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Name: L’Opera Ristorante
Address: 101 Pine Ave, Long Beach, CA, 90802
Telephone: (562) 491-0066
Price range: Under $11
Rating: 3.92

L’Opera Ristorante

101 Pine Ave, Long Beach, CA, 90802

(562) 491-0066
Store is closed

L’Opera Ristorante Menu

L' Antipasti

Bruschetta A Modo Mio

Carpaccio Classico

Calamari Fritti

Frutti Di Mare

Trittico Di Cose

Polpette A Modo Mio

Caprese Classica

Cocktail Di Gamberi

Prosciutto Del Giorno

Vongole Piccanti

Tartara Mediterranea

Formaggi Misti

Bruschetta A Modo Mio

Carpaccio Classico

Calamari Fritti

Frutti Di Mare

Trittico Di Cose

Polpette A Modo Mio

Caprese Classica

Cocktail Di Gamberi

Prosciutto Del Giorno

Vongole Piccanti

Tartara Mediterranea

Formaggi Misti
Le Zuppe

Minestrone

Pasta E Fagioli

Zuppa Di Zucca

Dell' Opera

Messalina

Degli Innamorati

Minestrone

Pasta E Fagioli

Zuppa Di Zucca

Dell' Opera

Messalina

Degli Innamorati
Pranzo Veloce

Zuppa Or Bruschetta

Sorpresa

Zuppa Or Bruschetta

Sorpresa
Panini

Panino San Daniele

Di Manzo

Panino San Daniele

Di Manzo
Primi Piatti

Fettuccine Alla Checca

Mezzelune D'aragosta

Girasoli Di Pollo

Ravioli Al Tartufo

Cappelli Lombardi

Lasagna Al Ragu

Agnolotti Melanzane

Penne All' Arrabbiata

Cappellacci Di Zucca

Spaghetti Ai Frutti Di Mare

Gnocchi Filanti

Cannelloni All' Osso Buco

Favorito

Fettuccine Alla Checca

Mezzelune D'aragosta

Girasoli Di Pollo

Ravioli Al Tartufo

Cappelli Lombardi

Lasagna Al Ragu

Agnolotti Melanzane

Penne All' Arrabbiata

Cappellacci Di Zucca

Spaghetti Ai Frutti Di Mare

Gnocchi Filanti

Cannelloni All' Osso Buco

Favorito
Secondi Piatti

Battuta Di Pollo

Agnello Ai Carciofi

Tagliata Piemontese

Pesce Rustico

Salmone Dorato

Scaloppine Alla Piccata

Scaloppine Al Mascarpone

Scaloppine Alla Milanese

Straccetti

Melanzane Alla Parmigiana

Battuta Di Pollo

Agnello Ai Carciofi

Tagliata Piemontese

Pesce Rustico

Salmone Dorato

Scaloppine Alla Piccata

Scaloppine Al Mascarpone

Scaloppine Alla Milanese

Straccetti

Melanzane Alla Parmigiana

Healthy Meal suggestions for L’Opera Ristorante

L' Antipasti

Bruschetta A Modo Mio [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Carpaccio Classico [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Calamari Fritti [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Frutti Di Mare [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Trittico Di Cose [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Polpette A Modo Mio [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Caprese Classica [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Cocktail Di Gamberi [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Prosciutto Del Giorno [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Vongole Piccanti [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Tartara Mediterranea [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Formaggi Misti [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Bruschetta A Modo Mio [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Carpaccio Classico [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Calamari Fritti [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Frutti Di Mare [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Trittico Di Cose [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Polpette A Modo Mio [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Caprese Classica [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Cocktail Di Gamberi [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Prosciutto Del Giorno [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Vongole Piccanti [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Tartara Mediterranea [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Formaggi Misti [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Le Zuppe

Minestrone [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Pasta E Fagioli [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Zuppa Di Zucca [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Dell' Opera [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Messalina [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Degli Innamorati [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Minestrone [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Pasta E Fagioli [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Zuppa Di Zucca [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Dell' Opera [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Messalina [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Degli Innamorati [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Pranzo Veloce

Zuppa Or Bruschetta [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Sorpresa [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Zuppa Or Bruschetta [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Sorpresa [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Panini

Panino San Daniele [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Di Manzo [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Panino San Daniele [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Di Manzo [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Primi Piatti

Fettuccine Alla Checca [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Mezzelune D'aragosta [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Girasoli Di Pollo [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Ravioli Al Tartufo [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Cappelli Lombardi [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Lasagna Al Ragu [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Agnolotti Melanzane [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Penne All' Arrabbiata [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Cappellacci Di Zucca [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Spaghetti Ai Frutti Di Mare [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Gnocchi Filanti [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Cannelloni All' Osso Buco [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Favorito [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Fettuccine Alla Checca [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Mezzelune D'aragosta [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Girasoli Di Pollo [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Ravioli Al Tartufo [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Cappelli Lombardi [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Lasagna Al Ragu [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Agnolotti Melanzane [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Penne All' Arrabbiata [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Cappellacci Di Zucca [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Spaghetti Ai Frutti Di Mare [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Gnocchi Filanti [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Cannelloni All' Osso Buco [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Favorito [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Secondi Piatti

Battuta Di Pollo [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Agnello Ai Carciofi [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Tagliata Piemontese [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Pesce Rustico [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Salmone Dorato [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Scaloppine Alla Piccata [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Scaloppine Al Mascarpone [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Scaloppine Alla Milanese [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Straccetti [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Melanzane Alla Parmigiana [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Battuta Di Pollo [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Agnello Ai Carciofi [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Tagliata Piemontese [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Pesce Rustico [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Salmone Dorato [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Scaloppine Alla Piccata [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Scaloppine Al Mascarpone [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Scaloppine Alla Milanese [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Straccetti [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Melanzane Alla Parmigiana [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

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Write An Anonymous Review

Kira A.

I had the pleasure of dining here on two consecutive evenings while in town for a conference. While the butternut squash ravioli (which were actually tortelloni, as far as I could tell) were probably my favorite dish, everything I had was delicious, including the fried polenta with wild mushrooms, gnocchi with pesto, and the best penne arribiata I've had in recent memory. I'm usually one of those people who wonders why yelpers waste space describing a restaurant's service, but it would do the staff here a disservice not to mention it in this case -- every single member of the staff at L'Opera went out of their way to be accommodating, friendly, and welcoming. What a delightful group of employees! As a side note for the budget-conscious, this place has a fantastic happy hour menu from 2:30pm-6:30pm Mondays through Fridays that includes $3 house wine in either red or while and a nice assortment of "small" plates (the portions were quite generous given the prices).
(5)
Cindy L.

My professional group decided to have their holiday luncheon at L'Opera this year and that's how I ended up here. I can't comment too much on the main dining area and the experience of dining as a regular patron. They sat our group at the basement level, near where their wine cellar was. It was a nice touch that they took our individual order for entree and drinks and overall, service was excellent. What I really disliked about our designated "private party" location was that it never felt private because other wait staff continuously came through our area (in between our tables) to grab wine to bring upstairs to the main dining area. So I kinda felt we were just placed in a storage area instead of a nice isolated room without intrusion. The food wasn't bad. We had a choice of butternut squash ravioli, short rib ravioli or grilled chicken breast as our entree. I knew I wanted a pasta dish since we are at an Italian place. Ended up with the short rib one since I'm not a huge fan of butternut squash. However, the short rib ravioli wasn't that good. Got a bite of the butternut squash and that was definitely tasty! I really liked their dessert platter (great variety) but omg, their tiramisu just tasted like liquor. Parking: street, valet up front or various lots with different pricing. I went around the corner and parked at a $5 all day lot (called Autoport). The restaurant location is not too far from the pier so there's a nice area to walk around post meal if you like.
(3)
Kala S.

Food is good but wait staff leaves something to be desired. Caesar salad comes with ONE single anchovy. Not impressed.
(2)
Dorothy Y.

We were here to celebrate Mother's Day and Marlene's birthday, we were serenaded many times and the food was superb, service (we were treated like royalties), wine selections were plentiful and prices were fair. The chef prepared a special appetizer entrÃ©, paired with a soecial selection of Pinot, we had Osso Buco, my husband had the rack of lamb, finished with pana cotta , we had the best time ever!!!
(5)
Stephanie S.

My favorite part about this restaurant was that there was a live opera singer who sang to us! Ambience was elegant, food was delicious. Five stars!
(5)
K D.

As we arrived we were immediately seated as the place was almost packed for a Saturday night. Once seated I began to peruse the wine "novel" as my more then personable waiter described. While doing so he began to rant off menu selections and what they no longer had for the night. Also suggesting to buy a bottle of wine! Per no personal suggestions. Overwhelmed by the rant my guest and I were not impressed by this rushed process. The atmosphere is elegant and romantic with a live opera singer which was a nice surprise. Some interior furniture seemed a bit dated. However it gave the experience a rustic feel. Waiter came back to the table with fresh bread and was served with Chimichurri sauce. The meatball trio was ordered as appetizer. Both very delicious and full of flavor that sparked interest, however waiter could not answer what was in Chimichurri sauce except "Italian herbs". The Manicotti and "Favarito" dishes was ordered for entrees. Asked waiter if he could make any wine pairing suggestions and two samples were brought out which could only be expanded on by reading the menu. Would have been much more appealing if he would have gave more of a personal approach to things. A bottle of a Malbec blend was ordered and wine was constantly poured complimenting the dishes. 4.5 for the food 4 for the service Will come back someday!
(4)
Jeannette D.

Love, Love, Love this place. Nicole Lira (General Manager) and her staff at L'Opera are amazing. The food is to die for, the service is outstanding, and the bottles of exceptional wine are endless. I had the Butternut Squash Ravioli, which lives up to its fame, and tried a new drink called the "Rico" (refreshing cocktail with a kick of heat). Thanks you so much for all your hard work in making my birthday celebration a night to remember. We will be back!
(5)
Jose M.

L'Opera has been the restaurant of my preference since 2004, excellent Italian food and desserts, fantastic service.
(5)
Sheldon S.

We enjoyed a wonderful dining experience at L'Opera. The food, drinks and service was fantastic! Thank you to managers Nicole, Tiffany and our waitress April. We will be back to see you soon! L'Opera didn't disappoint!
(5)
Michael B.

Listen. Don't even open your menu at this place, just ask for Scott. Scott is the man and he is going to guide you on a magical dinner journey. If Scott is not there you may want to come back when Scott is there.
(5)
Grace L.

Writing this review a bit late. We did a Valentine's day double date here and it was very special and memorable. We ordered the prix fixe menu and the food was delicious. Idk if I'm remembering the name right, but their chocolate truffle pasta was my absolute favorite. The dÃ©cor was beautiful, the setting was very intimate. One of my friends is in a wheelchair and the restaurant was very accommodating. Oh and gotta love the opera singer who comes by your table. Best 3 hour double date dining experience ever.
(5)
Cora V.

Second time dining at this restaurant and we're so pleased with the friendliness of everybody. Julia is superb in giving us a good seat in the house, as always!!! The server, Jessica is so attentive and she made sure we got everything that we wanted. The opera singer , Sam, oh how we love his voice!!! Thanks everyone for another wonderful dining experience.
(5)
Jerome H.

L'Opera consistently delivers! The service is always good. Quality is consistently excellent. Prices....very reasonable. Oh yes, they make a great martini...and I have great experience in test said wares.
(5)
Jeffery B.

This place is amazing! My wife and I and two other couples had dinner here for the first time this past Sunday. We stopped in based on a recommendation from a friend and we are so glad we did. We started with the DEGLI INNAMORATI (lover's salad) which was very well balanced with just the right amount of balsamic dressing. For our entrÃ©e we choose the CAPPELLI LOMBARDI (short rib ravioli). It was so delicious! The pasta is made fresh daily and the gorgonzola cream sauce is top notch. All of this paired with the Hess cabernet sauvignon suggested by our waiter made for a very enjoyable meal. The level of service, the atmosphere, the food were all as good as I have experienced in a long time. Can't wait to come back!
(5)
Laura D.

Wonderful birthday dinner for a wonderful friend at L'Opera. The space is very nice, comfortable booths, and warm, woody decor. The staff was really extraordinarily friendly and serviceful. Three of us had the lamb chops, which were incredible. Cooked perfectly, not gamey, well seasoned. The veggies were tasty too. As appetizers we had the calamari fritti, which had a very thin breading and were just right crispy. We also shared the seafood pasta which had huge shrimps, mussels, and clams and al dente spaghetti. One of our group had the ravioli with zucca (pumpkin)....they smelled and tasted great. All in all a very nice place to have a birthday. We went early so it wasn't crowded but by the time we left almost all the tables were filled.
(5)
Randoll C.

After my first visit, I received feedback from Nicole - L'Opera's General Manager. I told her that I would return, because I had heard so many rave about this place, and after my second visit, you can add me to that list. Great food. Great Service. Good times. I came here with a vendor, who took me out to dinner. Dinner wasn't more enjoyable because it was on the vendor's expense account - but this time around, the service was what I hope for at any restaurant I visit. Attentive, friendly, funny and overall nice. I wish I remembered her name because she seemed to anticipate when to visit the table. As if she was reading our minds. The food was also awesome. I didn't want the vendor to know I am one of those Yelp freaks who take pictures of everything I eat - so I restrained myself and said to myself, I'll be back. Because I will. I had the Risotto and for me, with the first bite, i wanted to close my eyes and never forget the flavor. The lobster and mushrooms all just hit the spot. I also enjoyed the sides - yes, you have to order separately. I want to mention that I didn't mention management's offer to make sure I was taken care of during my next visit - from what I could tell, everyone was well taken care. And this time, I finished my dish off. I was tempted to lick the plate clean. I do appreciate how we weren't pressured to leave because after we ate, we started discussing business. The server still came around with refills and only brought the bill, after we asked.
(5)
Eric F.

What an amazing restaurant and atmosphere! Just went to enjoy a nice glass of wine and dinner...ended up talking to a few awesome people at the bar! The bartender Mickey is so sweet and extremely friendly... Even chatted with the owner who was an awesome down to earth guy! Had the chicken lasagna and WOW was it good! Would absolutely recommend this place and will come back anytime I'm in the area again.
(5)
Scott A.

Amazing spot. Wife and I ate here for our 19th Anniversary. Started w/ a sausage app, and then split a butternut squash pasta...(AMAZING). We had experienced this during a Taste of Long Beach event previously. She had Salmon and I had the Filet Gorgonzola. My wife enjoyed the Salmon and the Filet was huge and melted in my mouth. Service was spot on and everything was first class. Took advantage of a fantastic offer on TZOO. Even without the coupon everything would have been worth it. Definitely the best spot in Downtown Long Beach. Prices are decent for the quality of food and service.
(5)
Stephanie W.

FABULOUS!!!!!!!!!! The service here is impeccable. The food here is worth every single rich flavorful calorie! Our server picked every course of dinner this evening and I felt like I had the most wonderful personalized experience at a restaurant.
(5)
Grace R.

Food and service is great. Highly recommended
(5)
Chris G.

Relative to Long Beach, this is as good as it gets! I've eaten here a few times over the years and always seem to regret that so much time elapses between visits. A classy, special spot for a date night, or any night. I'm big into art and they feature Aldo Luongo - whom I like, so I always find that to be a treat. The ambiance and service aims to please, no stuffy attitude than can come with a nice place, just a pleasant smile which is looking to enhance your visit. Another cool aspect, from my Italian eyes, is that a crooner will start singing throughout the restaurant. I also like the chic elegance of the interior. Think white table cloths, with a strong white backdrop, including crystal chandeliers and a strong vibe of class - so cool. I can't call out one server, rather, I've never had bad service. The waiters are trained professionals, always prepared to tell you about the specials, or elaborate on whatever might catch your eye. One of my favorite dishes is a seafood stew - CIOPPINO, and they kill it here (A+). It rivals my favorite Italian eatery in San Pedro and has all the goodies one might expect, fresh fish, clams, mussels, shrimp, crab & calamari, in a broth of clam juice & tomatoes which is perfection. They have a vast wine selection and best of all, make a great dirty martini with hand stuffed blue cheese olives. I hope you enjoy your experience as much as I always do. Mangia! Mangia!
(5)
Dino D.

L'Opera continually and consistently serves the freshest, health-consciously prepared, and delicious tasting dishes, salads, and stews. This week with the drop in the temperature - I was craving an Italian seafood stew - and L'Opera serves up CIOPPINO, amazingly, with a hint of heat ($28). It is as good, or better, then the East Coast staple that requires a lengthy cooking time - a science in simmering & sautÃ©ing - of Fresh Fish, Clams, Mussels, Shrimp, Crab & Calamari, in a broth of Clam Juice & Tomatoes. The pungency and bringing together of spices & shell fish, is a meal in itself. It is garnished with Focaccia Bread ( the carbs were cast out). The seafood gets an A+ and L' Opera remains a favorite. Fa bene.
(5)
Eric H.

Came here the other night with Yelp buddy Dino D. and had one of my best meals of 2015. First the restaurant is impeccable, I'm picky about cleanliness and noticed this place was sparkling floor to ceiling. It's also one of the most tastefully done restaurants in LBC and their location is money. Staff was beyond friendly and attentive and everyone working there seemed to be enjoying the evening along with us. So cool when it's like that... The owner Terry sat and had dinner with us at the bar and it was one of the coolest dining experiences I've had, period. We had some wine and pasta fagioli (great wine selection btw) and then he ordered our stuff and customized it a bit, I think they had rigatoni con cubetti di manzo (cubes of beef) and I got penne arabiatta con spinache (with spinach). Food was excellent, this place is top notch dining in LBC. Terry, I cannot thank you enough my friend. You and your operation are quality through and through. Dino, I owe you one brother for introducing me to this place. Will be back over and over again, everyone should be bookmarking this place right now. Do it!!
(5)
Zoe L.

The food is amazing!! The wine list is incredible and the bartender was extraordinary. We had the carpaccio, lasagna and risotto. You can get a 2 oz pour of ultra premium wine for a reasonable price.
(5)
Tanya G.

Had a wonderful experience here with my family. April was a wonderful server and really catered to our needs. We ordered the gluten free rigatoni, the risotto con aragosta, the penne all'arrabbiata as well as the cocktail di gamberi and the dell'opera insalata. EXCELLENT! Definitely would recommend! Thank you April!!
(5)
Brad M.

This was a glorified il forinio in disguise to be honest. Don't let the white linen fool you, it's not as nice as it looks. My medallions were too big and almost strange the portion. Quality was b-. Server was good but paid more attention to the bigger table . Tiramisu was worthy
(3)
Christine R.

Beautiful Restaurant & Bar. Such Ambience for cocktails. I prefer to eat dinner elsewhere, however Pine St would never be the same without L'Opera.
(4)
Louie B.

Last night I stopped into L'Opera for happy hour to try some happy hour food and to try a few of their new cocktails. This is my second visit to L'Opera and when I walked in and sat down at the bar it was like I walked onto the set of friends. Everybody that took care of me the last time I was in there new my name and asked me how I liked my last meal and stuff. That personalized touch is what it is all about in my book. Props to Tina, Andrew and Alex! So Alex was taking care of me at the bar and I told him that I wanted to try a few drinks off the new cocktail menu. I had the following cocktails. The Skinny Vanilla: Absolut Vanilla Vodka, Agave Nectar, Muddled Fresh Blackberries topped with soda water. Double strained over fresh ice and served in a rocks glass The Tesoro: Cazadores Tequilla infused with roasted Jalapenos & Cilantro, Squeeze of Lemon, Don Julio Anejo, Splash of Pineapple Juice & Garnished with a Mint Sprig. Both cocktails where nice and refreshing. I would have to say that I was leaning towards the Skinny Vanilla if I was forced to pick a favorite. I also sampled these two items from the happy hour menu. I actually was not aware that L'opera had a happy hour menu. It goes on for a long time too! 2:30 until 6:30 which is a pretty healthy chunk of time! Both of theses dishes where only $5.95 Antipasto Misto: Chef's Assortment of Imported & Homemade Shaved Cured Meats Served with Seasonal Accompaniments. Penne All Arrabbiata: Tube Shaped Pasta Sauteed with Roasted Garlic, in a Spicy Chopped Roma Tomato Sauce, Tossed with Imported Romano Cheese. The Antipasto was the perfect starter for me and about an hour later I followed that up with the pasta and I was pretty full after that. If your in the neighborhood be sure to check out L'opera for some awesome Italian food!
(5)
Scott P.

Very elegant. Very unique offerings. Very knowledgeable staff when it comes to all aspects of your dining experience. Fantastic wine list at fairly good prices. An a cappella singer wanders with his operatic voice singing Italian favorites. Bottom line, a gem in the area. And after having both the lamb and filet, I would stay with any pasta instead. Seriously great pasta.
(4)
Rene S.

Outstanding. Andrew our waiter, superb. Started out with Bruschetta & arugula salad: then filet mignon & halibut. Topped it off with cappuccino & tiramisu. Stupendous. Tickled our palates. We highly recommend this wonderful Italian restaurant. Thanks for a great time.
(5)
Sonal P.

I came here for dinner the other night with a group of friends. I ordered the minestrone soup and the Innamorati salad - which has fresh strawberries and toasted almonds. I also tried a friends, butternut squash ravioli. The food was fresh and the quality of the ingredients were nice. The service was very friendly, and offered some great suggestions. The portion sizes are definitely smaller than the average 'American' type restaurant. So if you have a big appetite, you might want to order more than just an entrÃ©e. The do offer bread slices with a nice olive oil based dipping sauce. I wasn't a huge fan of the dessert, but they offered quite a variety of different Italian options. Overall, I thought the quality was delicious, but the food itself did not have a wow factor for me. I found the taste to be mediocre and nothing over the top. I'm not so sure I am sold on the place, given the price tag per dish.
(3)
Yolanda D.

So IMPRESSED with our food and service at LE OPERA were going back with family on Sunday! WOW! Elegant. Beautiful. 5 STAR SERVICE - 5 STAR DINNER. Butternut Squash AMAZING! BEST I've EVER HAD. Forgot how great it is to sit down to a beautiful dinner where you can actually hear your conversation.
(5)
Evan S.

I came to this restaurant with a party of around 18 awhile back expecting great things, mostly because of Yelp. I can most definitely say, my experience was not at all similar to all the positive reviews I've read here on yelp. To start, the service was absolutely abysmal. Immediately as soon as guests are seated, water and menus should be brought to the table. Our group had to request water from our waiter, who also happened to be the bartender. Thirty minutes in, because the waiter is extremely slow, we finally get to place 2 orders of Calamari to start with. Another 20 minutes pass, and the Calamari is still not here, we decide to put in our order for the main course. At an hour and 15 minutes, I ask for the manager, he tells me that they are unable to serve the Calamari because their fryers are broken. Completely understandable, except I've been waiting 45 minutes for the appetizer, and the moment you knew that the fryers were broken, our party should have been notified. He says that he will bring out complimentary Bruschetta. Now were at an hour and 30 minutes and the Bruschetta comes out. It's not bad, but I have had better. Then at an hour and 40 minutes, our main course comes out. Complete and utter disappointment all the main dishes were. All the pasta dishes if not most, were undercooked, and some were simple like Spaghetti and sausage. The butternutsquash ravioli dish that I had was so sweet it was unbearable. I tried a bit of my friends "Capelli Lombardi", which was the best dish out of the bunch , but still bland. IF the food was delicious, maybe, just maybe, the long wait time would have been acceptable, but unfortunately, I've tasted better for a much lower price. My question is, as an Italian restaurant, how can you screw up cooking the pasta? It would be the same as a sushi restaurant undercooking the rice, or a Mexican restaurant serving burnt tortillas. At the end, our party is on track to be late for a function, 2 hours and 10 minutes have already elapsed. The manager tried to make up for the terrible experience by bringing out a platter of free mini desserts. It would have been nice to enjoy, but unfortunately our time restrictions would not permit us; we had to grab some of the desserts by hand and go. By the time it was all said and done, the total time wasted was 2 Hours and 30 Minutes.... absolutely ridiculous. I did not want to tip due to this being one of the worst dining experiences I have ever experienced; the manager I insisted I leave a little for the bus boys. I complied because I realized the only people in that restaurant working hard were the bus boys. I'm not being a negative nancy for the sake of it, I wanted to have an enjoyable experience in light of the fact this restaurant is Zagat rated, but I was let down. 1.5- Stars for overall experience. 1- for the restaurant, .5 for the manager trying to make up for everything.
(1)
Lori R.

