Nestled between Atlantic Avenue and Cherry Avenue, the charming neighborhood of California Heights in Long Beach, CA, offers much more than its historic Spanish Revival homes and leafy streets. For locals and curious foodies alike, this area serves up a brilliant culinary scene brimming with both time-honored favorites and newer, buzzworthy additions. Whether you’re craving a casual weekend brunch, an artisanal pastry, or a dinner out with friends, California Heights delivers flavor with locally owned flair. Here’s your appetizing guide to the best places to eat across this vibrant corner of Long Beach.
The Heart of the Heights: Atlantic Avenue’s Culinary Row
Atlantic Avenue is the main stage for the neighborhood’s food scene, offering an impressive array of dining options within just a few walkable blocks.
- Rasselbock Kitchen & Beer Garden
Specializing in German comfort food and an ultra-cool beer garden vibe, Rasselbock is a neighborhood staple. This family-friendly spot boasts juicy bratwursts, crispy schnitzels, and vegetarian options, all at moderate prices (most entrées $14–$22). Their craft beer selection draws fans from all over Long Beach. Try their Jäger Schnitzel or split a giant Bavarian pretzel with friends, then stay for the relaxed, lively patio atmosphere.
- Phnom Penh Noodle Shack
A short stroll south, you’ll find one of Long Beach’s most beloved Cambodian restaurants, Phnom Penh Noodle Shack. Wildly popular for its comforting bowls of Kuy Teav (beef noodle soup), this casual, family-run gem keeps prices friendly ($8–$14) and portions generous. Don’t miss their signature house chili sauce for an extra punch.
- Steelhead Coffee
Locals swear by Steelhead Coffee, an indie café perched at the corner of Atlantic and Bixby Road. This is the go-to for expertly crafted espresso drinks, pour-overs, and the flakiest croissants in the neighborhood — all with a bright, spacious vibe perfect for catching up on work or relaxing with friends. For food, their almond and chocolate croissants, baked fresh from local partners, are can’t-miss treats.
Cozy Cafés and Sweet Spots Off the Beaten Path
While Atlantic Avenue is the prime address, venture just a bit north or south for some pleasant surprises.
- Blackbird Café
Tucked on Orange Avenue just outside the neighborhood’s northern edge, Blackbird Café offers a cozy, art-filled space for casual breakfast and lunch. Their lush cinnamon roll pancakes and creative omelets are local legends, but you can also dive into hearty sandwiches and fresh salads. Prices stay down-to-earth ($10–$15). Their patio is ideal for sunny afternoons.
- Gusto Bread
If you’re any kind of bread nerd, it’s worth traveling to neighboring Retro Row to visit Gusto Bread, where California Heights residents flock for artisan loaves and inventive pan dulce. Their pan de elote (Mexican cornbread) and mollete (seeded sourdough) disappear early, so go early for the best selection. Don’t skip their made-to-order breakfast sandwiches on fresh bolillo rolls.
Elegant, Inventive Eats for Special Occasions
For those nights when you want something unique or upscale, California Heights has some fantastic destinations.
- Roxanne’s
Roxanne’s, located right on Atlantic, doubles as an inventive Latin-fusion restaurant and a cocktail lounge with a speakeasy vibe. Start with their creative tacos or Cubano sandwich, but be sure to save room for their mezcal-forward cocktails and weekend DJ sets. Entrées run from $16 to $28. Book ahead if you want a seat in the back-room bar, The Exhibition Room — one of Long Beach’s best-kept secrets.
- The Attic
Just five minutes from California Heights on Broadway, The Attic is a haven for Southern-influenced cuisine and mightily famous for its Mac n’ Cheetos (macaroni and cheese topped with Flamin’ Hot Cheetos). Their seasonal dishes, refined cocktails, and whimsical atmosphere make it a favorite for date night or brunch.
Food Trucks & Street Eats: Flavor on the Go
No tour of California Heights’ food scene is complete without mention of the vibrant food truck culture. On Atlantic Avenue, particularly near Wardlow Road, you’ll spot an alluring rotation of trucks serving everything from Korean barbecue tacos to vegan soul food.
- Tacos La Carreta
Renowned for their sizzling carne asada and made-to-order tortillas, Tacos La Carreta sets up shop near Atlantic and Wardlow on weekends. The smoky aroma draws hungry locals from blocks away. Grab their al pastor if you like a pineapple twist.
- Birria El Jefe
Another favorite is Birria El Jefe, serving savory, Instagram-worthy birria tacos and quesabirrias dripping with consommé. Their spicy dipping broth and generous portions ($3–$5 per taco) are street food perfection.
Family-Owned Bakeries and Takeout Treasures
The neighborhood is also home to several humble yet delicious bakeries and casual takeout joints where family recipes and small-batch baking shine.
- Colossus Bread + Pastry
Lovingly crafted breads, tangy sourdoughs, and inventive pastries make Colossus a weekend must-visit. Their tomato and feta croissants are locally famous, and the herbaceous loaves often sell out by noon. Swing by early and take a loaf to go for an unbeatable picnic in nearby Bixby Knolls Park.
- Johnny Rebs’ True South
For old-fashioned comfort, Johnny Rebs’ offers Southern BBQ classics — think fall-off-the-bone ribs, smoked chicken platters (most under $20), and cornbread muffins warm from the oven. Their sweet tea and hush puppies are a proper nostalgia trip for any Southern transplants.
A Neighborhood Tradition: Summer in the Heights
One beloved California Heights food tradition is the annual “Summer in the Heights” event, where local restaurants and food trucks gather along Atlantic for a festive night of music, community, and, naturally, small-plate tastings from neighborhood favorites. It’s the perfect way to sample a bit of everything and discover new favorites.
Savor the Heights: A Flavorful Place to Explore
California Heights’ food scene proves that you don’t need to leave your own neighborhood — or break the bank — to eat incredibly well. From comforting Cambodian noodles and vegan pastries to speakeasy cocktails and artisan bread, there’s a wealth of culinary discovery waiting right on your doorstep. So, next time you find yourself searching for your new favorite bite, take a walk down Atlantic Avenue or one of its tree-lined side streets, and let your appetite guide you through the best of Long Beach’s historic gem.