Long Beach offers some of the most authentic Italian cuisine outside of Italy itself. From family-owned trattorias to upscale dining experiences, this coastal city serves up pasta, pizza, and other Italian favorites that will transport your taste buds straight to Rome or Naples.
Ready for a culinary adventure through Long Beach’s best Italian spots? Grab your appetite and join me on this delicious journey through ten must-visit Italian restaurants.
1. L’Opera Ristorante
Nestled in the heart of downtown Long Beach, L’Opera brings authentic Northern Italian cuisine to life in a grand, opera-inspired setting. The high ceilings and elegant décor create a sophisticated atmosphere perfect for special occasions.
Their homemade pasta dishes shine brightest on the menu, particularly the pappardelle with wild boar ragu that locals rave about. The wine selection features impressive Italian varieties that perfectly complement their rich flavors.
Founded in 1990, L’Opera has maintained its reputation as Long Beach’s premier fine dining Italian establishment. Don’t miss their tableside Caesar salad preparation – it’s theatrical and delicious!
2. Michael’s on Naples
Perched atop a building in Naples neighborhood, Michael’s offers breathtaking views alongside extraordinary Italian cuisine. The rooftop dining area creates a magical experience under the stars – perfect for romantic evenings.
Chef Eric Samaniego crafts seasonal menus using locally-sourced ingredients. Their handmade pastas and wood-fired pizzas transport diners straight to Italy without leaving California. The burrata appetizer with heirloom tomatoes remains a standout starter that regulars can’t stop ordering.
Michael’s commitment to sustainability extends to their impressive organic wine list. Make reservations well in advance, especially for weekend evenings when locals flock here for special celebrations.
3. Modica’s Deli
Family-owned since 1981, Modica’s Deli captures the essence of an authentic Italian deli with its no-frills approach to incredible sandwiches. The moment you walk in, the aroma of freshly sliced meats and cheeses tells you you’re somewhere special.
Their Italian cold cut combo – piled high with mortadella, capicola, salami, and provolone – remains their signature offering. Each sandwich comes on freshly baked bread with just the right amount of oil and vinegar dressing.
Beyond sandwiches, Modica’s offers take-home pasta salads and homemade cannoli that locals buy by the dozen. Cash-only and worth every penny, this neighborhood gem represents Italian-American deli culture at its finest.
4. La Parolaccia Osteria
Step through the doors of La Parolaccia and find yourself transported to a cozy osteria in Rome. The warm brick walls and wooden tables create an inviting atmosphere where conversations flow as freely as the wine.
Owner and Rome native Chef Stefano brings authentic recipes from his homeland, specializing in Roman classics like cacio e pepe and carbonara made the traditional way. The gnocchi, made fresh daily, achieves that perfect pillowy texture that’s so difficult to master.
What sets La Parolaccia apart is their tableside preparation of certain dishes. On weekends, you might catch live accordion music that enhances the authentic Italian experience. Regulars know to save room for their tiramisu!
5. Buono’s Pizza
For over 40 years, the Buono family has been serving authentic Neapolitan-style pizza using recipes passed down through generations. Their hand-tossed dough, made daily with imported Italian flour, creates the perfect chewy-yet-crispy crust that pizza lovers crave.
Beyond pizza, their homemade lasagna layered with ricotta, mozzarella, and slow-simmered meat sauce has achieved legendary status among locals. The casual, family-friendly atmosphere makes this a perfect spot for weeknight dinners with kids.
Buono’s commitment to tradition extends to their house-made Italian sausage and meatballs – recipes unchanged since they opened in 1973. Their multiple Long Beach locations maintain consistent quality while serving different neighborhoods.
6. Mario’s La Traviata
Housed in a historic building, Mario’s La Traviata combines old-world elegance with contemporary Italian cooking. Crystal chandeliers hang from ornate ceilings while tuxedoed waiters deliver exceptional service reminiscent of a bygone era.
Mario’s excels at classic preparations with modern touches. Their osso buco falls tenderly off the bone after slow-braising for hours, while their seafood risotto captures Long Beach’s coastal bounty. The tableside preparations, including flaming dishes, add theatrical flair to the dining experience.
Founded by Mario Nasab in 1997, this restaurant has become a favorite for anniversary celebrations and business dinners. Their piano bar features live music several nights a week, creating a sophisticated ambiance that complements the upscale menu.
7. Vino E Cucina
Hidden away on a quiet street, Vino E Cucina feels like a secret that locals want to keep to themselves. This intimate wine bar and restaurant specializes in Sicilian cuisine with an impressive selection of Italian wines by the glass.
Small plates dominate the menu, perfect for sharing while exploring different wine pairings. Their arancini (fried rice balls) with saffron and peas transport diners straight to Palermo. The chef’s seafood preparations, featuring fresh catches from nearby waters, showcase Sicily’s coastal influences.
Exposed brick walls and wine bottle decorations create a cozy, rustic atmosphere that encourages lingering over dinner. Their knowledgeable staff gladly guides guests through regional wine selections that might otherwise be intimidating.
8. Marri’s Pizza & Italian Restaurant
A Long Beach institution since 1957, Marri’s has fed generations of families with their consistent, comforting Italian-American classics. Red checkered tablecloths and vintage photographs create a nostalgic atmosphere that feels like dining at an Italian grandmother’s house.
Their thin-crust pizzas emerge perfectly crisp from decades-old ovens that have never been replaced. The house specialty, eggplant parmigiana, features hand-breaded slices layered with house-made marinara and melted mozzarella. Many regulars have been ordering the same dish for over 30 years.
Family photos line the walls, telling the story of this immigrant-founded business that survived changing neighborhoods and food trends. Their generous portions ensure nobody leaves hungry – and most leave with tomorrow’s lunch.
9. Ellie’s
As the newest addition to Long Beach’s Italian scene, Ellie’s brings a fresh, contemporary approach to traditional dishes. The bright, airy space with its open kitchen creates a transparent dining experience where you can watch chefs craft your meal.
Chef Jason Witzl blends Italian techniques with California’s seasonal bounty. The menu changes frequently, but might feature handmade pasta with farmers market vegetables or wood-fired fish with Italian herbs grown in their kitchen garden. Their house-baked focaccia with cultured butter has developed a cult following.
Named after the owner’s grandmother, Ellie’s honors Italian culinary heritage while embracing modern sensibilities. Their weekend brunch offers Italian-inspired morning dishes that pair perfectly with their prosecco cocktails.
10. Nico’s Restaurant
Perched along the Naples canal, Nico’s combines spectacular waterfront views with classic Italian cuisine. The patio seating offers diners the chance to watch gondolas glide by while enjoying authentic flavors from Northern Italy.
Seafood naturally stars on their menu, with cioppino brimming with local catches in a rich tomato broth. Their risotto, constantly stirred to creamy perfection, comes with seasonal variations that highlight the best ingredients available. Regulars recommend timing dinner reservations with sunset for the most magical experience.
Family-owned for over 25 years, Nico’s maintains the warm hospitality that Italian restaurants are known for. Their dessert cart, wheeled tableside, features house-made tiramisu and cannoli that provide the perfect sweet ending to your Long Beach Italian food tour.
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