My husband took me here for a romantic birthday dinner and it didn't disappoint. L'Opera is a beautiful restaurant. The food was amazing. Hubby had found an internet coupon (Living Social??) that cost about $76. For that we got an appetizer & pasta to share, 2 entrees and a shared dessert. Way to much food and worth every penny. Can't remember the name, but their house favorite pasta (first pasta in the menu) is amazing. I could go there and eat just that. Even half a portion made me so satisfied I didn't really need the rest of the meal. The service is also very good (although not excellent). The manager goes to each table to introduce herself personally and ask if you need anything. A very nice touch. I have only one complaint. We went on a Saturday night because that's one of the only nights they actually have an opera singer (FYI he sings popular pieces that people who don't know or like opera will recognize and appreciate). The singer hardly sings - maybe 3-4 songs in the almost 2 hours we were there. My husband had made arrangements for him to sing to me for my birthday. He didn't come over until we were packing up and getting ready to leave. Then he asked ME what he should sing. My husband was disappointed they had clearly forgotten us and the occasion, and it is clearly a special occasion restaurant. Otherwise rather expensive. But the food is divine and I'd go back anyway. I'd highly recommend it for a special lunch or dinner.
(5)
Margaret S.

I went here based off a recommendation made by my hotel concierge. On a mission to only eat locally while in California (not hard at all), I came here last Friday night. Without reservations my friend and I were seated immediately. We skipped appetizers in anticipation of just getting to the main meal. I had the lasagna al ragu ($22) which was simply fantastic. It melted in my mouth with the thin layers of pasta and just the right amount of creamy sauce. The portion was very large for one person, but I'm not complaining! The opera singer was there as well, singing at a few tables nearby. Josh H. was my server and did a great job of being available but not intruding.
(5)
Bradd F.

Update... I remembered what I had after looking over the menu! I had the Ravioli stuffed with Red Wine Braised Short Rib and is sautÃ©ed in a Gorgonzola Cream Sauce, and it was AWESOME. I think all the wine may have clouded my memory before :)
(5)
Kimberly J.

I REALLY want to give this restaurant a higher review based on the service. However, the food was not mind blowing. My boyfriend and I came here last night for his birthday. Our server was kind and knowledgable. We started off with 2 glasses of wine then went to appetizers (Beware: these are NOT the technical names. Sorry!) Appetizers: Thin raw beef slices topped with capers, cheese, olive oil, lemon- This was delicious!! Shrimp cocktail-4 large shrimp with a delicious cocktail sauce. Both of us enjoyed it a lot. Dinner: Butternut squash ravioli- I really enjoyed it BUT it was almost overly sweet. It had a spicy red sauce which cancelled out the sweetness a bit. Occo Busco: the meat was so tender and delicious, but it came with polenta which was flavorless. I LOVE polenta, but we ended up wishing we had went with the risotto that our server originally recommended. Dessert: Creme brÃ»lÃ©e: I was expecting a traditional Creme brÃ»lÃ©e in a thin ramekin with a hard sugar topping that you hear crack with a tap of your spoon. We didn't get that here. Although the custard was delicious, the sugar was soggy which was a bummer for me :( it did come with fresh strawberry which was nice, but I think I had something else in mind. I definitely want to come here to give this place another chance!!
(3)
Ramin M.

Located in Long Beach, I thought this would be a home-run. Getting seating happened pretty quickly, but the rest of the lunch went considerably slower. They start you off with some crackers and bread that has plent of rosemary in it. We ordered the Chicken Parmesan and it good a good amount of time to be served. Staff were very nice and attentive, however, dont expect this to be a quick lunch. The food itself was OK. The chicken parm steamed veggies and potatoes. I'd try this place again if I go to Long Beach but I would try a different dish.
(3)
Baky S.

I've lived in Long Beach my entire life, and I can not believe I waited this long to finally try L'Opera. I ordered their lasagna and it's by far the best I've ever had. I've been back several times already and the service is definitely outstanding. I loved sitting by the window to people watch, their cocktails are amazing so I never get to finish my good lol, although the portions are insanely huge. I love the ambiance, valet was cheap, everyone was so nice and friendly. The manager was sweet too. They also have an opera singer for birthday parties. How cool is that! My friends birthday is coming up, he's half Italian and loves Italian food and I know the place to take him.
(5)
Charm L.

We were seated right away when we arrived, and our server was very attentive. He answered questions we had, since some Italian dishes differ from restaurant to restaurant. We weren't especially impressed with the frutti di mare or salmone dorato, but everything else was quite tasty. Desserts were delish!
(4)
Onur A.

one of the best fine dining options in Long Beach. Very good wine selection and good Italian cuisine -
(5)
Michael C.

L'Opera Risorante is one of my favorite Italian restaurants in southern California! The food is delicious and the service is superior! I highly recommend L'Opera to anyone wanting an authentic Italian dinner with quality service like no other!
(5)
Del F.

Returned to L'Opera after several years. We found the overall experience even better than we had remembered. We had veal and it was tender and well prepared. The wine list was extensive an fairley priced. The highligt of the meal was the service. April was our server and we remenbered her from our previous visit before we moved from the area 10 years ago. Personable, knowladgable and very timely and helpful in our selections. We will be back!
(4)
Stephen S.

my first experience was disappointing. calamari had no taste. veal was good but tough. swordfish just average. bread not good at all. very nice ambiance, opera singer was excellent. in total, not a good value.
(3)
Rinah A.

great service & food. we had a reservation and got seated right away. our server was very attentive and made sure that all of the party was satisfied with each course. the panna cotta is the best and a must try!!
(5)
Salsaboy S.

I went to L'Opera recently with some close friends. The space is lovely and the ambiance is nice, but I found the food to be disappointing. As a vegetarian, I was pleasantly surprised that the menu designates quite clearly which items are vegetarian and which items are vegan (as well as Gluten Free or Gluten Free optional). There are quite a few vegetarian options. A few salads. Some antipasto. At least three vegetarian pasta dishes (maybe four, but they were out of two of them) and at least one vegetarian main. They were out of a mushroom ravioli that I would have wanted to try, so instead I opted for Melanzane Manicotti, an eggplant manicotti. It was cleverly done because instead of the manicotti being stuffed with eggplant and cheese and whatever else, the rolled eggplant served as a the pasta. The eggplant was the manicotti; there was no pasta in this dish. Nicely presented and reasonable portion, but I didn't like it so much. I had started with the marinated quinoa salad, which, too, wasn't terribly flavorful. It lacked balance and stronger accents. The food was 2.5 stars but I give this three because the service was relatively good and the ambiance is nice. I wouldn't rush to return.
(3)
Anna B.

The ambiance was not relaxing, the opera singer that was singing at each table was competing with rock music playing in the restaurant sound system. We mentioned the loud rock music playing to our server and she said it was playing on pandora and the stations rotate. the food was inconsistent, the filet was perfectly cooked, filet medallion was orders Ned rare and came out well done, the veal was over salted, the lamb chops were over cooked. I probably would not come back.
(2)
Urmi A.

Found this place through a travelzoo promotion and we are so glad we took a chance. We shared a bottle of wine, bruschetta, butternut squash raviolis, I believe the BF ordered the lamb chops, I ordered the grilled eggplant, and we shared a chocolate-fruit combo dessert. Amazing food, the service was timed perfectly, the manager checked in on us. We would definitely visit again for another special occasion.
(5)
Steven James K.

Great vibe, great service, excellent food. I grew up with my Nonna's cooking from Naples and it's always a delight dining at L'Opera. Pretty much every dish you try here is really on point. The servers are really personable and the atmosphere is really awesome. Plus, you get to watch all of the downtown action and drama unfold from a beautiful large window view dining area. ;)
(4)
Dee C.

Solid home-made pastas with great ingredients, that's as good as it gets. Their bread basket though... I think my table ordered 4 rounds of it. So good. I definitely judge the restaurant based on how good the restaurant's bread basket is. Held a star back for their service department. Definitely need to brush up on their customer service 101.
(4)
Ozy A.

Way too expensive for what you get. I ordered chicken parm not thinking to double check what exactly I would get. The chicken parm itself was PEFECT but it came with potatoes and not pasta. I had to order the pasta as a side - the waiter did not want to replace the potatoes. The spaghetti was okay - a little on the dense side. In other words it could have been more tender. The waiter offered salad in the beginning and I assumed it was part of the meal. Total cost for one person $47.50.
(3)
James C.

WOW, INCREDIBLE AND EVEN BETTER. I haven't been in for awhile and there has been a few changes. The place looks great! New menus, new menu items, new glassware and flatware. It is like walking into a new reasturant. I was told that the number one owner has more to come. The food, drinks and service are still excellent. I might be stopping by more often not just for the food but to see what they will do next. Sam the Opera singer is here tonight. He is not usually here, I think only on Friday and Saturday; but what a great voice and festive atmosphere.
(5)
Brittany C.

Service was amazing food was delicious! I had the rigatoni which was amazing! I will definitely be back soon!
(5)
Rory S.

I love it here, exceptionally personable staff, constantly adjusted menu for new and/or improved items, and a phenomenal happy hour. This review goes out specifically to the lovely talent behind the bar known as Miki. Her service to my self and my guest was over the moon; between personalized drinks, entrÃ©e recommendations and the effort she put into her attire, we were sold. I'd definitely say my experience as a whole was much more than "ok..." But rather, spectacular.
(5)
J. O.

Great restaurant for a special occasion. Portions and price are good given the nature of these restaurants to usually give tiny portions, but I was wrong. Had the rack of lamb and my friend had ravioli stuffed with lobster both tasted great. Also had their calamari which was great, a must have at this place. Finished with sacchetto di cioccolata for dessert, it was great. Only reason it's not a five star is because the Italian acapela singer never came to our table to offer us a song while all the other tables did, but that's just me being picky about things. Our waitress was kind and courteous and got the job done. Overall great place to dine.
(4)
Scott M.

We had a great experience. We were greeted by the host as soon as we walked into the door. The server was very friendly, made an effort to ensure that we had everything we needed. The menu was nice and jad a great selection of appetizers, soups, salads and main dishes. The viel chops were great. A great place to eat at when your downtown Long Beach looking for a great Italian restaurant.
(4)
Joseph C.

Food, service and over quality of the restaurant is off the chart! Was greeted my a very friendly(and attractive) hostess by the name Madeline. Servers are on point and so was the manager. You can't go wrong with any food you order here but I recommend the butternut squash raviolis.
(5)
Debra B.

Went here after work, my husband and i carpool on mondays together. We walked in around 4is, and asked if they had happy hour, the hostess said yes, but only at the bar, so we decided to start with a drink and apps, then move to the dinning room. Since i work in the restaurant business, I have a harsh outlook on how i expect things to go. We sat at the bar and one bartender told us we could not have happy hour, because there was something going on and the cooks were going to be backed up. So we then asked if they had an happy hour drink list then, he proceeded to say no. We were getting ready to leave, when the other bartender, came up to us and said hey, I can do happy hour for you..what communication this restaurant has..As the evening went on we ended up sitting at the bar and having dinner as well..Good food, just lack of knowledge with the work staff on what is going on..
(3)
B P.

Bravo! An Italian restaurant that does it right! Quality ingredients. Full of zest and taste. Great service. Awesome wine selection. Well done. I would go back in a heartbeat.
(5)
James B.

Last night, my wife and I enjoyed a delicious dinner at L'Opera. We shared a Chicken dish and a Eggplant dish. I also enjoyed the Minestone Soup. Our server was friendly and courteous. It was a pleasant dining experience. The roving opera singer was also a plus.
(5)
John I.

L'Opera has a wonderful ambiance and passionate service, but unfortunately the food is slightly below average in the context of price. I started with the ravioli filled with braised short rib. The pasta wasn't light and fluffy and the sauce was a bit gummy. My main course was the veal picatta. Although the veal was generally tender, the sauce had too much pepper which distracted the overall tasting experience. Bread service was unremarkable, but courteous. Good luck in Long Beach, CA!
(2)
Lorrie T.

Had dinner there last night. Food was good. We had a variety of dishes, from pasta with crab to veal. And dessert for everyone. The service was unimaginably slow - especially considering there were only six other tables there. And the slow service was just a little snippy, too.
(3)
Sophie G.

From the greet to the eats. Everything was amazing. TARTARA MEDITERRANEA-omg. If I wasn't out in public, I would've devoured that in 30 seconds. Since I was in public, I was forced to enjoy it-slowly. Words can't describe how amazing it was. It was bomb. BATTUTA DI POLLO-chicken and mushrooms cooked to perfection. Need I say more? good, I'm at a loss for words, 110% satisfied!
(5)
Monica S.

I came here with my family when I was in the Long Beach area! This place is pretty upscale and on the expensive side, so I'd say this is a one time wonder, but nonetheless worth it! Because we had a large group of up, we got various dishes and decided to share. I feel like because of the fairly static taste of Italian food, you can't really go wrong, just the proportions should be on point, to have some good Italian food! Here are the dishes we got (from what I remember): Degli Innamorati: I don't usually like salad in general, but the strawberries added the sweetness that I needed! Calamari Fritti: It was good, but the pieces were a little too big, and a bit too chewy for my taste. Angel hair pasta with Beef (I don't remember the name of the dish, it was on the specials menu) - it had a good taste, and good vegetables, but it was nothing special in terms of flavors. For dessert, we got: Panna Cotta, Tiramasu, and Maria. All amazing desserts & highly recommended! Overall, I'd definitely recommend this place, but nothing to really go out of the way for!
(4)
An P.

I've been here twice and realized I won't be coming back. There's nothing exceptional about the place and it can get really pricey fast. The food is ok. Some items not so good. The restaurant is beautiful though. But the night we were there, they had live music and it was too loud. I think there are too many choices in this price range that can be better. Also, the service can take awhile.
(3)
Adrian I.

Wow this place is awesome. Service and food are amazing. Pine street is very busy but it is worth the hassle to come to this amazing restaurant. I would recommend this restaurant to anyone looking for a great experience.
(5)
Natalie G.

I love this place! I have only made it for happy hour and keep meaning to come in for an actual sit down dinner but I love the happy hour so much I never do! Grey goose specials until 6:30 for $7 - my fave is a dirty martini with their amazing blue cheese stuffed olives. $3 house wine, incredible appetizers from $5-9. Usually go for the bruschetta which is awesome with fresh burrata mozzarella but decided to try something new last night - the penne arrabiata. Super fresh tomatoes, nice, spicy kick to it. Definitely a winner. Also, the bartenders are super friendly and on top of their game. I swear I will do a real dinner one of these nights!
(5)
Lisa S.

Went for Valentines. Considering it a major Hallmark holiday, service was good and the food was amazing! Best darn martini in a while and the lamb was cooked perfectly. I really enjoyed the Balsamic reduction sauce with s hint of mint with the lamb. I'd be back; prices were actually not bad; I was pleasantly surprised.
(4)
Charles Fitzgerald B.

I wanted a awesome Italian restaurant. His place was it. My friends and I are coming back her in two weeks. The meatballs are crunchy on the outside and then melt in your mouth. The Tenderloin melted in your mouth. Lovely place for Date night!
(5)
Laura C.

Wow! Went to L'Opera during the LB Grand Prix festivities and had the delicious, over the top ,chicken lasagne! Everybody at our table had equally scrumptious entrees! The wine list is superb ! Highly recommend you try this ristorante. Beautiful ambiance
(5)
Norma R.

We have enjoyed coming to L'Opera for years. The food is always delicious. We have never been disappointed. My KIDS are very picky eaters and when we dine here. They always enjoy it ...they love the calamari, and caprese to start. We also had a wonderful intimate family gathering for our daughters senior graduation. We had the most outstanding service.. every detail was catered to our liking. We had a small party of 60 guest. Not one single complaint our guest talked about the food and celebration for weeks. PLEASE, IF YOU EVER NEED HELP HOSTING ANY EVENT CONTACT NICOLE LIRA.. SHE IS A JEWEL.
(5)
Sharon B.

Love this place! amazing service! Miki at the bar is fantastic! As for the food: Cappellacci di Zucca (butternut squash ravioli, Straccetti (filet medallions with capers and white wine, served with spinach and fingerling potatoes. Wine list is extensive and will please anyone's palates.
(5)
Oc S.

I travel all over the world and spent a great deal of time in Italy and this is as close to the real deal as you can get. Great atmosphere, terrific service and I cannot rave enough about the authentic Italian food. The nice aspect to this establishment is they are constantly offering different and unique dishes so every time I go in they have something new to try. I`ve referred lots of people here and have always had great feedback. If you have never been here, you are really missing out. Give it a try and I assure you that you will return.
(5)
Dominique R.

L'Opera is a wonderful restaurant with a wonderful staff and even more wonderful dishes. I've never had a bad meal here. Each time I come, there is always something new to try and it's never a hit or miss type of deal because their consistency is key. The intimacy of your private party in their downstairs room or your dining experience on the main floor is always a plus. Definitely give this place try any day of the week!
(5)
Chad A.

I had the Foie Gras appetizer and was blown away. That with a perfectly matched glass of Chardonnay made my night.
(5)
Joe M.

Rack of lamb Cioppino Great cocktails Good wine Be patient when it gets busy. Relax a little
(5)
Bri K.

I don't know if it was just an off night or what but the food was Olive Garden tasting. Actually worse. No flavor and not cooked right. The wine was WAY over priced. Our waiter was kind and polite but other than that this place can be forgotten about. Very expensive too. Go treat yourself to Olive Garden for a quarter of the price and for better food!
(2)
Deja L.

Loved this place. Our night started off undecided to.where to eat. We decided on this lovely Italian spot. The waiting staff was great the food delicious.we had appetizer to dessert and a bottle of wind. We stayed at the bar and had. a few drinks after as well. The bartender Riley was great I really plan on returning to this spot.
(5)
Georgiees P.

The lobster ravioli I had was sehr gut!! A little on the small portion size. It was great that they sat us right away even though it was Valentine's Day and it was really busy. I would recommend this place.
(5)
Steve E.

My business partner and I ate at L'Opera last evening, and had a phenomenal dinner. Yes this restaurant is expensive, and primarily for special occasions and expense account dinners. On the other hand, the meal and the service are world-class, and not to be missed. Our waiter was Scott, and he was very personable and extremely helpful as Bill and I studied the menu and waffled over all of those great choices. With Scott's help I decided on a half order of the Ravioli al Tartufo, which was homemade ravioli stuffed with black truffles, wild mushrooms & robiola cheese, finished with a brown butter sage sauce. Oh. My. Gawddddd. I know that my eyes rolled back into my head after the first bite, and Bill said I nearly floated out of my chair. Wow! This was a spectacular pasta dish!!! For my main course I had Scaloppine alla Milanese which was thinly sliced veal crusted with a chickpea flour set over a spicy marinara sauce, and finished with a wild arugula parmigiano cheese salad, and served with mashed potatoes. (Pardon me while I drool on my keyboard in memory of this dish.....) I had a glass of L'Opera's house Merlot which blended nicely with both of these hearty dishes. The wait staff was fabulous about filling our water glasses and whisking away the empty plates as we finished each course. Scott spent a lot of time chatting with us and describing the preparation of each of our dishes. A very knowledgeable guy, and super friendly. We told him how much we both enjoyed the specially-aged balsamic vinegar which was served with the bread, and he kindly scampered back to the kitchen to get us the information about the vinegar so that we can look for it when we get back to Tampa, FL. To conclude our meal, Scott recommended that I try Soffice e Leggera, which was caramelized crushed pineapple baked over a light, tender pound cake, drizzled with hot caramel sauce, CrÃ¨me Anglaise, and sliced strawberries. I sipped a cup of Espresso as we both sat back and said "WOW!" Truly one of our finest dinners in downtown Long Beach!
(5)
Sparky N.

Nice upscale atmosphere but the food is not worth the price. I had Prime Rib lunch and it was mostly bread. My two friends were not as lucky. Their food tasted like it was cooked in vinegar. I tried it too and tasted like it was pickled. The waiter offered to replace it but we thought we would get the same thing again. Maybe it's a special taste of the house? Nice view of Pine Ave and you are up high so your not at street level.
(2)
Eddie A.

This place is fantastic! Talk about quality food and service! I took the time to learn more about this place so that I could write a review. Upon entering, I was greeted with a warm sincere welcome from the hostess and the manager on duty. I was promptly taken to my table and immediately the server came over to greet me. L'opera instills the the old method of customer service. Not once did I have to pour my own wine or Pana water (still water from Italy). I learned that L'opera has a lower level in which all the pastas and breads are made from scratch! Unbelieveable! All the desserts are as well! That was like music to my ears. I ordered the tagliata piemontese which was cooked to a medium temperature. I could cut that steak with a butter knife. So tender and juicy, as a matter of fact, im craving it right now! It came lightly drizzled with a balsamic reduction dressing. The flat iron steak was set over marinated fingerling potatoes that complimented the steak very well. Fennel was set over the steak as a garnish. There are 2 very large banquet rooms in the lower level that accomodate large banquets. I would say about 150 people can fill both of the rooms. Beautiful Italian canvas' cover the walls. I noticed when I went to the restroomto wash my hands that they were playing italian lessons over the speakers, but only in the restroom. That blew me away, what a concept! L'opera has a special deal going on. They obviously know the state that the economy is in. Its a 3 course menu. You start off with the house salad, tentatively named the "Del'opra" salad. You then get a choice of an entree, the flat iron steak that i mentioned above or the grilled salmon with swhaved apples and fennel or the chicken and ricotta cheese stuffed ravioli with a golden tomato sauce. Lastly, my favorite, a choice of dessert. The classic Italian dessert that we all know and love, Tiramisu or the super delicious pana cotta which is a milk custard dessert. You cant go wrong with either. The restaurant was dimly lit with a few candles in different areas of the restaurant. Made it great for a romantic dinner or a very pleasant dinner with friends, family, or for even a business dinner. There was an opera singer that walked around singing which totally took me by surprise. AMAZING is all I have to say, just when i thought it couldnt get any better. Sadly, I believe they only have the opera singers on the weekends. This is a place where I will be coming back to time and time again.
(5)
Shanell C.

The food is okay, but the prices are petty high. If you are looking for spectacular...don't. The bread is good and the atmosphere is really nice. Maggiano's is still the best in town. If you haven't tried it and you like wonderful Italian food..check it out.
(3)
Michelle D.

Aaaaah no! Definitely not what it use to be...... So disappointing! Not going to say much, honey had what was suppose to be a steak, more like dried over cooked jerky! I had the ravioli, over cooked and blane. Salad was warm, however, the bread was the best part of the meal. Drinks took forever, not great, more juice than booze, should of got a glass of wine! In the end, we didn't even take the left overs. Normally, I'd order dessert, but decided to go to Golden Spoon. The waiter was great however, it didn't seem to get we didn't like our food! This place isn't cheap by no means, expensive for what you get, L'Opera is more of a touristy place..... next time we want to celebrate, we'll go to the Sky Room!
(1)
Dean A.

I had a late-ish dinner here a year ago, and I was underwhelmed. There was a wedding party in the space under the main floor, and the music overwhelmed my ability to talk with the other people in my party. I thought the food was good, but not spectacular for the noise and the price.
(3)
Merav C.

