Benable — create shareable lists of things you recommend!
E.g., products you love, local businesses, travel recs - you can add anything to a Benable list!
Long Beach Local's Guide: Where I Actually Eat, Drink & Play 📍
17
items Living in Long Beach for 25 years, these are the spots I take friends to every time they visit. No tourist traps, just the places locals actually go. From hole-in-the-wall vegan food to island tours, this is my personal LB playbook. Save this before ...
Map
Sections
4
Food
Activities
Dessert
Sports Bars
Food
My go-to spots when I'm hungry in LB. Mix of quick bites and sit-down spots that never disappoint. These are the places I hit up weekly (sometimes daily, no judgment).
My absolute favorite - Vietnamese comfort food done right. The garlic noodles are addictive, order extra. Their pho broth is rich and perfect for any weather. Small space but worth the wait. Seriously, I'm here at least once a week!
Cyclo Noodles
Best Lebanese food in LB, hands down. The garlic potatoes are my favorite to order. Their hummus is silky smooth - get extra pita. Family-owned and they remember regulars. Parking can be tricky but worth circling the block.
Open Sesame Grill - Long Beach
The first time I ate at this restaurant I was in awe! The best Peruvian food in SoCal (I said it). Family meal deals are insane value. Usually a line but moves fast.
El Pollo Imperial
Plant-based Mexican that even meat-eaters love. Their jackfruit tacos are insane. Everything's vegan but you'd never know. Super affordable and portions are generous. Hidden gem that locals gatekeep - oops, secret's out!
The Grain Café - Long Beach Mexican vegan
The best Chinese restaurant that's always worth the wait. Go early or prepare to wait (bring friends to chat with). Portions are huge - perfect for sharing.
Northern Cafe Long Beach
Reliable plant-based chain that never disappoints. The Buffalo bomber wrap is my go-to. Quick service, consistent quality. Prices are pretty high, but worth it!
Veggie Grill - Long Beach
Local institution since '97! Get the pastrami sandwich - it's massive and worth every penny. Patio seating is prime for people watching. Cash only, but there's an ATM inside. Always packed on weekends.
Nick's on 2nd Long Beach
Fresh bagels made daily - get there early for best selection. The lox bagel is loaded, not skimpy like most places.
Bagelry & Bistro menu photos - Long Beach, CA
Cozy French spot that feels like a mini Paris trip. Sweet and savory crepes both hit. The Nutella banana crepe is dangerous. Perfect brunch date spot. Gets busy on weekends but they move tables pretty quick.
La Creperie Cafe | French Restaurant | Long Beach
Activities
Beyond the beach! Fun stuff to do whether you're solo, on a date, or with the crew. Most of these won't break the bank either.
World-class aquarium right in our backyard. The jellyfish exhibit is mesmerizing. Touch tanks are fun for all ages. Go on weekday afternoons to avoid crowds. Member passes pay for themselves if you go 3+ times a year.
Aquarium of the Pacific
Perfect day trip or weekend getaway - only an hour ferry ride! Rent golf carts to explore the island. Descanso Beach Club for drinks with a view. Book ferry tickets in advance on summer weekends. Bring a jacket, gets windy on the boat.
Catalina Island
Dessert
Sweet tooth essentials. From post-dinner treats to afternoon pick-me-ups. Warning: you'll probably become a regular at these spots.
Self-serve froyo heaven with rotating flavors. Tart original is always solid. They don't skimp on toppings - fresh fruit daily. Perfect post-beach treat.
Yogurtland Belmont Shore
Old-school bakery with killer donuts and pastries. Their cinnamon rolls are the size of your head. Birthday cakes are next level - order ahead. Saturday mornings are packed but worth it. Cash gets you a small discount.
Sweet Jill's Bakery
Interactive candy shop that's pure nostalgia. Build your own candy creations. Bulk candy wall is dangerous for your wallet. Great for unique gifts or party favors. Adults have as much fun as kids here - no shame!
Candified | An Interactive Retail Candy Experience
Sports Bars
Where to watch the game with solid drinks and good energy. These spots have the best screens, decent wings, and bartenders who actually know how to pour.
Classic sports bar with every game on. Wings are actually legit spicy if you go hot. Pool tables in back stay busy. Happy hour deals are solid. Your typical dive but in the best way - no pretense, just good times.
Legends Restaurant & Sports Bar
Beach bar vibes without the beach prices. Fish tacos are fresh and cheap on Tuesdays. Live music gets loud but fun. Patio is where you want to be on sunny days.
Panama Joe's - Long Beach
Authentic Irish pub downtown. Trivia night gets competitive. St. Patrick's Day is absolute madness, but bucket list worthy.
Shannon's On Pine Irish Pub & Sports Bar