Nestled along the coast, just steps from the sands of Long Beach, Belmont Park is a beloved neighborhood that buzzes with a distinctly local energy. Its residential streets—lined with charming craftsman homes and swaying palms—are also dotted with a vibrant, eclectic dining scene. From breakfast to late-night bites, foodies flock here for everything from upscale eats to down-home classics, with cuisine that spans the globe and price points for every appetite. Whether you’re after the perfect brunch spot, a cozy date-night dinner, or just an excellent croissant, Belmont Park delivers in spades. Here’s your guide to discovering the most unforgettable eats in this breezy corner of Long Beach.
Breakfast and Coffee: Morning Musts
Many a Belmont Park morning begins at 2nd Street, the main artery of this beachside ‘hood, where local cafés buzz well before noon. Start your food adventure with these favorites:
- The Library Coffee House (3418 E. Broadway)
A few blocks north of the beach, this beloved café is more than just a coffee stop—it’s a neighborhood institution. Cozy up with a handcrafted latte (the lavender one is legendary!), an indulgent pastry, or even a health-conscious vegan wrap. The artsy, book-lined space is perfect for lingering, reading, or people-watching.
- Sweet Jill’s Bakery (5224 E. 2nd Street)
For nearly four decades, this sugar-scented bakery has been doling out colossal cinnamon rolls, gooey brownies, and buttery croissants. Locals flock here for breakfast-on-the-go or a sweet treat after sunbathing. Don’t miss their sticky buns—a Belmont Park rite of passage!
- Schooner or Later (241 N. Marina Dr.)
Just outside Belmont Park proper, this waterside favorite draws big weekend brunch crowds with its scenic marina views and decadent scrambles. The crab benedict and their famed "Schooner" (bacon, sausage, ham, and more over hash browns) are essential for a lazy, sunny morning.
Standout Lunch Bites
When noon hits, 2nd Street remains the heartbeat of neighborhood dining, stretching between Quincy and Glendora avenues. Here’s where to grab the best midday eats:
- Nick’s on 2nd (4901 E. 2nd Street)
Famous for consistently stellar service and classic American comfort fare, Nick’s pulls in both locals and out-of-towners. Their prime rib dip and succulent buttermilk fried chicken sandwich are top picks. While prices are mid to high ($15–$25 entrées), portions and quality impress every time.
- Open Sesame (5215 E. 2nd Street)
Craving Mediterranean? Open Sesame serves swoon-worthy Lebanese dishes—think fresh, herby tabbouleh, grilled kebabs, and pillowy pita with smoky baba ghanoush. Portions are shareable, and the patio seating is prime for breezy lunches with friends. Entrées run $13–$20.
- Panxa Cocina (3937 E. Broadway)
For something bolder, Panxa Cocina slings vibrant, New Mexican-inspired plates—green chile stew, blue corn pancakes, and stacked enchiladas—plus killer margaritas. It’s moderately priced, with most entrées around $18. The striking décor and Southwest vibe make it a perennial favorite.
Dinner Destinations: Where to Dine After Dark
When dusk settles, Belmont Park’s dining scene comes alive with twinkling lights and inviting patios. Here’s where to book a table:
- La Creperie Café (4911 E. 2nd Street)
Romantic, quirky, and transportingly Parisian, La Creperie draws diners for date-night dinners and special occasions. Savor savory buckwheat crepes or go decadent with a chocolate-banana dessert crepe. Their extensive wine list and live music (on select nights) elevate every meal. Expect mid-range prices ($16–$27 per entrée).
- Roe Seafood (5374 E. 2nd Street)
Seafood lovers rejoice at Roe—a sleek spot offering fresh oysters, crudo, and inventive mains like lobster rolls and seared scallops. It’s pricier ($25–$40 for most dishes), but seafood quality is a serious cut above, and the happy hour deals are locals’ secret.
- Vino e Cucina (4501 E. Carson St. at Ximeno Ave.)
Just east of the neighborhood core, this hidden Italian gem plates handmade pastas and wood-fired pizzas at family-friendly prices. The Bolognese and Margherita pizza are standouts. Warm, bustling, and unpretentious, it’s as good for a first date as a family outing.
Sweet Treats & Late Night Eats
Cravings strike at every hour in Belmont Park—luckily, tasty options abound:
- Frosted Cupcakery (4817 E. 2nd Street)
Swing by for their signature red velvet cupcake or a rotating array of whimsical flavors. They also do mini cupcakes—perfect for sampling several treats or sharing.
- Long Beach Creamery (4141 Long Beach Blvd.)
While not directly in Belmont Park, ice cream devotees regularly detour a mile north for inventive, small-batch flavors like whiskey vanilla or burnt caramel. Creamy, creative, and locally owned—well worth the trip.
- Fantastic Burgers (3860 E. Ocean Blvd.)
A true local’s haunt for late-night hunger. This old-school burger shop serves juicy patties, crispy fries, and killer breakfast burritos until the wee hours. Inexpensive and craveable.
Food Trucks & Neighborhood Traditions
Belmont Park’s food truck scene is lively, especially during summer and at the weekly farmers market on Marina Drive. Don’t miss:
- Korean-Mexican fusion like the Kogi BBQ truck, or specialty trucks serving everything from sushi burritos to artisanal tacos. Check social media for locations, but you’ll often find them near 2nd Street on busy nights.
- The annual Taste of Belmont Shore is a neighborhood tradition, where dozens of local restaurants and food vendors set up tasting booths—an unbeatable way to sample the area’s best bites all at once.
Final Bites: Belmont Park Dining Tips
- Stroll 2nd Street for the biggest food cluster—almost every block has worthy stops. East Broadway holds more under-the-radar gems.
- Weekend brunch is wildly popular; reservations are wise for Nick’s, Open Sesame, Roe, and La Creperie.
- Most restaurants offer patio seating, perfect for catching ocean breezes.
- Parking can be tight—arrive early or embrace a beachy walk from the side streets!
From sunup to sundown, Belmont Park’s restaurants, bakeries, and food trucks offer an edible adventure that’s classic Long Beach: warm, eclectic, and endlessly delicious. Whether you’re craving the perfect pastry, the city’s freshest seafood, or a hidden taco truck, this is a neighborhood that rewards every hungry explorer.