L'Opera is upscale in food and atmosphere, but doesn't carry that into the prices on the menu. The Primi Piati (pasta dishes) are all reasonably priced, comparable to Cafe Piccolo and La Creperie, my more regular step-up dining haunts. I've now been here twice and had a wonderful time both times. The first time, the boyfriend and I came here for a romantic, dress-up dinner for my birthday. They seated us in a quiet corner with great views of Pine Ave. Since the restaurant is above street level, you get more privacy than if people simply walk by, staring at your food. We ordered the Prosciutto del Giorno for an appetizer, which was served with cantaloupe, which was fine - good, but, yea, I could pick my own up at Trader Joe's. I was more curious how the chef would choose to pair the meat and I liked it with the cantaloupe. Because we were WILDLY indecisive (everything looked so good), we went with the Assaggini al'Italiana to order three types of ravioli. We ordered the three our waitress had recommended, actually - the Cappellacci di Zucca (butternut squash-stuffed squares with brown butter sage sauce), the Mezzelune d' Aragosta (lobster-filled half-moons with tomato and marsala sauce), and the Cappelli Lombardy (braised short rib in a gorgonzola cream sauce). These were all amazing. We received six ravioli of each of the choices we ordered, which meant nine ravioli each. The Cappellacci di Zucca was sweet, but the brown butter sage cut the sweetness and made it really wonderful. It also came with several fried sage leaves, which was really fantastic. The short rib in the Cappelli Lombardy was moist and tender. The gorgonzola sauce was incredibly delicious; even my stinky-cheese-hating boyfriend adored it. It was full of flavor without being heavy. The lobster Mezzelune were also a bit sweet, but in that delicious lobster way. I loved the brightness of the tomato and marsala sauce as well, and actually put it on the Cappellacci di Zucca as well. For dessert, we ordered the Soffice e Leggera, which was pretty much a right-side-up pineapple cake. Though it was decent, this was not entirely memorable. If you're into that kind of thing, though, this could easily become your favorite. They also brought out some chocolate-covered strawberries for my birthday. The sauce was still a bit wet - they dipped them into the chocolate sauce in the kitchen. They were really good. The chocolate was of good quality and the strawberries were fresh. I just went for the second time, taking my boyfriend's mom as a thank-you lunch.. We ordered the Trittico di Cose appetizer. Though this was much smaller than I was expecting, it was very tasty. The Ahi tuna sashimi was put in Balsamic sauce which paired together really well. The mini-caprese salad (buffalo mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil) had creamy cheese and very fresh tomatoes. The basil pesto was much more of a basil-infused oil, but really fresh-tasting and bright. I'd mainly ordered the appetizer because I'd never tried beef tartar. It tasted like a good roast beef (sorry for an overly-plebian description) with capers studding it, so there was a nice, sharp taste to it as well. I really enjoyed it :) I couldn't help myself; I ordered the Cappellacci di Zucca again and it did not disappoint. I was worried that, without the tomato-based sauce, the filling would prove too sweet and overpowering, but there was a spicy marinara (that's actually mentioned in the description on the menu..) that brightened the dish and really made everything dance on my palate. There was also a Girasoli di Pollo at the table. The tomato sauce was easily the best part of this dish. With the amount of roasted garlic, you could keep a world of vampires away, which I loved, but if you're sensitive, it may not be the dish for you. The chicken filling was a bit spicy, due to the red chili flakes. You could taste that the chicken had been roasted beforehand, which gave the filling a nice depth of flavor. And the desserts this time.. We ordered a panna cotta (there's someone's picture of one in the photos for this restaurant), which was creamy, silky, and giving. It was incredible. There was also L'incanto, which was apple-stuffed crepes with in-house-made caramel and chocolate sauces. This kind of came off as apple pie crepes. They were tasty, but I think my favorite part was the caramel sauce. Finally, someone ordered the gelato - two scoops of peach, one scoop of vanilla, all piled on a fresh meringue cookie. The peach gelato tasted like you were eating a peach and the meringue was properly crunchy and obviously freshly made. All in all, this place does wonderful fresh pasta, freshly-made filling, and great desserts. The waitresses are always polite, knowledgeable, and not pushy. This isn't casual Second Street dining or overpriced, overproduced dining where you pay for atmosphere. L'Opera takes creating a dining experience for you seriously and delivers without overcharging.
(4)
Billie M.

Amazing food, very friendly staff, and an in-house tenor singing arias to you at your table. The experience at L'Opera is worth every penny.
(5)
August L.

We had a great meal here. We started with a nice fresh and simple salad, and then the homemade vegetarian pasta was delicious. The cheese plate had a great selection of cheeses and jams/honey. They have a decent selection of wines by the glass and the service was efficient.
(4)
Wil C.

So, me and my friends came in here during the DineLA week since it's somewhat closer to OC. I got there little bit early & found myself with all the one-way streets at downtown Long Beach & the '12 min. only' parking meter until my friend calls me say 'yo, there's a parking structure on the back (not the one for Rock Bottom cross street) & they validate your ticket'. So, it took me a good 10 min. to circle around the block, park my car, and bear with all the funny smell coming down the stairs in the parking structure. There's a nice sports bar area separate from the main dinning area where we were able to catch few min. of Laker Game before our table is ready to serve. There are few shiny Greek columns in the restaurant + the lady with a very nice voice singing opera around the tables certainly make the setting very enjoyable. The portion of the food is little small but pretty tasty & nicely done. So, if you don't mind the smaller portion w/ full price for the trade-off of the experience, the decor., I think it gets a 3-starS.
(3)
Ann P.

Hostess greeted us immediately upon our entrance. We were seated in a lovely booth. I did seem to be a bit chilly inside. I left my jacket on through the entire meal. Scott waited on u and, helped us make dinner selections. He did a check back a few moment after we began to eat to make sure all was well. Gosh I wish other restaurants would do that. If you have a problem with your meal, so often no one comes by to fix the problem. Our service was impeccable, our meals were delicious and we even saved a little room for dessert! Thanks "Scott". . .we'll be back soon!
(5)
Lamb R.

Once a gem, the owners have let this place go south. Took some clients there, service was extremely slow and to top it all off... Got food poisoning from eating a salmon dish...to say the least ... Had a very long night in the bathroom and saying how I will never eat here again... Good luck if you decide to go.
(1)
Paul I.

L'Opera's reputation precedes it because of glamorous reviews in most Los Angeles and Orange County publications as well as those usually misleading lists of "Top Places in LA" you find in hotels and airports. It was not without reservation (no pun intended) that I decided to try this place in Long Beach on a Wednesday evening. The hostess was gracious and helpful, the valets were careful with my new exotic toy. They left it in front which made me feel comfortable. The service, however, was less than mediocre and awfully slow. I understanding pacing and the elegance of a well-timed, peaceful meal, but this service was just plain slow and inattentive. I asked for Pelegrino twice and got nothing by tap water. The back server was faster and kept the table neat. However, the food runner didn't even know which order was for whom, which for a 2 person dinner, is also inexcusable for a 4 star restaurant. The food was also less than special. The minestrone was tasteless and cold. I ordered a lemon infused chicken with prosciutto. The breast was tender, but the sauce was bland and uninteresting. My date ordered a paste dish that was supposed to be spicy, but it also tasted bland, and certainly did not possess any kind of spice character. Overall, food was poor. The wine list did not feature wines by the glass which disturbs me. A customer should have the option of having one glass on wine instead of a whole bottle. She/he should also have the options of having different wines by the glass. Also, the wine list was huge but it everything was over $40. Whoever the sommelier, they did not understand that there's value and quality in wines less than $40. Again, even at high end restaurants in Beverly Hills, wine selections always reflect a range in prices. L'Opera suffers from over-hype and a lot of inaccurate good press. The place, although it might have been good several years ago, is nothing more than a glamorized Olive Garden, maybe a Macaroni Grill. I would not spend the money nor the time on this place. Two thumbs down for this Long Beach corner pit.
(2)
JC K.

Free meal = biased review. -1 star: steak was well done even though i ordered medium rare. That is usually an automatic death for me but it's free! -1 star: service was a little slow. You know what that means? Drink more at the bar. It's free! +1: The bruschetta, calamari, and tuna tartare was delicious! +1: Salad was huge and fresh! -1/+1: Manager yelled at us for being loud but apologized later. awww. +1: Cheesecake was light but flavorful! -1: Parking! Eek! Don't park hourly at the lot across the way. and forget to check your meter. They ticket you! +1: Romantic. Makes you feel a tad classy. and I'm sassy but classy. I don't know how that adds up to four stars. I kinda suck at being asian.
(4)
Louise O.

First off, park in the structure behind L'Opera. The entrance is on Pacific Ave. The first 2 hours are free with validation. Tiny portions for the not-so-tiny prices. The pasta dishes were very tasty. M was in town for the night so we shared the mushroom w/ truffle ravioli, lobster & ricotta ravioli, and the veal cannelloni. Good thing we weren't starving because it was just enough to feel barely full. We also shared the cheapest Pinot Grigio on the menu ($25/bottle). Wine tip: go for the bottle, it's much cheaper than by the glass. For example the same pinot grigio goes for $8 by the glass. Server was nice enough. On the fence if I'd go again. The appetizer list was boring so we skipped on the first course. We got chocolate covered strawberries for dessert :-)
(3)
Sarah F.

I would give L'Opera 10 stars if I could! My husband and I went to L'Opera last night to celebrate our 2 year anniversary, our first time there. I made a note on our Open Table reservation that it was our anniversary, not expecting anything. When we were sat at our table the hostess wished us a happy anniversary, as did our waiter when he greeted us. The food is absolutely fantastic! We ate so much we were so full but couldve kept eating. To start we ordered 2 appetizers, the Calamari and Piadina Prosciutto di San Daniele. I am a HUGE prosciutto and gorgonzola fan, this appetizer, along with calamari were fabulous. I finally had to have the waiter take away the calamari because I kept eating it and need to save room. We ordered a pasta to split, the Girasoli di Pollo which is a red chili ravioli stuffed with chicken, ricotta and asiago cheese with a tomato sauce. Absolutely amazing. It was stuffed with the chicken in abundance, my husband said he would come back just to order that as an entree. For our main course we both got the Veal Picatta which was also delicious. The sauce was so good and garlicky and the veal was cooked perfectly. For dessert we got the crepe with apples, caramel and chocolate which was again, delicious. They also brought us 4 chocolate covered strawberries complimentary for our anniversary which was so thoughtful and nice. Our server and service was amazing, very attentive and constantly checking on us to make sure that everything was ok. We are already looking forward to the next time we can go back!
(5)
Robin A.

Great experience! Fine dining and service by people that know the trade and care about the diners. I went to this annual wine tasting event, beginning of this month. The event was to raise money for the German Shepherd Rescue of Orange County. What a treat. L'opera donated 20% of the restaurant proceeds on wine that evening. It is awesome that owners of retail stores and restaurants care about charity. Go dine there, you'll like it!
(5)
Josh B.

Just hit up the bar but looked like worth trying the food.
(3)
Mariegrace M.

I love this place! The first time I went was for H.S. Senior prom. Last time I went was for my mom's birthday 2 months ago. This place has great food without leaving a large hole in your pocket. The food does cost quite a bit, but for the food, it's worth it. I've been to several other nice places that charge wayyyy too much than what you get. The customer service was very courteous, and they also have valet parking.
(5)
anthony g.

It was amazing. Monday night was perfect quiet, dimly lit and quite romantic. We had the calamari which was phenomenal. We tried the lobster ravioli as well as chicken stuffed pasta. Very very nice touch indeed. The Maria desert is to die for, and our server was first class indeed. Definitely going back again.
(5)
Roger M.

Went for Valentine's day... had nice seats and food was great!
(5)
Lori D.

Love, love, love this restaurant. I became addicted to the butternut squash raviolis 3 years ago at a friends wedding reception. Not sure of the name of the salad I love too, but it has a balsamic dressing, feta, almonds, and stawberries in it - YUM! Since it is a very nice place we save the date nights there for special occasions. This has become the place for my Mother's day dinner. This past mother's day we went with our 7 month old and the waiter was accomodating and attentive to our every need. Oh, and they have super cute high chairs & the bread sticks are perfect for keeping your baby entertained! Here's a hint to save some $$ - park in the lot behind the building ($3) instead of valet ($8).
(5)
Casey O.

I have always wanted to dine at L'Opera, as I have been a downtown Long Beach resident for a few years. I was able to go with two of my friends. We went in the middle of the week so there was not an opera singer or anything like that, which was just as well as we were there to socialize. We started with the calamari which was excellent. We followed with the trio of pastas. I am a gnocchi fan, but this gnocchi was average at best. It did not have the wonderful bouncy dumpling consistency that makes traditional gnocchi irresistible. The star of the show was the butternut squash ravioli. I could have eaten a bowl full of this by itself, but it was nice to try other pastas.The osso buco pasta was also a winner, as it was juicy and tender, in a wonderful brown sauce. Overall I enjoyed my dining experience here, and I will be back with my husband soon.
(4)
Bobo B.

I didn't get to eat here. We went there for an 8:45pm reservation. The hostess was very rude and obviously does not know hot to multi task. Her computer was acting up and whenever anyone would ask her a question about their reservation she would be so flusterred and rude. So we left and went across the street to Madison instead. There was also another group that left after a while cuz there was just no knowing when we would be seated.
(2)
Lucy L S.

We went there for a nice dinner on my wedding anniversary. Good food. Great desserts! The ambience is definitely classy. My wine was exceptional. It's a place to celebrate special occasions or if you simply want to have a nice evening.
(4)
Colette K.

You Must Be Kidding Me.... Not worth spending $200 or any significant $$$. I ordered the much recommended lamb rack and it was so bad. It came out well done when I ordered it medium rare. The second time, it was cooked correctly but so bland. I can't understand how they couldn't put some salt and pepper on it or something. My wine was good at $15 per glass and the Maria dessert, chocolate with vanilla ice cream was not very good either. All recommendations from the waiter. I think this place is crazy to charge what they do and serve the poor flavored, notice I did not say poor quality, food. I will give L'Opera one more shot before I write it off completely. What a let down.
(2)
Alexander G.

I took My Mother here for her birthday dinner on 9/21/09. I really enjoyed the location--cruising in on Pine Avenue, enjoying a little bit of the local culture. L'Opera is beautifully situated in the bottom of a rather impressive building. The restaurant itself integrates some big city design in their decor--incorporating a large mural to the right of the entrance and having a spacious layout. A comfortable yet dressed up dining area. A huge plus for this place was the service--we had a lot of fun with our waitress and she made the night very special for my mother. L'Opera also comes equipped with a huge wine selection which is nice if you want to flex your wallet and impress your people or simply to drink something interesting. The biggest complaint I had about L'Opera (since the evening was remarkable and all other facets of the restaurant were solid) was the preparation of the meats and fish. They over cooked the veal my mother had and my salmon (which is an extremely forgiving fish) too, trying to make up for that by flooding the plate in a tasty sauce. A grand sin in cooking. Overall, the night was outstanding--my mom said she has never felt more comfortable at an eatery--but if you are coming to eat the greatest meal of your life, look somewhere else.
(3)
Rosquete B.

Remodeled last year. Excellent Italian food. Excellent wine selection. Excellent food service.
(3)
John D.

We had a party of 10 which seemed to overwhelm the kitchen on a night when the restaurant was rougly 2/3 full. The service staff was simply unable to adequately keep water glasses full, pour wine and get appetizers to the table in anything resembling adequate time. Most at the table ordered the ceasar salad which came out bland. Those that ordered the garden salad felt the same, bland taste. Hmm, maybe the main course would improve and for some it did. Those that ordered the oso-buco were favorably impressed. The canneloni, lasagna and ravioli were all delivered lukewarm to cold. The chicken fettucine was uniformly mediocre and the steak was over-cooked. The time from ordering to the meals being placed on the table was 45 minutes. Too long and it was clear which plates were under the heat lamp. 3 plates were sent back to the kitchen. I would have expected at that point a visit from the on-staff manager, however, he was nowhere to be seen. All in all for a restaurant that is charging prices in excess of $30/plate should have been much better and the service was simply vacuous. I wouldn't give the place a second chance or a second look. We left disappointed.
(1)
Dennis Kopczak K.

Good food, service, and location. Free parking validated. Can't wait to go back.
(4)
TRICIA T.

I enjoyed L'Opera. Food was very good, service, reception and ambiance also good. A nice place for a date, IMHO. I am not a Long Beach regular, so valet parking took away the usual "where to park" panic when I go to Long Beach. Wine by the glass list was limited, but I found what I needed there. Bruschetta was extremely enjoyable -- and reminded me what I am missing when I order the same at so many restaurants there days. Very enjoyable. Tried the carpaccio -- served that night with lightly-friend artichokes. I found it good, not great. As a main I Very much enjoyed their butternut squash ravioli (named Cappella di zucca) after a recommendation. Far outshines the same at Il Fornaio, and added another nail in the coffin of Il Fornaio for me. The Capella was light and flavorful -- served at just the right temperature. Very enjoyable. Dessert of the apple crepe was passable; the mint tea very good. Over-all I give it four starts, and would return.
(4)
Ryan G.

When an owner visibly treats his Employees like crap in front of customers, I'll be the first to never return.
(1)
Linny H.

Whew, tough critics here! My experiences here has been really enjoyable. No complaints yet. Do go here for the desserts and wine! Their dessert selection will make you break your diet if you were on one. Chocolate covered giant strawberries will make your eyes roll back in ecstasy! The ambiance and decor is elegant. During one dining experience, there was an Italian opera singer serenading everyone. Very cool! Great place for intimate talks and secret rendezvous! Shh...
(4)
Aaron A.

Very nice place for dinner. Authentic, delicious Italian food. You will enjoy yourself here, and it's also reasonably priced.
(4)
Alicia L.

This was a cool place. Considering my then boyfriend and i hoped on a flight just to come here...it wasn't and world gourmet place that all the foodies must go...but the food was very good. It met my expectations...and believe me i have high expectations. I came here some years ago...and have now finally decided to write a review. prolly doesn't help much considering that they might have changed since then... But i had a lobster pasta dish that was unforgettable. If i had another chance to come here, i definitely would again!
(4)
Evan C.

The food itself is worth 4+ stars, but my experience there is what pushed it to the five star mark. My explanation is long and anecdotal, but necessary: It was a big night. My girlfriend's dad invited me to dinner. It was in a group of people, but needless to say, this invitation was a big deal. I was getting a shot at the "getting to know you" dinner that could make it or break it. This dinner meant proving that I'm not a schmuck. Get it together Evan. Breathe. We're the first in the group to show up at L'opera. In the (pristine) bathroom I fretted over my tie and creases in my shirt more than I have in any job interview. I sat down at the table. My fear created a tunnel vision that made it hard to read the menu. The waiter came and asked if we wanted any cocktails. I'd been tasked with ordering everyone's drinks before they arrived. One prosecco, one gin martini, one vodka martnini. But I started to falter. "What kind of gin," the waiter asked. I have no idea what the man wants! He's my girlfriends FATHER for heaven's sake, get me the kind of gin that won't leave me as a bloody corpse by the end of the night! The Girlfriend interjected with the correct brand. Then he asked me if I wanted anything. By this time I'd stumbled over my words about eight times and had begun to worry that the waiter thought I was under age. Of course, I AM of age and proved it easily with my ID, but I was so damn nervous that I ordered a GLASS of bourbon. He asked me to clarify. Finally, I just came clean with him. "Her father is coming to dinner," I said, "and I'm very nervous." I produced my ID as I felt my face reach 1000 degrees. "One bourbon straight up," he said as he vanished. Before you could say "What are your intentions with my daughter" he returned with three fingers of bourbon and gently edged it in front of my face. Just before his arrival, my girlfriend said she would have recommended *against* my ordering a drink on her father's bill. It would be too assuming. But the waiter just assured me that the bartender was sympathetic to my plight and the drink was on the house. I know now how all those lost Swiss skiers felt as a St. Bernard emerged from the white out of a blizzard to bring the sweet life saving nectar of brandy in one of those tiny little barrels. That's where the fifth star came in. He could have let me flounder, but instead he stood by my side diligently as I gulped down the drink and vanished with the empty glass and wishing me good luck. Her father arrived shortly thereafter and the entire group proceeded to have a very excellent meal. I ordered some kind of pasta dish with the word "Lombardi" in it, which consisted of braised beef wrapped up in pasta and covered in the richest, tastiest Gorgonzola sauce. My girlfriend got some chicken in a mushroom sauce that was incredible too. I remember there being a perfectly cooked fried calamari appetizer, but the rest is a blur. The group had a lot of questions for the waiter - mostly questions about wine. He was knowledgeable and answered each question with confidence. I really truly wanted to slip him a $20, but all I had was $5; leaving me with thanking him very sincerely and the resolve to do him right with a stellar review on yelp. It was five star service. I definitely plan on returning there in future jaunts to Long Beach. I liked the pasta very much, so my meal will most likely be the doughy variety in yet another delicious sauce. Parking tip: Use the valet - the restaurant will validate for half the price. Had we known that we wouldn't have parked across the street only to fork out twelve bucks! Valet = cheaper. Oh, and her father shook my hand on the way out and mentioned something about seeing me next time. Schmuck-ness avoided!
(5)
T D.

My Husband took me here for my birthday and I had always wanted to visit this restaurant. Was very excited to finally dine here. The waiter was kind and friendly and made a great suggestion for dinner I had the Salmon and my husband had the steak. I also had a glass of house Merlot which was very good. However right as the waiter came over to ask us how was everything, a Nat flew in my Merlot. He took the glass away and asked if I wanted another I said no kindly and a few seconds later a manager came over to apologize. Although the food was just OK we continued with the perfect date in the perfect setting and notice when the bill came the Merlot was taken off the receipt. The restaurant was beautiful and its a great place to add to your list of places to go in Long Beach but not on a regular basis.
(3)
Brenda O.

I already wrote a review on this place at open table, but i loved my experience so much that i want to share everywhere! Best service in Long Beach, lovely food, not as overpriced as I expected, dessert was to die for! Took my boyfriend for our anniversary and the staff posted a card saying happy anniversary. everyone treated us like we lived in a palace, not kidding! they could obviously see we were not going to spend a lot of money, but still, the service was amazing, I ended up leaving a 30% tip because we felt completely catered. Definetly a recommendation for special events.
(5)
Joss H.

Since living here for almost 5 years, I've passed by L'Opera hundreds of times, telling myself that it's just one of those restaurants I'd never feel comfortable in just being myself. Obviously you're way under-dressed if you walk in with jeans and a hoodie and some ripped up sneakers (pretty much my everyday outfit, outside of work). You know the type of place where you've gotta use three different forks? Not for me. Besides the fact that I'd feel very out of place, I couldn't ever really afford dining here anyway. That said, we had a pickup order for my boss' and co-worker's birthdays. Everyone else's dishes looked amazing, but my tortelloni al quattro formaggi wasn't anything to brag about. (So I didn't.) Lunch was on the company, so I felt better about not being satisfied about my order since it didn't come out of my wallet. Nothing I couldn't make at home... Pasta Pomodoro makes better tortelloni in cream sauce, IMO. All in all, it wasn't bad, but it wasn't incredible. I don't see myself trying it again, especially not ever on my own buck.
(3)
Ai M.

I skipped the second course because the beef is described as sterling silver and I was intimidated that the osso buco has gold flakes. I was here for a banquet but this was a place my friends would go to eat before prom. I've never been adventurous enough to try the apple crepes or chocolate cake because I always order tiramisu. The mezzalune/ravioli are okay. The minestrone is good.
(3)
Rachel A.

I'm kind of suprised more people haven't reviewed La Opera. I think good food is hard to find in Long Beach and this place was a pleasant suprise. I took a client there only because it's close to my house but it turned out to be really good. I got the lamb chops, which were wonderful, and my client got the filet. He said it was great. Unfortunately, the dessert left something to be desired. If you'd like a nice place to eat with romantic ambiance, this is the place to go!
(4)
Andrea K.

i have never had a bad experience here... always ask your waiter for reccomendations ...the specials change daily. if you are lucky enough to go on a day where the butternut squah ravioli is available, order it. i have oredered this many places, but none come CLOSE to L'Opera's...the texture, consistency and spice make it absolutely exceptional. also, L'Opera has some of the best desserts in town. they also have a pretty amazing wine list, but be prepared to order by the bottle :) xo- andrea
(4)
julie c.

I ate here yesterday and as a whole experience was not impressed. We were with a large group, however it was a planned event and they were expecting us. Even for a large group, the service was INEXCUSABLY slow. I have never waited so long for food, even my salad! We seriously snacked on bread for an hour. (The bread was good, at least!) I had the formaggio cheese ravioli and it was very tasty. However, I asked the waiter what would be the best out of four dishes. I always ask one of the staff so I don't get a bum dish. Unfortunately, most all of our party were not as pleased as I was. I asked 7 other people how their dish was and all replied, "it's okay". NOT GOOD. I thought this was a 4 star restaurant? I haven't had other italian in the area but I will continue to frequent "The Bottle Inn" in Hermosa Beach, or "Buca di Beppo" in Redondo Beach, both have much better food and exemplary service. Signed, Disappointed.
(2)
Sam C.

For a fancy restaurant, there is something missing in the taste factor. It is beautiful and the cust serv is great. You have to valet unless you want to walk a mile. I would try another Italian place first.
(3)
Lisa U.

very yummy & great service!
(5)
chris s.

I have not been to L'Opera for many years. I went last week and I know why I hadn't been back. The place is very nice inside and the service is good. The food though is mediocre at best. The portions are very small and very pricey. You have to order quite a few dishes to walk out full. I dont think I will be back. I live very close by.
(2)
Kathy Y.

Their bruschetta was great, I love the fact that it has lots of veggies on it and that it's different than the norm. I think it has fava beans and like arugula all over and something right above the thinly sliced toasted bread smeared with hummus. Though I didn't think that was authentic but it was tasty. The calamari was big and chunky unlike the usual TGIF scrawny little ones. We ordered a bottle of the "Fontodi", in their wine menu it said it's a L'Opera's favorite, it's a Chianti, spicy. It was quite good with such price (~$60). Their wine list are full of varieties. I tried the Cappellaci di zucca, I think most of the flavor was inside the tortellini-like (?) pasta. It really showed its butternut squash flavor and not covered by its sauce. You could tell that the pasta is homemade and is done fresh. Couple of the dishes had similar sauce so that was kinda 'eh'. Didn't get a chance to order any desserts. The atmosphere was nice, there's a lady that goes around singing opera. The atmosphere could be better if the outside is not across the street of bars. Prices really aren't that expensive, a dish of pasta less than $20 is not bad at all, and the other entrees are like around $30, pretty normal. It's not at "fancy" as I would expect it to be with the pictures shown from their website.
(3)
Kit s.

everything here is amazing! the food is top quality and you get lots of it. try the calamari it is some of the best i've ever had. my husband hates italian food with a passion yet loves to dine here. this is not your local fake italian dive restaurant.
(5)
Birte P.

