Long Beach’s vibrant 2nd Street is a treasure trove of dining destinations, and recently, I had the pleasure of revisiting a location with a touch of nostalgia. My mom and I decided to have lunch at Nick’s on 2nd Street Long Beach, a restaurant that holds a special place in her heart as it occupies the former spot of Bono’s, a beloved eatery from her past. Eager to see how this new establishment measured up, we stepped inside for a midday meal.
From the moment you approach Nick’s on 2nd, the vintage-inspired sign immediately catches your eye. Its Art Deco flair is undeniable, adding a touch of retro charm to the bustling street. Capturing a good photo of the sign proved slightly challenging due to the lush trees surrounding it, but its aesthetic appeal is evident even from a sidewalk perspective.
Stepping inside, Nick’s on 2nd presents a modern and stylish interior. While the updated bar area is undeniably more contemporary and refined than what the picture might suggest, my mom and I found ourselves slightly nostalgic for the previous layout. There was a certain charm to the older setup that resonated with us, although the current ambiance is certainly pleasant and upscale.
Perusing the lunch menu, we were greeted with a diverse selection of options. Initially leaning towards a sandwich, the enticing array of main courses soon captured my attention, promising a more substantial and flavorful dining experience.
To start, my mom opted for the Spinach & Artichoke Dip. While I’m not typically a dip enthusiast, the slightly extended wait for our main dishes led me to partake. I was pleasantly surprised by its lighter texture; unlike some overly creamy versions, this dip maintained a delightful balance of flavors without being heavy.
For her main course, my mom chose the Roasted Prime Rib. While she deemed it “pretty good,” the presentation was somewhat understated, perhaps due to her preference for a plain Loaded Baked Potato with just butter. A little extra visual flair on the plate could have elevated the dish further.
I decided on the San Francisco Cioppino, and it was an excellent choice. The dish was brimming with fresh, succulent seafood, perfectly complemented by a richly seasoned broth. The toasted bread served alongside was an ideal accompaniment, adding a satisfying crunch to each flavorful bite.
To conclude our lunch, we shared the Warm Butter Cake. This dessert is truly a standout – incredibly generous in size and utterly delicious. It’s a unique creation, texturally reminiscent of a buttery madeline, with a crackly muffin-like top and a slightly molten, soufflé-esque center. It was unlike anything I’d tasted before and instantly became a new favorite.
As if the Warm Butter Cake wasn’t indulgent enough on its own, it’s served with a scoop of ice cream, adding an extra layer of sweetness and coolness. It was so captivating that we noticed other diners starting to order it after seeing ours arrive, clearly sparking a new dessert trend in the restaurant that day!
My experience at Nick’s on 2nd Street in Long Beach was a delightful blend of nostalgic charm and contemporary culinary appeal. While the ambiance offers a modern update to a classic location, the menu features both familiar favorites and exciting new dishes. The Warm Butter Cake alone is worth a visit, making Nick’s on 2nd a must-try dining destination on Long Beach’s 2nd Street.
Nick’s on 2nd
4901 East 2nd Street
Long Beach, CA 90803
(562) 856-9000
nickson2.com
