Nestled just off the scenic Long Beach boardwalk and steps from the Atlantic, The Walks neighborhood isn’t just notable for its quaint pedestrian lanes and beach bungalows—it’s also a hidden gastronomic gem in Long Beach, NY. Whether you’re a longtime resident or a summer weekender, The Walks offers a vibrant food scene that infuses local charm, inventive menus, and welcoming spots perfect for every appetite and budget. Come hungry as we stroll through the best restaurants, cafés, bakeries, and more, uncovering the flavors that make The Walks a true destination for foodies.
Cozy Cafés and Brunch Hideaways
The Walks may be small, but it’s brimming with spots where locals linger over espresso or tuck into hearty brunches just blocks from the sand.
- Marvel Café (W Beech St & Nevada Ave): Beloved by neighborhood regulars, Marvel Café is famous for its rich small-batch coffee, homemade pastries, and mouthwatering breakfast sandwiches. Try their classic bacon, egg, and cheese on a brioche bun, or grab a house-made cruller and a flat white. Prices here are moderate, with most items under $10, and the vibe is always chill, especially on sunny mornings when people spill out onto sidewalk tables.
- The Beach House Café (E Walnut St & The Walks): This cozy, family-owned corner café serves hearty brunch classics including avocado toasts, fluffy pancakes, and creative omelets. Their seaside-inspired décor and fresh-squeezed juices are a local hit, but get there early on weekends—it’s one of the neighborhood’s worst-kept secrets.
Outstanding Eats: Restaurants in The Walks
From neighborhood staples to creative newcomers, The Walks dining scene is as diverse as its residents, serving everything from Mediterranean plates to classic Italian comfort food.
- Grotta di Fuoco (W Park Ave & Laurelton Blvd): Set just steps from The Walks’ western edge, Grotta di Fuoco is a rustic Italian trattoria with brick-oven pizzas, handmade pastas, and a rotating menu of wood-grilled favorites. Standout dishes include the wild mushroom pizza and cacio e pepe, perfect for sharing (large plates average $18-$25). The wine list is an oenophile’s treat, and their warm staff makes every meal feel like a family gathering.
- Bistro 29 (W Park Ave & Magnolia Blvd): For those seeking a modern American bistro vibe, Bistro 29 offers upscale yet unpretentious dining. Their seasonal fare—think pan-seared scallops, slow-roasted duck, and creative veggie sides—is locally sourced and artfully plated. Prices skew higher ($22-$37 for entrées), but the experience is worth the splurge for a date night or celebration.
- Sherry Blossom (E Park Ave & The Walks): Asian-fusion flavor reigns at Sherry Blossom, a sleek, contemporary spot known for sushi rolls with a twist, spicy ramen bowls, and inventive tapas. The Sherry Blossom roll, with spicy tuna and mango, is a must. Their happy hour (Monday–Friday, 4-6 p.m.) is a favorite, offering $5 rolls and sake cocktails.
Bakeries and Sweet Treats
No foodie stroll is complete without a sugary pit stop, and The Walks delivers with local bakeries that have cult followings.
- Long Beach Bread Company (E Walnut St & Grand Blvd): Every morning, you’ll spot a line at this beloved bakery. A must-try? Their classic Long Beach black-and-white cookie, crusty sourdough loaves, and cinnamon-swirled babka. Grab a pastry to-go for your boardwalk walk, or linger over an almond croissant and cappuccino.
- Bella’s Italian Pastries (W Park Ave & The Walks): Satisfy your sweet tooth with Bella’s award-winning cannoli, delicate tiramisu, or their legendary rainbow cookies. Their cakes are custom-made to order, but you can also snag a slice of cheesecake for seaside picnics.
Food Trucks and Local Traditions
No guide to The Walks would be complete without a nod to the neighborhood’s food trucks—especially in summer, when they serve up festival vibes and savory bites well into the night.
- Taco Trolley (Often parked at Riverside Blvd & The Walks): Grab a trio of carne asada or grilled shrimp tacos, best enjoyed on the beach wall at sunset. Prices are wallet-friendly—the taco plate hovers around $9, and homemade horchata goes fast on hot days.
- Boardwalk Bites (Mobile, typically near The Walks entrance): Specializing in loaded fries, gyros, and fresh lemonade, this truck is a summer staple. The loaded falafel fries are a neighborhood legend—and vegetarians’ delight.
The Walks also boasts pop-up stands and seasonal festivals, such as the annual “Taste of The Walks” event in late July, which showcases dozens of local chefs and food artisans. Residents swap recipes, and newcomers sample everything from lobster rolls to home-baked rugelach.
Hidden Gems and Neighborhood Favorites
Away from the buzz along Park Avenue, you’ll discover tucked-away gems that locals swear by.
- Mike & Leah’s Deli (W Beech St & The Walks): A no-frills, old-school Italian deli with massive heroes stuffed with prosciutto, fresh mozzarella, and roasted peppers. Their homemade chicken cutlet sandwich is a lunchtime legend, and everything is under $12.
- Sunset Smoothies (End of The Walks, towards Pacific Blvd): This tiny takeout window is a summertime secret—serving icy açaí bowls, fresh-pressed juices, and refreshing smoothies. The “Mango Tango” bowl, topped with coconut and chia, is perfect post-surf.
Why The Walks is a Foodie’s Dream
With its walkable streets, friendly faces, and kitchens that celebrate both tradition and innovation, The Walks is a true Long Beach dining destination. Here you’ll find a rare mix of homestyle comfort and creative fare, whether you crave midnight gyros, homemade gelato, or a slow brunch in the sun. Bring a hearty appetite—and maybe an extra tote for bakery runs—because the best places in The Walks are those that feed both your stomach and soul.
Whether you’re a morning coffee hunter, a hungry surfer, or an adventurous eater, The Walks invites you to eat like a local—and discover a taste of the community, one bite at a time.