Long Beach has some of the best food in Southern California. It seems like every week a new spot is opening up and people from all over flock to the newest foodie spot! Our Downtown Long Beach community, Camden Harbor View is just one block from Pine Ave. where you will find dozens of amazing restaurants.
The Pine Ave. sign that stretches across Pine Ave. between 4th and 5th streets. Photo by Gilbert Duenez
To help you navigate through all the deliciousness, I have put together some of my favorite spots on Pine Ave.
The Federal Bar
The Federal Bar is a hip gastropub serving up everything from flatbreads, to wings, to burgers. They also have awesome specialty cocktails.
You have to try their Mac & Cheese! It doesn’t end with just the good ol’ Mac & Chesse though. You can add on chorizo, soyrizo, bacon (yes, bacon!), short ribs and grilled shrimp to name a few options.
Fun Fact: The Federal Bar was previously the Security Pacific National Bank Building built in the 1920’s.
The Federal Bar located at 102 Pine Ave. Photo by Gilbert Duenez
Agaves
Looking for a sleek, dark eatery environment with a modern Mexican fare serving up 120 tequilas and agaves with live entertainment? Agaves is your spot (mine too)!
I always want to try new things when I visit, but the carnitas plate keeps calling my name! Chef Veronica’s slow cooked pork with avocado, pico de gallo, pickled onions is seriously life changing! I can’t leave out the yummy Spicy Mango Margarita either. It is served with Agaves Silver, jalapenos, citrus and mango.
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Agaves located at 200 Pine Ave. Photo by Gilbert Duenez
L’Opera
How does handmade pastas, grilled meats and other Northern Italian fare served in a sophisticated atmosphere sound? If you said “Amazing,” I agree!
This 5 star award winning restaurant serves the best Butternut Squash Raviolis I have ever tasted! The presentation, service and the Italian charm was exquisite. If you love wine, L’Opera has a wine list that goes on and on!
Fun Fact: L’Opera was previously The First National Bank built in 1906 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
L’Poera located at 101 Pine Ave. Photo by Gilbert Duenez
George’s Greek Cafe
OPA! Come hungry because this family owned restaurant uses fine imported ingredients from Greece and New Zealand with recipes passed down from generations.
The lamb chops are a sure favorite as they are thin cut and perfectly prepared. It is paired with a side of rice, vegetables and pita with hummus to round out a wonderful meal. The family sometimes goes around the tables to mingle and go the extra mile to make your experience special.
George’s Greek Cafe located at 135 Pine Ave. Photo by Gilbert Duenez
Sevilla
Sevilla is an authentic, Spanish bistro and tapas bar that offers over 40 tapas from regions all over Spain. Enjoy nightly live entertainment in the tapas bar, have a quiet and romantic dinner upstairs in the mezzanine, or view a live Flamenco dinner show every Saturday night. It’s home to the longest running Flamenco Dinner Show in Southern California!
It is a must that I start with the Manchego Cheese and Chorizo Tapas Empanadas. They are so tasty! I also recommend the Flat Iron Castellano plate. It features delicious crumbled cabrales blue cheese and rioja red wine. For dessert try the Leche Frita. Cinnamon creme is coated on the bottom with a slice of toast like logs that is perfectly crunchy and breads in the center. Inside, the toast is filled with creme like a creme brûlée! Chef Ray truly makes a statement with his food!
Sevilla located at 140 Pine Ave. Photo by Gilbert Duenez
Romeo Chocolates
Let’s conclude this blog on a sweet note. Romeo Chocolates is an experience like no other. You’ll find gourmet chocolates in the form of artisan bars and truffles beautifully displayed. The Hazelnut Praline Milk Chocolate truffle is my absolute favorite! Not only do they have excellent chocolate, they have excellent customer service. Take a look at their Yelp page as their 5 star rating proves this place is all the rage!
“Romeo Chocolates is a micro-batch, artisanal confection line featuring world sourced chocolate with local influences.” - Romeo O. Garcia, Chocolatier
Romeo Chocolates located at 460 Pine Ave. Photo by Gilbert Duenez
Next time you are in Downtown Long Beach try one or all of these restaurants and share your experience with us!
Also, check out our other foodie Simply Camden blogs in other states Top 4 Restaurants to explore in the Metro Phoenix area and Go To Brunch In Orlando.