1611 E Wardlow Rd
Long Beach, CA 90807
(562) 427-8737

Looking for great sushi in Bixby Knolls?

Kinokawa Japanese Restaurant is the place. This is my favorite affordable sushi spot in Bixby Knolls. Located on Wardlow and Walnut, they occupy a small unit at the corner of the strip mall.  The inside is decorated with some traditional Japanese decor, but not the overly tacky stuff that you find in other Sushi places.

You can eat at the sushi bar or in the small booths in the dining room. They have a cool little tatami room which is great for keeping tabs on your small kids.

Their sushi is good. They have some great rolls as well. They’ve been in the area for a while, but they still seem to be just a word-of-mouth place. Kinokawa has great Japanese dishes, such as chicken karaage, tempura, teriyaki, and great fresh sushi menu.

The service here is great. The chefs and wait staff are always smiling and ready to answer any questions. I often go there for lunch and it’s not that hard to get a table. It may be because of its location, or that it’s not a franchise place like the big ones close to the tourist areas.

I’m never disappointed when I visit Kinokawa. I’ve been going for years and I know what to expect: Friendly service and good sushi.

Unfortunately, they don’t have a website, but you can always call ahead.

So if you’re looking for a good, affordable Japanese restaurant, check out Kinokawa Japanese Restaurant.

Sincerely,

Mark Shandrow
Real Estate Broker,
Owner Shandrow Group
562.364.9505
markshandrow.com

Shandrow Group - Long Beach Real Estate | Long Beach Homes for Sale | Long Beach Foreclosures | Long Beach Short Sales

3405 Orange Ave
Long Beach, CA 90807
(562) 424-3752
trattorialimone.com/

Cafe Trattoria Limone, located on the on the corner of E Wardlow Rd and Orange Ave, is a great family-run, Italian eatery. My favorite kind of place in Bixby Knolls. If you’re in the mood for great pasta, it’s worth checking out.

When you first walk in the front door you have the choice of sitting at the large L-shaped wood kitchen counter, which seats 8 people. Or you can wait for a regular table. If it’s packed, there are also two tables in the kitchen half of the restaurant. The atmosphere is very cozy, just perfect for small groups or couples.

When I go there for dinner, I order their Tagliatelle alla Bolognese. I know, I know, it’s not very exciting, but I just love this dish.

And while you wait, they serve hot crispy garlic bread and fresh bruscetta. Their menu has all of your Italian favorites, such as Lasagna, Cannelloni, Manicotti, Fettucini, and much more. As much as I like the Spaghetti, it’s hard to resist menu items that feature Applewood bacon, fresh spinach, ricotta cheese and creme sauces.

Along with beer and some other drinks, they serve 13 different red and white wines. You even have the option to bring your own and pay a reasonable corkage fee.

With prices ranging from $4.95 for appetizers and $14.95 for entrees, it’s a tasty and affordable restaurant to take the whole family. Trattoria offers great food, cooked fresh every day by the owner. You can’t ask for more.

They don’t take reservations, but they do serve large parties for special occasions. I’ve tried to get a table several times during the rush and I’ve noticed that they really take care of their customers.

I have to say, Cafe Trattoria Limone is probably the best dinner restaurant in Bixby Knolls. if you plan on check it out, be prepared to wait in line.

But, believe me, it’s well worth the wait.

You can check out their menu right here: http://trattorialimone.com/menu.html

Sincerely,

Mark Shandrow
Real Estate Broker,
Owner Shandrow Group
562.364.9505
markshandrow.com

Shandrow Group - Long Beach Real Estate | Long Beach Homes for Sale | Long Beach Foreclosures | Long Beach Short Sales

4020 Atlantic Ave
Long Beach, CA 90807
(562) 595-4020
www.thefactorylb.com

**Review Update – May 17, 2010**

As I mentioned in my original review of The Factory on Atlantic Avenue in Bixby Knolls, I wanted to give the restaurant another visit after a few months to see if the owners made any improvements to the menu and service.

Well, I revisited The Factory this past week with one of my Shandrow Group colleagues and I was pleasantly surprised by the changes to the GastroBar since my last visit.

Overall the service was great. Such an improvement over the counter based menu and ordering. It was nice to be able to actually order from our table and not go to the counter anymore. I think this was the big piece that was missing from our last experience.

I had a vegetable sandwich that was absolutely delicious and Barbara, from my team, had a lunch salad that she loved as well.  The Factory now has a much more comfortable feel and seems like it is really becoming a popular Bixby Knolls eatery.

This time, the only glitch was they ran out of beef meals early. I guess organic food isn’t as easy to obtain, but it gives you an idea of their popularity.

Honestly, with the new improvements, it’s worth checking out. Or checking out again if you were like me and visited in December or January.

I think you’ll enjoy the restaurant as much as I did this time around.

**Read the original post below:**

The Factory opened its doors on December 1st and since then people in Bixby Knolls have been buzzing about the place. Located on Atlantic Avenue, it’s dubbed as the “farm-to-table” restaurant as most of their menu items include organically grown ingredients.

I was really excited to see a new type of restaurant open in Bixby Knolls. And one that supports local farms and growers is a step in the right direction.

