If you’ve spent any time in Long Beach, you might have strolled past the tree-lined streets and charming homes of Stoney Brook—one of the city’s most laid-back yet vibrant neighborhoods. But have you explored the neighborhood’s quietly impressive food scene? Nestled between the bustle of CSULB and the leafy comfort of Recreation Park, Stoney Brook is a surprisingly rich destination for food lovers eager for both local favorites and global flavors. Whether you’re a student, a long-time resident, or just visiting, here’s your guide to the best dining, cozy cafés, sweet bakeries, and spirited food traditions throughout Stoney Brook.
The Main Streets of Flavor: Where to Start
Most of Stoney Brook’s culinary gems cluster around East Atherton Street, with spurs into Bellflower Boulevard and the neighborhood’s quieter residential blocks. Start your tasting tour near the intersection of Atherton and Palo Verde, a true launch point for all things tasty.
Standout Restaurants: From Family Favorites to Date Night Destinations
- Dave’s Burgers (3396 E. Atherton St.)
- A beloved local classic, Dave’s isn’t flashy—it’s retro Americana done right. This cash-only spot is famous for its juicy burgers, crinkle-cut fries, and nostalgic milkshakes. The double cheeseburger is a rite of passage in Stoney Brook, and at around $7-10 a meal, it’s both affordable and delicious. Expect a crowd during lunch hours—locals swarm here for their burger fix.
- Marina Pacifica Deli (near the corner of Atherton & Ximeno)
- If you wander just past the main residential row, you’ll discover this humble deli drawing in families and sandwich enthusiasts alike. Their turkey avocado melt and classic pastrami are the heroes here—hearty, stacked tall, and always served with a smile. Lunches land in the $8-12 range, and the deli’s loaded potato salad is a must-try side.
- Bali Asian Bistro (in the Atherton Plaza center)
- Bali is where Stoney Brook’s international spirit shines. Sample their house-made curry, fragrant coconut rice, or tangy mango salads. Prices range from $12-18, and the ambiance is casual but inviting. Weeknights see regulars ordering generous portions of chicken satay and tapping into the excellent vegetarian menu.
- The Crooked Duck (5096 E. Pacific Coast Hwy, just blocks from Stoney Brook)
- Widely loved as a breakfast and brunch staple, The Crooked Duck is a short stroll for many residents and totally worth the walk (or drive). Think lemon ricotta pancakes, chorizo scrambles, and inventive French toast in a cheerful, laid-back setting. Breakfast is in the $10-15 range and servings are as generous as the service. The shaded patio is a favorite lazy Sunday haunt.
Cafés to Sip and Snack
- Portfolio Coffeehouse Express (inside the CSULB Science Building)
- Perfect for students and remote workers alike, this satellite of Retro Row’s iconic coffeehouse delivers strong espresso, creative iced lattes, and locally baked pastries. Don’t skip the seasonal scones or the indulgent chocolate croissants. Drinks from $3-5.
- Philz Coffee (4401 E. Pacific Coast Hwy)
- Not quite in the heart of Stoney Brook, but close enough for a morning or afternoon coffee run, Philz offers custom pour-over coffee, quirky blends, and a community vibe. Grab a “Mint Mojito” iced coffee and enjoy people-watching at the shaded outdoor tables.
Baked & Sweet: Must-Try Bakeries
- Baked By the Ocean (Atherton & Bellflower)
- This cozy bakery-café churns out some of the best cupcakes, cookies, and hand pies in the area. Try their salted caramel brownie or the rotating seasonal pie—locals order cakes for birthdays and celebrations here. Most treats are under $5, so you can sample a few.
- Sweet Retreat Donuts (4306 E. Anaheim St., near the Stoney Brook border)
- This old-school donut shop draws early risers with its classic glazed rings, old-fashioned buttermilk bars, and maple bacon twists. It’s a nostalgia hit, priced at $1-3 per donut, and often sees lines before school and work. Don’t miss the apple fritter!
Food Trucks and Quick Bites
Walking around the neighborhood, you’ll often catch the scent of *something* delicious wafting from a food truck or cart parked near parks and busy corners.
- El Jefes Tacos (Fridays at Willow & Palo Verde)
- Friday nights mean tacos. El Jefes is a local favorite for street tacos—carnitas, carne asada, and veggie options, all cooked fresh on the spot. For $2-4 a taco, you’ll fill up without breaking the bank. Grab a homemade agua fresca and enjoy a picnic at the nearby park.
- The Greenhouse Kitchen (pop-up along Atherton)
- This vegan food truck makes waves with inventive salads, tofu wraps, and hearty grain bowls. The “Buddha Bowl”—a rainbow of roasted veggies, legumes, and zingy dressing—gets top marks from regulars.
Local Traditions & Hidden Gems
- Stoney Brook Farmers Market (Sundays at Atherton & Park Ave)
- Not technically a restaurant, but where the neighborhood’s food lovers gather! Shop fresh produce, grab hot tamales or pupusas from food stalls, and taste artisanal breads straight from the oven. There’s often live music and a friendly, open-air vibe.
- Campus Eats (CSULB Sidewalk Vendors)
- During the school year, dozens of pop-up food carts appear along the sidewalks near Atherton—think elote (Mexican street corn), churros, and fresh fruit with tajin and lime. Often under $5, these snacks are a cherished tradition for both students and locals.
Why Stoney Brook’s Food Scene is Special
While Stoney Brook may not flaunt the high-profile dining of Downtown or Belmont Shore, its culinary heart is authentic, affordable, and rooted in community. You’ll find families who have visited Dave’s Burgers for generations, students introducing friends to their favorite coffee, and neighbors catching up over sandwiches at a local deli. Stoney Brook’s food scene is a tapestry of hidden gems and classic favorites—a place where good taste meets neighborhood tradition, always ready to welcome a new hungry friend.
Whether you’re searching for your next brunch haunt, a sensational sweet treat, or the perfect food truck taco, come hungry—and leave ready to call Stoney Brook your new favorite flavor town in Long Beach.