My husband and I went there because Madison across the street was closed because of a private party. All we wanted was dessert and a glass of wine. The dessert menu looked great and we chose a "Maria" -- it was supposed to be a chocolate dessert with vanilla ice cream. It was a VERY mushy, super sweet chocolate something and a very small blob or melted ice cream. Upon the waiter's recommendation we ordered a glass of pinot noir for $12 and a chianti for $14. The chianti was aweful -- it must have been the bottom of a bottle that had been open for a while -- lots of residue and just not good. Altogether, we spent $40 for a rather bad dessert, an old glass of wine and one decent glass. The waiter was ok and kind of snobby. I'm just glad we did not have dinner - can't be a lot better.
(1)
Kim P.

First class! Came here with some friends and I was craving just basic pasta with meat sauce. They don't have that on the menu, but they were able to make it exactly as I wanted. Service is awesome! I'm not sure if it's the waiter that we had, or the service overall, but it's like 5 star service in a casualish Italian restaurant. Prices are reasonable. Left with food still on my plate and a fully belly.
(5)
Aynge M.

I can't remember the fancy french name of the dish I had, but essentially it was a steak sandwich. It was very very good. The appetizer I had was good as well. They need to work on their ice tea. I have to admit I would not have come here if my boss had not paid. But it was not as expensive as I would have guessed. My only complaint was that they put us right in the middle of the room, and there were only a few other tables filled. It was like we were on stage, and then my boss started telling us loud, bawdy tales about his trip to Chicago... kind of embarrassing. It was talk more suited to ... oh, say... Hooters. Hilarious but out of place at L'Opera. The service was courteous and efficient, but the chairs were uncomfortable. I had a good time though, and I'd definitely return.
(4)
Manny C.

The service was ok but my dish was crap. I seriously thought I was eating rubber chicken. It was terrible and I can't believe I paid that much for it.
(2)
Merrill H.

Great place to go on a date or celebrate a special event. The food was above average. One of their dining options, which D and I and the other couple got, was you can choose 4 of their pastas and get a sampling of each as your entree. My favorite was the pumpkin ravioli with tomato sauce.
(4)
Peter A.

I was actually disappointed when I ate here because I saw it hyped up so many places. The service was great, but the food did not dazzle me. My guest and I both thought the portions were small for the price, and we ended up eating again later that night. I did make reservations through opentable.com ahead of time and L'Opera called me after to see how everything was. That never happened before, so that did impress me, I just wish the food matched their service.
(2)
Cecilia H.

I took my husband here for our first valentine's day as husband and wife. We've never really celebrated valentines day other than the usual card and chocolates deal, but this year, I wanted it to be special. We went here after a whale watching trip, and even though I had to call a few hours before to change our reservation because I didn't think we would make our scheduled time, this wasn't a problem at all. As soon as we arrived, we were promptly seated. Our server Joshua was super nice and made great recommendations. The food was very good, probably one of the better italian fine dinning places I've been to in Long Beach. We started out with the frutti di mari which is a mixed cold seafood type salad in lime juice. It was pretty good. My husband had the lobster ravioli (I thought his dish was okay--nothing spectacular), while I had the chilean sea bass valentines day special. My dish was spectacular!!!!! And for desert he had the tiramisu and i had the maria. Both were excellent! The ambiance was a little too old for me, BUT my husband liked it, so it was worth it. All in all, had a great time, and would go back any other time.
(4)
Kat A.

All I can say about the food is Mmm, mmm, mmmmm! Drinks? Wooo, hoooo, hoooo! Desserts? Yeeeeees, PLEASE! Service? Fantastico!
(4)
Billie Lou P.

I had a wonderful dinner, Filet was excellent, the service was great, I can not wait to go back!!
(4)
Pornsakdi T.

Came here with a group of friends for Dine LA. The decor and ambiance of the restaurant was very nice. The hostess and our server were both very friendly and attentive. As for the food, we all ordered off of the pre-fixe menu. I started with the zuppa di zucca, which was a butternut squash soup with rock shrimp. The soup was really smooth and creamy, the rock shrimp was delicious. My entree was the straccetti, which is beef tenderloin medallions served with mashed potatoes in a white wine sauce. The beef was tender but was a bit bland. For dessert, of course I had to try their tiramisu. It was good, but maybe a tad too rich for my taste. All in all, a good great dining experience with good food to match.
(4)
Howie F.

I guess a good meal boils down to expectations, and unfortunately L'Opera wasn't quite up to snuff. The service was great. We are both vegetarians, and our waiter was knowledgeable about the menu and restrictions that we have. The soup was great, but the entree tasted like it was out of a box. Honestly, I just felt a little queasy afterward. Bottom line, L'Opera is a decent place with a nice atmosphere, but if you are looking for fine dining, look elsewhere.
(2)
Mayur M.

Don't really remember too much about what I ate here for dinner since it was a while ago, but just remember it was mediocre and very expensive. I do however remember, the best dessert I've ever ate in my life. For around $8.50 I ordered this chocolate brownie topped with vanilla ice cream. WOW. The brownie was moist, rich, warm, and delicious. I'm a huge chocolate lover, and this was by far the best dessert I've ever had in my life, no joke. You don't even get that much, but it's worth every penny. The restaurant has a nice, classy feel to it, a great place to probably take a date. Service was amazing too.
(4)
Ann C.

Food is good and service is excellent. The butternut squash soup is to die for. So creamy and tasty it's making my mouth water right now. I wish the portion was bigger but of course I need to make sure I had enough room for my pasta. I've the ragu pasta, lobster ravioli and some chicken breast dish. All the entrees I've had have been decent. Prices are high, but I only come here when the firm pays for it so I never come here when I pay out of my own pocket. Overall, I find it decent and it's only worth coming here when someone else is paying.
(4)
Bill P.

One of the best italian restaurants I've been to outside of Italy. Sure, the decor is a bit cliche, but the food more than made up for any doubts. I wish I lived closer to this place
(5)
Daniel S.

Here is another quick and dirty one. Food: Ok Price: Too expensive for Ok food Wine List: A complete joke. They obviously have targeted the "expense account" crowd for when I turned page after page of this ridiculous little book of rip-off, the average price of a bottle for most of the Italian grape was $300... and there were 15 bottles per page of just laughably insulting wine selections. This is California for ______ sake where spending $50 to $60 when you want to splurge is going to get you some excellent wine. The atmosphere: I don't know about you other diners but sitting there with your spouse trying to enjoy a meal with everyone and I mean everyone around us babbling about nothing into those blue tooth things was the last straw. We paid the overpriced tab and chalked this one up to "taking one for the team" In closing: Go only if you are a client and someone else is paying for it.
(1)
Sarah M.

Went here for my birthday dinner......yum!!! The food and service were wonderful. They didn't rush us and we actulaly ended up being there for almost 3 hours!
(4)
Jo T.

A pretty nice atmosphere. The menu selection wasn't as good as what I expected.
(2)
JC C.

the wine selections, food, service, and environment of the restaurant gets the each star. parking..... hmm... i just dont know where they are taking your car to... just get on my head during dining....
(4)
Cheryl R.

I can not believe the low ratings that this restaurant received from other viewers. Giving credit where credit is due, this was one of the first fine restaurants that changed Pine Street into one of the most dynamic & successful areas of Long Beach. Yes, I admit...this restaurant is not for the weak of pocket book but it is definitely worth it if you are a real "foodie". We were there this past Saturday night, we had a reservation and usually they are pretty prompt in seating us. Tonight was another story, looking around I saw many cute young kids dressed in suits and low cut dresses....oh..yes... ...it must be Prom night. At one table there were 6 kids digging into their wallets and purses dropping money in a pile with a look that said, "dear God, I hope we have enough, we're going to be late for the dance." Anyways, I digress... we were seated and since I had more than enough time at the bar to review the menu, I was totally ready to order. I suggested to my husband that we order something entirely different than what we've ordered before. He gave me that "Woman, shut your mouth" look...okay there goes that idea. For starters, I ordered the cauliflower soup and he ordered the equivalent to a Cesar's salad. the soup came out in this large ivory bowl. It was this pale yellow color, almost like creamed butter. The taste was creamy, almost like a potato soup but finer and with a few twists of crushed pepper gave the soup a nice little flirtatious kick. My husband ordered the Fillet Mignon. He always orders that. His reasoning is, "why take the chance when I know a good thing". He paired his entree with a bold Cab. I ordered the New Zealand Roasted Rack of Lamb (medium rare) presented with deep fried artichokes drizzled with mint dressing served over sauteed spinach and roasted potatoes. the fried baby artichokes were to die for...slightly crispy on the outside and semi billowy on the inside. It had a slightly tart but sweet tasted like it was acquainted with a balsamic reduction. I paired my entree with a "nice" Chianti. All that was missing was a side of Fava beans. For dessert, my husband ordered the Maria. We can not help but sing the song in our heads when it arrives because it is like a little taste of Heaven. To me, it's a cross between a souffle and a chocolate molten cake topped with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream and milk chocolate shavings that melt at the touch. I ordered the Panna Cotta, which their menu describes as "Italian creamy milk custard intoxicated with Frangelico, hiccuping with fresh berries in a light fresh blueberry sauce." ...that was written by a professional marketer...The Panna Cotta was "damn" good but I did not think it was intoxicated with Frangelico...maybe kissed with Frangelico...at most, maybe french kiss at that...but it was not intoxicated. And it did not hiccup of fresh berries, the Panna Cotta was surrounded by a trail of mandarin orange segments, sliced strawberries and whole blackberries. the berries were sweet but not too sweet. I'll be dreaming of this Panna Cotta as I slave away during the week. I almost forgot about the entertainment. They hired this young lady who looks a tad like Katherine McPhee of AI fame to sing mostly operatic type songs. She would go around and position herself at various open areas of the restaurant and do her thang. It was nice the first few times, but after a while I wished she would take a long break. In conclusion, the waiter service and quality & presentation of the food will keep us coming back again and again. Don't get me wrong, we won't be here every week (we're not millionaires) but expect us on every special occassion and any chance we get.
(5)
Sara F.

We dined here recently with a Restaurant.com certificate. Of course it is very awkward to present a coupon at such a fancy place, but we wouldn't have been there in the first place had we not gotten that deal. Plus the server gets an automatic 18% tip, so there is no reason for the condescending treatment when the waiter learns of our coupon. If you're going to criticize my choice of wine, at least learn how to pronounce it correctly! Anyhow, we put up with the waiter's passive agressive remarks. We shared a pasta plate (butternut squash ravioli) and ordered the ossobucco veal and lamb chops. The meat dishes were good but not great. But the butternut squash pasta is the best meal we've ever tasted. Heaven in my mouth!! The bill was about $110 for two people after tip for two glasses of wine, a pasta plate, and two entrees, after the $25 off certificate. Overpriced in my opinion if you're going to be treated like a cheapskate. Next time we decide to indulge, I will order it to go and avoid the snooty wait staff.
(2)
Jen Y.

Really, I'd give it a 2.5. We went to L'Opera while visiting Long Beach on business. We decided to give it a chance despite the hit and miss reviews on yelp. Kind of funny, because that was the exact way to describe our dinner hit or miss. We started off with the bruschetta and the prosciutto del giorno for appetizers. Both were really tasty, if small portions. The problem really came from my entree, which was supposed to be Porchetta al Tartufo - described as cider braised pork belly crusted in black truffles. The waiter suggested asking for it to be made extra crispy, so I went along with it. After a long wait (which our waiter apologized twice for, making the wait seem longer), our entrees came out. Except mine was a chop instead of pork belly. I got the waiters attention, and he apologized for his error, and brought out the pork belly. I'm not a butcher, but this was like no pork belly I had eaten before. I do know a few things - the dish was not cider-braised, instead had a fried-type crust and was very dried out. Also, it was not crusted with truffles. Because I felt bad for complaining that I had the wrong dish, I tasted everything on the plate for truffles - no truffles. I asked the waiter about the truffles, and he said it was in the sauce. When I told him I know what truffles tasted like and there were not any in the spritz of sauce on the plate, he brought me a big cup of sauce with truffles in it. This helped a lot to make the dry pork taste better, but it still didn't make up for the fact that the dish was not prepared anything like it was described. The meal was more than disappointing, it was expensive to boot. I may be spoiled by living in San Francisco, but spending almost $30 for an entree should mean something better than mediocre. To give him a lot of credit, our waiter did give us a free dessert of chocolate covered strawberries and a 20% off coupon for our next trip to the restaurant (we won't be using that one).
(2)
hugh f.

really, more like 2.5 stars, but that isn't really great either. first off the salad, not bad, not great. wasn't overdressed, but had some strange thing in it we couldn't figure out what it was. I fairly sure it wasn't sposed to be there, but so be it. Mains come and I get the butternut squash stuffed pasta. I kinda have a sweet tooth and this was very sswwweeeeeeeeeeettttttttttttttt. It tasted more like a dessert, but I actually liked this. served with a spicy tomato sauce with brown butter sage mixed with it. REALLY sweet, but still quite good. this would've got 4 starts alone just because it was different and tasted good. then comes the kicker. asked if we should get gelati or the creme brulee? was told to get the creme brulee. It was BY FAR the worst I've ever had. I'm not the guy who returns shit to often. I'd rather just pay for it, take it as a lesson learned and decide if I ever go back. This was just plain wrong. NO burnt top, really? isn't that what its all about? the custard was curdled and quite nasty. The berries were a day or two past their prime. didn't even try the choco stuff that came with it cause I wanted it to be known that it wasn't edible. honestly, I would be upset if I was the server and the kitchen was letting stuff like this out. the waiter was cool and eventhough he didn't take it back, the busboy did, he took it right off without question.....HONESTLY, the worst ever brulee. I'm still in complete disbelief they let this leave the kitchen. this isn't a cheap ma n pa place so that kind of stuff just shouldn't happen. it purdy much ruined my din there. sorry, cause I liked my pasta....
(2)
Cecilia S.

My husband and I went to L'Opera for date night. We arrived and were immediately greeted by very friendly hostess, when we sat down, we again were immediately greeted by the wait staff and asked what we wanted to drink. I ordered a Cosmo and my husband ordered a Merlot house wine, both were excellent choices. I ordered the Filetto Al Caffe and my husband ordered the Straccetti, both were very tender cuts of meat and delicious. We finished our meal off with a Il Sigaro, there version of Crem Brulee, it was delicious. The restaurant is open with tall glass windows, which allows for you to watch the hustle and bustle of the street, very much reminded me of San Francisco, where I use to live and loved. The night ended with the manager, Nicole Lira asking how are evening was and walking us to the door. I very much appreciated the wonderful staff and loved he food, we are going back and, I recommended L'Opera to friends already who are making plans to go there.
(5)
Sean D.

This is the best Italian spot in Long Beach. It's located in a historic building in downtown, with classy decor and a vibrate atmosphere. We come here at least once per month for date night and usually stick to the same items: Caprese Classica, Carpaccio Classico, Ravioli Al Tartufo, Ossobuco Alla Milanese, & the Sacchetto Di Cioccolata for desert. The wait staff are all career servers and extremely knowledgeable and fun to talk to (plus if you bring in your own wine and offer them a taste, we NEVER get charged the corkage fee).
(5)
Gary I.

Just as the name suggests, L'Opera has dramatic ambiance with dark, green marble columns and very classy interior design work. The space was an "old school" bank in its former iteration, and perhaps because of it, still reeks of money. We went on a Tuesday at 5:30pm so for a while we were the only ones dining which made for good service. How the staff is under the pressure of a full house, I can not attest to since we left at about 8pm on a slow work night. Although certificates on the walls in front of the restroom claim high honors to L'Opera's wine selection as well as an award to their sommelier, I found my wine by the glass which was a Chenin Blanc-Viognier blend to not be particularly inspired. I realize it was only $7 for a glass, but I have had better for the same price in other restaurants. There was a large selection of full bottles which was of better quality, but I wanted to pair the different courses with a different glass of wine so just buying one bottle of wine was not an option for the entire table. We ordered Calamari Fritti to share with our table of four. The Calamari were well executed using fresh sweet tasting small baby squids with a very thin yet crispy batter. For $11, it was a deal since there was more than enough for all four of us in terms of an amuse bouche. We decided to order the $35 prix fixe 3 course meal which was overall a good deal. However, a good portion of the salad of mixed greens looked and had the texture of being left out to dry and limp out. There was a nice touch of some pieces of hearts of palm, but the salad did not have that crisp fresh feel. I had the Scallopine Piccata which was thinly sliced veal in a lemon caper sauce. The flavor was good, but the meat was over-cooked to the point of being almost hard. The mashed potatoes were fine with a slight cheese infused flavor and the side vegetables were not over cooked. I also had a slice of my friend's Skirt Steak which was lightly marinated and grilled. It had a slightly chewy texture characteristic of this cut of meat and had a slightly charred smokey beef taste. The Tiramisu for dessert was not as good as I had hoped, but the Panna Cotta with fresh berries was divine. The fresh cream taste was prevalent with a nice vanilla undertone. The raspberries, strawberries, black berries for this early in the season were sweet and lightly fragrant. The Panna Cotta really rocked! Fantastic, sophisticated interior design and sumptuous ambiance is the big draw to L'Opera. When you dine there, you feel quite sassy and rich. The service was friendly, aware, and well timed when we were there on an "off night". The food is the weak link in this triangular structure. The food is not consistently good although it certainly is not bad. If L'Opera can up its game by fine tuning its culinary creations and having more consciousness about the taste, texture, freshness, etc., then it will come out on top of the fine dining scene in Long Beach.
(3)
Sarintra S.

I like this restaurant. Food is good. Service OK. Ambiance is very nice. Good view of trains and homeless people.lolll
(4)
JC C.

Please start offering pasta with entree's! I will never understand why an Italian place would serve mashed potatoes?
(3)
Elsie M.

YAY to a fantastic experience I had at L'Opera for my Birthday last night! A + already because I LOVE a restaurant with staff who know their menu and wines! Wednesday evening 6:30PM: COCKTAILS: We started with a martini (of course!). I had their signature TITUS MARTINI which is a slightly sweet pinkish martini with some exotic twists going on along with a beautiful leaf of Basil. This drink was really refreshing and put me in an exceptionally good place. Oh and if you like martini's with blue cheese olives, they have them there! FRESH too! APPETIZERS: TARTARA MEDITERRANEA: An Ahi Tuna Tartar dish that we split 4 ways. It was so super fresh with an upscale cocktail food vibe to it. We also had CALAMARI (because I just love it) and YUM on the vodka tomato sauce that comes with it. FYI: It's okay to ask for extra sauce. Caesar Salad was nice-they put whole anchovies on it too, if you want. ENTREE: After reading such great reviews from Yelpers on the CAPPELLACCI DI ZUCCA (the homemade pasta filled with Yellow Butternut Squash and Ricotta), I just had to try it and....AMAAAAZING! I was able to take some home with me to remember just how good it was the next day. Love Love Love! And like another yelper said, "savory with a little sweet at the end". WINE that we had: They have a lot of wines (full bottles) to choose from and I am just NOT experienced when it comes to fine wine but I needed some kind of event being that it was a special occasion so our server turned us on to a SYRAH called LANDMARK STEEL PLOW. It had a beautiful earthiness to it - and the color...really dark rich red! YES! DESSERT: So next comes the surprise Birthday Dessert made right there at L'Opera! (Thanks Sis!) A fresh whole Pineapple Upside Down Cake! They had it all adorned with fresh fruit around it and chocolate dipped strawberries (which I usually don't care for but this chocolate was not hard - it was more like a sauce). After the candles got blown out our server took the cake in back and had it plated for each of us along with 2 sauces. One was like a cream sauce and the other I think was like a caramel sauce. SO GOOD SO GOOD SO GOOD! So 5 hours later we were ready to head home-I AM NOT joking! That's how much we enjoyed our time there. We weren't rushed and never felt forgotten and the time just flew by. What a beautiful place! And again, I LOVE the staff there. It was an exciting and yet relaxing experience! THANK YOU L'OPERA!! THANK YOU for reading! :)
(5)
Mark H.

The food is amazing, I have been there quite a few times now, I figured it was time for a review. I do like the Italian audio in the restroom. Nice appetizers. awesome
(5)
Erika G.

Love, love, love the food here! The Cappelacci De Zuccha is probably my all-time favorite pasta dish...like ever. And the Filetto is pretty much melt-in-your mouth awesome. Full bar, great bartenders -nice atmosphere. One of my favorite spots in LB! -Bring your wallet though, they know how good their food is. ;)
(4)
Cynthia T.

I will never come back and will tell my friends to avoid it as well. Although we got an effusive greeting upon entering, the attention stopped there. Our waiter seemed impatient that we didn't know what we wanted from the wine list or the menu after only about three or four minutes, so he left and didn't return for quite some time. When questioned about his recommendations, he seemed exasperated even though I told him we had never been there before. He didn't seem to approve of our selections, but took the order brusquely and didn't allow room for discussion about substitutions for sauce. How does a restaurant make warm, soft fragrant bread that's flavorless? I don't know, but the folks at L'Opera can tell you how they do it. I ordered the prosciutto and melon appetizer. I rarely eat prosciutto because of health concerns, but since it was a special occasion, I broke the rules. What a disappointment! The prosciutto was flavorless and I didn't even get the saltiness that it should have. The melon served with it was as hard as a rock and also flavorless. C'mon, it's August for pete's sake! Ripe melons are everywhere! I ordered the lobster ravioli and am not a fan of a heavy tomato sauce on fish. Too bad. That's what you get. The lobster inside was chewy, not tender. My husband's truffle ravioli were adequate, but overcooked. No matter what we needed, we had to wait. And wait. We were one of only two tables occupied in the restaurant. Where was our waiter? We didn't learn our lesson from the food and went ahead and ordered dessert only because I can't resist Panna Cotta. Although it was properly prepared, it also lacked some flavor. My husband did like his sorbet, though. Bottom line: Rude, pretentious and unavailable wait staff, food that desperately requires seasoning, and too pricey for lower quality food.
(1)
Larry M.

Had a great Birthday dinner for a friend of ours. I had the bone-in veal chop, my wife had the chicken with mushrooms, and our friend had ravioli. It was all fabulously prepared. The room is very nice, but not spectacular. Our waiter, Scott is does an over the top job. We did not mind tipping a bit more than normal.
(5)
Melody K.

This place is amazing. I came here for a birthday party (downstairs in L'Opera) with my boyfriend and his family for his uncle's 70th. The atmosphere is great, there's valet (there's a structure also) in the front. Upon walking here, we went downstairs and to the right in the private room for our birthday event. There were two appetitzers available, which were the calamari and I believe a sort of bell pepper bruschetta... on top of goat cheese and toast. Or something like that, but it was delicious. There were waiters that walked around with the appetizers but I couldn't keep my hands off the calamari. It was perfectly seasoned and cooked, I could have eaten that all by itself. We had an open bar too, which was a plus. After I ordered my drink, I was mingling around with the family but the waiter came and brought me my drink, which was another plus. Our room was the most private.. our doors were closed at all times. This place was really fancy. For starters, we had a regular green salad with fruit. I wish it had blue cheese or something, it would've made it tastier but that was just my personal preference. We had a set menu to choose from for the main course. Butternut Squash Ravioli with a Brown Butter Sage sauce, Steak Medallions with a Spinach Caper Sauce and Mashed Potatoes, or the Grilled Salmon with Veggies and Mashed Potatoes. From the Holiday overload, I was over meat and should've just stuck with it instead of getting the Salmon! The salmon was perfectly cooked, and the meal was great but the sauce that the Steak Medallions came with (my boyfriend got this) was to die for. Dessert we had Tiramisu, it was my first time having it and it wasn't that bad either. One day I'll be here again with their regular menu for a lunch or dinner some day. I love this place.
(5)
Angela C.

Haven't been here in over 5yrs and its still great!!! Went on a weeknight, and staff was so attentive and friendly. Appetizer was light and tasty- basil tomato and mozzarella. My friend was able to request a dinner off the menu. I couldn't decide what I wanted, everything sounded so good- esp the black truffles. I had the lobster ravioli and it was superb!! Each ravioli was beyond stuffed and the sauce wasn't overwhelming. Our Pelogrino glasses and champaign flutes were never empty. Wish I could tell you how desert was but we didn't have room. Can't wait to go back and try more of their fall menu!!
(5)
Portia S.

SERVICE I suppose I went under dressed here on a Friday (wasn't even busy) night with my boyfriend. And I suppose he was even more under dressed because the hostess didn't attend to us right away. The supervisor? had to take us. Minus one star. FOOD My food, was disgusting. I had some crab pasta crap. Tasted like bisque. So if you love bisque, go on and order it. My boyfriend's food. Better. But not amazing. I could make it at home. Minus another star. I LOVE PANNA COTTA, but not here. Minus another star. Two stars for the ambience and cleanliness.
(2)
Carly M.

