Fine Dining in Downtown Long Beach

Like so much of the city’s food scene, fine dining in Downtown Long Beach honors both tradition and innovation and does it in a sophisticated and welcoming atmosphere. Featuring some of the city’s most beloved eateries, these restaurants are luxurious and inviting, allowing you to savor a white tablecloth experience without the pretense. They’re even more accessible when you consider they’re located within a short walk or rideshare from the Long Beach Convention and Entertainment Center.

L'OPERA RISTORANTE

Some places are just made for an evening out. L’Opera (101 Pine Ave.) is a Downtown landmark that has played host to the likes of Paul Newman and Mario Andretti. It’s become the go-to, fine dining destination for intimate dinners, special occasions, wedding rehearsals and just about any meal that people want to splurge on a night of top-notch food and service. It has an award-winning menu and an interior that’s been completely redone, making L’Opera even more romantic, if that’s possible.

555 EAST

A Long Beach fixture for more than 40 years, 555 East (555 E Ocean Blvd) was named one of the 100 most romantic restaurants in the country in 2023 by OpenTable. Featuring an old-school interior with plush upholstered booths, dark wood paneling, and a central bar complete with brass railing, 555 serves USDA Prime steaks that are dry aged for 30 to 90 days. It also features an exceptional 6-ounce Japanese Satsuma Wagyu A5 New York strip steak.

LA TRAVIATA

Located in the historic French revival Willmore Building, La Traviata (301 N. Cedar Ave). exudes an old world charm and serves award-winning Nuevo Italian cuisine in a cozy dining room featuring a rather spectacular chandelier. Diners relax in the pristine surroundings within earshot of a tinkling piano and conversation emanating from its friendly bar that sits just off of the dining room.

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. The Prime porterhouse for two includes a choice of two sides and a dessert to share.

CHEZ BACCHUS

Located on the eastern edge of the Downtown Arts District, Chez Bacchus (743 E 4th St) provides a fine dining experience with a sizable dash of unexpected fun. The menu offerings regularly vary from ribeye steak to succotash to ostrich and there are numerous special seatings including weekend afternoon tea, chef’s table as well as specialty brunches. Service and presentation, as you’d expect, are top notch, including the expert execution of flambe’d desserts at tableside.

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.