Unearth The Voyage
Craving classic American comfort food served with coastal polish and an inviting outdoor vibe? Nick’s on 2nd in Long Beach delivers crowd-pleasing flavors, refined service, and a chic patio that feels tailor-made for long lunches and relaxed evenings. With a sterling reputation, attentive hospitality, and dishes that balance nostalgia with finesse, this Belmont Shore favorite keeps locals and visitors coming back. Read on to discover what makes this spot a standout for brunch dates, business lunches, and celebratory dinners alike.
1. A Welcoming Slice of Belmont Shore
Set along 2nd Street in Belmont Shore, Nick’s on 2nd blends neighborhood warmth with polished style. The intimate dining room pairs walls of glass and soft lighting with a buzzy, convivial energy, while the chic patio offers breezy alfresco comfort perfect for coastal evenings. Service shines with genuine attentiveness – friendly hosts, well-timed courses, and sharp menu knowledge that guides even the most indecisive diner. Whether you’re slipping in for a weeknight dinner or marking a special occasion, the experience feels thoughtfully paced and relaxed. Reviews frequently praise the consistency here: bright, balanced cocktails, craveable appetizers, and mains that deliver familiar comfort with elevated technique. It’s the kind of place you recommend without hesitation – reliable, refined, and effortlessly welcoming from the first pour to the last bite.
2. Signature Starters and Elevated Comfort
Appetizers at Nick’s on 2nd set an indulgent tone, showcasing familiar flavors with a deft, modern hand. Deviled eggs turn unexpectedly complex with a creamy, seasoned filling that finishes bright, while shrimp taquitos deliver a crunchy, golden exterior and juicy interior – ideal with a citrusy sip. Tomato bisque arrives silky and comforting, its sweetness balanced by grilled sourdough for dipping. Everything feels focused and dialed-in: clean seasoning, balanced richness, and textures that invite sharing. Guests often comment that these small plates are “simple but done right,” hinting at the kitchen’s attention to detail. Whether you’re easing into brunch or priming for steak night, these starters reward lingering conversation and a second round of drinks. Begin here, and the rest of your meal practically plans itself.
3. Brunch That Means Business
Weekend brunch at Nick’s on 2nd proves that comfort can be both refined and deeply satisfying. The short rib hash is a standout: tender shreds of beef, broccolini for snap, a sunny-side egg, and velvety hollandaise that brings everything together. A warm house biscuit seals the deal. For a sweet finish, French toast topped with whipped cream and caramelized banana finds a lovely balance – decadent yet not heavy. Service remains brisk despite the lively crowd, and the atmosphere hums with celebratory energy. It’s the perfect spot to linger over coffee or ease into a cocktail as the patio catches the late-morning sun. For brunch lovers, it’s a ritual worth repeating.
4. Steaks, Seafood, and Comfort Classics
Dinner at Nick’s on 2nd leans into the comfort canon with confident execution. The center-cut filet, cooked to temperature with a tender, even sear, pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes and a glossy sauce. Seafood fans gravitate to the cioppino, praised for its richness and layered flavor. And when meatloaf appears on the menu, regulars celebrate – nostalgic yet elevated with careful seasoning and balanced sides. Portions satisfy without overwhelming, letting you enjoy starters, mains, and dessert in stride. The throughline is technique: sauces are tight, textures deliberate, and plating clean. It’s classic American fare, refreshed and reimagined for an intimate, modern dining room.
5. Cocktails, Wine, and Easy Sipping
Nick’s on 2nd backs its kitchen with a beverage program that takes pairing seriously – but keeps fun front and center. An espresso martini arrives frothy and balanced, the coffee notes playing nicely with dessert or a rich entree. Spicy margaritas bring a playful kick, great alongside taquitos or seafood. The wine list supports both splurge nights and casual dinners, and staff recommendations feel honest and on point. Cocktails are consistent, garnishes precise, and glassware polished – a tactile reminder of the restaurant’s meticulous approach. It’s as easy to settle in for a pre-dinner sip as it is to craft a full pairing across courses.
6. Service That Sets the Tone
Service is a hallmark at Nick’s on 2nd, combining polish with personal warmth. Servers are quick with suggestions, adept at reading the table, and attentive without hovering – helpful for guests new to the menu or weighing multiple options. Small gestures go far, from thoughtful pacing to celebratory cards that turn milestones into memories. Even on busy nights, staff keep the energy relaxed and engaging, steering large groups and intimate dates with equal grace. Guests frequently call out standout servers by name, crediting them with making meals feel special. That consistency keeps the patio buzzing and the dining room full.
7. Plan Your Visit: Hours, Location, and Vibe
Nick’s on 2nd sits at 4901 2nd St, Long Beach, CA 90803, anchoring a walkable stretch of Belmont Shore with shopping and coastal energy. Operating hours span most days – lunch through dinner – with late closings on weekends; check daily times before you go. Parking typically includes nearby public lots and street options, and the short stroll adds to the neighborhood charm. The atmosphere trends lively, so expect conversation-friendly bustle, especially during prime brunch and dinner hours. Reserve ahead for peak times, and request the patio if alfresco dining calls your name. The glass-lined interior keeps things bright, even as the evening sets a cozy tone.
8. Sweet Finishes and Lasting Impressions
Dessert at Nick’s on 2nd punctuates the meal with finesse and a wink of indulgence. A towering lemon cake, bright and generously portioned, has earned a loyal following – zesty, moist, and easily shareable. Paired with an espresso martini or fresh coffee, it’s a sweet finale that lingers without heaviness. Presentation is clean and inviting, and staff will happily pace your dessert to match the mood of the table. Whether you’re capping a steak dinner or wrapping brunch, the last course underscores the restaurant’s philosophy: classic comforts, executed with care. You leave satisfied, seen, and ready to plan the next visit.