L'Opera, hands down, is the best restaurant in all of Long Beach. We have dined everywhere in the last year and we keep coming back to L'Opera. Be it a special occasion or just to dine at the bar, you will not be disappointed. Miki at the bar is a gem and if you want really great service with a smile, ask for Crystal. Love, love, love the food and wine list. The owner, Terry, really knew what he was doing when he established this wonderful dining establishment.
(5)
Sarah B.

Seriously, all of you need to eat here. It is super fancy, fine dining, but NOT EXPENSIVE. Perfect for a date night when you want something better than a chain but won't burn a hole in your wallet. I can't get enough of this place. Last night we sat at the bar (Saturday night after Valentine's Day....) waiting for our table but ended up staying there to eat because they were so busy in the dining room and I was starving. Service is awesome. The bartenders work as a team ensuring every guest is efficiently accommodated. Tonight we had the minestrone (again) tenderloin medallions and the short rib ravioli. Since my husband doesn't like cream sauce, he substituted with a garlic tomato basil sauce. Thank you Chef for doing this!! It.was.amazing! And of course to finish our night off, the Maria. Tonight was more about the service than the food. You don't have to ask for anything. The staff is always 2 steps ahead of you and they are so appreciative of your business. See you soon!
(5)
Lia S.

My husband and I came here with friends for happy hour, and I have to say they have a fantastic happy hour! I didn't end up eating anything before we left, but came back later (we were out and about downtown) after calling in an order to go. The food was fantastic! The staff is very friendly, good portions, great happy hour (drinks and food).
(4)
Michelle B.

Great food great service
(5)
Joe B.

We are new to the area and asked a friend for a great place to have a celebratory dinner. This place was recommended. After reading a few of the yelp reviews I was hesitant. Those reviewers did not have my experience. This place is great. Every aspect, from the physical space to the food and service (Scott, our waiter, was great at recommending wine pairings and giving recommendations and was just a great guy) was top notch. This place rivals any of the finest restaurants in Beverly Hills or West LA. Great place we will be back!
(5)
Sarah S.

On the many occasions I've had lunch and dinner here; I've never been disappointed. Always a great place to go with a client or a date. They really have very different, delicious sauces and very innovative in there dishes....no bland homogeneous Italian menus here! They also have an extensive selection and that's not including their specials. Actually the decision to order takes a long time for me and of course the service is friendly, fast and good. Their sauces are the best in town! My Favorite lunch: RAVIOLI AL TARTUFO Homemade Ravioli Stuffed with Black Truffles, Wild Mushrooms & Robiola Cheese, Finished with a Brown Butter Sage Sauce My Favorite Dinner: CAPPELLI LOMBARDI Red Wine Braised Short Rib of Beef, Stuffed Into Homemade Ravioli, SautÃ©ed in a Gorgonzola Cream Sauce Nice decor!
(5)
Vincent O.

My wife and I have been coming here for years, but after my experience last night, I realized I hadn't yet reviewed and needed to. I'm part of a national conference that chose Long Beach for their annual meet-up this year. One of my jobs within the organization is to put together a dinner for a subgroup of people, and I was hoping that I could share L'Opera with them. Here were my requirements: * great food * not a fixed menu * separate checks * accommodating for a group our size L'Opera worked with me to create a limited menu (they took off all of the dishes that required a lot of prep time) that was still quite extensive, and I made a reservation for 25. On the day of the event, I realized that the number had grown, and L'Opera was able to bump my reservation to 30. But, by the time it was time for dinner, the number had grown, yet again, this time to around 36. L'Opera didn't blink. They sat us all quickly, put the extra people at an adjacent table, and got right to work. We ordered some appetizers, salads, wine, cocktails, entrees, and some folks had desserts. Through it all, we visited with each other and had a great time. The staff was exceptional - very professional, attentive, and all-around awesome! The limited menu proved to be a hit too! In fact, a number of my colleagues asked me if they got the full menu instead of the limited menu by mistake. The evening was great, and after all of the flexibility and support that L'Opera gave us, I wanted to take a moment on Yelp to sing their praises! Truly an exceptional restaurant - GO THERE NOW!
(5)
Lourdes V.

High class dining! There was even an opera singer that sang at our table! It was not too loud...it was appropriate and short. The classic carpaccio was delicious!!! My hubby and I shared a salad and filet mignon on fingerling potatoes. Mmmmm, so tasty! For dessert we ordered the chocolate dessert and the dessert with apples...hey, we were a party of 4 and these were gobbled up! This place is pricey, but worth every dime!
(5)
German C.

Over price Ok food Calamari al friti was the only thing i like
(3)
A. K.

I have not been to L'Opera in many years. Had two business guests and thought the locale would be nice. We arrived on a Wednesday night about 7pm. Seated right away - and server was there right away. I was very disappointed in the quality of the food - mediocre at best. I had chicken (was dry, and broccoli was tepid). My colleague had the rib eye that looked like mush. Flavors bland - menu un-inspired. Other colleague had an entree from the specials - a fish stew that was "ok". food poor flavor. Service was not good - very slow. They brought my appetizer first, then we waited for the salads.... 10-15 minutes. Had to ask for desert menu twice, then gave up. Not a great business dining experience. Total bill for three : for appetizer, wine, entree $275.00
(2)
Anna L.

I truly cannot say enough good things about this place - every thing from hostess Tiffany and Events Manager Nicole and food servers Tina and Jeff to the quality of food is amazing consistently every time !!! Really difficult to go to many other restaurants because our expectations are set very high... I had my birthday here and all 20 of my guests were not just satisfied but really really impressed ! I think I have tried most things on the menu but my favorites are the lemon drop (and amazing server Jeff keeps them coming and my glass was never empty lol expensive but sooooo good!!!), rack of lamb (they have that and the lemon drop noted in the computer under my name!!!), portobello carpaccio (wow is all I can say about this - pounded thin portobello mushroom with capers, tiny artichoke bits, basil, and some yummy vinaigrette - speechless), Velutatta salad - with shaved fennel, green apple, and strawberries Home made Butternut squash raviolis are delish!, And of course their home made cheesecake and tiramisu are to die for!! Their warm demeanor and attention to detail is what makes one feel special and makes you want to come back ... Yuuummmm!!!!! Time always flies here because they never rush you but still attend to you at all times .. Always look forward to going back !
(5)
Paul S.

Ambiance, character and quality. These three words define your "lunch" L'Opera experience. Ambiance: you will feel like you're transported to a fine dining restaurant in 1930s Long Beach. Character: the food will remind you of that summer that you visited Italy and ate your way through the country. Quality: our waiter service was a little sub-par for this caliber of a restaurant. He offered drinks and didn't even know about the quality or kinds of single malt whiskeys that they had. We also ordered soft drinks. We never got them but he billed us for them. He later realized the mistake and corrected the bill. Then he blamed the busboy. That's cheesy. As the waiter. He had to assume the ultimate responsibility for anything that goes wrong. But he didn't. That poor performance brings the rating down to four stars. But what a four stars they are. I had the salmon which was tender and flavorful (farm raised I'm sure). Others had the steak which they said was divine. All on all it was a great experience. It would have been nice if our waiter Eddie just had a bit more experience. They'll have to send him to the five star training academy. So if you're looking for a great lunch spot, I recommend L'Opera. Just look out for Eddie (Sorry Eddie, I had to say something).
(4)
Nicole M.

2 words for you 1) Capelli 2) Lombardi. Read: Handmade Ravioli stuffed with Red Wine Braised Short Rib and is sautÃ©ed in a Gorgonzola Cream Sauce. Wow... We didn't have a reservation so we opted for a bar table nestled next to the entrance of the Kitchen which was actually a really great experience. At any moment, we could peak over our shoulders and get a glimpse at flambÃ© action, slicing and dicing, etc. Our waiter was extremely helpful, kept our wine glasses full and successfully maintained a watchful eye without being overbearing. Another great thing about this place is their in-house Opera singer. Yes, he will serenade you with every bite of your Bruschetta a Modo Mio. Located on Long Beach's historic Pine Avenue, this place is definitely worth a visit even if you don't live close. It's beyond charming, their food is deliciously authentic and the romantic and enchanting atmosphere will do nothing but knock your socks off!
(5)
Daisy D.

L'Opera was a special night out. It was the perfect end to wonderful trip to visit my boyfriend. The restaurant is beautiful: crisp white tablecloths draped among dark wood provided a beautiful contrasting backdrop. We had a table against the window, but only one of us got to enjoy the view because of the way they have the tables set up. I was fine with that though, because I like to watch what goes on in the restaurant any way. Ever since my trip to Italy, Penne Arriabiata has been one of my favorite pasta dishes. What can I say? I like spice in my life. L'Opera's met every expectation I had. It was spicy, but not over the top and the pasta was perfectly al dente. We had a Tasmanian sparkling wine, but again (unfortunately) I don't recall the name. It paired well with both dishes. Anthony - our waiter - was excellent. You can tell he takes his job seriously but really enjoys what he does.
(4)
Howard L.

If you want a more formal, white clothed table Italian dinner, this is the place for you. I've heard about this place, and thought I would try it while on company business. Basically it's very good food, smaller portions, and high prices. I had the cannelloni all'osso buco (pasta rolls stuffed with veal shank) and it was very good. I'm sure this place would be great for the right event, but it was a little too stiff and formal for me, particularly when without family or a company group around. Nice prime corner location in Long Beach, being right on corner of Pine and 1st street. I've gotten lucky with local street parking which looks to be free after 6pm.
(3)
Jessica B.

Not much of a Yelper, but have to give props where they are due, and the staff at L'Opera definitely deserves some recognition! On the night we visited, the restaurant was packed and didn't have any available tables, but the hostess sat us at the bar. We weren't sure how it was all going to turn out with it being so busy but our server was attentive and friendly, our wine was delicious and affordable and the food simply perfect. Lots of gluten-free options, as well. The main reason I wanted to actually write a yelp, though, is due to the fact that the workers here really seemed to work well together and enjoy their job. Working in a restaurant is a team effort and everyone here seemed to support each other, which is vital on super busy nights such as the night we visited. All in all a great experience. We don't live in Long Beach, but if we did, we'd certainly be back.
(5)
Tricia L.

Yummy Italian food. Made reservations here and went with my parents. We all really enjoyed our meals. We had ceviche and awesome pasta dishes. Kinda pricy, and not an everyday affordable dining experience, but really good Italian food,
(5)
Sheenon O.

Opera singer singing table side- check Friendly staff- check Great wine selection- check Good company- check Had a great dinner here the other night. Caprese, carpaccio and the veal that I had were all very good. The vegetables that they served with the veal and mushrooms had a little chili flake in it that gave my dish the perfect amount of kick
(4)
Bonnie G.

The last time I was here was in 2001 after a job interview. I figured it was time to give it another shot. Here's the lowdown: service is excellent, food was ok, atmosphere is really nice. Oh, and they really need to update their website about validation. I asked at the end of the meal and our server said "Well, the parking structures have changed their rules, but we can try." What does that even mean? They promise 2 hr. validation but then don't deliver. OK, we started with soup and the smoked salmon appetizer. The salmon was really good. The soup was not worth the price. It could have been canned soup for all we knew. The entrees were ok: steak and pasta fruta di mare. The steak, even from across the table, looked WAY overdone (my partner confirmed that) and my pasta was just not very exciting. We ended by splitting a tiramisu. Definitely the best part of the evening. I like the feel of this place and the service but the food is just too pricey for the quality that you get. I'll try again in another....9 years...to see if anything has changed. In the meantime, I'll continue to patronize La Parolaccia.
(3)
Kris B.

A chance to dress up! Tom and I ate here last night with our friend Brian and had a lot of fun! The place is pricier than we would go to regularly but we had a gift card - perfect! We each had the dinner tasting menu which was $29.00 for a salad, choice of entree (veal, steak or salmon) and choice of dessert (tiramisu or panna cotta) Then we shared 2 pasta dishes between the 3 of us to add a pasta course. The highlights for me were the Messalina salad, the beef short rib ravioli, the seafood risotto and this delicious pancetta wrapped potato/watercress cake that came with my salmon. The service was very attentive and friendly. The staff treated us as if we were buying the $1200 bottles of wine, even though I was sticking to the $6/glass house chardonnay! Great food, great company, great night!
(4)
Lillian H.

Came here years ago for my prom night dinner. Only thing I remember was this underground room that I supposed is used for private parties which I thought was kind of cool. Aside from the basement room, the food was very....mediocre.
(2)
B N.

Had dinner there 3/18. Food and service are excellent. They are also very community oriented with fundraisers for many local animal rescue groups. Their wine selection is extensive and very good. Meal portions will not leave you hungry, we wound up taking a doggie bag home! Our waiter was very knowledgeable and courteous. Highly recommend!
(5)
Maile T.

Went here for Taste of Long Beach and it's a bit pricy so not a place I'd usually go, but we sampled the butternut squash ravioli and it tasted AMAZING!!! I think I'd go back just to get a plate of it!
(4)
Eileen M.

I would give L'Opera 5 Stars for atmosphere and service. I think it's a great place to go for special occasions. In addition to the great wine list, they have a Specialty Cocktail menu which has several great choices. Love their table bread and the mixed baby green salad. Unfortunately, the closer we got to the main event, the more it went down hill. We had the prosciutto flatbread & meatball trio for appetizers, which were both so so, as was their filet mignon. I will try their homemade pasta next time and hope to be able to upgrade their rating.
(3)
Elove S.

Only go for the upscale ambience. We must have ordered the wrong dish and got the wrong waiter. This is supposed to be one of the best up-scale restaurants in Long Beach meanwhile the food overall was HORRIBLE and can not believe that they would allow these dishes to hit the table. The Ratatoulle was MUSH, the veal was obviously sitting in the heat lamps for hours not to mention the overly egotisitcal waiter that could not get his nose out of the sky long enough to be normal. Never going again and at least I experienced it. Now I know...
(2)
Melissa F.

Yum! 2013 is all about trying new things and I'm glad i did! I ordered the Favorito!!! So good! Red and green fettuccine type noodles with shaved truffles , truffle oil, and chunks of crab meat! Wow! Atmosphere is great! Very nice and very classy. Large wine list... I got the Riesling and if you enjoy fruity wines... Which I do... Then you will like this. Prices were not too bad I think my entrÃ©e was around $18 and I was very full at the end of it. We went to celebrate my boyfriends birthday and they brought out chocolate covered strawberries with a candle to help with the celebration :) we will definitely be going again!
(4)
Dominic M.

They could probably get 5 stars if they had an Italian Executive Chef in an Italian restaurant instead of a Mexican. This is the problem with many Italian restaurants these days. They go for the Mexicans to save money but the passion for true Italian food only comes from an Italian who grew up eating it. It's in his soul and heart and it shows in the food. My veal was under cooked and the sauce on the penne was too spicy to serve to the kids. The caponata had very little taste but the panna cotta was however surprisingly delicious. I'll continue to patronize the little family owned Italian restaurant down the street. The food is better & much less expensive. My wife who is also Italian cooks much better also.
(2)
Valentina L.

Amazing old architecture, I believe it was a a bank prior. Great food, and service! Very pricey, I believe it was $200 for two people. But very worth it!
(4)
Mark W.

Very lovely establishment with a nice bar area and an authentic menu. I had the carpaccio for an appetizer. The beef had a wonderful flavor and large capers topped the dish. I finished off with the Cappelli Lombardi, which is red wine braised short ribs , stuffed Into raviolis, sautÃ©ed in a gorgonzola cream sauce. That was a rich flavorful dish that cant be found at many Italian restaurants. I wanted to lick the plate! My companion had the smoked salmon on a flatbread. I dont eat salmon, just dont like it. He presented this dish to me and I gave it a shot. There was a thin cracker like crust smeared with cream cheese and layered with softly smoked salmon. I picked off the purple onion (yes Im picky) and tried it........I ate HALF of meal! Wow this is the only place I will eat salmon. It was something special. The freshness and lack of "fishy" flavor made this dish superb.
(4)
Stephen S.

I keep trying this place ... desperately HOPING that it gets better. The ambiance is gorgeous. Service is inconsistent. But, alas, the food is just O.K. Nothing bad, certainly. But, also not something to motivate you to write home about either. I can think of a LOT better Italian restaurants. Frankly, even Christy's on Broadway has better food. I had a chef's sampler of pastas (beef with gorgonzola, butternut squash and roasted chicken raviolis). Again, nothing that I would spit out. It was all OK. The roasted chicken was the best pastas of the bunch. The bruschetta was pretty to look at ... but also pretty tasteless. It lacked acid and salt (two of the key ingredients that you don't want to miss). My theory is: if you can't get the bruschetta right in an upscale Italian restaurant ... BAD NEWS.
(2)
Mihai S.

Realy good service with great food! I will return for sure
(4)
MICHAEL C.

We just had our wedding there last month. Nicole handled our wedding and was amazing. The entire venue itself is beautiful. What makes this place great is not just the yummy food, but great customer service. We received nothing but great feedback about our venue. I would totally recommend this place whether it was just for dinner or a party. Great location! Thank you guys again for everything! - Mike Chavez
(5)
Laura M.

The food- Calamari - it was very bland with a watery tomato sauce. Well cooked and tender, but lacked flavor Butternut squash ravioli - It was too sweet for my taste, but others seem to like it very much Short rib ravioli - Very meaty and dense with a gorgonzola cream sauce (just the right amount of sauce). It was good and I was glad I tasted it... but not sure if I would order it again There are many choices on the menu that look delicious and I would love to return to try more. The pasta dough was amazing and spot on.
(4)
Catherine L.

Went here for our anniversary this year. I've been wanting to go back ever since we had a Pharmaceutical dinner there. It left such a great impression that I have been buggin the BF ever since. He finally suprised me! We had beef carpaccio for an appetizer, which I loved. Then we both ordered 2 different pasta dishes. I had the Cappelli Lombardi which was red wine braised short ribs stuffed in ravioli and sauteed with cream sauce. He had the Favorito. Both of which didn't knock our socks off at all. It sounded tastier when we read the menu, lol. For dessert I had my favorite, Panna Cotta. That was great. We also shared a bottle of wine. Food was ok. I'm not super excited to go back or anything. My BF made the reservation and stated that it was our anniversary, but they sat us in the middle of two booths. I just felt like there were so many "romantic" seating areas to seat us, but they didn't. Way to kill the ambiance. LOL.
(3)
Christopher L.

Nice upscale place. Appetizers are solid. We had the frutti di mare, carpaccio, prosciutto, and calamari. I had a pasta dish with barramundi, which was good but I expected more fish. Service is fine. But valet parking out front is useless. The valet parked our vehicle in the white zone across the street.
(3)
Carol H.

A gem of a place. It was our first night in Long Beach and we walked down Pine street to find someplace for dinner and the restaurant was packed, which my husband says is a good sign. Notwithstanding that we lacked reservations and it was 7:15, we were immediately seated at a small table next to the kitchen. We ordered the pasta of the day to share as a first course -- and it proved to be a delicious tagliatelle with homemade sausages and fresh tomato. Each of us had a steak, me the flat iron with kalamata olive butter and roasted fingerling potatoes sauteed with garlic and he had a filet with balsamic vinegar sauce, accompanied by a delicious Antinori Badia a Pasignano. Dessert was the sampler including a delicious cheese (something barolo) and a grappa. All in all, good food, good service and well worth the price. If we lived in Long Beach or its environs, this would be a regular stop for us.
(5)
Vivian K.

We reserved a nice seat by the window, and people watched while waiting for our entrees to arrive. Ordered the FETTUCCINE ALLA CHECCA & the FAVORITO!!! Both plates were pure Italian divinity...... For dessert you gotta try the SOFFICE E LEGGERA, it is the most amazing crushed pineapple buttery poundcake goodness ever....I dream about this dessert. Nice wine selection, and there was even an opera singer that personally serenaded us with his sweet voice. Can't wait to come back for another date night :)
(5)
Patty Y.

I am not in Long Beach often and didn't think such great place is possible! The service was great with a very nice wine list. This was an ideal place for our customer meeting. We had the capaccio which was ok but the pasta was unbelievable! I am not usually the pasta kind of person but it is so good. We had 2 bottles of cab and both just delicious! Everyone enjoyed the meal and best part was yet to come - the desert. I had the Maria which is rich and chocolaty. very nice!
(4)
Guillermo M.

Great food! At great prices!
(5)
C. J. L.

Maybe the best restaurant in Long Beach. I have enjoyed Terry and his staff for years. But it figures, Terry's a New Yorker!
(4)
Brian W.

Great food and great ambience. Try the Favorito pasta - Tagliatelle with black truffles and crab - awesome! Good wine list, and excellent service
(5)
Thomas B.

Was in Long Beach last week and visited this place twice. We didn't know anything about the place until we tried it. We had great food the first time so we went back a couple nights later. The fillet was delicious as well as the seafood risotto, beef tenderloin, and mushroom ravioli. I can't tell you what the names of the items were on the menu because the names were much more formal but the food was great. Also a shout out to Tina who was an extremely helpful and friendly server. Even going to the point of having the kitchen make a special request for us. Worth a visit if you want to try some finer restaurant fare while in Long Beach.
(5)
Anthony N.

I've been here for both lunch and dinner. Located on restaurant row of Long Beach next to 555 East and Madison, L'Opera is a big restaurant with an okay but unremarkable interior. For dinner, I had the filet medallions in a wine sauce (kind of like a Steak Diane). The steak was just okay, and the sauce (way too much wine) actually ruined the meat, and made the plate a real mess. On my most recent visit for lunch, I had the Cappellacci di Zucca, which is basically a Butternut Squash ravioli. I have had it before at other places, primarily as a starter. I probably should have went with something else. The Butternut Squash ravioli was fine as was the brown butter sage sauce. However, it was served over a spicy marinara sauce, which contrasted way too much with the sweetness of the butternut squash and the brown butter sauce. Not very appetizing. There may be better menu options here, but both times I've been here, the flavors and ingredients of the dishes didn't really complement each other that well.
(2)
J B.

The place straddles a delicate line between business-account-splurge and fine, local dining. The ravioli, which the waitress recommended, was outright phenomenal: plump yellow pockets of sweet stuffed squash and ricotta, coated with sage and burnt butter. The salad--mixed greens and strawberries--was also astoundingly good for a salad. And the desert--a warm, molten chocolate cake with vanilla gelato--was what you would expect from that concoction. My only lament is the price. Yes, it's very good food. And the service was attentive, detailed, responsive, warm--everything you'd expect in fine dining. But it's hard to eat here for less than $50/person, excluding wine, which I guess is to be expected. I wonder, however, if the businessfolk didn't patronize it whether that would still be the case. The tables themselves are large, the decor is expectedly faux classical, and Frank Sinatra croons from the overhead. I just wish the conventioneers/tourists would't frequent it, because the price is more to their standards. But that's what you get with high dining. Expect to hear garrulous laughter and see girls wearing leopard skin tops. I will say this, though--they have both a vegan and a gluten free menu, which you don't find in a New York steakhouse. Plus the wine we had--an 09 Barbara--was reasonable and delicious. This place is recommended.
(4)
Chantalle v.

Went here for a birthday dinner. The flatbread with prosciutto tasted a bit odd - maybe because there were too many toppings on the flatbread (I forgot everything that was on there, but pear, raisins and some type of cheese were some of them), and the flatbread was just a bit too crispy. The butternut squash ravioli was amazing, as was the osso bucco. The spaghetti with meatballs was inedible - the meatballs tasted more like soggy old bread with hardly any meat in it. Plus I also got a mouthful of salt. Yuck. The dessert was okay but not very memorable. Although the waiter was very friendly, service was very slow for a non-busy Monday night.
(3)
Mark K.

service was great - food was solid but nothing extraordinary. I would definitely go back.
(4)
Stephanie S.

To be fair to the restaurant, this delayed follow up is in order and it is not about food or the experience my friend Alicia had many months ago. It was regarding follow up to a nasty email letter I had sent to L'opera outlining what had occurred there that evening. I did indeed get a timely response within a few days from not only the hostess but the manager from that Saturday night and the owner of the restaurant, the latter who really made a heart felt plea to right a wrong doing. So genuine his sympathetic response about how this disciminatory episode occurred which is not representative of what this restaurant or sister restaurants (he owns more than one including the Allegria which we had the great experience at). He spoke of how retraining of the staff was in order in terms of tolerance to alternative lifestyle individuals, ie. homosexual and transgendered clients. I appreciated the thought and his concern for that evenings episode. He even offered to comp our next meal should we ever decide to come back. Chad, the manager who was at major fault that evening also made a genuine apology in the email response. That is a response to me for Alicia. I accepted all their responses and apologies but couldn't for Alicia and forwarded all the responses to her which she gracefully accepted. However she has little to no interest to return to the restaurant which is a big shame. I had asked Chad to write her directly since my beef was from myself and not her. She is not one to make a scene or challenge anyone. As of today he hasn't, which may be due to his feeling that one apology is enough. All I know is Alicia was the one who was wronged (me indirectly) and had no plans to return to the restaurant. Anyway, if anyone knows Chad please ask him to reconsider since I want to go back with Alicia to L'opera but she will not at this point C'est la vie I suppose.
(3)
Jason A.

