If you ask any local where you’ll find some of the best kept dining secrets in Long Beach, the answer often includes South Wrigley. This lively, diverse neighborhood nestles along Pacific Avenue and Willow Street, a short hop from Downtown, and pulses with vibrant flavor—without the crowds or pretense. From mom-and-pop taquerias to hip bakeries and street food legends, South Wrigley quietly builds its reputation as a must-visit for food lovers in the know. Let’s take a walk down its tree-lined streets and explore what makes the food scene here so deliciously unforgettable.
Pacific Avenue: The Heartbeat of the Neighborhood
Pacific Avenue acts as South Wrigley’s main dining artery. Here, the energy is palpable and the culinary options are deliciously varied.
- El Paisa Mexican Grill (2050 Pacific Ave) — One of the staples of Wrigley’s Mexican cuisine, this family-run taqueria wins hearts with its tacos al pastor, massive burritos, and fresh salsas. The prices are wallet-friendly ($2-$10), and the carne asada fries earn loyal fans citywide. Don’t skip the house-made horchata.
- Waba Grill (2290 Pacific Ave) — For a lighter bite, Waba Grill satisfies health-conscious locals with its rice bowls, salads, and teriyaki plates. It’s a chain, but the South Wrigley location is especially popular for quick lunches under $15.
- Looff's Lite-A-Bite (2101 Pacific Ave) — A quirky, nostalgic spot named after the historic Long Beach carousel family, Looff’s mixes old-school burgers and fries with vegetarian-friendly salads. The kitsch décor is part of the fun, and nothing’s over $12. Their weekend breakfast burritos are a hidden gem!
Willow Street: International Flavors and Sweet Treats
Walk east from the Pacific & Willow intersection, and you’re surrounded by culinary diversity.
- Cambodian Kitchen (2400 E Willow St) — South Wrigley shares borders and flavors with the famous Cambodia Town, and Cambodian Kitchen is a bridge between worlds. Their fish amok (a coconut curry steamed in banana leaves) or beef loc lac are full of aromatic depth. Mains are $10-$18; portions are generous.
- La Mexicana Bakery (2300 Willow St) — This longstanding bakery is famous for its pan dulce—colorful conchas, sweet empanadas, and tres leches cakes draw early risers as well as weekend families. For under $5, you can fill a bag with assorted treats, and the bolillos (Mexican rolls) are legendary among locals.
Food Trucks: On-the-Go Flavor Bombs
Though Wrigley’s restaurants are charming, some of its best food comes on wheels. The parking lot at Willow and Delta Ave is a regular stop for several celebrated food trucks:
- Tacos La Carreta — Come evenings, this truck rolls in with legendary TJ-style tacos—griddled meats, fresh cilantro, and a spicy guacamole salsa. A late-night favorite after events or a casual weeknight bite, with most tacos at $2 each.
- Mariscos La Sirena — Weekend afternoons draw crowds for the shrimp ceviche tostadas and aguachile, loaded with lime, cucumber, and chili. It’s cash-only, and everything’s under $10.
Neighborhood Cafés and Coffee Spots
South Wrigley doesn’t have the hipster café density of Downtown or Retro Row, but what’s here is pure gold for cozy gatherings and quality caffeine.
- Cuppa Cuppa (2165 Pacific Ave) — A homey, independent café serving craft lattes, vegan pastries, and robust pour-overs. Locals love the lavender latte and the comfy patio seating, perfect for a laid-back morning or work session.
- Country Touch Café (2531 Pacific Ave) — Old-school charm reigns at Country Touch, a diner-style café where regulars swear by the chicken fried steak and fluffy pancakes. Breakfast specials start at $7. It’s the kind of friendly spot where everyone feels like family.
Hidden Gems and Neighborhood Traditions
South Wrigley’s mosaic of culture, affordability, and old-vs-new appeal means its best finds sometimes hide in plain sight.
- Pollo Campero (2425 Atlantic Ave) — Though technically perched on the east edge of Wrigley, this Guatemalan fried chicken joint is worth the stroll. Juicy, spiced fried chicken, fried plantains, and sides like yucca fries offer a taste of Central America, with meals around $10-$12.
- Baked By The Ocean (Pop-up, check local events) — A newer player, this home-based bakery pops up at local markets with decadent cookies, brownies, and gluten-free options. Follow them on social media for their next appearance in South Wrigley parks!
- Sunday Tamale Vendors (Off Magnolia Ave & Burnett St) — Every Sunday morning, street vendors offer homemade tamales—green chile, rajas, sweet corn—right from steam buckets. For many Wrigley families, this is both a tradition and the best grab-and-go weekend breakfast.
Where Locals Gather
Food in South Wrigley isn’t just a transaction—it’s a point of community pride. From the annual neighborhood fiestas (often with pop-up food stalls) to the way families cluster around bakery cases and food truck lots, eating here is about connection.
Favorite intersections for a mini food crawl? Try starting at Willow & Pacific for a taco, pastry, and coffee tour, or cruise down Magnolia and stop wherever the scent lures you in (often accompanied by live sidewalk music).
Why South Wrigley’s Food Scene Stands Out
What sets South Wrigley apart is its authenticity. Few neighborhoods in Long Beach offer such a cross-section of cultures at prices that invite repeat visits. Whether you’re a lifelong resident or new to the area, every restaurant, bakery, or truck brings a story. People know your name. Recipes are precious family secrets. And, above all, the food is outrageously good.
So the next time you’re hungry for adventure—and a plateful of great eats—head to South Wrigley. You might just find your new favorite spot.