01
Best special-occasion splurge
Heritage
Zaferia District • Upscale Californian Tasting-Menu Restaurant • Special-Occasion Pick
A chef-driven tasting menu that turns local ingredients into some of the most memorable plates in Long Beach.
Heritage feels more like a dinner party than a traditional restaurant, with an intimate room and a tight, focused tasting menu that changes with the seasons. Expect precise, beautifully plated courses that still feel soulful and satisfying rather than fussy. It is the kind of place locals book for anniversaries and big nights out, so reservations are smart.
02
Downtown must-try
Ammatolí Mediterranean Bites
Downtown • Modern Levantine Restaurant • Downtown Standout
Vivid flavors from the Levant, served in a bright downtown space that works just as well for lunch as for a lingering dinner.
Ammatolí brings a modern, city-center take on Levantine cooking, with mezze, grilled skewers, and beautifully topped flatbreads that are made to share. The room buzzes at peak hours, but the service stays attentive and warm, making it an easy recommendation for visitors staying downtown. Come hungry and order a spread for the table to sample as much of the menu as possible.
03
Belmont Shore crowd-pleaser
Nick's on 2nd
Belmont Shore • Polished Neighborhood Bistro • Best For Groups
A consistently packed 2nd Street staple that nails elevated comfort food, strong cocktails, and smooth, dialed-in service.
Nick's on 2nd is the kind of place Belmont Shore regulars suggest when they want everyone at the table to leave happy. The menu leans toward upscale American comfort food, from hearty salads and sandwiches to steaks and shareable starters, all backed by a capable bar. It is ideal for group dinners before a night on 2nd Street or a relaxed but polished date night.
04
Brunch favorite with character
The Attic
Broadway Corridor • Lively Southern-Influenced Spot • Brunch And Comfort-Food Favorite
A quirky craftsman house turned restaurant, known for playful takes on Southern comfort dishes and a spirited brunch scene.
Set in a converted craftsman home, The Attic leans into its cozy, slightly eccentric setting with an equally bold menu. Expect indulgent brunch plates, Southern-leaning comfort food, and a cocktail list that encourages lingering on the patio. Lines can build on weekends, but the atmosphere and generously portioned dishes make the wait worthwhile.
05
Waterfront classic
Parkers' Lighthouse
Shoreline Village • Waterfront Seafood And Steakhouse • Best For Harbor Views
Multi-level harborfront dining with classic seafood, steaks, and some of the best sunset views in Long Beach.
Parkers' Lighthouse is the go-to pick when you want that unmistakable Long Beach waterfront experience, complete with sailboats gliding past your table. The menu focuses on fresh fish, shellfish, and crowd-pleasing grilled items, making it an easy choice for mixed tastes and visiting family. Time your reservation for sunset and ask for a window or patio seat to get the full effect.