This place is really bougie. I never thought I could do it, but I'm one hundred dollars lighter after coming here on my last visit a week ago. Let me break it down: One order of calamari 3 glasses of wine One swordfish steak on mashed potatoes and onions One order of chocolate gelato That's it. Those items tallied to about a hundred dollars. There were a ton of wealthy people from the East Coast there. You can tell because of the accents and the way they dress. They're probably in town for a convention or something. I spent most of the evening staring out into 1st Street and the metro station and chugging wine. I was the only single party there, but that just encouraged me to be even more heroic. One thing I did observe is that the restaurant is elevated from the ground level. This is so that you'll be able to see above the heads of people walking on the sidewalk outside. It also discourages the poor people from looking in, in scenes reminiscent of the movies where beggars and transients stare at the rich eating inside. I came here on a spurt of the moment decision after debating whether it was going to be this or In-N-Out. I had to pass on the In-N-Out this time because I felt like driving farther. Driving is therapeutic to me. I was the only person there wearing a short sleeved shirt, but I think I spent the most money, judging from the items that the people around me got. At first I didn't get much attention from any of the waitstaff even when I was ready to order because I was probably judged to be a cheap Asian, so I called over one of the Mexican busboys and placed my order to him in Espanol. His service was great, frankly and was totally cool with me asking him for stuff instead of my assigned server. Once my assigned server saw that I was speaking with the Mexican busboy, she grew distraught because her station was being hijacked by a non-waiter. I literally ignored her for the rest of the night and I focused on getting my order and food from the Mexican busboy. At least he was attentive and we had built rapport. I told her that I didn't appreciate that she took so damn long and that I was content in having the Mexican busboy do her job. In fact, I would only accept that arrangement. I can tell some of the people around were trying to have a romantic time, but I was there and I was staring to get obnoxious after pounding more and more wine and making comments like how the busboys were better than the waitresses. I probably ruined the experience for my neighbors, but that's okay, I left a hefty tip for the Latino, so I'm sure he was cool with that. It was a refreshing experience roughing up the high social order a bit. I could tell that the old New York couple next to me were fascinated with me, as I still had my work badge clipped to my belt and pinstriped pants, my bling on my fingers and wrists, my Rolex, my black Ferragamo shoes and combined with a stained Burberry t-shirt. At one point, I messed up my hair and started spitting out the parts of the calamari that I found repulsive (namely the tentacles) into the same plate used to present it. I also made a mess with the oil and vinegar and made some stains on the tablecloth with the red sauce that accompanied the calamari. One couple was repulsed, but didn't leave because they paid good money to be here. Well, so did I, and I was going to get my money's worth of service. The Mexican busboy kept cleaning up after me, but I resumed to spill, partly because my hand-eye coordination was retarded after chugging wine. After a while, I just told him to chill and to just come by when I wave my hand. My assigned server kept asking if she could be of assistance, but I told her that even if she was going to help me, she would not get a cent in tip from me. All that was reserved for Pedro. At one point in my meal, I had to take a major leak. I walked over to the hostess and asked her where the bathroom was. Instead of just telling you where it is, they actually have you follow them. So I did. I then made a comment about whether they also unzip my fly for me. Some guys who heard me started laughing from their tables and the adjacent bar. They remembered my name and even called me Mr. Amansec as I walked out. I threw out a westside gang sign as the host opened the door for me and even flashed it to my dining neighbors, who were like 60-70 year old rich folks on the way out. Thankfully, before I ate, I got my ticket validated from the movie theater over at the Pike. That meant I got three free hours. Booyah! Way to stick it to the man!
(4)
H H.

Went here on a Friday night with reservations at 6pm. Called to say we'd be a few minutes late and the host said no problem. I like that. Wasn't too busy when we arrived, but started to fill up as we ate our meal. We had a decent, quiet table and were quickly served with breadsticks and bread and the waitress came by for our drink orders. My wife had a vodka gimlet and I had a Sydnie (3 parts vodka, 1 part gin, dash of vermouth, with a lemon twist). Too much vermouth in my cocktail, but my wife said her gimlet was very good. They were offering their fixed-price Valentine's Day menu, but we opted to order a la carte because we weren't all that hungry. My wife had the butternut squash ravioli and I had the lobster ravioli. I had asked our waitress her opinion between a chicken dish and the lobster ravioli and to my surprise, she recommended the lower priced ravioli dish. Her honesty was refreshing. Lobster ravioli was good and I was happy to see that you get a full plate of it (not 3 or 4 pieces like I've seen elsewhere). My wife said her butternut squash ravioli was suprisingly filling. We each had a glass of wine. I had looked at the wine list but it seemed prohibitively expensive. The best part of the meal was by far the dessert. Cheesecake with a creme brulee topping, fresh cream, and berries. The cheesecake was so light. Like no cheesecake I've ever tasted. Felt like I got good value for my money. 2 cocktails, 2 glasses of wine, 2 entrees, and a dessert and the bill was just over $100 (including tip). Valet parking was $8, which I thought was a little high. My wife and I have been here 3 times now. We'll keep coming back.
(4)
Laura B.

My mother and I came in for Mother's Day and it was both of our first times eating here. The restaurant itself is aesthetically pleasing: big windows, great decorations (simply elegant), and the staff looked clean cut and professional. The menu had a great selection not too much not too little and not overwhelmingly descriptive. So far so good. The service, especially for Mother's day, was extremely disappointing. We were lucky that our order got taken, no water was offered, rare refills, didn't get things when requested, when a waiter asked how the food was he left before we could answer, took forever to bill us out and I could be more understanding if the place was packed but there were more waiters than there were tables. Mother's Day is supposed to be memorable but not like this. We spent the whole hour ride home wondering what we did wrong or if we looked wrong (yes, we wore appropriate nice attire especially for a brunch.) I even sent a message a couple of days later to the restaurant and still haven't even received an appology.
(2)
Ricky C.

Cold would be the theme I'm aiming for here. It was a cold New Years Eve night in Long Beach when a group of my friends went to L'Opera to celebrate. I've only heard good things about their food, which is why I chose this over the other restaurants in the area. Perhaps it was my fault for not checking the site, but on Open Table when I booked the reservation there was no mention of a fixed menu. But once we got there, the menu looked good so it wasn't a huge deal. I would just have liked to have informed people that it would be $80 a person plus tax and tip ahead of time. The hostess was very friendly, but we were seated in the way back by the stairway where it was freezing because of the wind blowing in. Then all the food came out cold, even the main course (steak and lobster tail). Since the appetizers were cold, we thought it was a cold theme. The manager came by after and gave us a bottle of champagne to make up for it, which was nice, but we'd all rather have had hot food. I'm sure their regular menu food is way better, we just didn't have a chance to try it. If in fact I do go back and do enjoy the food, I'll give it a better rating. However, for now it only gets 1 star. Not the happiest way to bring in the new year.
(1)
Suzanne P.

I came here with a good friend to celebrate my 30..... BDAY lol..... The place was beautiful, the restroom super clean, the food YUMMY!!!! And Scott was awesome!!!!! Ty Scott for your excellent service!!!!!!
(5)
Alok M.

Great ambiance, very friendly staff! The food went from great to amazing. We had the minestrone soup and a salad as the appetizer, the swordfish (great) and butternut squash pasta (amazing) for the main meal and finally the maria (amazing) and a creme brulee desert. We definitely plan to go again, and probably also just drop by once in a while for desert. The price was reasonable. The only two critiques were: the wine they recommended was a twist off cap / no cork. The candles on the tables are fake :(
(5)
Rocio A.

We had New Years Day dinner here. We being a party of four consisting of my boyfriend, myself and his parents. It was great! Two in our party opted for the tasting menu, three courses for $29. Not too shabby. You get a lovely mixed greens salad (albeit a bit small but hey, it's a TASTING menu), your choice of entree and your choice of desert off of their menu choices for the evening. They were pretty pleased with their food and left feeling full and satisfied which says a lot considering these are two grown men we're talking about. I had one of the specials for the night; a fresh made tagliatelle pasta with butter, truffle shavings, and gorgeous lumps of sweet sweet crab meat. So good. So decadent. I also shared a tiramisu and it was good but not great. What was great was that killer panna cotta. Good. Lord. I'll be in again and again for one of their lovely cappuccinos and a panna cotta. Overall, L'Opera is a great place for a fancy night out and I'd jump at the chance to dine here again!
(5)
TM D.

Expensive...food is good. Service is okay.
(3)
Scott S.

When I called a buddy who lives in OC with me in Hollywood, we agreed to meet halfway and ended up at L'Opera. I'm glad we did. Actually, Bret had a dinner here for 45 people and everyone loved it, so I was expecting good food. They didn't disappoint. The service was attentive and thoughtful without being suffocating. We began with cocktails. I ordered a Makers Mark Manhattan and they didn't stint on the portion. That baby was huge! So much so that I opted not to have wine so I could drive back without risking an interview with CHP. Next up up the classic Cesar's salad. I asked for extra anchovies and was rewarded with a small bowl so I could liberally add them my salad. Yum! For my entree, I had the Salmone D'Orato. A pan roasted salmon fillet served with a potato, pancetta and watercress cake along with a small shaved apple and fennel salad on the side. The salmon came out sizzling hot and perfectly roasted. It melted into my mouth. The fusion of the potato, pancetta and watercress cake had me wondering how I could make this item at home. (Beg for the recipe perhaps?) The shaved apple and fennel was a nice foil for the salmon and cake. My friend had the special of the day, an ahi steak that had been seared and served medium rare. Delicious! I didn't try his sides, but they looked good. Next time I'm in SoCal, I'd come back to try more dishes.
(5)
Jim W H.

After hours of dancing at the local Lobster festival, a decision was made to spend the evening having a romantic dinner holding hands, rich dark Italian wines and foods that were blessed with tasty cheeses,and pasta. What a delight, the evening was topped off with the sounds of Opera with a local baritone. The girlfriend and I opted for more wine, and today we still want to see one another. Thank goodness for the L'Opera.
(5)
Babak B.

Great date night restaurant. Service was excellent from the moment we walked in the door. Avoid the brushetta......kinda flavorless but everything else.......fantastic. The bar is VERY pricey, but the food isnt. Ill be back!
(5)
karen H.

This is great food, good service and love the pizzas. The parking sucks, but that's not their fault. I like the little bar and am surprised there aren't more people sitting there. But whether it be take out dine in. I enjoy it every time
(5)
J A.

3.5 stars for dinner service. Ordered the Filetto Al Caffe which was a filet mignon sitting on mashed potatoes with vegetables cooked in reduced wine. It was okay, nothing spectacular. I ordered my meat medium well this time. I don't know what I was thinking. I think the conversation I had with my dinner mate was so engaging that I wasn't thinking clearly. Anyhow, this choice of wellness may have affected the tenderness and taste of the meat. For dessert, I had the Il Sigaro. The dessert was a creme brulee like substance placed in a cocktail glass garnished with sliced strawberries, a cigar wafer cookie dipped in chocolate and a chocolate dipped strawberry sitting atop the creme brulee. Disappointed as the creme brulee was chilled and it had a pudding like texture. The restaurant was beautiful and staff friendly. As it got busy, the waiter forgot about us and we waited for quite some time until he noticed that we were done and ready to go.
(3)
Brian D.

Great higher-end Italian food, in a higher-end atmosphere. The place occupies an old bank and it is beautifully decorated, very classy. The business/convention/hotel crowds of downtown Long Beach get annoying coming in in their shirts and ties (it's Long Beach guys, not NYC, so leave the jackets and ties back at the hotel), but other than that, the food tastes great. It is tough to find high-end, quality Italian food with a twist anyhwere in this area, so my wife and I love coming here for a little treat beyond the standard chicken parm nonsense, which, although it tastes great, gets old very quick. Come here for a nice atmosphere, great professional service, with a diverse, higher-end Italian menu. A real gem of a spot.
(4)
M M.

started with the l'opera green salad not bad but certainly NOT worth $10.00 especially since i found a number of dead pieces of lettuce and also what looked to be like a piece of a burnt slim jim all shriveled up. YUCK! i think it fell on my salad on accident or perhaps placed there as a take this.....? 3.5 stars for my main course, i ordered the ravioli al tartufo and it was good but the truffle taste was soooooo mild. :( but aside from that it was good. desert hahahahahah hilarious! we ordered creme brulee and it was UNEDIBLE! honestly it was not creamy like its supposed to be it was more firm like flan! YUCK! and the sugar on top was like jello and all jiggly... OHHH and before we ordered the yucky creme brulee we asked what flavors of 'gelati' they had we were told their freezer has been down for a few days so they could only keep chocolate and vanilla cuz the rest went bad! wait what? the freezer has been broken for a few days? hahaha um kind sir(ver) i think you are telling me WAAAAYYYY too much info. ok and for the decor!!! tacky 80's used to be nice one day but now is sooo outdated. green painted to look like marble colums!!! and apparently they recently celebrated their 20 yr anniversary so there is this HUGE "cake" made out of empty patron bottles with candle wax all over them! doubtful i will return!
(2)
S N.

Went here on a first date last night. We parked a block or two away as parking close-by was ridiculously overpriced. We paid 3 bucks for 3 hours on 4th street. This is a great hood to walk in anyway so who cares. Pine street has always been a fav of mine. I was saddened to see a few places closing -no doubt to the economy and a few new ones opening. A sex shop now is on the street. Not that I have anything against sex shops but I just don't think it fits in well with the restaurants and clubs. The movie theater is also sadly closed. It was Tuesday and the only two places that where full were the Fish house and L'opera. We got a cool table by the window and the AC was set too high. The service was impeccable as it always is-I have been here 3 times but the food continues to disappoint. The ambiance perfect. My date ordered "water" and as travelers and Italians know when you order water it always assumed to be bottled and the bottle is always an Italian brand of spring water with gas or without. We got a bottle of American Alkaline water!What a joke! And the waitress had to tell us its benefits-which btw NO scientific evidence supports. Give me Italian water please! We paid for Italian water! Don't worry I will exhale any extra acid I have! lol The bread was horrid-dry bread sticks~BLECK and the other bread they offered simply boring. I could live off good bread , olive oil and balsamic, but not theirs. Our Prosciutto appetizer was liked by my Italian date but I could have passed on the salt pile with tasteless cantaloupe. I will say the shaved Parmesan was nice on it though. My Italian ordered OSSOBUCO ALLA MILANESE which is braised veal. He was so disappointed he had to ask the waitress-who was totally cool btw speaking and understanding his Italian-for salt to give it flavor. I tried his and absolutely hated it. Oh yeah and the rice was not cooked correctly. I ordered CAPPELLI LOMBARDI which is Red Wine Braised Short Rib of Beef, Stuffed Into Homemade Ravioli, SautÃ©ed in a Gorgonzola Cream Sauce. I honestly don't recall any beef. I think I got the wrong thing but mine was better than his and my date finished mine up for me. We passed on dessert because we were full. I do recall the dessert and coffee being really good here though. Well they better get that right. I cannot recommend this place. The food is simply not any good. Regardless it was a really nice date otherwise. ;)
(1)
Eric S.

Not sure what all the fuss was about. Overpriced and when did they start making rissoto with long grain rice? Oh and not to mention we got here at 6 and it's now almost 9 and we just about twenty minutes ago got our food. Pretty slow service. Especially considering its for my boy's bday party. Hopefully he enjoyed it. They sure are quick to do everything else, for example, clean off the table!!
(1)
Jennifer B.

I was here last week for a date, and while the ambiance is lovely be forewarned it's on the pricey side and just on par with some of the other Italian offerings in the area (I know, I know, I shouldn't be worried about that stuff while I'm on a date but I can't help myself!). Starters for myself were the minestrone (delicious!) and for dessert I ordered the L'Incanto (crepes + baked apple dish) and enjoyed it. The main course? The main course for myself was the flat iron steak, and another star would have been tacked on to this review had I received it medium well like I asked, instead of well done which totally killed the flavor entirely. On the plus side, the wine list is pretty extensive. Pricey but decent food if you're looking for a nice Italian place in the Long Beach area.
(3)
Romany M.

My closest friend and I corral here ever Wednesday to discuss business, life, evolution, love, psychology, our progressions, etc. And I didn't expect much of La Opera the first time I went but I was really surprised by how friggin' tasty the dishes were. I mean, damn! They serve good food. My boy orders this one dish with angel hair pasta and it smells so tasty and reeks of garlic. He loves it. Get's it every time. I'm gluten free so I don't do the pasta. I stick to the fresh fish, chicken, steak, vegetables, soups, salads, etc. A few recommendations: Carpaccio Classico: Thin slices of Beef Tenderloin Topped with Arugula, Capers & Shaved Parmigiano, Drizzled with Extra Virgin Olive Oil (I get extra cheese). Minestrone Soup: A Fresh Soup of Seasonal Vegetables & Herbs. The soup is super fresh - not from a can! I think that the chef you want to prepare your food is named Niko. He cooks with love. Service is always top notch. And if you're lucky you'll get the really nice staff that happens to be working on the exact days that we're there. You'd swear they planned it. Yay!
(4)
Fred J.

Awesome wine list. Fun bar to people watch. Very friendly staff. While this is a very classy place to go, I don't think the prices are out of line. Now if you lavish yourself with their fine wines, you can spend a small fortune, but if you're on a budget, I wouldn't hesitate to go here and just be selective. Food is excellent! Pasta dishes are inexpensive but offer a complex variety of tastes.
(4)
Conde A.

I love love love this place. My absolute favorite is the Lobster Stuffed Ravioli - instead of a heavy cream sauce, it has a light fresh tomato sauce with the ravioli. We also rented out a private room for a company party - the rooms are separate from the regular restaurant (downstairs), have their own private bar and restrooms and are a PERFECT place for any type of private party or reception. The staff is professional, courteous and easy to work with.
(5)
Jennifer J.

I like the food, but its a little stuffy. This restaurant does not reflect the new era of dining establishments but the food is still great. I think its perfect for work meetings (I've had several here) and work lunches where you need to be professional. However, I brought my staff for a birthday and they seemed uncomfortable and a little out of place. I think the prices are reasonable, but just be prepared for a more uptight/formal dining experience. Note: They have a fixed menu for lunch that works well for meetings. I also think the butternut squash is delicious.
(4)
Glenn P.

One of the best Italian meals you'll ever have. Staff and management are exceptional and there is an amazing wine list.
(5)
Dana M.

We've been coming here for quite a few years and have always enjoyed it. At some point the menu changed a little bit, and we couldn't find our favorites anymore, though the food we did order was delicious. The prices make this more of a "classy" place, and we've had many business dinners here with great success. The tables are a little close together for any really intimate date, but overall this is a solid restaurant.
(4)
Jenn M.

B and I went to L'Opera for my birthday last weekend and it was delicious as usual. We have been there several times before and always enjoy ourselves. I think what I like about it the most is that the atmosphere is really nice but it doesn't feel stuffy or pretentious and I am very comfortable sitting in there for a couple of hours to enjoy a good meal. I like to dress accordingly, but I did see someone else in jeans so the ambiance is definitely not formal. First, their wine selection is great. The wine "list" is actually a full-blown BOOK and they have everything from wines by the glass, up to the last bottle of some foo foo fancy stuff I've never heard of that will set you back $850. B and I usually get a bottle and then promptly forget the name of it, whether we decided that we like it or not. We also appreciate a yummy port and they had several on the dessert menu to choose from. This time we had the cheese platter appetizer and had fun trying all the different combinations of flavors. It looked small at first, but we felt it ended up being a perfect size for an appetizer for two. I personally don't want to fill up on that kind of stuff before I even see my entree. The fig preserves were so good with the cheeses and our server was kind (and knowledgable) enough to explain what quince paste was when B asked her. We have also had the bruschetta and the prosciutto appetizers in the past and liked them. B and I both had the Degli Innamorati salad with balsamic and strawberries and I thought the portion was very generous for a salad. I ended up purposely leaving some on the plate so I'd still have room left for dinner. I find it hard to branch out from the Cappellacci de Zucca because it is SO GOOD, and if I think about it enough I can almost taste it right now. We tend to stick to the pasta dishes instead of the heavy duty meat but I did look at the descriptions and the Filetto al Caffe or the Osso Bucco with the gold flakes definitely sound luxurious. B had the Ravioli al Tartufo and we both really liked that as well. He tried to act like he wasn't jealous of my Cappellacci but I doubt that highly. I am slightly put off by the overly creative descriptions on some of the menu items and didn't find it that cute to read about some food item being intoxicated and blueberries hiccuping... but whatever. Overall, it seems to me like they take their food seriously, but not TOO seriously, much like myself! I definitely appreciate that. We will be back.
(4)
B N.

I give this place 3.5 stars Dined here for dinner with my business partner 4 nights ago and thought that the food was good but definitely no wow factor. I had the osso buco with risotto. The osso buco was good but the risotto was a tad dente. My partner had the salmon and said it was good. Our service consistently got slower as time progressed while dining as the restaurant was filling up and the staff was struggling to keep up. I take it that they were not prepared for a busy Monday night. Our server even apologized. The end result is that the food is good but a bit on the pricey side for what you get. The ambiance is really nice and the bar looked like a cool place to hang out and have a few cocktails. I would be willing to come back again and try something different. Food = 3.5 Stars Ambiance = 4 Stars Service = 3 Stars
(3)
Kumi K.

BF took me for my birthday after a very relaxing 4 hours spa session. One might suggest that I might be biased but when it comes to food, I know what like and I like L'Opera. For our salad we had Degli Innamorati, baby greens tossed in Balsamic dressing with Feta cheese, Strawberries and Toasted Almonds. It was crisp, had the right sweetness, a little bit tangy , with a hint of saltiness and a whole lot of crunch from the Toasted Almonds. It was fresh and delightful. Our main dishes were equally delighful. BF had a Lobster ravioli with tomato and marsala sauce. Portion was quite small but it was a good thing because my order of Spaghetti Alle Vongole was quite big enough for two people. My pasta was garlicky without being overwhelming and it was so good. The only complaint I have is that there's just so few Vongole in it. We decided not to get dessert but they looked really good and from what I read from other yelper, I know I must come back and try it one day. This restaurant might look really fancy from the exterior but there's no need for fear or anxiety on which utensils goes with which food. This place does not have a dozen of utensils set on your table. So be at ease, dress in your office casual outfit, relax and enjoy a meal where your server is polite, respectful and never hurries you.
(4)
Nikol Z.

With my garlic allergy italian places are pretty hard to go to. My husband got great news at work so he wanted to celebrate with his favorite kind of food, italian haha. We picked L'Opera because neither of us had been there but had heard good things! It was amazing, I called ahead to ask if they would be able to work with my allergy and thankfully they were. When we sat down our server was quick and nice, we had 2 cocktails and started with the carpaccio, it was delicious and a much larger portion than other places we have gone. It was salty and all the parm on it was perfect. I had the ravioli which is usually not an option for me but they were able to not use any garlic. Handmade Ravioli stuffed with Red Wine Braised Short Rib and is sautÃ©ed in a Gorgonzola Cream Sauce won me over. It was THE BEST cream sauce I have ever had and if it wouldnt have been terrible of me to lick the plate I would have. Ryan had osso bucu manicotti enjoyed it but it didnt get close to how delicious mine was, cant wait to go back!
(5)
Carole F.

My friend and I stopped in for happy hour. Can't rave enough about the food we ordered. We shared 4 dishes - could have done less as the sizes were large we thought. We had 1 glass of wine each and our bill came to $32. Quite a difference from the dinner menu! Will definitely go back next time I am in Long Beach.
(5)
Jeff K.

We had a nice dinner here with the customer and other partners. The place was very nicely decorated. The food and service was more than decent. It was definitely a pleasant experience. On the other hand, I'm not sure if I would hit this place to resolve any Italian cravings. I probably wouldn't do it for a romantic date either. It's definitely a great place for business dinners. Let's leave it at that.
(3)
Damian W.

Great place for special occasions. My wife and I had our rehearsal dinner here. The Ossobuco is amazing, the wine selection is daunting and the service is top-knotch.
(5)
Andrew C.

Fresh lobster-stuffed ravioli? Incredible sauces? Yes and yes! Took my lady here as a surprise date after a long day of outdoor activities, we got dressed up and came in for what ended up being a truly incredible meal. I was wowed by everything we tried. We had the sliced ahi appetizer which melted in my mouth. The mezzelune (half moon) d'aragosta ravioli were splendid- lobster and ricotta cheese. Don't exactly remember the other dish we got to split but it was most likely the grilled chicken with the fingerling potatoes, which alone won over my girlfriend starch-driven heart. Beautiful restaurant and super helpful staff, this is now my ultimate date restaurant in LB.
(5)
Henry L.

