Long Beach, California, boasts a vibrant culinary scene, and within that scene lies a treasure trove of delicious french fries. From classic steak fries to gourmet truffle parmesan creations, this coastal city offers a fry for every craving. This comprehensive guide explores 29 of the best places to indulge in the crispy, salty goodness that is the perfect french fry. We've ranked them based on factors including quality of potato, seasoning, cooking method, overall taste, and value. Get ready to embark on a fry-tastic adventure!
The Top 10: Crispy Crowns of Long Beach's Fry Kingdom
These ten establishments reign supreme in the Long Beach french fry arena, consistently delivering exceptional quality and taste.
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The Salty Siren: This seafood shack's secret weapon? Perfectly seasoned, skin-on fries that are crisp on the outside and fluffy on the inside. Their "Siren's Kiss" seasoning is a must-try. They consistently receive rave reviews for their freshness and generous portions.
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Burger Bliss: While known for their gourmet burgers, Burger Bliss' fries are no afterthought. Thick-cut, seasoned to perfection, and cooked to a golden brown, these are a perfect companion to their juicy patties. They use a blend of russet and Yukon gold potatoes for ultimate flavor and texture.
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Frytopia: True to its name, Frytopia offers a dazzling array of fry variations – sweet potato, truffle parmesan, chili cheese, you name it. Their commitment to using high-quality potatoes and fresh ingredients shines through in every bite. They even offer gluten-free options.
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The Golden Spud: This family-owned diner has been serving up classic steak fries for decades. Their simple approach—fresh potatoes, simple seasoning, and perfect cooking—results in a timeless fry experience.
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Shoreline Bites: Located right on the beach, Shoreline Bites provides the perfect pairing of ocean views and crispy fries. Their thick-cut fries are cooked to order, ensuring maximum crispiness.
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The Crooked Spoon: This gastropub offers a unique twist on the classic fry, featuring rosemary and garlic-infused fries alongside their creative menu. The seasoning elevates the simple fry to a gourmet experience.
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Beachside Grill: Their hand-cut fries are a testament to quality ingredients and meticulous preparation. They use a special blend of oils to achieve that perfect crispy exterior.
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The Crafted Fry: This dedicated fry shop offers a variety of unique fry options, from sweet potato fries tossed in cinnamon sugar to loaded fries topped with chili, cheese, and jalapeños. Their commitment to creative and delicious fries is evident.
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The Retro Diner: This retro-themed diner serves up classic diner-style fries—thin, crispy, and perfect for dipping in ketchup or a creamy milkshake. Nostalgia and delicious fries combine for a perfect bite.
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The Lighthouse Cafe: This charming cafe's fries are a delicious accompaniment to their breakfast and lunch menu. They achieve perfect crispiness through a double-frying method.
The Next 10: Fry-tastic Finds
These ten establishments offer consistently good fries, each with their own unique charm and style:
- Benny's Burgers
- The Blue Plate Taco
- The Habit Burger Grill
- In-N-Out Burger (While a chain, their fries are a classic)
- Shake Shack (Another chain, but their crinkle-cut fries are worth mentioning)
- Five Guys (Famous for their seasoned fries)
- Tommy's Burgers (A Long Beach classic)
- Original Fish Co.
- Mariscos Jalisco
- Gladstone's Long Beach
Exploring the Remaining 9: Hidden Fry Gems
These nine places are worth checking out if you're willing to venture off the beaten path:
- Joe's Crab Shack
- Ruby's Diner
- Yard House
- McCormick & Schmick's Seafood & Steaks
- Yard House
- Red Lobster
- Claim Jumper
- BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse
- Buffalo Wild Wings
Beyond the Fry: Factors to Consider
When choosing your perfect Long Beach fry, consider these factors:
- Potato Type: Russet, Yukon Gold, or sweet potatoes? Each offers a unique flavor and texture.
- Cut: Thin, thick, steak, crinkle-cut—the cut impacts the crispiness and overall experience.
- Seasoning: Simple salt and pepper or something more adventurous?
- Cooking Method: Double-fried for extra crispiness, or a single fry for a softer interior?
- Value: Portion size and price point are important considerations.
Conclusion: Your Long Beach Fry Adventure Awaits!
Long Beach offers an impressive array of french fry options. This guide provides a starting point for your fry-tastic adventure. Whether you're craving classic steak fries or something more gourmet, there's a perfect fry waiting for you in Long Beach. Happy frying!
