Marlena Long Beach

Kristinn Borgfjord

I’ve been coming here for special occasions and date nights for a few years and it’s an amazing place! I usually make a reservation but when I haven’t the wait wasn’t too long. I always get the Spanish Octopus, the agnolotti (which changes with the season, the sweet corn is my favorite), the halibut, and the pork chop (which is also changes throughout the year). I had the duck here which was also amazing. I also highly recommend the burnt basque cheese cake for dessert. I really like how their menu will change throughout the year too so there’s always something new to try each time I come here.

MOE Saadi

Marlene Long Beach restaurant and bistro was a very nice experience. A mixture of modern authentic and real taste came on the table with a very nice collection of drinks.

Mia Antonelli

I really enjoyed this meal! Charming atmosphere and delicious fresh pasta and pizza! If I lived in Long Beach this would be a go-to for me.

Nidhin Varghese

Great place to go on a date night dinner. Amazing food, friendly vibes and attentive staff who took their time to make sure we had a good experience. My favorites were their Crispy Fried Cauliflower and Spicy Salami Pizza. It's the best cauliflower dish I have ever eaten. The Basque Cheesecake we shared at the end of our meal was delicious so was their Espresso Martini. Will be returning to this spot again. Highly recommend making a reservation as this place can get super busy.

Carl Foisy

An overall remarkable dining experience and culinary delight. First impression is visually pleasing with a beautiful aesthetic overall. Very welcoming and open vibes. The menu is concise with all of your favorites like duck, octopus, pork chop, halibut and some tasty veggie options including a tasty cauliflower dish. We had a party of 12 and shared some fabulous homemade pizzas, but also ordered several entrees and the tutti-frutti peas and pastas. Besides the approachable wine list, they also made a marvelous espresso and had some non alcoholic drinks too. The desserts were equally superb to the first part of the meal, and we all really enjoyed ourselves. Beyond the top notch food n drink, and the gorgeous atmosphere …the people made the place tops. Their attention to detail and high level of hospitality was also very enjoyable. Looking forward to visiting again. Things indeed a dining destination. Bravo Marlena LB!

J Webber

The food and atmosphere were great. I had the breakfast sandwich, and it was delicious. Our server, Francisco was very helpful and kept us updated on when our food and drinks would be served. We loved this place and definitely be back.

KG

My first time at Marlena, and let me tell you, this place truly delivered! Our server, Alec, had the most amazing personality and did a fantastic job recommending and describing everything on the menu. The cocktails were phenomenal, and the food was equally impressive. Here’s what we ordered: • Grilled Spanish Octopus: Tender to perfection, with flavors that were absolutely on point. • Crispy Fried Cauliflower: This was absolutely delicious and, in my opinion, a must-order! • Little Gem Salad: Their unique take on a Caesar salad—simple yet satisfying. • Pappardelle Oxtail Ragu: I couldn’t try this due to dietary restrictions, but it was rated a solid 7/10 by my dining companion. • Blue Oyster Mushroom Pizza (GF): OMG, I’m in love with this! It was absolutely perfect. • Prosciutto Pizza: My boyfriend thought it was good but felt it would’ve been better with more prosciutto. For dessert, we ordered: • Orange Fennel Olive Cake: Such a unique combination of flavors that worked beautifully together—phenomenal! • Burnt Basque Cheesecake: Creamy, rich, and simply divine. Overall, the ambiance, service, cocktails, food, and desserts were fantastic. The portions were just right—not too little, not too much. We will definitely be back, and next time, we’re excited to try brunch for a different vibe!

Margot ROBERT-AUMERCIER

By far the best chocolate croissant I had since I came back from France two years ago. The quality of the ingredient and the freshness (the pastry chef makes everything in the morning) made it exceptional. Coffee was perfect, as well as the atmosphere and service. I cannot wait to come here for dinner night.

Jose Ho

We're avid food enthusiasts, constantly exploring new spots in our quaint city. The thrill escalates when a renowned LA chef extends their culinary expertise to Long Beach. During our first visit, we aimed to savor a diverse array of dishes, focusing particularly on appetizers and small plates. The ambiance captures a beachy vibe, resonating with our coastal setting. However, instead of an ocean view, the expansive open space reveal a parking lot. The interior exudes modernity, adorned with wood-look slats, creating an outdoor feel even though it's predominantly covered and equipped with heaters. A small bar, featuring bar seating and high tops, adds a cozy touch, especially with the sliding doors wide open. I thoroughly enjoyed every dish during my dining experience. The combination of beats with labni was exceptional, and the octopus, mussels, and whole branzino were all cooked to perfection, delivering delicious flavors. However, the Hiramasa crudo left me undecided; it was the only dish that didn't quite win me over. Despite this, the overall culinary experience was delightful, and the majority of the dishes left a lasting positive impression. And we went back to take a friend in between a long layover at LAX.

