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ZipPicks Awards
Best Trendy American in Long Beach
Best Family Friendly American in Long Beach
Best Business Lunch American in Long Beach
Master Critic Review
Nick's on 2nd
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
Scores:
Value: 8.1
Service: 9.2
Consistency: 9
Food Quality: 9
Atmosphere: 8.6
Cultural Relevance: 8.7
What makes it special: 17-year neighborhood institution balancing casual warmth with upscale execution and exceptional hospitality
Who should go: Celebrants and seafood lovers seeking reliable excellence with style
When to visit: Thursday-Saturday dinner for full buzz or weekday lunch
What to order: Prime rib dip with mac & cheese, Chilean sea bass, butter cake for dessert
Insider tip: Save room for the legendary butter cake that regulars order in advance
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on 2nd Street and side streets - competitive but doable. Arrive 10 minutes early for dinner. No dedicated lot.
Dress code: Elevated casual - nice jeans and button-down works, but many dress up for the occasion. Skip the shorts.
Noise level: Lively but conversational - can talk without shouting, energetic dining room hum on weekends
Weekend wait: 30-45 minutes without reservation Friday/Saturday after 7pm. Reservations strongly recommended.
Weekday lunch: Minimal wait - walk-ins usually seated within 10 minutes
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - several options including pasta, salads, and vegetable sides. Kitchen accommodates modifications.
Vegan options: Limited - 1-2 salads can be modified, but not their specialty. Call ahead for best experience.
Gluten-free options: Yes - kitchen aware and can modify many dishes. Ask server for guidance, no separate menu.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Excellent choice. Upscale enough to impress without intimidating formality. Glass walls and patio provide visual interest if conversation lulls. Noise level allows actual conversation. Friday/Saturday creates energetic backdrop; Tuesday-Thursday more intimate.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Weekday lunch and early dinners (before 6pm) - yes, usually. Weekend dinners - risky. Your best bet: arrive right at 5:30pm or try the bar seating which doesn't take reservations. Otherwise book 3-5 days ahead for weekend prime time.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for well-behaved children - they have a kids menu and high chairs. Best for ages 8+ who can appreciate the upscale setting. Earlier seatings (5-6pm) more family-appropriate than late weekend buzz. Not a rowdy-kids-running-around vibe.
How long should I plan for dinner? Budget 90 minutes minimum, 2 hours for relaxed pace. Service is attentive not rushed. If you're catching a movie or show, book early seating and alert your server.
Is the patio worth requesting? Absolutely - it's a signature feature. Prime people-watching on 2nd Street, heated for cooler evenings. Request when booking. Inside has energy too with exhibition kitchen, so no bad seat.
Best For
Better for: Nick's wins on consistency and service polish over trendier Belmont Shore spots. Better for celebrations than casual competitors - same neighborhood feel but elevated execution. Exhibition kitchen and butter cake are unique draws in the area.
Consider Alternatives If: You want cutting-edge innovative cuisine (this is refined classics), need guaranteed quick service (popular spot moves at its own pace), prefer intimate quiet dining (energetic scene especially weekends), or are on strict budget ($$$ justified but real). For adventurous ethnic food or super casual beach vibes, hit 2nd Street alternatives.
Hours
Monday11am - 10pm
Tuesday11am - 10pm
Wednesday11am - 10pm
Thursday11am - 11pm
Friday11am - 11pm
Saturday11am - 11pm
Sunday11am - 10pm