Cuisine Scene: Small Plates
Whether you call them tapas, mezza or simply starters, small plates pack a punch far beyond their size. Designed for sharing, these dishes invite you to explore more boldly and linger longer with good company. In Long Beach, a diverse mix of restaurants is putting their spin on global small-plate traditions, offering everything from Japanese street bites and Mediterranean mezza to Spanish tapas. Here are some of the best spots in town to live large by going small.
GU RAMEN TAPS & TAPAS
Known for its rich, flavorful bowls of ramen, Gu Ramen (108 W 3rd St) also shines with a lineup of craveable small plates perfect for sharing. From crispy karaage chicken and pork belly buns to takoyaki and spicy edamame, the menu offers Japanese comfort food with a modern edge. The bustling yet cozy vibe makes it a local favorite for casual nights out, late bites, or a round of sake and snacks with friends.
TELEFERIC BARCELONA
Bringing the spirit of Spain’s tapas culture to 2nd & PCH retail space, Telefèric Barcelona (6420 Pacific Coast Hwy, Ste 160) offers a lively, communal dining experience with a menu that centers on shareable small plates. From classic tapas to showstopping dishes like the Maine Lobster Paella and the hearty Paella Mixta with pork, chicken, shrimp, and octopus, each of them bursts with authentic flavors, encouraging grazing and conversation.
AMMATOLI
Ammatoli (285 E Third St) is simply one of Long Beach’s most celebrated and cherished dining spots, thanks to its bold take on Levantine cuisine—drawing inspiration from Lebanon, Palestine, Jordan, Cyprus, and Israel. The heart of its menu lies in its delicious mezza selection; sharable small plates like hummus topped with shawarma and pine nuts, crave-worthy Mediterranean fries tossed with olive oil, garlic, parsley, feta, and parmesan, and a roasted beet salad that’s earned a devoted following.
CAFE SEVILLA
Since opening in 2006, this Downtown staple has introduced countless customers to the rich flavors of Spanish cuisine. Cafe Sevilla (140 Pine Ave) serves up more than 30 award-winning tapas—ranging from chilled delights like Spicy Octopus Ceviche to sizzling favorites like Queso Fundido. The menu also features classic paellas, fresh seafood, and hearty meat dishes, all complemented by an extensive selection of Spanish wines and refreshing sangrias.
OPEN SESAME
Long one of Belmont Shore’s most popular dining spots, Open Sesame (5215 E 2nd St) is known for its flavorful Lebanese cuisine and cozy, welcoming vibe. The restaurant offers a full menu of terrific traditional dishes as well as an extensive and exceptional selection of small plates—i.e. mezza. Perfect for sharing, these small plates showcase a variety of vibrant flavors and textures: stuffed grape leaves, creamy hummus, crispy falafel, smoky baba ghanoush, and refreshing cucumber-yogurt dip. Among the most popular options are the roasted garlic potatoes and the fried cauliflower.
EL BARRIO CANTINA
Located in Retro Row, El Barrio Cantina (1731 E 4th St.) puts a modern spin in traditional Mexican cuisine. This dining spot features small plates as botanas, a series of snack-sized meals. Some of the must-try botanas are Peruvian scallops, oysters on half, spicy chicken wings, and wagyu birria-filled empanadas. Pair your tapas with a sweet and tangy craft cocktail.
FUEGO AT THE MAYA
Explore Latin-style cuisine and mouthwatering eats at Fuego Restaurant (700 Queensway Dr.) in Hotel Maya. With stunning waterfront views and chic decor, this restaurant offers an unforgettable dining experience for all foodies. For a tapas-filled night, enjoy the ceviche sampler, where decadent ahi tuna, seabass, and shrimp create harmonious flavors.
RISÜ
Situated midway on the Rainbow Bridge which connects the promenade entrance of the Long Beach Convention & Entertainment Center with the Terrace Theater Plaza, Risü (207 E. Seaside Way) features small plates such as short rib to vegan roasted cauliflower tacos, charcuterie boards and truffle fries, along with a wide range of shareable flatbread creations. With a full bar, and a beautiful outdoor patio, Risü offers a great atmosphere for friends to chat, people watch or simply relax before or after a performance or meeting.
TANTALUM RESTAURANT
Looking for a fusion of Asian cuisines? Make your way to the Tantalum Restaurant (6272 Pacific Coast Highway), where small plates showcase creative combinations of Asian ingredients and flavors. Hamburger lovers will relish the Kobe sliders and cheese enthusiasts will enjoy the warm fried brie. For adventurous foodies, the yakiniku calamari and sesame chili hummus are bursting with kicks of spices and rich textures.
Looking for more? Whether you're looking for new places to eat or embarking on a culinary adventure, Long Beach offers a variety of dining spots for all palates.
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