Restaurants Open on Christmas in Long Beach

After all the shopping has been done and all the gifts now opened, you may find yourself less than enthused about cooking Christmas breakfast/lunch/dinner. Here’s some great places in Long Beach offering a delicious and relaxing alternative to spending the big day wrapped up in your kitchen.

CREDIT: The Queen Mary

ALDER & SAGE

If you need an extra caffeine boost on Christmas morning, stop in at Alder & Sage (366 Cherry Ave) off Retro Row, where baristas Dave and Kyle will be pulling espresso shots and pouring coffee from 7 AM to about 12 noon. Treat yourself to a maple spice latte or Mexican mocha with a fresh pastry for a quick and celebratory holiday breakfast. Desserts will be available if you need something sweet after your Christmas dinner, and for last-minute gifts, check out the reusable mugs, coffee beans, bottles of wine, and gift baskets in stock at the shop.

QUEEN MARY

Celebrate Christmas in grand style aboard the Queen Mary (1126 Queens Hwy) with their Royal Christmas Day Brunch held in the stunning Grand Salon. From 10 AM to 2 PM on Dec. 25, indulge in an array of seasonal delights, including herb-crusted prime rib, seared scallops, and a live crepe station, paired perfectly with all-you-can-drink champagne. Perfect for families, this premium holiday experience combines festive elegance with unforgettable flavors. Reservations are required.

CREDIT: The Queen Mary

CITY CRUISES

Celebrate the magic of the season on the water with City Cruise’s (Rainbow Harbor, Dock 6A) Christmas Premier Brunch Cruise on Christmas morning. Enjoy a freshly prepared holiday brunch offered buffet style with full bar service. While on board, experience exceptional views, live entertainment, festive décor and, yes, unlimited mimosas. The cruise boards at 10:30AM and travels the calm waters off Long Beach from 11AM to 1PM.

CREDIT: City Cruises

FUEGO AT HOTEL MAYA

Fuego at Hotel Maya (700 Queensway Dr) is offering a delicious four-course prix fixe dinner on Christmas from 5 to 9PM. To get yourself in the festive mood, check out one of the many holiday themed cocktails including the Naughty or Nice Margarita, then check out the entrée selection that includes prime filet mignon and pan seared local white sea bass or English pea risotto. Finish up with a warm almond pear tart or raspberry chocolate mousse.

CREDIT: Fuego

LA TRAVIATA

La Traviata (301 N Cedar Ave) exudes an old world charm and serves award-winning Italian cuisine in a cozy dining room featuring a rather spectacular chandelier. Its Christmas menu includes such favorites as La Trav’s Lasagna, Lobster Tortelli, Rack of Lamb and Braised Barolo Short Ribs. Enjoy all this within earshot of a tinkling piano and conversation emanating from its friendly bar that sits just off of the dining room.

SOLITA TACOS & MARGARITAS

Solita Tacos & Margaritas (1 Pine Ave) has great food and drinks and can accommodate large groups including your dog: Solita has a dog friendly patio! Besides a terrific menu of tacos, ceviche and guacamole made fresh at your table, Solita specializes in margaritas, made with a carefully curated collection of more than 60 of Mexico’s finest small-batch tequilas and mezcals, including cristalino and signature single-barrel varieties. The mixologists use only fresh squeezed juices and hand-muddled ingredients in their signature cocktails, which are dramatically shaken table-side to order.

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.