We recently had the pleasure of dining at a truly wonderful establishment. The ambiance was absolutely immaculate, creating a cozy and cute atmosphere from the moment we stepped inside. To our delight, the food was exceptionally delicious, exceeding our expectations with every bite. Furthermore, the service we received was commendably prompt and attentive. We highly recommend this restaurant for a delightful culinary experience.

We loved our experience at Marlena's. The staff was outstanding. Friendly, helpful, down to earth. The food was excellent. We had the baby sweet potato starter that melts in your mouth. The Tagliatelle Ragu was rich with a hint of spice & perfectly cooked pasta, and the Sea Bass that was flakey buttery goodness. They do not have an extensive wine list, but the wines they carry are thoughtfully chosen and pair beautifully with their dining options. Overall we were very happy with our evening and will definitely be back

Fabulous Experience with Alec as our attentive, adorable waiter. I believe that every restaurant has its best dishes. You have to find them. I was recommended to try Sunday Brunch by a Foodie friend. Wow ...We all had the BEST Irish Coffee I have had since the Buena Vista in San Francisco. It baffles me why they don't advertise it!!! Then we shared the Lemon Blueberry Pancakes....One again a huge winner! Finally we tried the Spicy Pizza...thin crust made n a great Pizza oven. If you haven't tried these foods there...you haven't had the Marlena experience... Thanks to Alec for a great fun time! Going back with more people soon! See you there...

Gaurav Jain

We recently had the pleasure of dining at a truly wonderful establishment. The ambiance was absolutely immaculate, creating a cozy and cute atmosphere from the moment we stepped inside. To our delight, the food was exceptionally delicious, exceeding our expectations with every bite. Furthermore, the service we received was commendably prompt and attentive. We highly recommend this restaurant for a delightful culinary experience.

emma spatharos

We’ve been to Marlena multiple times, and it’s always been excellent, but last night knocked it out of the park. The burrata heirloom tomato special was incredible, and paired with the Rosso bread, heaven! The service is always fantastic (shoutout to Cait), the drinks are delicious, and everything is just perfection. Highly recommend making a reservation ahead of time!

Irene C.

By far the most exquisite Monday meal I’ve ever had in Long Beach so far. Thoughtful service with dishes that are crafted with smart and new flavors. High quality meal that made visiting with my friend effortless and delicious. I feel nourished after eating here.

Lovely restaurant, friendly staff. Pizzas were good. Couldn't recommend the Beef Tartare, not made how I am used to. Not bad, just different. We also had a salad which was OK but nothing special. Would go back, but would only have pizza.

Phenomenal service and atmosphere, beautiful restaurant, great location. Fresh and seasonal ingredients. Awesome italian neighborhood spot that we were recommended by a local. Unfortunately I just didn't think the food was special. The pizza had great crust but the blue oyster mushroom just lacked flavor and heat, should have been finished off with maybe some red pepper flakes or fresh pepper and I could barely taste the brininess of the olives. The oxtail ragu papapradelle was well executed, cooked Al dente but the ragu lacked depth of flavor and i wish it came with some crusty bread crumbs over top to mix up the texture. It's all very one feel for this dish and wished it had a bit more cheese or even a nice creamy cheese mixed in to give it a smoother flavor. Great wine and cocktail list.

Robert Agar-Hutton

Lovely restaurant, friendly staff. Pizzas were good. Couldn't recommend the Beef Tartare, not made how I am used to. Not bad, just different. We also had a salad which was OK but nothing special. Would go back, but would only have pizza.

Sun Lee

Phenomenal service and atmosphere, beautiful restaurant, great location. Fresh and seasonal ingredients. Awesome italian neighborhood spot that we were recommended by a local. Unfortunately I just didn't think the food was special. The pizza had great crust but the blue oyster mushroom just lacked flavor and heat, should have been finished off with maybe some red pepper flakes or fresh pepper and I could barely taste the brininess of the olives. The oxtail ragu papapradelle was well executed, cooked Al dente but the ragu lacked depth of flavor and i wish it came with some crusty bread crumbs over top to mix up the texture. It's all very one feel for this dish and wished it had a bit more cheese or even a nice creamy cheese mixed in to give it a smoother flavor. Great wine and cocktail list.

Friend suggested this place for a girls night dinner after seeing videos on Instagram. Nice Location but it is all Outdoors. Parking is small so we had to park on street. Vibe and decor is cute. Our waitress was helpful . I wasn't totally blown away on the food for the pricing but it was ok. Would I come here again ? Probably not. Was it nice for a girls night out ? Sure.

