Long Beach's Best Italian Restaurant [Updated 2026]

As I dove into the rich tapestry of flavors and aromas that Long Beach has to offer, I found myself on a delicious mission to explore twelve of the most talked-about Italian restaurants in the area. Trust me, I’ve savored countless bowls of pasta, crisped up more than a few pizzas, and even indulged in the creamiest gelato—all in the name of research!

With my taste buds honed and my love for authentic Italian cuisine at the forefront, I’m here to share some hidden gems alongside beloved classics. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, you’ll want to know where to find that perfect plate of spaghetti or slice of tiramisu that’ll have you dreaming of Italy. Let’s dig in!

La Parolaccia Osteria - Long Beach

Highlights
Phenomenal food every visit
Unmatched customer service
Charming Italian decor
Great for date nights
Delicious desserts to try

From the moment I stepped into La Parolaccia Osteria, I was transported to a cozy corner of Italy, with charming decor that perfectly complements the authentic atmosphere. The aroma of freshly prepared dishes wafted through the air, promising an unforgettable meal. Each visit has not only met but exceeded my expectations, as the phenomenal food consistently shines through every course.

The menu features delightful offerings that showcase the rich flavors of traditional Italian cuisine. I found myself enamored with their homemade pasta, which was cooked to perfection. The standout for me was the creamy fettuccine alfredo, a heavenly blend of flavors that danced on my palate.

What really set this dining experience apart was the unmatched customer service. The staff were incredibly attentive and genuinely warm, making my visit feel personal and special. Whether you're planning a romantic date night or a gathering with friends, this restaurant provides an inviting ambiance that's difficult to resist.

And let’s not forget the desserts! You absolutely must leave room for their decadent tiramisu, a sweet finale that perfectly encapsulates the meal. If you're searching for the best Italian restaurant in Long Beach, La Parolaccia Osteria is a must-try!

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Due Fiori

Highlights
Incredible buttermilk waffles
Exceptional A Diavola pizza
Flavorful Il Cesare salad
Friendly and professional staff
Vibrant dining atmosphere

Due Fiori in Long Beach has quickly become one of my favorite spots! As soon as I stepped inside, the vibrant dining atmosphere enveloped me, setting the perfect stage for a culinary adventure. I couldn't resist starting with their Il Cesare salad, a delightful blend of flavors that left me craving more.

However, the highlight of my visit was undeniably the A Diavola pizza. The combination of spicy salami and perfectly charred crust delivered a flavor explosion that danced on my palate. It’s a pizza that had me daydreaming about it long after I left!

Not to be overlooked, their buttermilk waffles were a delightful surprise, offering a unique twist that paired perfectly with my savory meals.

What truly elevated my experience was the friendly and professional staff—each person brought a warmth that made me feel like part of the family. Their passion for Italian cuisine shines through in every dish, leaving no detail overlooked.

If you find yourself in Long Beach, Due Fiori is a must-visit. Between the incredible dishes and the lovely ambiance, it stands out as one of the best Italian restaurants in town!

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La Traviata Italian Restaurant

Highlights
Savory Italian dishes
Enjoyable dining experience
Potentially inconsistent service
Lobster fettuccine option
Recommended by patrons

La Traviata Italian Restaurant has certainly left a delectable mark on my culinary journeys through Long Beach. Upon entering, I was immediately enveloped in a warm and inviting ambiance, perfect for a romantic dinner or a casual meal with friends. The menu was a treasure trove of savory Italian dishes, tantalizingly crafted to transport your taste buds straight to Italy.

I couldn't resist trying their lobster fettuccine, a dish that came highly recommended by patrons and truly lived up to the hype. The succulent pieces of lobster were lovingly nestled in rich, creamy fettuccine that danced on my palate—each bite was a symphony! However, I did encounter service that was somewhat hit-or-miss; while the waitstaff was gracious, the timing felt a tad inconsistent during the peak hour rush.

Despite this minor hiccup, the overall dining experience was delightful, thanks to the delicious food and charming atmosphere. If you're looking for an Italian spot that emphasizes quality and flavor, La Traviata should be at the top of your list. It's a place where the ambiance sings as sweetly as the pasta!

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L'Antica Pizzeria Da Michele Belmont Shore

Highlights
Authentic wood-fired Napoli pizza
Stand-out desserts and gelatos
Excellent and attentive service
Breakfast offerings available
Spacious outdoor seating

L'Antica Pizzeria Da Michele Belmont Shore is a true gem in Long Beach, and I must say, it was a delightful culinary adventure. As I walked through the doors, I was greeted by an inviting ambiance perfectly crafted for both casual dining and special occasions. The authentic wood-fired Napoli pizza stole the show—each bite was a delectable dance of flavors, with the perfect balance of crispiness in the crust and fresh toppings that transported me straight to the streets of Naples.

