Long Beach, California, boasts a vibrant culinary scene, and within that scene lies a treasure trove of amazing nachos. Forget plain cheese and tortilla chips; Long Beach's nacho game is elevated, offering diverse flavors, creative toppings, and generous portions. This guide explores 23 of the best nacho options in the city, categorized for your convenience, so you can find the perfect cheesy, crunchy, and delicious nacho experience. Whether you're craving classic nachos or something more adventurous, this list has you covered.
Classic Nachos Done Right
These Long Beach establishments nail the fundamentals: perfectly crisp tortilla chips, melted cheese, and flavorful toppings. We're talking the nachos that define the genre.
1. The Habit Burger Grill: Their nachos aren't the main event, but they are a solid side. Expect good quality chips and a generous amount of melted cheese. Simple, satisfying, and perfect for a quick bite.
2. Cabo Cantina: A Long Beach staple, Cabo Cantina offers large portions of their classic nachos, topped with seasoned ground beef, cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, and sour cream. They consistently deliver on flavor and value.
3. Rosa's Cantina: This Long Beach gem offers a more upscale take on the classic nacho. They use freshly made chips and higher-quality cheese for a truly elevated experience. A great option for a slightly nicer night out.
4. Mariscos Jalisco: While famous for their incredible seafood cocktails, their nachos are not to be missed. Expect generous portions and fresh ingredients. This place is great for fresh, unique ingredients.
Elevated Nachos: Beyond the Basics
These Long Beach restaurants take nachos to the next level with creative toppings, unique cheese blends, and unexpected flavor combinations.
5. Ballast Point: Known for their craft beers, Ballast Point also has surprisingly excellent nachos. They often offer seasonal variations, keeping their nacho game fresh and exciting.
6. Beachwood Cafe: Beachwood Cafe adds a gourmet touch to their nachos with high-quality ingredients and creative combinations. Expect unique flavor pairings and beautifully presented dishes.
7. Simmzy's: This popular spot offers delicious nachos with a fun, slightly offbeat vibe. They often feature unique toppings and flavor profiles. Their nachos make a fun party appetizer.
8. The Pike at Rainbow Harbor: The breathtaking view at The Pike enhances the experience of their elevated nachos. The location and atmosphere elevate even simple chips and cheese.
Vegetarian & Vegan Nacho Nirvana
Long Beach offers excellent vegan and vegetarian nacho choices for those who prefer plant-based options.
9. Gracias Madre: This entirely plant-based Mexican restaurant offers delicious and creative nachos loaded with flavor. Their jackfruit carnitas nachos are a must-try.
10. Plant Power Fast Food: Don't let the "fast food" fool you; Plant Power makes truly excellent nachos with high-quality plant-based ingredients.
11. Crossroads Kitchen: This upscale vegan restaurant provides sophisticated, flavourful vegetarian nachos that redefine the dish. It's not your typical vegan fare, it’s a real treat.
Spicy Nachos for Heat Seekers
If you enjoy a fiery kick, these Long Beach spots will light up your tastebuds.
12. El Cholo: A classic Mexican restaurant chain, El Cholo delivers spicy nachos with generous portions of their signature chili.
13. Acapulco Restaurant: Acapulco Restaurant offers spicy nachos with various levels of heat to satisfy different spice preferences. They also are well known for having exceptional margaritas.
14. La Parrilla: Their specialty nachos will not disappoint any spice lovers. Expect a generous amount of spice, so be prepared.
Unique & Unexpected Nacho Creations
Some Long Beach restaurants go beyond the conventional and create truly unique and memorable nacho dishes.
15. George's Greek Cafe: A surprise entry, George's offers a unique twist on nachos – with a Greek flair! Think feta cheese, olives, and other Mediterranean toppings.
16. Taps Fish House & Brewery: Although known for their seafood, Taps also has a unique take on nachos. Their nachos are a surprisingly delicious appetizer that balances seafood flavors with traditional nacho toppings.
17. 710 Beach Club: This restaurant’s nachos provide a gourmet dining experience with creative flavor combinations that truly stand out.
18. King's Fish House: Another unexpected nacho find, this restaurant offers a creative menu and will not disappoint.
Nacho Value Champions: Big Portions, Small Price Tag
These Long Beach establishments offer fantastic nachos without breaking the bank.
19. Taco Bell: A classic fast-food option, Taco Bell's nachos are a budget-friendly and satisfying choice when you're on the go.
20. Del Taco: Similar to Taco Bell, Del Taco offers tasty nachos at a great value.
21. Rubio's Coastal Grill: Rubio's provides a more upscale, yet still affordable, nacho experience with fresh ingredients.
Hidden Nacho Gems: Discover the Unexpected
These Long Beach locations may not be widely known for their nachos, but their offerings are well worth seeking out.
22. Local Bar & Grill: A neighborhood gem, this hidden location offers surprisingly good nachos.
23. Your Local Pizzeria: Many pizzerias offer unexpectedly great nachos; ask your local spot what they have!
Finding Your Perfect Nacho in Long Beach
This list offers a broad spectrum of Long Beach's nacho scene. Whether you’re looking for a classic, an elevated, a vegan, a spicy, a unique or a budget-friendly experience, you’re bound to find your perfect match among these 23 top contenders. Remember to check restaurant websites or call ahead to confirm their menu and availability. Happy Nacho Hunting!