But my experience eating at The Factory was less than fantastic.

First off, you need to stand in a line and order at the counter before you sit down. Like a cafeteria. Except that a cafeteria has reasonably priced food.

In spite of everything other people have told me about the place, I wasn’t impressed. Even though they feature a large craft brew menu, one of the largest in the area, it doesn’t quite make up for the tiny menu. Or maybe I just didn’t have enough to drink.

As I skimmed the chalk board menus at the counter, I noticed that The Factory has only 5 appetizers (or small plates, as they call them), 6 salads, 5 sandwiches and 8 different entrees. As I mentioned, all the ingredients are locally grown, which gives the food an authentic California feeling, but I’m not sure that’s enough to keep them going.

My wife and I met up with some friends in Sherman Oaks, who drove 1.5 hours just to check it out, and I was embarrassed at the lack of service, limited menu and expensive bill. My friend ordered the $13.00 burger and for four people, who didn’t order too many drinks or even have a choice of tasty desserts, the bill was over $120.00.

I’m not saying the food isn’t worth checking out, but I do feel it’s very overpriced. Organic or not. Honestly, even if the food was out of this world, the overall experience distracted us from any of the Factory’s good points.

The experience is a major part of the restaurant equation. If you don’t get that right, you’re doomed.

I’d really hate to see this place go out of business in the next 6 months, but I can’t see it staying busy for long.

Lots of hype, with not much follow up.

Bring the ordering back to the table and throw some more options on the menu. You might think that there isn’t much competition in Bixby Knolls, but people expect certain things from a dining experience. If you can’t get it right, they’ll find a place where someone else does.

If you’re interested in trying it out, I’d suggest you first check the menu they’ve posted on their website: The Factory GastroBar Menu

Like I said, I think it’s really great that they prepare locally grown produce and meat and serve craft brews instead of the mass produced franchise food we’re usually stuck with, but there are so many ways they can improve the place.

The menu items, such as the Spicy Viking and the Pan Seared Line-Caught Salmon, really sound tasty, and I’d love to try them some day soon.

Maybe if I give it some time, and let my memories of the last experience fade, my next experience will be better.

I just hope all of their customers aren’t doing the same thing.

It will be a long lonely winter for The Factory.

Sincerely,

Mark Shandrow
Real Estate Broker,
Owner Shandrow Group
562.364.9505
markshandrow.com

Shandrow Group - Long Beach Real Estate | Long Beach Homes for Sale | Long Beach Foreclosures | Long Beach Short Sales

(562) 595-5651
3490 Atlantic Ave
Long Beach, CA 90807
http://www.pollyspies.com

One of my favorite spots in Bixby Knolls is Polly’s Bakery Cafe. If you love home-baked pies and treats like I do, you’ll love this place.  It seems like everyone in Bixby Knolls feels the same way, Polly’s is always packed for the holidays.

Why?

Because they have amazing pies. They sell such a wide variety of pies it’s hard to choose just one favorite. You have your choice of double crust, fresh fruit, meringues, cheese cakes, creme pies, fresh fruit shortcake and daily no-sugar-added selections. And you have to try their BanBerry special. Just imagine freshly baked crust with Banana Creme filling covered with strawberries and then lined with real whip cream. It’s too hard to resist.

If you don’t have your holiday pie orders in by now, it might be too late. You have to order your holiday pies many weeks in advance.  Polly’s bakes hundreds of pies every year. I think around 500, but I can’t be sure. All I know is it’s a crazy number. You have to get in line to get your pies. It is out of control.

Polly’s is also a great place for breakfast. Featuring dishes with Applewood smoked bacon, savory cheesy egg custard filling, Polly’s old fashioned deep dish crust, golden grilled hash browns, country sausage gravy, Thomas® English Muffins, hollandaise sauce, you can’t go wrong. If you’re going before the end of the year, be sure to try the pumpkin pancake special, or even the pumpkin muffins.

Their lunch and dinner menus have an array of sandwiches, burgers (try the beef, chicken or fish sliders), chicken entrees (including rotisserie chicken), fish & chips, ribs and chicken fried steak. There are lots of old time favorites and new tastes to check out. The best part is a kid’s meals is only $2.99.

But Polly’s baked goods aren’t limited to just pies. They also prepare and bake bread, muffins, cinnamon rolls, biscuits, dinner rolls, corn bread, and cookies.

Polly’s Pies Restaurant also started the “Cookies For Our Troops Program” which supports the men and women serving in the US armed forces in Iraq and Afghanistan. Donating a dozen cookies to the troops for every dozen cookies purchased by guests, Polly’s baked and sold over 12,000 dozen cookies in the first three weeks. A total of 144,000 cookies were sent to our troops serving overseas.

Who doesn’t prefer home-baked desserts over the bland store-made kind?

If you are planning a trip to Polly’s Bakery Cafe, be sure to check the site for printable coupons.

