The East End of Long Beach, NY, is more than just sandy stretches and salty breezes—it’s a flourishing destination for food lovers in the know. From sunrise coffee to late-night bites, this lively coastal neighborhood delivers a diverse dining experience that blends local tradition with a dash of contemporary flair. Whether you’re a longtime resident or just visiting for the weekend, here’s your ultimate guide to the best eats in East End.
Where the Flavors Meet: Spotlight Streets and Clusters
Start your culinary journey at the heartbeat of East End, Park Avenue, which runs parallel to the ocean. This street—and the adjoining corridors near Edwards Boulevard and Lafayette Boulevard—brims with restaurants, coffee shops, and bakeries. Not far off, Beech Street and Shore Road give food seekers plenty of reasons to take the scenic route. These are the places where the locals gather, swapping recommendations over morning lattes or after-work brews.
Standout Restaurants: Savor the Signature Eats
From cozy Italian trattorias to bold Mexican cantinas, East End’s dining scene covers all cravings and occasions.
- Grotta di Fuoco (Grotta’s) – *Park Avenue near Edwards Blvd*
An insider favorite for imaginative Italian, Grotta’s is lauded for its wood-fired pizzas and rustic entrees like cacio e pepe and braised short ribs. The ambiance nails cozy-with-an-edge—perfect for date nights. Expect entrees around $20–$35.
*Don’t miss:* House-made tiramisu and seasonal ricotta toast.
- Lost & Found – *Long Beach Plaza, just off Park Avenue*
This undiscovered gem feels like a speakeasy, serving creative “New American” fare with serious finesse. Tapas-style plates (about $9–$18 each) invite sharing—think juicy lamb sliders, truffle fries, and delectable seafood specials.
*Why it’s special:* The menu changes often, keeping regulars on their toes.
- Sugo Café – *On Park Avenue & Roosevelt Blvd*
Italian-American comfort food reigns here: crave-worthy meatballs, creamy burrata, and homemade pasta in a casual, friendly setting. It’s a reliable family spot, with most dishes between $16 and $28.
- Riptides 11561 – *On Beech Street*
If you’re seeking classic American eats with a beach-town vibe, Riptides is your go-to. Burgers, wings, and a laid-back bar scene keep locals coming back, especially after a day in the surf.
Iconic Breakfasts and Coffee Breaks
East End mornings are best kicked off with a great cup of coffee, a buttery pastry, or a decadent brunch.
- Gentle Brew Café – *Park Avenue near Lafayette Blvd*
This beloved café pours expertly brewed coffees (including cold brews and vegan lattes) alongside baked treats and breakfast sandwiches. The airy, sunlit space makes it perfect for lingering solo or with friends.
- Feeling O2 Good Juice Bar – *Near Shore Road and Lindell Blvd*
For a health-conscious start, pick up a superfood smoothie or acai bowl. Their avocado toast wins serious points for freshness and flavor.
- Long Beach Bagel Café – *Park Avenue near Neptune Blvd*
No Long Beach morning is complete without a hot bagel piled high with local lox or a schmear. They bake their bagels daily, and the crowd queuing outside on weekends is for good reason. Meal prices range from $3–$10.
Bakery Goodness and Sweet Treats
Don’t sleep on East End’s desserts—whether it’s old-fashioned Italian cookies or creative cupcakes, this corner of Long Beach knows how to satisfy a sweet tooth.
- Jean’s Bakery – *On Park Avenue*
A classic since the 1950s, Jean’s exudes small-town charm. Expect rainbow cookies, black & whites, and airy cannolis—the kind locals order for every celebration.
- Cravingz Café & Bakery – *Just off Park Avenue*
Known for its Instagram-worthy cupcakes and gooey brownies, Cravingz also offers plant-based desserts and specialty coffees. Try the s’mores cupcake—the decadent chocolate mousse filling speaks for itself.
Global Flavors and Local Faves
East End’s food scene is delightfully eclectic, reflecting both its cosmopolitan visitors and tight-knit community.
- Sangria 71 – *At Park Avenue & Edwards Blvd*
Dive into Spanish tapas, mouthwatering paellas, and pitchers of sangria. The lively atmosphere is perfect for group dinners (tapas: $7–$15, entrees $19–$32).
- Wah Wah Chinese Restaurant – *On Park Avenue*
A fixture since the 1980s, Wah Wah is the answer for those nights when only classic sesame chicken, spicy noodle soup, or crisp spring rolls will do.
*Insider tip:* Locals swear by the wonton soup and housemade dumplings.
- Arte Café – *On Park Avenue & Lafayette Blvd*
Mediterranean meets American comfort food—order the grilled chicken souvlaki platter, then save room for the olive oil cake with fresh citrus.
Food Trucks and Beachside Bites
Warmer months mean outdoor eats, and East End delivers with seasonal food trucks that set up near the boardwalk and local parks.
- The Fat Tomato
When the red-and-white Fat Tomato truck appears, expect creative sandwiches (think caprese paninis and turkey clubs) that are perfect for a beach day picnic.
- Empanada Queen
This rotating truck offers flaky empanadas stuffed with everything from spicy beef to vegan sweet potato, drawing sunbathers and surfers alike for a savory snack on the go.
Local Food Traditions: A Taste of Long Beach
Beyond the standout restaurants, dining in East End is about tradition. Residents know to hit up the boardwalk farmers’ markets on weekends (May through October) to savor local honey, farm-fresh eggs, and just-baked breads. Summer evenings often end with soft-serve from a passing Mr. Softee truck or a scoop of homemade ice cream from Marvel Frozen Dairy, just a few blocks outside the East End border.
Hidden Gems Worth Seeking Out
- Corazon de Cuba – *On Park Avenue*
Authentic Cuban dishes—like ropa vieja and pressed Cuban sandwiches—served in a colorful, family-run setting. Affordable ($12–$20 plates), hearty, and always welcoming.
- Lost Dog Café – *Tucked on a side street off Park Avenue*
Famous for creative cocktails and offbeat small plates that mix global flavors, Lost Dog is easy to miss but unforgettable once you find it.
Final Bites: East End Feeds the Soul
From breakfast bagels to sunset tapas and late-night slice runs, East End’s food scene is as vibrant and satisfying as its ocean views. What makes it special isn’t just the diverse range of menus—it’s the warmth of local chefs, the camaraderie at every table, and the traditions that keep generations coming back for just one more bite. Next time you’re in Long Beach, don’t just stroll the sand—make sure to savor the East End.