s craftsman home serving Southern-inflected brunch with a California sensibility—customizable Bloody Marys, short rib poutine, and powdered-sugar beignets anchor a menu that rewards sharing. The multiple dining rooms and spacious dog-friendly patio make it a natural fit for weekend groups willing to wait for a table in Belmont Shore's most entrenched brunch destination.
Must-Try Dishes:
Bloody Mary, Beignets, Poutine
What Makes it Special: New Orleans-inspired brunch destination with a rooftop patio in Long Beach's Belmont Shore
#26
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
#28
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
#29
Naree Thai
7.9
Vibes:
Business Lunch Power Players
Outdoor Dining Oasis
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
Quick Bites Champions
Established Downtown fixture since 2015 offering sleek dining near the Convention Center with an extensive seafood-focused menu. Affordable weekday lunch specials and heated outdoor patio make this a reliable choice for both business travelers and locals seeking authentic preparations.
Must-Try Dishes:
Pad Thai, Spicy Basil Fried Rice, Pumpkin Curry
What Makes it Special: Convention Center proximity with extensive seafood menu and lunch specials from $12.99
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
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
7.9
Vibes:
Quick Bites Champions
Outdoor Dining Oasis
Business Lunch Power Players
Instagram Worthy Wonders
Modern deli concept at 2nd & PCH serving artisan ciabatta sandwiches with premium ingredients. The Italian sub stacks imported meats with house-made dressings, while creative combinations like turkey-brie-apple balance traditional and contemporary flavors.
Must-Try Dishes:
The Perfect Italian, Turkey Brie Apple, Roast Beef Cheddar
What Makes it Special: Fresh artisan ciabatta with quality ingredient combinations at shopping center
7.9
This local coffee roaster's third location opened near the Convention Center with a shaded patio retreat. While coffee is the star—featuring house-roasted single-origin beans and seasonal lattes—the expanded food menu now includes grab-and-go breakfast items and house-baked pastries including standout biscuits.
Must-Try Dishes:
House Biscuit, Banana Bread, Maple Lavender Latte
What Makes it Special: Local roastery with house-roasted beans and beautiful shaded patio
#34
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
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
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
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
#38
RIBBRO BBQ
7.8
Texas-style barbecue with California coastal vibes and Korean influence since 2018. Thirteen-hour smoked brisket headlines the sandwich menu alongside pulled pork and ribs, served with creative sides and craft beer on tap in casual Belmont Shore setting.
Must-Try Dishes:
Original BBQ Brisket Sandwich, Pulled Pork Sandwich, Baby Back Ribs
What Makes it Special: Texas BBQ technique with Korean-inspired twists and coastal atmosphere
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:
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
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
#42
Next Door
7.5
A tequila-forward cantina built around 100+ agave spirits and seafood-heavy regional Mexican cooking from a native Mexican chef — Puerto Nuevo lobster, tablita, and chile relleno anchor the menu. The room runs loud with DJ sets on Thursdays and Saturdays, so early weekday seatings or the patio are the move if conversation matters. With only one Google review on record, the kitchen's track record is still unproven.
Must-Try Dishes:
Seafood Chile Relleno, Birria Tacos, Puerto Nuevo Lobster
What Makes it Special: Tequila-focused cantina with 100+ agave spirits and seafood-forward regional Mexican dishes from a native Mexican chef