Fine Dining in Downtown Long Beach

Downtown Long Beach has no shortage of incredible dining experiences, but a select few restaurants offer not only exceptional food, but also settings to make an evening truly memorable. Exuding old school cool and a timeless elegance, these spots combine atmosphere and culinary craftsmanship with impeccable service. Whether you’re planning a romantic night out, celebrating a milestone or simply looking for a great meal, here are some of Downtown’s finest, fine dining destinations.

L'OPERA RISTORANTE

A true Downtown landmark, L’Opera (101 Pine Ave) has long been the local go-to spot for intimate dinners, special occasions and any meal worth remembering. Regarding fine dining, L’Opera continues to set the standard with an award-winning menu and romantic interior. Beyond the white tablecloths, it also boasts a lively bar scene, offering one of the best happy hours in the city. Far elevated from typical bar food fare–i.e. Gnocchi Filanti, Carpaccio Classico, etc.–it’s a place where you can enjoy standout dishes and drinks at an unbeatable value.

SKY ROOM

When it opened in 1938, The Sky Room was as popular as Hollywood’s Brown Derby as a fine dining destination. When Fairmont Breakers (210 E Ocean Blvd) reopened as the city’s first luxury hotel, Sky Room returned as its featured restaurant with all of the elements that made it great: elegant cuisine offered in a breathtaking venue with spectacular harbor views. It also features such classics as a caviar and champagne cart, California Wagyu Beef Wellington, and dessert classics like Bananas Foster and Cherries Jubilee, both flambéed tableside.

Credit: The Sky Room

555 EAST STEAKHOUSE

It’s been an amazing couple of years for this Downtown fixture. First, 555 East (555 E Ocean Blvd) is named one of the nation’s most romantic restaurants by OpenTable, then it celebrates its 40th anniversary. That’s 40 years of decidedly old-school cool with upholstered booths, dark wood and a central bar with brass railing. Renowned for its USDA Prime steaks–dry-aged for 30 to 90 days–guests love the bone-in ribeye and filet mignon as well as seafood standouts like the Chilean sea bass and its epic roasted rack of lamb.

LA TRAVIATA

Located in the historic French Revival Willmore Building, La Traviata (301 N Cedar Ave) exudes old-world charm and serves award-winning Nuevo Italian cuisine in a cozy dining room featuring a rather spectacular chandelier. The menu features house specialties like Lobster Tortelli in truffle parmesan cream, Chicken Picatta, and Rigatoni Con Carne in a braised beef sauce. Guests also rave about the classic Limoncello Cake and Tiramisu to round out an experience both elegant and welcoming.

QUEENSVIEW STEAKHOUSE

Located on the third floor under the round, peaked roof of Parkers’ Lighthouse, Queensview Steakhouse (435 Shoreline Village Dr) provides a 360-degree view of the city skyline as well as the Queen Mary that sits directly across Rainbow Harbor. The restaurant serves a traditional steakhouse menu along with seafood, including a raw bar, sushi menu, and seafood entrees. Favorites include the 28 Day Dry-Aged Bone-In Ribeye, Cedar Plank Ora King Salmon and Prime porterhouse for two.

CHEZ BACCHUS

Located on the eastern edge of the Downtown Arts District, Chez Bacchus (743 E 4th St) provides a fine dining experience in a relaxed, sophisticated atmosphere. The farm-to-table, carte blanche menu–crafted from seasonal ingredients–is expertly paired with classic wines, providing a one-of-a-kind dining adventure. There are numerous special seatings, including weekend afternoon tea, chef’s table and specialty brunches.

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.