Cuisine Scene: Latin American
Known as the International City for its incredible diversity, Long Beach’s food scene reflects that moniker with restaurants influenced by cultural heritages (and recipes) from all over the world.
Like many other cities in So Cal, Long Beach has no shortage of Mexican restaurants – but what sets it apart is its Latin American fare, with Central and South American cuisine from Honduras, Brazil, Peru, and more. Take a tour of the vibrant flavors south of “south of the border” on your next trip to Long Beach!
Brazil
Come hungry and plan to stay for a couple hours at Green Field Churrascaria (5305 Pacific Coast Highway). Sip a caipirinha cocktail and take in the immersive cultural experience of the Brazilian steakhouse, which offers fine dining fit for any special occasion. At the churrascaria, servers make endless rounds with different mesquite-smoked meats steaming hot on metal skewers that are cut into thin strips or sometimes kebob-style morsels directly onto your plate. It’s a culinary experience unlike any other.
Honduras
Honduras Kitchen (1909 E. 4th St.) has made Honduran flavor and atmosphere at home in Long Beach for nearly three decades. Customers are loyal to time-tested, generations-old recipes with Caribbean roots, such as the Sopa de Caracol – a conch soup served with green banana, plantains, cassava and carrots in a coconut base. Baleada also is on the menu, representing quintessential Honduran street food in the form of a handmade tortilla with refried beans, Honduran cream and dry cheese, with optional add-ins.
Peru
Peruvian food is a popular choice for Long Beach locals, and that’s for good reason — there are some exceptional restaurants to choose from. In addition to embodying its ancient Andean roots, modern Peruvian food incorporates the flavors of its large immigrant population, with prominent Asian influences.
Discover the unique textures, tastes, and aromas of Peru — including the complexities and subtleties of different ceviches — at Aji Peruvian Cuisine (2308 E. 4th St.), which is named for an ancient Incan sauce made with aji peppers.
Pay proper homage to the potato, which is native to Peru, at Casa Chaskis (2380 Santa Fe Ave.). It’s said there are literally thousands of spud breeds in the country, where the potato is a main part of the diet. Try the Causa, which is part mashed potato, part potato salad and part potato casserole.
And, at El Pollo Imperial (5991 Atlantic Ave.), the casual restaurant’s claim to fame is the “best pollo a la brasa in town,” which is basically rotisserie chicken served along with various Peruvian staples.
Columbia
Founded by three immigrants who wanted to celebrate their heritage while pursuing the American Dream, the authenticity of El Paisa Restaurant (1640 Orange Ave.) has made it an unofficial Columbian cultural center in Long Beach. Patrons gather to watch fútbol games or enjoy live musical performances and karaoke nights. Come in for traditional cuisine — and, of course, a cup of strong Columbian coffee — and you’ll feel like you’ve been to Colombia without having to purchase a plane ticket.
Guatemala & El Salvador
La Esperanza Restaurant & Bakery (1626 Orange Ave.) focuses on the exquisite specialties of Guatemala and El Salvador infused with inspiration and spices from throughout Mesoamerica. The menu will tell you where each dish originates, and knowing servers are happy to explain the culinary tradition dating back to the ancient Mayans.
One of the restaurant’s oldest recipes is the Pepian, a meaty stew that many see as the national dish of Guatemala.
Latin American Mixes
When you cannot decide which country will satisfy your traveling taste buds, the Hotel Maya’s Latin-infused Fuego (700 Queensway Dr.) features spirited cuisine served al fresco. The innovative menu was created by renowned Executive Chef Victor Juarez, a native Salvadorian, who provides upscale takes on a variety of Central and South American foods.
Latin flavor also abounds at Alegria Cocina Latina (115 Pine Ave.), whether you’re looking for a little spice of Argentina, Cuba or something in between. Alegria —which means “happiness” in Spanish — is a restaurant, bar and entertainment venue that oozes with cheerful ambiance right down to its brilliant tile mosaic flooring. The food and drinks are as lively as the venue at Alegria, which is a true celebration of Latin flavor.