I’ve heard many good things about this restaurant and I decided to visit. Ambience and service are good, but that’s as far as it goes. The margaritas were mediocre, definitely not spicy enough. The salad bitter, the prime ribeye was just ok, but I really enjoyed the Bianca bread. I would give it another chance for some pizza and wine though.

Vicky Patila

I’ve heard many good things about this restaurant and I decided to visit. Ambience and service are good, but that’s as far as it goes. The margaritas were mediocre, definitely not spicy enough. The salad bitter, the prime ribeye was just ok, but I really enjoyed the Bianca bread. I would give it another chance for some pizza and wine though.

Had Mozarella Pizza and Arugala Salad. Really enjoyed the salad tho initially brought it to table w/ steak on side; I am vegetarian. Oops. Mozzarella pizza good tho not exceptional... lukewarm at arrival to table. Waitress nice enough but didn't see her after placing our order until she reappeared to see if we might want dessert. Was asked if I wanted a re-fill on my drink as I was paying for the meal. Super loud and tables very close together so be prepared to talk over the tables next to you unless perhaps you can secure a seat outside. Might go there again but only during slow hours... definitely not at peak times. A bit of a disappointment after having read the rave reviews. Tho my lunch company was great :)

Other than the atmosphere, this place is not worth your money spent; unless you like pizza. The octopus did not taste fresh. The lamb chops were a bit a gamey and under cooked and the main course came 30+ minutes late. The pizza was amazing, though.

Diane Kinder

Had Mozarella Pizza and Arugala Salad. Really enjoyed the salad tho initially brought it to table w/ steak on side; I am vegetarian. Oops. Mozzarella pizza good tho not exceptional... lukewarm at arrival to table. Waitress nice enough but didn't see her after placing our order until she reappeared to see if we might want dessert. Was asked if I wanted a re-fill on my drink as I was paying for the meal. Super loud and tables very close together so be prepared to talk over the tables next to you unless perhaps you can secure a seat outside. Might go there again but only during slow hours... definitely not at peak times. A bit of a disappointment after having read the rave reviews. Tho my lunch company was great :)

Jess Salas

My wine was sour. My steak was cold. My appetizer needed salt, but not available on the table. The table we were seated at was awkwardly oriented. Service was lacking. Definitely not worth the hype or price. The only thing I enjoyed was my husband's drink and the bread.

Iris & James

It’s a cute restaurant with good food, but the service is slow and terrible. Four of us went for Saturday brunch and the restaurant is not full. We waited over 40 minutes for our food after we placed our order. During that time, our waitress didn’t come and give us any update on the food. Once we got our food, no one comes to check on us on how the food was. All the waiters ,waitresses and hosts were just chatting. We couldn’t get any attention from anyone to come refill our drink. Finally, I have to grab a busboy to ask for a refill. He grabs our glasses, and didn’t come back till 10 minutes later. We ended up paying and left because the service is slow and not attentive at all. It’s such a shame that is a cute restaurant with good food, but I don’t think we will go back again because of the service.

I was served hot ' gray ' hamachi spoiled raw fish ' which looked like it was prepared by a 5 year old with scissors. This is not crudo. Its food poisoning in the making. The atmosphere of the place was great but food is absolutely disgusting and can get you really sick. A beautiful restaurant that serves spoiled food. How sad. Highly recommend you hire a real chef if you want to call your self upscale. I do not recommend.

Nice atmosphere and attentive service, although the pacing felt somewhat rushed. As an Italian with a very refined palate, I tend to be quite particular about Mediterranean cuisine. In my view, the food is overpriced for the portion sizes, which were surprisingly small. The restaurant aims for a Mediterranean identity, but the execution falls short of that standard. We ordered the Spanish octopus (which came with three very small tentacles), three small meatballs, and a pizza that unfortunately did not resemble what I would consider a proper pizza. It lacked mozzarella entirely and had an unexpectedly sweet flavor. The menu indicated salami, but it was barely detectable. In the end, it felt like crust with tomato sauce and arugula. The wine, however, was good and enjoyable.

April Amara

Many staff milling around doing nothing. CS is horrible: took a long time to get water and place order, server checked how everything was but turned away before we even said everything was okay. This makes sense because there is a 22% service fee on the bill (they get paid regardless). Some food items were good however the side of fingerling potatoes that should have accompanied pricey beef weren’t seasoned. Oxtail pasta was bland (not sure if they charged for chili flakes or not). There was too much dressing on the Cesar salad. The cauliflower had nice flavor but is dry and needs to be accompanied by a dip or sauce (they charged $2 for a small ramekin of dip). Cocktails ordered without alcohol are still $17. Our booth overlooked an unsightly parking lot/back side of an apartment complex. We thought we’d try a local dining treat/support a local business but next time we’ll definitely be driving to 71 Above in LA for a delightful culinary experience, beautiful atmosphere and excellent service instead for the same price. We gladly tip them because they deserve it!