By snoadmin
They call themselves the “bohemian bistro and bar” of Second Street for no petit reason. Le Creperie Café and Bakery is the right blend of contemporary and chic, and it tops the list of the most romantic restaurants in Long Beach. Its romantic and mesmerizing tone is endlessly inviting for quiet evenings of whispering and blushing.
This eatery has been a long-time favorite to locals for years, gaining fame for the very plump and mouthwatering array of crepes. Stuffed either of wild or Shiitake mushrooms, sautéed spinach, tender chicken breast or jumbo shrimp, these crepes come with the right combinations of ingredients, and they’re more delicious when paired with a rich glass of red wine or a finger-food fave, like the garlic French fries.
Give yourself a good stretch of time to absorb the quaint, tasty lure of this Belmont Shore gem, especially if you’re visiting for Valentine’s dinner.
Where to go: Aquarium of the Pacific, 100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach, (562) 590-3100 Hours: Dinner is from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. How much: $65 per person. $49.50 for Aquarium members. Making reservations: Required. Why this place is the place: Your four-course meal, replete with ginger and other fancy herbal ingredients, gets cozy in the home of 12,500 ocean animals. Only downfall: Considering the price and elegance, this dinner is for the serious couple. Fix it: Plunge into a new reality, such as the dark and deep depths where jellyfish rule, after dinner. Nearby attractions: The Pike shopping center has a GameWorks for arcade fun as well as various bars and stores.
Where to go: Green Field, A Brazilian Churrascaria, 5305 E. Pacific Coast Hwy., Long Beach, (562) 597-0906 Hours: Open at 11 a.m., last service at 9:30 p.m., closed by 10:30 p.m. How much: All-you-can-eat dinner $27.95 per person. Making reservations: Yes, especially for large parties. Why this place is the place: You’ll be giving your mouth a nice workout with saucy, smoky quail, duck, lamb, chicken, sausage (just leave your table marker on green and meat will be brought to you) and good company for a gregarious night out. Only downfall: Not everybody can handle this all-you-can-eat feast. Fix it: Steamed veggies and pastas wait at a nearby salad bar. Nearby attractions: Dipiazza’s has live music and a bar for after dinner entertainment.
Where to go: Le Creperie, 4911 E. Second St., Long Beach, (562) 434-8499 Hours: Open at 10 a.m., closes until crowds finish (just for Valentine’s Day) How much: $60 per person without a wine. $75 per person with wine for a lavish pre-set three-course Valentine meal; $7 to $19 for their regular and tasty menu items (recommended). Making reservations: Reservations accepted with a credit card, $25 cancellation fee. Why this place is the place: The setting is perfect for talking and being bubbly. Only downfall: Jam-packed crowds. Fix it: Stroll the blocks of Belmont Shore while you wait for your table. Nearby attractions: Flowers and charming presents at the store Romance, etc.
Where to go: Zephyr Vegetarian Café, 340 E. 4th St., Long Beach, (562) 435-7113 Hours: Open at 11 a.m., closed by 8 p.m. How much: $8 to $15 per person Making reservations: No reservations needed. Why this place is the place: Relaxed, intimate atmosphere; delicious selections of the freshest, most organic vegetarian, vegan and raw plates; Skullphone art overlooks the dining area. Only downfall: Looks sketchy from the outside (half the block on Fourth Street is under construction). Fix it: Ditch the dust by boarding the Fun Bus at their Fourth and Pine Street stop. Nearby attractions: Pine Avenue is fine for walking, but Acres of Books (240 Long Beach Blvd.) is better for a unique adventure.