The desserts here are not to be overlooked. I indulged in their rich and creamy gelato, which practically melted in my mouth. To top it off, the service was exemplary; the attentive staff made sure I felt pampered throughout my entire meal. I was pleasantly surprised to discover that they also offer breakfast options, making it a versatile spot for any time of the day.

One of the highlights of my visit was their spacious outdoor seating, which provided a relaxed setting to enjoy my meal al fresco. If you’re on the hunt for the best Italian restaurant in Long Beach, look no further than L'Antica—this place is a true Italian treasure!

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Massimo's Naples

Highlights
Incredibly fresh ingredients
Warm, welcoming atmosphere
Perfectly balanced flavors
Outstanding homemade comfort food
Top-notch hospitality

Massimo's Naples in Long Beach is a hidden gem that embodies the true spirit of Italian dining. The moment I stepped through the door, I was enveloped in a warm, welcoming atmosphere that felt just like a family kitchen. The inviting decor and friendly staff were the perfect introduction to what was to come.

I dove into their menu, and each dish was a testament to the incredibly fresh ingredients they use. The homemade comfort food was outstanding; the flavors were perfectly balanced and took me on a delightful culinary journey through Naples. One bite of the pasta, crafted onsite, revealed a harmony of luscious sauces and brimming with robust flavors. It was evident that each dish is made with love and care.

To top it all off, the hospitality was top-notch. The staff treated me not just as a customer but as a welcomed guest, sharing stories of their family recipes and passionate commitment to authentic Italian cuisine.

If you're on the hunt for the best Italian restaurant in Long Beach, look no further than Massimo's Naples—where every meal is an experience waiting to be savored!

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Nettuno

Highlights
Excellent mushroom squash gnocchi
Delicious salmon
Fantastic service
Quiet dining atmosphere
Spicy tomato sauce complement

Review of Nettuno

Nestled in the charming avenues of Long Beach, Nettuno is a culinary gem that deserves a spotlight. From the moment I stepped inside, I was greeted with a warm ambiance that perfectly complemented my anticipation. I decided to try their mushroom squash gnocchi, and let me tell you—it was nothing short of exquisite. The delicate pillows of gnocchi floated in a savory pool of sauce that had me savoring every bite.

Equally impressive was the salmon on the menu. Cooked to perfection, it offered a delightful contrast to my gnocchi, showcasing the restaurant’s culinary prowess. While enjoying my meal, I found the service to be attentive yet unobtrusive, maintaining a friendly atmosphere that made me feel right at home.

What struck me the most, however, was the quiet dining experience. In a city bustling with life, Nettuno provided an oasis where I could indulge my taste buds without the distractions of a loud restaurant. I highly recommend visiting for their spicy tomato sauce, which adds that extra kick to any dish. If you’re seeking the best Italian experience in Long Beach, Nettuno is an absolute must-visit!

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Ellie's

Highlights
Unique roasted cauliflower
Excellent mussels and clams
Pillowy and tasty gnocchi
Lively atmosphere
Inconsistent service

Upon stepping into Ellie's, a charming Italian escape in Long Beach, I instantly felt a delightful buzz in the air. The lively atmosphere beckoned me to relax and indulge. Intrigued by their menu, I couldn't resist starting with the unique roasted cauliflower, which was both savory and comforting. It set the tone for the rest of my meal, leaving me longing for more.

Next up were the excellent mussels and clams—each bite was brimming with flavor, perfectly sautéed in a sauce that had me wishing for more crusty bread to soak it all up. As a gnocchi enthusiast, I had high hopes for their pillowy offerings, and I was not disappointed. The pillowy and tasty gnocchi danced on my palate, proving their skill in crafting this classic dish.

However, not everything was flawless. I did encounter a hint of inconsistent service during my visit. Despite the little hiccup, the overall experience made me want to return for seconds.

If you seek a place that combines playful charm with outstanding Italian cuisine, Ellie's is definitely a contender for the title of best Italian restaurant in Long Beach!

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Domenico's Belmont Shore

Highlights
Welcoming Atmosphere
Stellar Service
Great for Family Dinners
Mixed Food Experiences
Intimate Dining Space

Domenico's Belmont Shore is an absolute gem in Long Beach that beautifully marries tradition with a contemporary feel. As soon as I walked in, the welcoming atmosphere enveloped me like a warm hug. The intimate dining space invites you to linger over your meal, creating the perfect backdrop for both families and couples alike.

What truly set this restaurant apart was the stellar service. The staff exuded a passion for their craft and made me feel like a cherished guest rather than just another customer. However, the culinary journey was a bit of a mixed bag. While some dishes shimmered with authenticity, others felt like they were still finding their footing.

Regardless, the flavors that really hit the mark made me completely forget any minor slips. Each bite was steeped in tradition, boldly echoing the kitchens of Italy. So, if you're looking for a family dinner that feels both comforting and special, Domenico's could be your next favorite spot in Long Beach. Revel in their warm hospitality and let your taste buds be transported to the heart of Italy. Mangia!

