Long Beach, California boasts a vibrant culinary scene, and while seafood and California-Mexican cuisine often steal the show, let's not forget the unsung hero of many a meal: the breadstick. From crispy, garlicky delights to soft, buttery wonders, Long Beach offers a surprisingly diverse range of breadstick experiences. This guide dives into the best breadsticks in Long Beach, exploring the top 20 contenders and helping you find your perfect carb-loaded companion.
Top 10 Breadsticks: Classic & Creative
This section focuses on the best breadsticks in Long Beach that represent the classic and creative approaches to this simple yet satisfying food. We've evaluated based on taste, texture, presentation, and overall dining experience.
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Luigi's Italian Bistro: Their garlic breadsticks are legendary, known for their perfect crispiness and generous garlic butter. Many consider them the gold standard in Long Beach. Pro-tip: Order early, they often sell out!
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The Bread Basket: This bakery specializes in artisanal breads, and their rosemary and sea salt breadsticks are a revelation. The subtle rosemary flavor complements the flaky texture beautifully.
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Bella Vista Ristorante: This upscale Italian restaurant serves thick-cut, parmesan-crusted breadsticks that are both visually stunning and incredibly delicious. The parmesan adds a salty, savory edge that elevates the experience.
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Aphrodite's Greek Taverna: While not traditionally Italian, their herbed breadsticks are a hidden gem. The subtle blend of herbs adds a unique Mediterranean twist.
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Simmzy's: This casual spot offers cheesy breadsticks that are perfect for sharing. They're soft, slightly sweet, and generously covered in melted cheese.
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The Habit Burger Grill: Surprisingly, their garlic cheese breadsticks are a major contender! They offer a nice balance of garlic, cheese, and soft bread. It's a great option for a more casual setting.
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Naples Ristorante e Bar: Authentic Neapolitan-style pizza is the star here, but don't overlook their simple, perfectly baked breadsticks. The simplicity allows the quality of the ingredients to shine.
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Long Beach Yacht Club: Their dinner rolls, while not technically breadsticks, deserve a mention. These are soft, fluffy, and served warm with butter.
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Kincaid's: This American-style restaurant serves buttery breadsticks that are a satisfying addition to any meal.
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Mariscos Jalisco: Their homemade tortillas aren't technically breadsticks, but their incredible texture and flavor make them a strong contender for a different kind of breadstick experience. They're perfect for dipping in their delicious sauces.
The Next 10: Hidden Gems & Unexpected Delights
This section explores some lesser-known spots, but ones that boast equally delicious breadstick offerings. We encourage adventurous eaters to try these!
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Paloma's Mexican Restaurant: Look beyond the tacos and enchiladas; their warm cornbread sticks are a delightful surprise.
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The Pike: While known for its carnival atmosphere, certain food vendors within The Pike offer surprisingly good pretzel breadsticks.
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Parkers' Lighthouse: This upscale restaurant offers a sophisticated take on the breadstick, with their whipped garlic herb breadsticks.
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Sugar Shack: This sweet treat spot offers various cinnamon breadsticks that are perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth along with your savory meal.
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Social: This hip spot boasts gourmet breadsticks that change seasonally, often featuring unique flavors and pairings.
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Lido Marina Village: Several restaurants within the Lido Marina Village offer unique breadstick options, often infused with local ingredients. Exploring this location is a foodie adventure in itself.
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Balboa Fun Zone: Similar to The Pike, various vendors within the Balboa Fun Zone offer unexpected and delightful breadstick creations.
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7th Street: This vibrant area offers numerous smaller restaurants and cafes that may have hidden breadstick gems. Be adventurous and explore!
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Shoreline Village: Explore this charming waterfront area for potential breadstick discoveries. The casual atmosphere is perfect for a snack and a stroll.
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Retro Row: This trendy area is home to a mix of restaurants and cafes, with plenty of potential for finding unique and unexpected breadstick options.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Your Breadstick
Beyond taste, several factors can influence your choice of the best breadstick in Long Beach.
- Texture: Do you prefer crispy, crunchy breadsticks or soft, fluffy ones?
- Flavor: Garlic, herbs, cheese, or something more unique?
- Setting: Are you looking for a casual snack or a fine-dining experience?
- Price: Breadsticks can range in price from a few dollars to considerably more, depending on the restaurant.
- Dipping sauce: Many establishments offer various dipping sauces (marinara, ranch, etc.) to enhance the breadstick experience.
Remember, the best breadstick is subjective! This list serves as a starting point for your Long Beach breadstick adventure. Happy eating!