Went here in for a date night on a sat evening. Its located only a half block from my condo and honestly didn't feel like driving to a fancy joint so i made this suggestion. Good thing she said OK. Took my own bottle of wine there ($15 cork fee). Started off with the Calamari with vodka spicy sauce. Excellent tasting! And they give you a lot too. They also gave fresh bread which was as well excellent tasting. Ordered the rack of lamb for her and the pasta filled ravioli with chicken for me. I wanted a little something special so i asked them to make it with a basil pesto sauce. My goodness both items was excellent. The rack of lamb was out of this world. By far the best rack of lamb i have tasted. And me being Indian i have tasted a lot of lamb. It had a balsamic/mint flavor and it was simply amazing! My ravioli was also great. Very fresh and the pesto sauce was dancing in my mouth. I was told they make the sauce as you order it and no sauce is pre made. Wow. After dinner we ordered the chocolate cheesecake. I'm not a huge fan of dessert at restaurants but this cheesecake was creamy, not to rich tasting and full of flavor. Over all this place is what it seems like and even thou I'm not Italian like some fellow yelpers have claimed to be its still one of the best Italian restaurants this side of Italy.
(5)
Manny P.

I loved it! The service was awesome, the atmosphere was intimate and private, and had a ton of great art. The food? simply amazing! By far, the best pesto gnochi I have ever had in my life, and I eat it often. I also had the veal parmiggiana, which was so damn good. My girl had some pasta with fish sausage. She loved it, but I was not fond of the fishiness. The view from the inside to the outside was very lovely. It makes you feel like you are in a special place. And the outside it very opulent and compelling, more than all the other restaurants on pine ave. I definitely look forward to coming back!
(4)
ryan m.

Slow service and avg food at best . If it was 50%off i would have delt with it alittle better. I think i was expecting more
(2)
Dixi S.

This is my favorite restaurant in Long Beach. We come here for special occasions like birthdays and anniversaries. The place is great, and the service is great, as well. We are always seated by the window, and it is always perfect. My faves? Lobster ravioli. My boyfriend and I found this in a sampler plate. Everything was wonderful, but this is the best one on the plate. The deserts are very good. The crepes were amazing. We thought we died and went to heaven!
(5)
Simone M.

I have been here for the third time now and I have to say this thrid time was the charm. The first two times didn't make me want to return...nothing bad...just not memorable, but we went with another couple...and it was nice. The olive oil is infused with something spicy...which is good in moderation, but someone at our table who wasn't expecting it had a heap of it on their bread and couldn't breathe for a moment. I ordered a ravioli stuffed with short rib meat, and topped with a gorgonzola cream sauce which was absolutely terrific. The shrimp cocktail had only three shrimp but they were huge and delicious. The caprese salad was mediocre. However the pomegranate martinis were the best I'd ever tasted. So basically I think this restaurant has its strengths and weaknesses. Service was good...some food was great and other was ok. They do have live opera which may or may not be a good thing depending on who you are...the singers come right up to your table which is awkward for some people...and ejoyed by others.
(3)
K S.

Ok, maybe because it was a Monday, we were at the sufferance of the "B" team in the kitchen? Not busy, nice ambiance, nice location, prices were reasonable, if a bit on the high side... so we were expecting some great food. Server was terrific and the pace was nice and relaxed. However, he recommended the halibut on the "specials" menu as it would pair nicely with my wine. Sounded great, right? Ah.... no. The fish was super dry with dryyyerr breadcrumbs over it sitting in a puddle of acidic spaghetti sauce. The mashed potatoes were like a brick of salt and the broccoli reminded me of the kind you get at a Chinese restaurant--hard, bland and lukewarm. Sent it back and asked for the same pasta dish my brother was eating (spaghetti with sausage). The second dish was wonderful--a little spicy, but delish! The caprese appetizer was boring and over salted. The veal was nice, but again a problem with being overcooked. My sister in law enjoyed her ravioli and said it tasted great. All in all, seems like a deadly problem of the restaurant world--the affliction of inconsistency.
(2)
Russ D.

Gnocchi with pesto cream
(5)
Aaron J.

I made reservations here for a business dinner through the concierge at the hotel. They suggested this place and had many positive comments about other guests' experiences. I ordered a salad with walnuts, strawberries and feta that hit the mark before the entree was served. A colleague ordered the Butternut Squash soup and seemed pleasantly surprised. I had the fillet for my entree and thought I'd had the steak many times before. Nothing stood out. One steak on our table was ordered medium and was brought back well-done. He sent it back and it was quickly prepared correctly. For dessert I had the "Maria", which was the best part of the meal. Overall, I thought the food was okay, the service was pleasant, but the experience was very forgettable. Nothing stands out here that deserves five stars other than a creative menu.
(3)
Heidi H.

I have been here several times. Consistently good food and good service. The ambiance is romantic. Ordering the assaggini all'Italiana is a great way to try a a variety of their pasta dishes in one visit. Cappellacci Di Zucca is amazing!
(4)
Lynsay B.

I love this place! I used to go with my boyfriend every sunday for the half-off wine special. this tradition stopped a few months ago when we realized that too much of a good thing can in fact get old, and also because ... well who the hell can afford to spend $100 on some pasta and drinks once a week?? i have had group dinners here, as well as double dates. my best advice is to go with one "special" person and sit at the bar (i have a sit at the bar whenever possible policy). the service has always been excellent here and it helps that you can get wine recommendations from the bartenders. and if you are friendly and come often, they will hook you up. the food - i like to order the plate that has three different types of pasta. you can choose yourself from any pasta on the menu, including the night's specials. i have never been a huge pasta fan but the pasta here is home made and delicious beyond belief. this is no olive garden - you wont find yourself with a bowl full of fettuccini alfredo that could literally feed 4 people and leaves you feeling meh. their butternut squash ravioli is my favorite, but all pasta choices are really all excellent. you can probably split this plate and get an appetizer. i always get the cheese plate, which is very tastefully done. the drinks- one of my favorite places to go for a martini. i have heard that they have an great wine list, but to be honest i know like nothing about wine and always let the bartender recommend something. its a very calm and slightly dark atmosphere and in my opinion perfect for getting drunk and eating some good food with your significant other. im pretty surpised to see so many mixed reviews, though i can definitely say that it is best to skip the "second course" meat dishes because i've never really been impressed by them.
(5)
Matt W.

Fantastic Service and homemade pasta, great wine selection
(5)
Arlene R.

A friend threw their son's 1st Birthday party here. The have a private room down below the restaurant for such events. The food was pretty good. Didn't have that high of an expectation since it's banquet style however, the filet mignon was cooked perfectly medium. Not bad when you're serving over 50 of these! The fish was really moist as well. The strange thing was that the accompaniment was this eggplant, tomatoe, bell pepper mush. For both dishes too! I would've been happy with some sauteed squash or broccoli.
(3)
Cindy Y.

WHAT A FANTASTIC PLACE ! From the time you come in the host greets you warmly and I found the service is impeccible. My boyfriend took me here for dinner and the experience was unforgettable. I found our server a lovely woman I think her name was Mona was absolutely top notch. She was accomodating and helpful with the menu items. The courses were timed perfectly and the service was superb. I will definitely be back !!! Its nice to see top notch places like this still exist!!! I loved it !!
(5)
Steve S.

I ate here Sunday, & am still dreaming of how good this freggin place is. OK, it gets even better -- they have the ABSOLUTE Bestestest offer EVER in the WORLD: few simple steps to take: 1) register as a club member at larestaurants.com , 2) print up their L'Opera SUNDAY ONLY 50% off a bottle of wine COUPON! and 3) PEOPLE, You Better USE IT! Coupon Is good until Dec 2009 unless management changes this. 4) you can probably print up oodles of these Wonka tickets & use one every Sunday you visit, until Dec 2009 (excluding other offers, of course). tips: the wine list is a f**kn novel -- about 30 pgs long, seriously! Plan to be involved in this for a long a.s.s time. hahaha like that's a problem? Drinks are top shelf. focaccia is amazing. the waiter managed to throw out the fact that he makes his own original designs (with the VOO & Basalmic), but you can create your own. Calamari is perhaps the best I've had, even better than in Spain. served with a vodka-tomato sauce (not too spicy, just right) Squash ravioli is insane, (Andrea L is correct...) and I didn't even know about it until I ordered it. (btw, delickable lol surprises are everywhere on the menu here.. you will make yourself a promise to be back, and you'll be glad you did) they will recommend which deserts are best to "box & go".
(5)
JP T.

Came here for a big dinner party last Friday, so we had one of those set menus with a choice for the entree only. Upon entering, we were pretty much waited on non-stop for the entire night. Appetizers and bread were offered within 5 minutes of being seated, and my wine and water glasses never dipped below the half way mark until the very end of the night. Overall, service was pretty good. Onto the food: (Out of 5) Appetizers: Tuna in a piece of lettuce - 2...lettuce was crisp, but you could not taste the tuna or anything on the tuna as a matter of fact...pretty bland Proscuitto wrapped shrimp - 5...maybe I'm biased because I love proscuitto, but this was pretty damn tasty... Bruschetta - 4...i like the fact that they used thin slices of frech bread, so it was more like a big cruton...only negative was one piece I got had an excessive amount of olive oil on it... First Plate Butternut Squash Pasta - 5...this was really good..filling was slightly sweet, but not ovepowering, and outside was cooked al dente and not soggy... Main Course Roasted Lamb - 4...lamb was cooked very well..nice and tender...it was served over some spinach and potatoes I believe...spinach and potatoes werent too great..potatoes were actually very dry, which is why this is docked a point Dessert Fruit in a Chocolate box - 3...while this tasted good, there was nothing spectacular about it...tastes exactly what it sounds like...chocolate and fruit...
(4)
E L.

Am I the only person who doesn't think L'Opera is all that? I love the atmosphere and have never had bad service here. The vibe is oldschool Long Beach which I totally dig. The food is good but it's not the best thing ever... and probably not worth the high prices. Great bread. Great wine. I recommend the butternut squash ravioli - it's delicious. I guess if you live in Long Beach you have to try it out at least once but I doubt it will end up on your list of LBC favorites.
(3)
Monica N.

When I first started exploring Long Beach several years ago I saw this corner restaurant with huge plate glass windows, brass door fixtures, marble entryway, tables covered in crisp white linens, and diners sipping from wine glasses. It looked so elegant, so sophisticated like a scene from a movie era that has long since passed. The image was better than the experience. Like other reviewers had suggested I finally got to visit L'Opera on the company's tab. Our office had its holiday luncheon here on a weekday afternoon. There was a large group of us, at least 15. This may have been more than they could handle because our service was very slow. It took a long time for our food to arrive. For an early lunch the restaurant was somewhat slow and we were the only large group dining. Yet, we had only one waiter attending to us and one or two busboys refilling our iced teas and water. Not sure why they didn't get any additional staff to tend to us, they were several employees hanging around the kitchen and bar area. To make matters worse, afterwards our office manager called to make a complaint about the slow service and the person she spoke to on the phone argued with her! Would it have killed him to at least be apologetic?!! What happened to the customer always being right? I ordered the swordfish. It was prepared well, not over cooked but it was too salty for me. The vegetables served with it balanced out the flavor and the mashed potatoes were really good. However, who wants to order a $24 plate where the mashed potatoes are the star? I didn't have time to order the crme brulee, the one thing I was looking forward to. Bummer.
(2)
Pippi L.

I always enjoy a night out at L'Opera. I've been eating there for over 20 years and have never had a bad meal. (Except that one weird experience, 15+ years ago, when I ordered eggplant-filled ravioli and my ravioli came filled with fish and my waiter insisted it was not fish. I said if it is not fish, then it is a new variety of eggplant that has the texture and taste of fish. He did come back a second time and apologize when he found out the fish-filled ravioli from lunch had been mixed up with the eggplant-filled ones.) But the point is, L'Opera is consistently good. They make one of the best Caesar Salads I've ever had! I prefer Caesars with anchovy paste dressing and tender anchovies on top, rather than leathery or bony anchovies or the mustard dressings that you get on many "Caesar" salads. Putting mustard in a Caesar Salad is a pet peeve of mine. Anyway, my long-time favorite dish at L'Opera is the Agnolotti Al Gorgonzola, which is no longer a menu item (although they do offer something similar), however, they were kind enough to make it for me anyway, which is one of those things that sets a restaurant's service ahead of the pack. I crave this dish so much that I often plan to make the 25 mile drive to L'Opera to get it. As long as they can tolerate me asking for it, I will probably continue to do so. My friend ordered the Cappellacci Di Zucca. She loved it. It was a bit sweet for me, like dessert, but wonderful for a few bites. Desserts are always good here...a favorite is the Maria. I aways regret spitting that one. Love the large open dining room, and the huge glass windows that look out onto Pine and Ist. Can't wait until my next visit!
(4)
Jeff L.

I can't believe I've turned into this. It's beyond my own comprehension, my own understanding that this passion turned into an obsession as I'm sucking the mouth of a 1905 Madeira just handed to me by the bartender for a quick sniff. Like a newborn taking the first drink of life, I found myself with the bottle fully extended upwards as I'm grasping the last three drops of this 100 year old empty bottle of wine. It was a bold and stupid move on my part. I should have been kicked out of the restaurant on the spot. Not for one second did this baronial sin go unnoticed and I was immediately called out on it. "You're going to pay for that" the bar tender scolded. Oh shit is all I thought. I know at Napa Rose, for a one ounce taste of a 1900 Madeira goes for 150. The bar tender and I immediately had a disagreement about how much wine was left in the bottle but I swear it was just a few drops... just enough to wet your lips. With two bottles already decanting on the bar, I just suffered the biggest buzz kill. I mean, if I'm paying for it... it's all good right? Don't be upset with me. Now, I was worried about how much this guy will charge me for a few drops. Is he going to make an example out of me and take me to the bank? After two hours of drinking and eating and talking wine I started to relax a little. When the bill arrived I took a look and there it was: 1905 Medeira... 5.00 Thank you Pete.
(5)
Liz O.

*This was originally started Saturday morning...but the aftershock hit me and well, I had to nurse myself back to health** Wow. I can' t believe I am up and Yelping after last night's Venetian Masquerade Halloween party at L'Opera. I have been to L'Opera a couple of times and have enjoyed the food and ambiance. For this particular night, we went to a wine tastings event at the restaurant. The theme was Venetian Masquerade. For $20, we had all the wine we could drink plus great appetizers all night long. The appetizers consisted of mini gourmet pizzas, bruschetta, cheeses, prosciutto, berries, grapes, almond cream sauce, chocolate, Halloween cookies, pasta, olives and much more. My favorite wine was a Viognier called The Crusher. It kinda had a Juicy Fruit taste -- very fruity with hints of vanilla and clove. I absolutely loved it and thankfully, the wine server bailed out early and left us with a couple unopened bottles of it plus 20+ additional wine bottles to ravage through. There were about 6 people there -- 4 in costume. But boy did I have a wicked time. We tasted what seemed to be 20 different bottles of whites and reds. The pours extremely generous -- I am talking full glasses! By my third glass, I was no longer innocent and demure Liz -- I was taking pictures with the staff and the few guests in attendance AND pretending like I knew my wine. Among the party goers was a Master Sommelier. She was very cool and so was her boyfriend. We also met a couple of older broads who were dressed up and had filthy whore written all over their wrinkles. They left after realizing there were no men available. I would say the event was a complete bust -- in terms of attendance and atmosphere. That was virtually nonexistent. But the few people who were there and actually put forth the effort in their costumes made it worth my while. Minus the drunken dirty pervert sailor asshole who proved to be a total douche throughout the evening. Other than that -- I really don't remember who the hell I got home.
(5)
Doreen M.

Came here last Friday night with a friend and thank God she had a $100 gift certificate, because I would have hated to pay full price for everything. Now, the location is great, the place is gorgeous, the waiters and hostess very nice and courteous. BUT - The food. I am not saying it was bad food, just nothing special for the price. My advice, skip the appetizers (we had the cheese plate - can you say small!!! and boring!!!, and the carpaccio - bland). The main dish was delicious. We had the Chef Pasta Sampler with Ravioli filled with braised beef short ribs in Gorgonzola sauce (my fave), Ravioli filled with black truffles (too salty, but the brown butter sage sauce was yummy) and the Fettuccine with lamb. We had the creme brulee for dessert and that was the biggest let down. It was sooo boring and you could tell it had been sitting in a fridge for a while and wasn't freshly prepared. Maybe I am spoiled after having enjoyed wonderful Italian cuisine at places like La Sosta Enoteca, but I don't think I'll go back there again. For that kind of money you can get a way better meal else where.
(3)
Judith K.

My friend and I happened upon this wonderful restaurant and it was even better than we hoped. On Veterans day we wandered in and met the owner ENZO! What a wonderful man, opened 21 years ago. If you like Italian food this is authentic started with a chilled shot of Silver Patron, then a bottle of white wine the waiter recommended. First tried the Calamari Fritti with a spicy vodka tomato sauce.Then a I had the Favorito which was created for Valentine's day lovers, but was so good everyone kept asking for it. It is homemade Red & Green Tagliatelle Pasta Sauteed with Jumbo Lump Crab, Butter & Black Truffle Peelings, drizzled with truffle oil! Then a salad called Vellutata Shaved Green Apple, Fennel,Celery,Tarragon, Spinach & Fresh Strawberries tossed in an Apple Juice reduction & Shallot Vinaigrette dressing. Then last but not least...Ravioli Al Tartufo, Homemade Ravioli Stuffed with Black Truffles, Wild Mushrooms, Robiola Cheese, Finished with a brown butter sage sauce. We shared of course and took most of it home. Oh my goodness this makes me want to sing the Opera! Oh, Oh, forgot to mention we had the lunch menu so it's less than the dinners. We took our time and ate over a 3 hour period so we took our time. What a gem in Long Beach.
(5)
Yuri V.

L'Opera is downtown Long Beach, but value parkeing should make it less intimidating to get to. it is a high ceiling old world Italian Restaurant with a great wine list, good service, and excellent food.
(4)
Rae G.

Based on the appearance of this restaurant I expected a lot more. We sat for close to 20 minutes before we were even given water (I drink a lot of water so I was timing it after a little while). We had a reservation at 7:30pm and didn't get out until 10:30pm (one person did have dessert). I ended up scarfing down half the bread on the table because dinner wasn't served until 8:45pm. I got the lamb and frankly, I have had better. Two of the gentleman I was with ordered some stuffed ravioli and the portions were tiny. Overall, disappointing service, ok food, not worth the price
(2)
Joyce A.

this is another of those Newer/Hipper type restaurants with an aloof/ i'm too thin or pretty for this job/ chick at the hostess table. C'mon! a little nicer vibe would be welcome. The hostess table is not a place of refuge but a place to leave and actually direct or accompany dinner clientele. There is a basement & an upper floor which are both fine for larger groups, as well as a number of dining tables.It's okay for a nice night out but nothing really too special. The wait staff at our function consisted of one really harried dude. He was really fantastic considering he was working almost 20 people almost by himself. We were in the basement that also doubles or is trying to look like a "cave" /wine cellar. Decor is a lot of mural paintings and subdued lighting - I guess an attempt at recreating the Italian villas or countryside. Dinner was unremarkable - typical for large parties - I got medallions of filet mignon which is really just a filet sliced up into three even thinner pieces, served with mashed potatoes & wilted spinach. Also on the prix fixe menu was Fish, served with a creamy leek sauce and the old chicken breast standby. Nothing stood out. The bread was ordinary - not hearty or crusty - more like little rectangulars of any white bread. Wine came with dinner - the usual Chardonnay or Cabernet and a Pinot Grigio. Just light, nothing too great. Service again was okay. Ahhh but dessert - PANNA COTTA served with a light berry syrup and whole raspberries , blackberries - YUMMMMY!!! i wanted to have seconds on it. The overall rating - i would go back for a special occasion, but the food had better improve...if only to justify $8 valet parking alone!
(3)
Sean W.

Been here a handful of times over the past few years, and my quick take on this place is "certain items are pretty good, much of the menu seems like they are trying just a bit too hard". Stick to the pastas (minus the Lasagna). My experience with the steak and seafood were just average--at very expensive prices. Many of the items throughout the menu seemed to me that they were trying just a little bit too hard to be upscale, or a little bit too innovative or authentic. It didn't work. The wine list is extensive. Extremely high mark up. Heavily Italian- which is unique and fun. It works, but is not overly inviting. Decor is nice, but the tables are VERY close together. Can become VERY loud when busy.
(3)
Juliet A.

Oh You Fancy Huh....I decided to put on the Ol' Top hat and monicle and dine with the Big Boys tonight. The Ambience is like one of those high brow places you saw in the 80's movie where John Candy is butchering the italian names as he tries to impress his hot date. I had the bruschetta and it was served as 3 small pieces and the typical toppings...mehhh. Next I had the LASAGNA AL RAGU: Homemade Spinach Pasta Layered with Beef Ragu: Mozzarella, Ricotta & Parmigiano, Baked in a Bechamel Sauce, Served Over Garlic Tomato Basil Sauce . The positive note is that the ingredients were extremely fresh. The negative is that i felt it needed more seasoning (but I guess this point has to do with preferance of how you like your food to taste...i like some Roota InDa Toota in my food). I had a Peach Bellini and this also was ...meehh. I wasn't impressed enough with the food to order dessert. Over all the dining experience was decent, this includes food and service. As the two stars implies "Meh. I've experienced better".
(2)
Norwin H.

My husband and I went to L'Opera for a date night. First, the service was excellent from start to finish. The waitress started our meal with a little Italian sparkling wine and proscuitto with chunks of parmesan? cheese courtesy of L'Opera. I liked the cheese but didn't care for the proscuitto. I'm not a champagne/sparkling wine fan but I thought that was a very good one. We ordered the salmon on Italian bread for our apppetizer. My taste buds were doing somersaults! I ordered the Favorito for my main dish and hubby ordered a ravioli type of dish. He said his dish was "okay". However, mine was just heaven! I loved the chunks of crab and black truffles on the pasta! L'Opera ruined my diet but it was so worth it! Great wine selection too. We will definitely be back.
(5)
K H.

Last night we dined at L'Opera. The food was delicious, the wine perfectly matched, dessert was solo good, and our waiter, Scott, was delightful. We were even serenaded. It was a wonderful experience and would visit again.
(4)
don a.

From the moment we walked in we were treated like royalty! The hostess A+ , Bartender A+ , manager A+!! Great service and fantastic food!! Pastas were very tasty and the Turley Zin was amazing too.
(5)
M C.

Had a great experience tonight dining at the bar. Both bartenders were attentive, friendly, & a lot of fun. We ordered the Osso Bucco Cannelloni & they custom made an old menu item for us, a spinach salad with tenderloin strips. Both were delicious! Try dining at the bar for a casual dinner with excellent service & delicious food.
(5)
T K.

Excellent service, the pasta was handmade, and the dessert left me breathless. Second time here and the place doesn't disappoint. We both had the Ravioli al Tartufo, a dark chocolate box and zabaglione dessert, and Louis Martini 2011 Cab. I was so happy with dinner, thank you L'opera. Raising the bar in fine dining, I truly love it.
(4)
Catherine R.

I like the food but I mostly come back for the service. I often eat alone and I enjoy that I can eat at the bar and not feel like I'm alone. I know most of the people that work there now and I love that I don't have to worry about a menu anymore. They know what I like and I get food and wine served without having to order.
(5)
Lori Y.

There are times when you stand back and the only operative word that comes to mind is.....Really? I took my boyfriend to L'Opera to celebrate his birthday this last Saturday. No question the ambiance is lovely and the service was excellent. We shared a shrimp cocktail and a salad. He ordered their beef medallion dish and I ordered the Cioppino. So far so good. Three hours later I get home and am sicker than I have been in my entire life (and this lasts all night). No question the Cioppino is the culprit. We sent an email to the restaurant to let them know as I am sure there were likely other clients who had this dish. We get an email from the general manager saying she is sorry I am sick and that she will keep watch for any emails or calls from any other clients that had a similar circumstance......Really? The passive approach? This is not the response I would have expected when I just told you your Cioppino dish poisoned me. I suggested the GM actively reach out to the other guests who ate this dish and inquire on their well being and heavily investigate this. To make sure this is looked into I have also informed the Long Beach Health Department. L'Opera get Five stars for ambiance and service. Three stars for food. The overall 1 star rating (and I would go lower if I could) is because there was no immediate interest to deal with a public Health issue with any urgency. We really don't need to deal with that kind of operation.
(1)
Stefano Z.

disclaimer: I'm Italian so I usually carefully avoid Italian restaurants abroad... so my review is probably a bit lower than this restaurant deserves Still. Came here with a large group. Restaurant was not too busy, but we still had some wait. Appetizers were a-ok, nothing special (the bruschetta was reasonably good). I had lobster ravioli, and found them to be normal, nothing to write home about. Other dishes also seemed pretty plain. Everybody was happy with their food, but let's just say the place is not special. Wine was also okay, but I'd expect better choices in California :)
(3)
Vince C.