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Marlena Long Beach

Highlights
Outstanding staff service
Melt-in-mouth baby sweet potatoes
Rich Tagliatelle Ragu
Flaky, buttery Sea Bass
Thoughtfully selected wine options

Upon entering Marlena Long Beach, I was immediately welcomed by the warm ambiance and the friendly chatter of the staff, who were nothing short of exceptional. As I settled in, I couldn’t help but be excited about the culinary adventure that lay ahead.

I started my journey with their baby sweet potatoes, which were nothing short of a revelation. Each bite melted in my mouth, offering a delicate sweetness that set the stage for what was to come. Next, I indulged in their Tagliatelle Ragu, a rich and hearty dish that showcased the perfect balance of flavors. The pasta was cooked to perfection, and the sauce wrapped around it like a warm hug.

The dreamy finale was the sea bass—flaky and buttery, it was a divine experience that made my taste buds dance with joy. To complement this delightful meal, I found their wine selection to be thoughtfully curated, enhancing the flavors of every dish.

If you’re pondering where to find the best Italian cuisine in Long Beach, Marlena Long Beach stands out for its outstanding service and unforgettable flavors. I can’t recommend this gem enough!

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Chez Bacchus

Highlights
Elegant and welcoming atmosphere
Wonderful loose leaf tea selection
Beautifully presented tea tower
Fun hat rack for guests
Perfect for special occasions

Chez Bacchus is a true gem in the heart of Long Beach, where the ambiance strikes the perfect balance between elegance and warmth. As I stepped inside, I was immediately charmed by the welcoming atmosphere, adorned with tasteful decor that invites you to savor the moment.

Their loose leaf tea selection was a delightful surprise, and I couldn't resist trying their beautifully presented tea tower. Each tier was a feast for the eyes, offering an array of flavors that danced on the palate. But the charm doesn’t stop there; the restaurant features a fun hat rack for guests, adding a whimsical touch to the dining experience—who knew Italian eating could be so playful?

Perfectly suited for special occasions or a casual dinner with friends, Chez Bacchus delivers not just a meal, but a memorable dining experience. Each dish, crafted with care, shines a light on the rich Italian culinary heritage. If you're searching for a place that marries style, flavor, and a touch of fun, look no further than Chez Bacchus. It’s an Italian experience that I eagerly recommend!

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Tarantella on 4th

Highlights
Exceptional lasagna taste
Busy atmosphere
Mediocre Valentine’s menu
Small portion sizes
Risotto is a standout

Review of Tarantella on 4th

Tarantella on 4th is a delightful gem tucked away in Long Beach, radiating an ambiance that buzzes with life. Upon entering, the busy atmosphere immediately envelops you, setting the stage for what promises to be an exceptional dining experience. I couldn’t resist diving into their famed lasagna, and let me tell you, the taste was exceptional—rich layers of pasta interspersed with savory meats and a robust marinara sauce that leaves one craving more.

While the culinary offerings generally excel, I did find the Valentine’s menu a bit lackluster, lacking the flair one might expect on such a romantic occasion. Additionally, I noticed the portion sizes ran on the smaller side, which might not satisfy the heartiest of appetites.

However, the highlight of my meal was undoubtedly the risotto—a creamy, dreamy concoction that danced on my palate, making me forget the portion size entirely. Overall, Tarantella on 4th is certainly worthy of consideration for the title of Long Beach’s best Italian restaurant, as it skillfully blends lively energy with flavorful dishes that charm the senses. Buon appetito!

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The Italian Homemade Company (Long Beach)

Highlights
Best pasta in Long Beach
Hearty bolognese sauce
Delicious ravioli
Extra Parmesan and butter
Great first-time experience

The Italian Homemade Company (Long Beach) is a delightful treasure nestled in the heart of Long Beach, and let me tell you, it’s a heavenly experience for any pasta lover like myself! Stepping inside, I was instantaneously enveloped by the inviting aroma of freshly made pasta. The best pasta in Long Beach? I’d say that title fits perfectly!

I indulged in their hearty bolognese sauce, which is rich, flavorful, and lovingly crafted. Each bite was a reminder of why handmade pasta reigns supreme, a sheer delight! The ravioli was another star of my culinary journey, bursting with flavors that danced on my palate. And let’s not forget about the generous sprinkle of extra Parmesan and a dab of butter—a combination that transcended mere deliciousness.

What sets The Italian Homemade Company apart is not just the food, but the entire experience. The charming atmosphere made for a fantastic first-time visit that I can’t wait to repeat. The warmth and passion of the staff added a personal touch, making you feel like family. If you're hunting for an Italian spot that serves up both heart and flavor, this is truly a gem in Long Beach! Buon Appetito!

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