Long Beach, California, boasts a vibrant culinary scene, and among its hidden gems are numerous spots serving up unbelievably cheesy bread. Whether you're craving a classic garlic bread, a loaded pizza-bread hybrid, or something entirely unique, Long Beach has something for every cheese lover. This comprehensive guide explores 17 of the best cheesy bread experiences the city offers, ensuring your next meal is a truly cheesy adventure.
Finding Your Perfect Cheesy Bread in Long Beach
Choosing the perfect cheesy bread is a personal journey. To help you navigate the delicious options, we've categorized our picks based on style and experience:
Classic Garlic Bread Delights
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Mario's Pizza: This Long Beach institution offers a simple, yet powerfully effective garlic bread. Their secret? Freshly baked bread, generous garlic butter, and perfectly melted mozzarella. It's the benchmark against which all other garlic breads should be measured.
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The Bread Basket: A local favorite known for its artisan breads, The Bread Basket elevates garlic bread to an art form. Expect crusty, flavorful bread paired with a unique herb-infused garlic butter. They often have seasonal variations, making each visit a surprise.
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Bella's Italian Kitchen: If you prefer a softer, more pillowy garlic bread, Bella's is your go-to. Their garlic bread is less crisp, but the interior is wonderfully soft and absorbent of the rich garlic butter.
Gourmet & Elevated Cheesy Breads
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Habana: This Cuban restaurant surprisingly offers a phenomenal cheesy bread side. Their take is more akin to a warm, cheesy flatbread with hints of spice. It's a perfect accompaniment to their delicious Cuban sandwiches.
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Simmzy's: Known for their gourmet burgers, Simmzy's also makes a killer cheesy bread appetizer. They feature high-quality cheeses and creative flavor combinations.
Pizza-Bread Fusion
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Pie Pizzeria: Pie Pizzeria isn't just known for its pizzas; their pizza-bread is a masterpiece. Imagine a crispy, thin-crust pizza, but cut into breadsticks—pure cheesy bliss.
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Delicates Pizza: Their deep-dish pizza might steal the show, but don’t overlook their cheesy bread appetizer. It's a delightful taste of their signature pizza flavors, but in a convenient breadstick form.
Unique & Unexpected Cheesy Bread
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XO Restaurant: This trendy spot takes a unique approach to cheesy bread, incorporating international flavors and ingredients into their creations. Expect the unexpected, but always expect delicious cheese.
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The Blind Donkey: Known for its extensive craft beer selection, The Blind Donkey also surprises with its creative cheesy bread offerings. These often change seasonally, reflecting the freshest ingredients available.
Beyond the Bread: Factors to Consider
Choosing the right cheesy bread depends on several factors:
1. Bread Type: Do you prefer a crispy crust or a soft, pillowy interior? Different bakeries use different bread types, resulting in diverse textures and tastes.
2. Cheese Selection: Is it just mozzarella, or does it include other cheeses like provolone, parmesan, or even something more adventurous?
3. Flavor Profile: Some cheesy breads are simple garlic butter affairs, while others incorporate herbs, spices, or even meats and vegetables.
4. Price: Cheesy bread prices can vary widely depending on the restaurant and portion size.
Tips for the Ultimate Cheesy Bread Experience
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Order it as an appetizer: Sharing is caring (and it allows you to try more dishes!).
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Pair it with the right drink: A crisp white wine, a light beer, or even a refreshing soda can complement your cheesy bread beautifully.
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Don't be afraid to try something new: Step outside your comfort zone and try a unique cheesy bread variation. You might just discover your new favorite.
Conclusion: Your Long Beach Cheesy Bread Adventure Awaits
Long Beach’s diverse culinary scene offers an incredible range of cheesy bread options. Whether you crave classic comfort or an adventurous culinary journey, there’s a perfect cheesy bread waiting to be discovered. This list serves as a starting point for your own personal quest for cheesy bread perfection. Happy eating!