This restaurant was really really good. So good, after dinner, two days later, I went back for lunch. Waitstaff was attentive and professional. The food was prepared perfectly, and there is value throughout the menu. I especially enjoyed the wine list and "Favorito." Can also recommend the Salmon, the charcuterie, and the cheese plate. All, worth trying again. I would definitely return.
(5)
Zoo S.

always wanted to try this restaurant & finally got the opportunity to the day after Valentine's Day (smart move on our behalf)....ambiance was great except the dirty crumbs on the cushions of the booth...service was spectacular...the waiters just knew to walk around and continuously fill our cups with water (we never had to ask once for refills)....absolutely impressed with this restaurant from start to finish! our meals were so so good...risotto, calamari & cioppino...dessert is a must here...we got the gelati...we will definitely be returning & highly recommend this to everyone craving Italian....
(5)
Mica R.

This place is absolutely amazing. The ambiance is romantic and sensual and I just wanted to cuddle with my guest and enjoy our food and conversation. Too bad it was just an instructor from our Home Office we took to dinner lol. The best part about this place is not only the amazingly tasty and delicate dishes they offer , but the service. By far my best experience with a server EVER. They really listen to what you are in the mood for and he even went back and had them alter my dish in a way that best suited my taste buds. I INHALED IT! They make you feel like you are the only ones in the restaurant and that is an amazing feeling when you are enjoying such great eats. He picked out our wine and he chose the perfect choice to go with our taste and our food. Lobster ravioli is a must. When you get the opportunity to enjoy a meal and service like this, you don't even look twice at thw bill. Its a must try! I highly recommend this for your next date night! You won't be discs appointed. Get ready for an experience for the books !
(5)
Bevi E.

I first found out about this place on Yelp. Upon reading their menu I saw that they clearly label which items are vegan or vegetarian. There are so many options that it was actually hard to decide. I cannot tell you how much I hate asking if a soup is made with chicken broth. So this is why I chose to eat here a couple weeks ago. I had their minestrone soup (vegan), which was so delicious. Even my meat-eater boyfriend loved it. I also had their butternut squash ravioli (vegetarian), which was seriously out of this world! It came with about 8 pieces, I can't really remember (I gave a few bites to my boyfriend, which again he loved and said he wished he had gotten that instead of his steak :] ) After my meal I was so stuffed I could not even think about dessert. Service was great, too. I will definitely be returning as soon as I get a chance. I'll end with this, it's really nice that restaurants are realizing that veganism and vegetarianism is becoming more prevalent in today's world, and are realizing that if you don't conform you're going to lose business. Cheers to L'Opera!
(5)
Claudia G.

I really liked this place, the food was excellent and so was the wine selection, the sommelier picked a very good wine to complement our meal, we had pasta. I took my mom there for mother's day dinner, and the Tenor who sings there at night sang to her by our table. Overall a very nice dining experience for a special day, for a special mom.
(5)
Olga K.

If you have ever been in Italy, you'll realize that it just pretend to be Italian restaurant by name of dishes. Never expect nether real pasta nor juicy tomato.
(1)
Denny J.

Really disappointing meal. The Cioppino was flavorless and the bruschetta lacked substance.
(1)
Jane F.

We booked a "semi-private" (with the emphasis on "semi") dining room for a large formal celebration only to discover that the only exit for the adjoining dining room (the "private" one, I assume) was at the center of our room. So during our cocktail hour, the conventioneers in the next room, in their shorts and sandals, came meandering though our social hour to use the bathroom or the elevator (on one side of the room) or to exit up the stairs (on the other side). The waitstaff was VERY good. However, on the day before the event, the hostess was not the least bit helpful when we attempted to deliver three cases of wine for the party--offering no assistance to transport it in from the curb into the restaurant and then downstairs to the event room. Strictly do-it-yourself. Fortunately a nice waiter took mercy on the two 60 year-olds (bad backs and all) lugging wine in and ran over to cheerfully offer his help. So bravo to the service. The food was unexceptional. Given the cost of the event, I was really not at all impressed.
(2)
Tina P.

Great food. Except the happy hour is not what's advertised. Martinis are full price. Only 3 drinks are on happy hour prices. AND that was not made clear until I received the full price bill. I was bummed. I was hoping to make this place my new hang. But sadly, no. Looking for a place that bills that they advertise. : (
(1)
Bonnie G.

Christmas Eve at La Opera was Fabulous! We had a reservation but had a 10 minute wait, which was really no big deal as we were not in a hurry. Once at our table, it was located right outside the kitchen area in a corner so that made for a more intimate table situation which we loved since there were only two of us dinning. We were greeted by our waiter within 5 minutes who took our wine and appetizer order immediately. We started with the Carpaccio Classico. Delicious. Not enough restaurants make this delicacy. I was glad they offered it on their menu. We also had the Piadina Prosciutto and that was also very tasty. The mix of the flavors were incredible although I did taste the Gorgonzola the most . For our entrees : My boyfriend had the Favorito Pasta, and I tried it and didn't find too much of the Jumbo Lump Crab in the pasta, but the pasta was fresh and the sauce not overbearing. I don't think I would order this myself, but seeing as his plate was empty he loved it. I had the Salmon Dorato. It was FANTASTIC. The fennel and apple were still slightly crispy, the fingerling potatoes were just right and seasoned to perfection. The salmon was prepared perfectly. We opted out of desert and had Cappuccino & Espresso instead. The service was pretty good for a holiday, I don't think they could have done better. This place is a local winner for specialty Italian food. Will definitely dine here again.
(4)
Paula M.

I visited L'Opera three times during a recent business trip because it was a close walk from the hotel. The service was friendly, and everything I ordered was deiicious and well-prepared, including the Dell' opera salad, rigatoni with wild mushrooms, and homemade beet and spinach tagliatelle pasta with jumbo lump crab and black truffle. The most amazing offering on the menu is the Sacchetto di Cioccolata for dessert -- the menu describes it as "a dark chocolate sack bagged with a grocery of chilled zabaione & fresh fruit." I don't think that description does justice to the fabulous combination of deep, rich chocolate slices (the "box") and the light, creamy custard and fruit.
(4)
Allison D.

Very pleased with our experience here! My hubby and I went for my bday and were seated at a great table next to a window. Our server gets 5 stars, she was friendly, checked in just when we needed it, and had perfect Italian pronunciation of the menu items. Our food was great, the app gets 4 stars but the main dishes were perfect. I had pasta and hubby had lamb. I had the pleasure of meeting the owner who treated us to a decadent chocolate dessert with dipped strawberries, the perfect end to great meal. This a classy restaurant for those who appreciate the finer things. I loved that I could wear a beautiful silk dress and heels and not be over dressed. Will definitely go back!
(4)
Meg R.

Wonderful food and a classy atmosphere. I got to dress all fancy and break out the good manners. ;) Apparently I was on a veal kick. I ordered the scaloppine alla picatta (Thinly Sliced Veal SautÃ©ed in a White Wine Caper Sauce, Served with Mashed Potatoes & Vegetable Caponata). Delicious. The veal was tender and thin. It went well with all the flavors on the plate. This dish was a bit tangy with the capers and white wine sauce. Also had a glass of white wine, but I cannot for the life of me recollect what kind or any details. I remember it was at the recommendation of our waiter and it paired nicely with the veal. Overall a great experience. This place definitely made my list of swanky places I should take my dad on his Birthday. Oh, it was oddly empty the night I was there. Like our party was one of two in the restaurant. It was very quiet, and a little weird...But at least we were well attended to. :)
(5)
Patricia L.

I went here to get dessert. I tried their Gelati. It's assorted Bindi ice cream served over a Hazelnut Meringue Cookie. It was so good!!!!! The ambiance is upcale-y and the customer service was good. Looking forward to try out their other dishes. :)
(4)
Noreen F.

For the past eight or so years, L'Opera consistently pulls out all the stops for night of compassion for German Shepherd Rescue of OC. In the spring time, GSROC partners with L'Opera by hosting over 150 guests, who are treated with up to 15 California wineries offering the latest in Chardonnay, Merlot, Syrah and Cabernet. The ine samplings are complemented huge blocks of tasty cheeses and fresh fruit. While you sip the night away, animal lovers are treated to live music and some of the most beautiful silent auction baskets and items where all the money goes to helping GSROC save more lives. After the event, most patrons go back upstairs to the main part of Le'Opera to end the evening with more wine and a meal fit for king. My favorite dish is the gnocchi and am pretty satisfied with anything I've eaten there.
(4)
Sheila C.

I'm surprised by the negative reviews. We've been here several times over the past 10 years (my bad that I'm just getting around to a review now...) and LOVE this place. We've had a LOT of the regular menu items, and never been disappointed. The lobster ravioli is a favorite dish, and the last time we were there I had one of the specials, pasta with crab and truffles - amazing. Their wine list is great, and the service is always good. They're very accommodating - our last visit we asked for a specific table (sentimental reasons) and they seemed more than happy to oblige.
(5)
Meghan M.

I've got to admit, I had very high expectations of this place. My parents have been raving about it for the last twenty years about their fancy (and expensive) dining experiences here, and have been itching for any opportunity to go back. So, naturally, they used my brother's 18th birthday as a reason to come back after ten years. This is by far the most upscale restaurant I've ever had the pleasure to dine at. Yet, I felt as though I was riding on a roller coaster throughout my whole meal--there were really exciting parts, some dull, and some absolutely terrifying. But overall, I'm glad I still had the experience of eating here. Bread: They give you thin bread sticks and rosemary foccaccia bread. Both are buttery, but I preferred the thin bread sticks that had a nice wheat flavor and crunch. Our first round of foccaccia bread was warm, but the second round was too hard. ]: Appetizer: FRUTTI DI MARE. This was a really light and refreshing appetizer that strongly reminded me of ceviche. The shrimp was succulent and the scallops were tasty. I even dipped my bread into the lime and herb sauce, because it was that good! Drinks: I ordered the VENETIAN BELLINI which was bubbly with a nice combination of sour and sweet. Not worth $10, though. The peach puree that was left over was incredible! MAIN COURSES: I feel as though this place should be renamed to L'Ravioli, because that's an overwhelming part of their menu. I would recommend ordering their 3 DIFFERENT PASTAS FOR $19 PER PERSON deal! (ASSAGGINI ALL'ITALIANA). That's the best way to sample all their amazing raviolis. The CAPPELLACCI DI ZUCCA (butternut squash)was the all star winner, as it had a surprisingly sweet and buttery taste to it. It tasted just like candy!! I especially liked the deep fried sage on top. The MEZZELUNE D'ARAGOSTA (lobster) was rich and savory, and the tomato sauce they used on top was a great compliment. The CAPPELLI LOMBARDI (beef) was very tender--the Gorgonzola cheese on top also complimented it well, but this one was a bit too heavy for my liking. My dad ordered the RAVIOLI AL TARTUFO (truffle mushrooms). We found that it was WAAAY too overwhelming. There's a reason for why truffle mushrooms are only integrated in small portion sizes. It was so salty, it almost made me gag--and I would consider myself a lover of mushrooms. Luckily, our waiter switched out his order and recommend the eggplant ravioli with a spicy tomato sauce. I want to come back specifically to try that one again! The eggplant was cooked perfectly, and I've never had a better tomato sauce. DESSERT: For your birthday, they give you freshly dipped chocolate strawberries, which was a nice treat. The CREME BRULEE CHEESECAKE WAS OUTSTANDING. You definitely have to get it! I wasn't as impressed with the SACCHETTO DI CIOCCOLATA, but the custard inside was sweet and delicate. I felt as though our waiter was over-rehearsed and pretentious. I heard him crack the same jokes at the other tables, making his service seem particularly disingenuous. And the wait staff is too attentive, if there is such a thing. I got tired of them refilling my water after taking one measly sip. Overall, I'd say that this place is definitely worth checking out. But the menu items seem to be hit or miss. Also, what kind of bougie restaurant uses electronic candles as opposed to real lit candles during dinner? Doesn't seem all the romantic to me...
(4)
Diana I.

2 stars for the mediocre food... +1 extra star for lovely romantic ambience (especially in the private rooms downstairs) & great service! We started off with Crostini and Calamari which were okay, very standard. Next came the appetizer Salad which was ehh okay.. but I felt like the dressing didn't quite match too well with the strawberries and blackberries in the salad. Something was a little off to me. For the entree, I had the Straccetti which were grilled tenderloin medallions over mashed potatoes w/ spinach in a white wine sauce. MEHHH. This was the weak dish of the night and unfortunately it had to be the entree. Maybe the other dishes on the menu are better. But avoid this one.. it was pretty dry and had a pretty flat taste so I couldn't finish it. For dessert, we had tiramisu which was moist and yummy just like a tiramisu should be but nothing special. And portions were pretty big; definitely 2 people can share it. Overall I don't plan on coming back. I think it's overpriced for the quality of food here.
(3)
Scott F.

Wow! That's all I can say. Came for a casual dinner and got a great meal. Started with the tuna tartar. Continued with a half order of braised short rib stuffed pasta with a gorgonzola cream sauce and finished with a rack of lamb. All were to die for. Or waiter Scott was amazingly helpful. He made loads of suggestions on food to have and wine pairings. All were spot on. If I owned a restaurant, he would be my first hire. We finished off the meal with a panna cotta. Yummy. I will make it a priority to come back.
(5)
Linda E.

I hadn't been here in a long time. Met a good friend here and had a fantastic evening. First, I have to say the bread was so good, it was hard to stop eating it... We started with a great bottle of wine, Tuna Tartar, caprese salad with handmade buffalo mozzarella, followed by osso buco that was so tender and flavorful. Of course we had to try the dessert and I was not disappointed with the chocolate box with mascarpone and beautiful fresh fruits. Sorry to say, I was so busy eating, I never got around to take a photo.
(5)
Christina L.

Service was great but food just ok. My Short Rib Cannelloni was too salty and dry. We came in for a late dinner reservation at 9:30 so the nicer dining room was closed. Our friends said there dishes were just ok as well. Wont make it a point to come back anytime soon. Heard great things about it and was excited to try it.
(2)
Gina R.

Our second year for Christmas. We had a rather awkward family dinner but thanks to our server Tina it may have been redeemed!! Our party was late and scattered and she didn't bat an eye! Her recommendations were spot on. She was attentive and accommodating . The food as well was very very good.
(5)
melanie p.

If i could give 10 stars i would. Service, impeccable. Food, all four of us thought it was some of the best food we've ever eaten. Hostess, charming. Owner, a class act with a beautiful smile and personality. This is a white table cloth restaurant with house made pastas and pastries---, this Is THE REAL DEAL if you want a true Italian experience with the freshest ingredients and atmosphere. It's pricey for all of this, worth every penny spent.
(5)
Hillary M.

Went to dinner last night for my upcoming birthday. Happy 54th to Me! I have to say that our waiter Scott is fantastic at his job. With several dietary restrictions for people at the table, he was able to feed everyone. Kudos Scott. First thing I noticed when I sat down is that my butt sank into the padding of the seat inside of the frame of the chair. The webbing was broken in the chair and no one had fixed it. I had to play musical chairs and switch to another since it was very uncomfortable. We ordered Vodka Gimlets and they were spectacular, I highly recommend them. The Carpaccio Classico was just okay. One person ordered the Salmone Dorato and thoroughly enjoyed it. Hooray for him. Now for the bad news. I ordered the Cannelloni All'Osso Buco...yuck! While the sauce with the porcini mushrooms was well flavored (needs more mushrooms) the cannelloni itself with the osso buco and ricotta was flavorless and had been in the oven or under the Salamander too long based on the burnt edges and discoloration of the pasta. I would never order this again plus there were only three of them on the plate and NOTHING ELSE which is kinda skimpy for dinner. Another in our party ordered the Favorito. He was almost done with it and I asked for a bite; it had a very bizarre flavor. I just looked it up and it had lump crab with black truffle peelings and truffle oil which by the way should never be used in real cooking. Not sure who thought up this recipe however it was awful. He did not want to be rude and send it back so he had not said anything, I did not want to ruin my birthday dinner so neither had I. Any other time I would have sent it back and made him do the same. Finally, while the male opera singer is nice to listen to, when he stands right by your table your ears get blown out. Much better to appreciate him from afar. There was too much ambient noise going on from all the diners, loud music, the kitchen, the busboys and the singer echoing in the room. It was sometimes hard to hear yourself think let alone have a conversation. The last time I was here was about 10 years ago and it was great, very disappointed this time. I will give it one more attempt and then say "arrivederci". 5 Stars for Service and drinks 1 Star for Food 2 Star for the noise 1 Star for the chair 2.25 Stars total
(2)
Nancy A.

I had veal scallopini and it was good , desert delicious. The server was great she gave amazing attentive service.
(5)
Kurt C.

This was our go to place for a great meal when we were living in Long Beach. There are people walking around who occasionally sing opera music. Just clap when they are done and enjoy the experience. My wife and I would get a 3-pasta platter to share and always had a great meal to take home for the next day as well. Everything that we have ever tried there was amazing. On my birthday, one of the singers sang "Happy Birthday" to me in Italian, and they brought us a complimentary plate of chocolate covered strawberries. Awesome. The ONLY thing I didn't like about this place was that the occasional idiot Californian would forget how nice of a place it was and stroll through in sandals, jeans, and a polo, but that's just something you have to deal with everywhere in California. And I can't blame the restaurant for the dwindling class of the average citizen. I guess parking can be a pain, but that's just Long Beach. We always walked.
(5)
Kaylie C.

I thought this was a really really lovely experience. My friend took me here and the food was really delicious! We ordered on recommendations from our waiter, and it was so good. We had the CARPACCIO CLASSICO, which was really good, and the CAPPELLI LOMBARDI was just amazing. We also tried the CAPPELLACCI DI ZUCCA, a butternut squash ricotta stuffed pasta, which I thought sounded a little weird but it was fabulous, as well: savory, and then a little sweet toward the end. I didn't enjoy the SCALOPPINE ALLA PICCATA as much, but that was just because the sauce was a bit strong for my taste. It was still good. We also had the creme brulee, which was served chilled with strawberries and a bit of chocolate on top. The service was wonderful and the ambiance really nice. I will definitely be returning!
(5)
Patty Z.

Came here on a Saturday night with a party of approx 10. The waitress' introduction included how inconvenient it was going to be to put in our order if we wanted any split checks. I ordered a bottle of wine and it took her 40 minutes to bring it and 20 minutes to open it because she insisted that we put in our food order before she could open any of our bottles. The food is good, but if I'm paying $30 for 6 raviolis I expect them to be amazing. The overall ambiance is nice, but our server's b*tchy attitude killed it.
(1)
Charlotte K.

We had seen this restaurant at another time but ut was closed then. We had been whale watching and wanted to try their deserts. Very fancy restaurant with white tablecloths and people were dressed up when we were there. ( we were not dressed up, rather dressed down) The waitress was super nice and efficient; after we ordered our deserts she told us, about their homemade pasta. We changed our order and went for the pasta with fish. Delicious. We had desert too, awesome. The manager came up to chat and we apologized for our appearance. He made us feel welcome and he too was super nice. He invited us to see their party rooms and wine cellar afterwards. We were very impressed with the whole experience at L'OPERA
(5)
Mina D.

Had dinner there last night with a friend! Food was very good! Service was just a little slow, otherwise would have given a perfect five star!
(4)
Victoria D.

Exquisite food and great service. I have no complaints. I have been here on more than one occasion and I have never been let down. The servers are beyond professional and are wry knowledgable about the items on the menu... I don't know about you, but I am an extremely picky eater. I feel most comfortable in places where I can ask the server detailed questions about the food.
(5)
Brandon V.

This is my favorite Italian restaurant in SoCal. Can't tell you how many Italian restaurants I've been to in OC and they tell you they have homemade pasta and it is clearly not. This place actually has homemade pasta. The restaurant is elegant and has excellent service. Everything here is good but my favorite is the lobster ravioli. The prices are extremely reasonable with pasta dishes from $12 - $20 and decent house wine for under $10 a glass.
(5)
Daniel L.

I had high expectations for this restaurant having read about it being one of the most phenomenal Italian spots in Long Beach. I was, unfortunately, let down. I ordered the butternut squash ravioli, and my friend had ordered the gnocchi. The ravioli: Was, overall, tasty. However, I was a bit put off by the excessive amount of oil it was cooked in. Instead of a light drizzle of sauce that it was supposed to be prepared with, the 'light' sauce had got lost in the convolution of oil that pooled at the bottom of the serving bowl. The ravioli drowning at the bottom of the dish became inedible soaked sponges of oil. The gnocchi: Was, as well, tasty. However, the dish was about 65% sauce. It became a neat little scavenger hunt for gnocchi amidst the, admittedly delicious, sauce. It seemed more of a soup rather than a gnocchi dish. With these flaws, I felt the expensive tab to be less than fair. Both my friend and I left still feeling a bit unsatisfied with both of our plates. I will certainly give L'Opera another chance. The food is good. But that's where it ended for my experience. It was just 'good', and I feel for a place rated so highly (and so highly paid for), it must be more than simply 'good'.
(3)
Lori G.

The food is delicious!! I ate here last year while in town for a trade show at the convention center and had to come back this year. One of my favorite restaurants in Long Beach.
(5)

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Address : 101 Pine Ave
Long Beach, CA, 90802
Phone (562) 491-0066
Website https://www.lopera.com
Click To Get Directions

Opening Hours

Mon :11:30 am - 10

Specialities

Takes Reservations : Yes
Delivery : No
Take-out : Yes
Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
Good For : Dinner
Parking : Valet
Bike Parking : Yes
Wheelchair Accessible : Yes
Good for Kids : No
Good for Groups : Yes
Attire : Dressy
Ambience : Classy
Noise Level : Average
Alcohol : Full Bar
Outdoor Seating : No
Wi-Fi : Free
Has TV : Yes
Waiter Service : Yes
Caters : Yes

Claim Restaurant

Italian Cuisine

The immense popularity of Italian cuisine globally isn't unknown. You can find an Italian Pizzeria around every corner of almost every city in the United States. Not to forget that in every house, people enjoy mac and cheese as comfort food. But it would be wrong to believe that Italian food starts with pizza and ends with good pasta as this Mediterranean country has much more to offer other than these two dishes. In Italian Cuisine, there is a high use of fresh tomatoes, all kinds of herbs, great quality of cheese, all types of meat, seafood and fresh handmade pasta. Many find it hard to believe that Italians have been making noodles long back.

Italian and Greek cuisines are always mistaken to be same, but they are poles apart. The primary difference between the two cuisines is the use of cheese in most of the Italian dishes. Italians love to cultivate their own cheese and process them as per their food requirement. It is believed that some cheese is so expensive that cheese producers secure them in lockers.

If you are bored eating the same old pasta or pizza, you can try some of the authentic Italian dishes like Risotto, Polenta, Ribollita, Lasagna, Fiorentina Steak, Bottarga, Ossobuco, Carbonara, Focaccia, Arancini and Supplì. Another item which Italians love to relish every morning is a good cup of Italian Coffee. Once you taste a freshly brewed cup of Italian Coffee, you might not visit Starbucks ever again. Authentic Italian food is made with heart and soul, so go find a restaurant where you can relish Italian cuisine in your city.

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L’Opera Ristorante

101 Pine Ave, Long Beach, CA, 90802

L’Opera Ristorante Menu

L' Antipasti

Le Zuppe

Pranzo Veloce

Panini

Primi Piatti

Secondi Piatti

Healthy Meal suggestions for L’Opera Ristorante

L' Antipasti

Le Zuppe

Pranzo Veloce

Panini

Primi Piatti

Secondi Piatti

Kira A.

Cindy L.

Kala S.

Dorothy Y.

Stephanie S.

K D.

Jeannette D.

Jose M.

Sheldon S.

Michael B.

Grace L.

Cora V.

Jerome H.

Jeffery B.

Laura D.

Randoll C.

Eric F.

Scott A.

Stephanie W.

Grace R.

Chris G.

Dino D.

Eric H.

Zoe L.

Tanya G.

Brad M.

Christine R.

Louie B.

Scott P.

Rene S.

Sonal P.

Yolanda D.

Evan S.

Lori R.

Margaret S.

Bradd F.

Kimberly J.

Ramin M.

Baky S.

Charm L.

Onur A.

Michael C.

Del F.

Stephen S.

Rinah A.

Salsaboy S.

Anna B.

Urmi A.

Steven James K.

Dee C.

Ozy A.

James C.

Brittany C.

Rory S.

J. O.

Scott M.

Joseph C.

Debra B.

B P.

James B.

John I.

Lorrie T.

Sophie G.