The Best of Long Beach—

Cuisine Scene: Fish Tacos

Few dishes capture the authentic flavor of Southern California like a great fish taco, and Long Beach has no shortage of standout spots to get one. Whether you like yours battered and crispy, grilled and citrusy or piled high with fresh slaw and creamy sauce, this coastal classic continues to receive new delicious spins thanks to our local chefs. From neighborhood institutions to waterfront favorites, here are some great places that are sure to lure you in.

ROE SEAFOOD

Roe Seafood (5374 Second St) proves fish tacos can be both refined and approachable. Sustainably sourced seafood, bright citrus notes and thoughtfully crafted sauces let every ingredient shine without overshadowing the fish. It's a polished take on a Southern California classic, served in the heart of Belmont Shore, one of Long Beach's most walkable neighborhoods with plenty of boutiques, bars, coffee shops and dessert spots.

BERTH 55

For fish tacos with a waterfront backdrop, Berth 55 (555 Pico Ave) is hard to beat. Overlooking the Port of Long Beach, the market and cafe serves fresh seafood just steps from where commercial fishing boats unload their catch. Grab a picnic table outside and watch the harbor come alive while enjoying simply prepared seafood that lets the quality of the fish speak for itself. It's an authentic Long Beach dining experience that reminds you why fresh seafood somehow tastes better when you're this close to the water.

BALLAST POINT

Fish tacos were born from the sun and surf, so is there a better place to share them than where you can have both with a cold beer? Ballast Point’s (110 N Marina Dr) enormous deck overlooks Alamitos Bay, all the better to enjoy their Baja fish taco–Alaskan cod, cabbage, lime jalapeno crema, pineapple jicama relish on a hybrid tortilla–along with one of their many original microbrews, all the while taking in gorgeous views of Long Beach and the Pacific.

SAN PEDRO FISH MARKET

Few meals feel more like Long Beach than enjoying fresh seafood along the waterfront, and San Pedro Fish Market (6550 E Marina Dr) delivers exactly that experience. While it's famous for seafood platters, its fish tacos deserve attention as well. Whether you get fresh grilled shrimp or fried fish, the crisp toppings and soft tortillas come together in a simple but satisfying combination. Grab a table overlooking the harbor, order a cold drink and enjoy one of the city's most scenic taco experiences.

TACO SHORE

A Belmont Shore staple, Taco Shore (5316 2nd St) serves Baja-style fish tacos featuring a homemade corn tortilla piled with crispy breaded white fish, crunchy cabbage, fresh pico de gallo, guacamole sauce and the restaurant's signature Baja sauce, creating the perfect balance of crunch and creaminess. Seafood lovers should also try the grilled shrimp taco, filled with sautéed vegetables, melted cheese, fresh guacamole, cilantro and Baja sauce for a flavorful coastal twist.

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GREAT MEX GRILL

Great Mex Grill (5530 E Atherton St) has built its reputation on serving generous portions of satisfying Mexican comfort food. Its fish tacos feature flaky white fish with crisp cabbage, fresh salsa and creamy sauce wrapped in warm tortillas. Pair them with the restaurant's famous chips and salsa for a meal that feels unmistakably coastal. It's the kind of neighborhood restaurant where first-timers quickly become regulars.

HOLE MOLE

Hole Mole (multiple locations) has long been a Long Beach favorite for Baja-style fish tacos. Crispy battered fish is tucked into warm tortillas with shredded cabbage, pico de gallo and a creamy house sauce that keeps locals coming back. Don't skip the restaurant's famous blistered yellow peppers or the well-stocked salsa bar. Casual, affordable and consistently delicious, it's a classic stop for taco lovers. For locations, click here.

Author

Steve Lowery

Steve Lowery is a longtime local. Over the years he has written for the Los Angeles Times, ESPN, and others. If you're looking for the hidden gems of Long Beach, Steve is your go-to.