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.

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.

About the 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.