Immersive Dining Experiences in Long Beach

Immersive dining means going beyond what’s on the plate; the totality of the experience is every bit as important as the food. In Long Beach, that means finding yourself unraveling clues at a mystery-themed dinner show, cooking with award-winning chefs or tasting your way through one of the city’s great dining districts on a guided tour. It’s a flavorful fusion of culture, creativity, and community and it turns meals into memorable experiences.

EDIBLE EXPLORERS

Edible Explorers creates immersive, story-driven food tours celebrating local flavors, cultural heritage, and community connections, highlighting neighborhood gems, while diving deep into the history behind every bite. They offer walking tours like a Belmont Shore food tour or craft cocktail tour in Downtown Long Beach. You can also have them plan a custom foodie experience especially for you. Whatever you decide, whether curious traveler or local, you’ll get a deeper appreciation for one of the country’s most exciting and diverse food scenes.

LOCALI SEASONED

Locali Seasoned offers events at Partake Collective (456 Elm Ave) and utilizes the power of food to bring people together from different backgrounds and cultures. Their curated, hands-on cooking classes take place in a state-of-the-art industrial kitchen at Partake. Working with a variety of local chefs, you’ll be guided to prepare a delicious meal that you and your classmates will eventually enjoy in a fun, relaxed setting around a large communal table. Classes have included cooking authentic Nigerian food, sushi construction and how to cook the perfect steak.

YOUR KITCHEN

Your Kitchen (5555 E Stearns Street, Suite 203) offers hands-on cooking classes with participants preparing, and later enjoying, a three-course meal under the guidance of Chef Zack, a French-trained culinary expert. Classes focus on international cuisines and seasonal ingredients, providing an interactive and educational dining experience. Set menus include the likes of Pasta La Vista, Baby, Ya Bacon Me Crazy and Whiskey Business–with whiskey BBQ shrimp. Seasonal and customizable menus are also available.

THE DINNER DETECTIVE

Experience an unforgettable evening with The Dinner Detective at the Courtyard by Marriott Long Beach Downtown (500 East 1st St). These unique events–held several times a month– combine delicious multi-course fare with a whodunit performed by actors blended seamlessly into the audience. Each ticket includes the full show, a plated meal, gratuity, and a chance to win a prize package for the top sleuth. A great option for date nights, birthdays, or group outings.

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.