Best Quick Bites Restaurants in Long Beach
34 hand-picked restaurants, critic-reviewed and ranked
Last Updated: February 2026
Our Top Pick
Milana's New York Pizzeria
Real NYC-style pizza from Brooklyn native owner with authentic thin crust
Notable Picks
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
8.3
Japanese chain from Tokyo's ramen districts serving 100% plant-based broths in creative flavor profiles like miso, soy, and salt. The unexpected vegan base allows meat lovers and vegans alike to customize their bowls with premium proteins, while late-night hours make it a Belmont Shore staple for post-dinner cravings.
Must-Try Dishes:
Spicy Garnet Ramen, Garnet Miso Ramen, Japanese Fried Chicken
What Makes it Special: Plant-based broths accommodate everyone from vegans to carnivores seamlessly
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
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
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
#7
Sushi Mafia
8.2
Trendy corner spot blending Godfather-themed branding with serious sushi execution. Extensive menu features creative baked rolls and specialty items alongside pristine sashimi, while complimentary miso soup and attentive multi-server system create a polished experience in casual surroundings.
Must-Try Dishes:
Amazing Roll, Crispy Rice Spicy Tuna, Blue Crab Roll
What Makes it Special: Massive creative menu with exceptional multi-server system ensuring constant attention
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
#9
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
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
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
#12
@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
#13
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
#14
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
#15
Flamin Curry
8
Vibes:
Quick Bites Champions
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
Business Lunch Power Players
Since 2018, this counter-service spot in Bluff Park has built a following for straightforward North Indian dishes served cafeteria-style with fresh-daily preparation. The streamlined approach focuses on curry plates with rice and naan, delivering solid garlic naan and well-spiced chicken tikka masala at prices that appeal to students and weeknight diners seeking quick, flavorful takeout.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chicken Tikka Masala, Garlic Naan, Butter Chicken
What Makes it Special: Fast-casual format with authentic flavors at budget-friendly prices
#16
Sideburns
8
Smash burger specialist adjacent to The Stache Bar serves 100% grass-fed patties alongside extensive vegan options including Beyond burgers, Chicago-style dogs, and dairy-free sides. Chef Thomas masters the art of cooking multiple burgers simultaneously while maintaining quality across both meat and plant-based options.
Must-Try Dishes:
The Smash Stache Burger, Vegan Smash Stache Burger, Chicago Dog (Vegan Available)
What Makes it Special: Equal commitment to quality for both meat and vegan burgers rare in burger joints
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
#18
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
#19
& 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
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
#22
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
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
#24
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
#25
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:
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
#28
Nick The Greek
7.8
Fast-casual Greek concept opened in 2023 by locally-operated owners Aristos and Evegenia Mantas, bringing fresh-made-to-order gyros and bowls to Belmont Shore. The counter-service model emphasizes speed and value with generous portions, authentic flavors, and late-night hours on weekends.
Must-Try Dishes:
Beef/Lamb Gyro Pita, Mediterranean Bowl, Nick's Fries with Feta
What Makes it Special: Fresh ingredients made-to-order with catering options and Greek frozen yogurt
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
#30
Donburi Cafè
7.7
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Quick Bites Champions
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
Business Lunch Power Players
Family-run donburi specialist tucked in Pine Square courtyard serves generous rice bowls with quality proteins alongside katsu curry and fusion ramen. Counter-service format and affordable pricing make it a downtown value destination with loyal local following.
Must-Try Dishes:
Katsu Curry Don, Galbi Don, Spicy Pork Don
What Makes it Special: Generous donburi portions with miso soup and fruit sides deliver exceptional value
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
#32
Poke Pub
7.6
Hawaiian poke specialist owned by June Choe brings 20+ year family marinade recipes to build-your-own bowls featuring sushi-grade fish and Korean BBQ options. Small space near the beach offers quick-casual format with emphasis on fresh customization.
Must-Try Dishes:
Build-Your-Own Poke Bowl, K-BBQ Burrito, Spam Hand Roll
What Makes it Special: Family marinade recipes passed down 20+ years distinguish from chain poke competitors
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:
Brunch Bliss Spots
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
Quick Bites Champions
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Neighborhood coffee shop serving breakfast sandwiches, supreme croissants, and specialty lattes on Belmont Shore's 2nd Street. Scratch-made menu includes Hawaiian breakfast egg sandwiches and hash brown wraps alongside creative coffee drinks like banana cream pie latte.
Must-Try Dishes:
Hawaiian Breakfast Egg Sandwich, Supreme Croissants, Hash Brown Wrap
What Makes it Special: Local coffee shop with creative breakfast sandwiches and specialty drinks