Skip to main content

Best Happy Hour Hotspots American Restaurants in Long Beach

7 hand-picked restaurants, critic-reviewed and ranked

Last Updated: February 2026

Save
Our Top Pick
ISM Brewing
World Beer Cup Gold Medal winner with 1,500 sq ft promenade-facing patio

Notable Picks

$$ Long Beach American
Award-winning modern brewpub opened in December 2023 by industry veteran Ian McCall, earning two Gold Medals at the 2024 World Beer Cup within months of opening. Head Brewer Gene Wagoner crafts world-class ales and lagers while the kitchen delivers elevated American pub fare from scratch.
Must-Try Dishes: House-Tossed Wings (Plain, Tatanka, BBQ, or Erawan), Brewery Mac & Cheese, LB Caviar (Pickled Eggs)
What Makes it Special: World Beer Cup Gold Medal winner with 1,500 sq ft promenade-facing patio
$$ Long Beach American
Two-story gastropub resembling a ski chalet serves locally-sourced seasonal cuisine with organic cocktails. Executive chef Shelly Bojorquez creates New American dishes from duck meatballs to bison short ribs. Rooftop patio offers prime 2nd Street people-watching while maintaining surprisingly calm ambiance inside.
Must-Try Dishes: Duck Meatballs, Bacon Burger, Roasted Bone Marrow
What Makes it Special: Multi-level gastropub combining Hofman family hospitality with chef-driven seasonal fare and curated whiskey selection
$$ Long Beach French, American
California-French comfort food meets urban rooftop beer garden in downtown's heart. Part of the Cohn Restaurant Group, this casual eatery features Brussels sprouts that have achieved cult status, plus an indoor fireplace and covered rooftop space perfect for people-watching.
Must-Try Dishes: Bo-Beau's Famous Brussels Sprouts, Steak Frites, French Onion Soup
What Makes it Special: Only downtown spot with both rooftop beer garden and French-inspired menu
$$ Long Beach American
A converted 1920s craftsman home serving Southern-inflected brunch with a California sensibility—customizable Bloody Marys, short rib poutine, and powdered-sugar beignets anchor a menu that rewards sharing. The multiple dining rooms and spacious dog-friendly patio make it a natural fit for weekend groups willing to wait for a table in Belmont Shore's most entrenched brunch destination.
Must-Try Dishes: Bloody Mary, Beignets, Poutine
What Makes it Special: New Orleans-inspired brunch destination with a rooftop patio in Long Beach's Belmont Shore

Worthy Picks

$$ Long Beach American
Relaxed American eatery balances comfort food classics with contemporary touches like triple smash burgers and garlic noodles with shrimp. Wednesday wine specials and live music create neighborhood gathering spot atmosphere. Craft cocktails and bourbon selection complement accessible menu that satisfies without pretension.
Must-Try Dishes: Triple Smash Burger, Garlic Noodles with Shrimp, Steak Frites
What Makes it Special: Neighborhood newcomer earning quick loyalty with solid execution and Wednesday wine-music nights
Long Beach American
Modern Mexican cantina delivers regional cuisine with contemporary flair in a lively downtown atmosphere. Connected to Agaves Kitchen, this spot features over 100 tequilas and mezcals alongside Chef Veronica's traditional dishes reimagined with modern technique.
Must-Try Dishes: Carne Asada, Chicken Con Mole, Shrimp Fajitas
What Makes it Special: Largest tequila selection downtown with fire-pit outdoor seating
7.8
$$$ Long Beach Breakfast & Brunch, New American
River Jetty Restaurant Group's 2023 addition to 2ND & PCH brings seasonally-focused modern American cuisine with Alamitos Bay views. Executive lineup from partners McG Nichol and Jordan Otterbein showcases signature land and sea dishes from their portfolio of coastal restaurants.
Must-Try Dishes: Table-Side Chicken Pot Pie, Seasonal Seafood, Craft Cocktails
What Makes it Special: Waterfront views in 2ND & PCH shopping center from proven restaurant group