Sincerely,

Mark Shandrow
Real Estate Broker,
Owner Shandrow Group
562.364.9505
markshandrow.com

Shandrow Group - Long Beach Real Estate | Long Beach Homes for Sale | Long Beach Foreclosures | Long Beach Short Sales

3697 Atlantic Ave, Long Beach, CA 90807-3417
(562) 595-0396

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, Jongewaard’s on Atlantic Avenue is the best restaurant in Bixby Knolls.

If you’re looking for delicious baked treats and good ole’ home cooking, this is the place for you.

Serving dishes such as Chicken Pot Pie, Chicken Fried Steak, Turkey Sandwiches, Baked Spaghetti, Roast Beef on Squaw Bread,  a variety of soups and daily specials, you’re guaranteed to find something to eat no matter what you’re in the mood for. I’m getting hungry just thinking about it. They also serve some great fresh salads, and I believe their Garden Burger is a hit, too. It just has a really great diner style atmosphere. They serve everything from breakfast to dinner.

I go there at least once a week or order take out for the family. It’s always crowded. If you’re planning on going to Jongewaard’s for lunch, you need to get there at least 15 minutes before noon to put your name on the waiting list.

Keep in mind that the Bixby Towers Retirement home is directly across the street, so the place is usually busy catering to the senior crowd, but I can’t think of another restaurant that is worth fighting the crowds over.

Jongewaard’s pie and desserts are awesome. They have mouthwatering lemon or berry pies and moist cakes that are always in high demand. If you get there too late, you won’t get to try themi’d put your order in as soon as you’re seated.

My wife loves the Red Velvet Cake, which they are famous for.  And for good reason – it is incredible.

If your looking for a great place to eat, or have family visiting for the weekend, check out Jongewaard’s.

You won’t be sorry.

Sincerely,

Mark Shandrow
Real Estate Broker,
Owner Shandrow Group
562.364.9505
markshandrow.com

Shandrow Group - Long Beach Real Estate | Long Beach Homes for Sale | Long Beach Foreclosures | Long Beach Short Sales

4306 Atlantic Ave
Long Beach, CA 90807
(562) 424-5000
www.ejmalloyspub.com/

I once read a review of E.J. Malloy’s that claimed it was the “Cheers” of Bixby Knolls. I’d have to agree.

I usually go to E.J.’s if I’m in the mood for some great buffalo wings and some friendly banter with the staff. I’m there so often, they know me as soon as I walk through the door.

The menu isn’t huge, which is typical of these pub type restaurants, but they do have a large selection of buffalo wings and some other great appetizers. They also have weekday and weekend specials. If you’re planning on going, check out the special of the day. It’s usually worth the trip. And E.J.’s is a good place for sports fans to catch a game. With lots of flat screens everywhere, no matter what sport you’re into, I’m sure you’ll find the live stream on one of them.

If you’re family is looking for a nice spot to grab a quick meal, don’t worry, the noise of the TV will be louder than your screaming kids. Just kidding. No really, even though E.J.’s is essentially a bar it’s still a great place for your family to grab lunch or dinner.

E.J.’s may be a sports bar/restaurant, but it’s a friendly spot. No matter what you’re looking for, you’ll get great food and warm smiles. I always go to the Atlantic Avenue spot, but there’s another location in Long Beach on Broadway that features outdoor dining, which is pretty cool if you prefer the patio atmosphere.

I like E.J. Malloy’s in Bixby Knolls because the people are great and it’s close to where I live. If I drink too much I can always leave the car and walk home, which I do on occasion. It’s just a good relaxing place to meet with neighbors and eat heavy-duty pub food.

Check it out sometime, you’ll be glad you did.

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Location: 4276 Atlantic Ave., Long Beach, CA 90807

Phone: (562) 424-4567

Located on Atlantic Boulevard, close to Trader Joe’s, Baba Ghanouj offers Bixby Knolls and the surrounding area Middle Eastern cuisine with a home-town feel.

Let me just start by saying, George Mitri, the owner of Baba Ghanouj, is super friendly and warm. That in itself is the measure of a great dining experience in Bixby Knolls.

As soon as you walk in, you’re greeted with a quick hello and a friendly smile. Once inside, the rustic coloring and brassy ornaments help to enhance the overall atmosphere that Mitri has created. It’s just a friendly and inviting space.

With a myriad of different dishes and exotic flavors, the Middle Eastern dishes are perfect with a beer or glass of wine. Though I generally only eat the chicken shwarma, many of the Lebanese dishes at this restaurant are worth a try. My other favorites are the Hummus and friend potatoes. The menu offers many different kabobs, including the Shish kabob, beef, lamb, kafta, and of course he offers Baba Ghanouj, the famous dish made from eggplant.

If you’re like me, and you’re tired of the same old franchises that pop up on every corner, it’s great place for a business lunch or for dinner if you’re looking for a unique dining experience and a little culture.

And to support musicians and artists from Long Beach and surrounding areas, Mitri often showcases bands and other performers for Bixby Knolls’ First Friday’s and other special occasions such as the LongFellow Elementary night. He has also hired an Oud player to entertain dinner guests on Friday and Saturday nights. Give the restaurant a call and see what’s happening this week.

So, if you haven’t had a chance to check out Baba Ghanouj, I encourage you to stop in next time your in the area.

You won’t be disappointed.

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