Dining and Artistry Collide at Long Beach's Newest Hotspots

Long Beach's culinary and cultural landscape is undergoing an exciting transformation, with the recent openings of two distinct establishments that are captivating the community. From a hidden gem eatery nestled within a luxury apartment complex to a nonprofit-driven art and dining destination, these new additions are poised to elevate the city's reputation as a hub for innovative experiences.

Indulge in Culinary Delights at Hartland's, the Mezzanine's Hidden Gem

Hartland's: A Culinary Oasis in the Heart of Ocean Beach Club

Tucked away on the mezzanine level of the prestigious Ocean Beach Club, Hartland's has officially opened its doors, offering a tantalizing dining experience with a breathtaking view. This new eatery, the brainchild of chef and restaurateur Rob White, promises to become a beloved destination for both residents and visitors alike.Hartland's menu boasts an array of tempting breakfast and lunch options, catering to a diverse range of palates. From the savory chipotle aioli breakfast burritos to the indulgent cinnamon swirl bread French toast, the café's offerings cater to every craving. The grab-and-go station also features gourmet delights, including nut butter-stuffed dates in chocolate and shrimp cocktail, making it the perfect pit stop for those seeking a quick and delectable bite.The café's name, a combination of White's two young cousins' names, Hartford and Holland, reflects the personal touch and family-inspired ethos that permeates the establishment. White's culinary expertise, honed through his ownership of the popular Liv's in Belmont Shore, is evident in the dishes that have already developed loyal followings, such as the fried chicken sandwich, prime rib dip, and sesame ginger salad.Currently open from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. daily, Hartland's offers both breakfast and lunch menus, as well as a range of coffee drinks. The plan is to expand the hours on weekends to include dinner service, allowing patrons to savor the stunning views of the Alamitos Beach Water Playground Wibit, Pride Tower, and the captivating shoreline.

Compound: Where Art, Dining, and Community Converge

In the Zaferia neighborhood, another exciting addition to Long Beach's culinary and cultural landscape has emerged – Union, a restaurant nestled within the nonprofit Compound. This unique space, the vision of philanthropist and interior designer Megan Tagliaferri, aims to bring together art, dining, and community engagement.Helmed by chef Eugene Santiago, a Le Cordon Bleu Pasadena-trained culinary artist, Union's menu showcases a fusion of Asian-inspired flavors. Diners can indulge in delectable offerings such as focaccia shrimp toast, pickle-brined fried chicken bao buns, and yellowtail crudo infused with passion fruit, citrus, serrano chili, green peppercorn, ponzu, and olive oil.Complementing the artful cuisine is a carefully curated cocktail menu crafted by bar manager Stephanie Butchko. Signature creations like "The Rum Around," "The Doctor's Order," and "Tea Time" showcase the team's dedication to elevating the dining experience.The Compound, a nonprofit cultural and community space, serves as the backdrop for this culinary and artistic collaboration. Tagliaferri, a member of the Scripps media family, has funded the building and opened the Compound in 2020, with the restaurant component delayed until earlier this year.Compound is open to the public, offering a range of programs and events that cater to the community. Visitors can explore the art gallery, attend various cultural activities, and indulge in the exceptional dining experience at Union, creating a truly immersive and enriching experience.

Celebrating the Arts: Happy Hanks Plaza's Inaugural Exhibition

Expanding the cultural landscape of Long Beach, the newly opened Happy Hanks Plaza in the serene community of Naples is set to host its inaugural "Supernova" art exhibition on June 22. This gallery, the brainchild of founder Pearl Hanks of PEnterprise Consulting Services, aims to support the island's cultural identity and provide a space for residents and visitors to engage with and appreciate the arts.Collaborating with art consultant Susan DeLand, who has extensive experience with the Long Beach Museum of Art, Happy Hanks Plaza plans to host multiple exhibits throughout the year, showcasing a diverse range of artistic styles and mediums. The gallery's opening marks an exciting addition to the Naples community, offering a quiet yet enriching space for art enthusiasts to explore and discover.

Unleashing Canine Joy: "bark! bark!" Brings Retail Delight to Belmont Shore

Belmont Shore's dog owners can now indulge their furry companions at the newly opened "bark! bark!" retail shop. Expanding from its successful dog daycare, hotel, grooming, and training facilities, this business venture offers a unique retail experience that goes beyond a traditional pet store.In addition to the "bark! bark!" treat bar, the storefront will also feature a "barks n' crafts" experience, where customers can create necklaces and friendship bracelets for their beloved pets. Owner Danielle Portillo aims to provide a one-of-a-kind shopping experience that caters to the needs and desires of both pet owners and their canine companions.With the new Belmont Shore location joining the existing Downtown Long Beach and Signal Hill facilities, "bark! bark!" continues to expand its footprint, solidifying its position as a go-to destination for dog owners seeking a comprehensive range of services and products.

Nostalgia and Craft Beer Collide at Ambitious Ales' "Modern Analog" Event

Microbrewery Ambitious Ales is set to host the "Modern Analog — A Nostalgia Market" event on June 29, offering a unique blend of craft beer, vintage treasures, and a celebration of analog technology. The community event will feature an analog marketplace, showcasing vendors specializing in film photography, vinyl records, and cassette tapes, as well as vinyl DJ sets.This event promises to transport attendees to a bygone era, where the tactile experience of physical media and the warm embrace of analog technology converge with the refreshing flavors of Ambitious Ales' craft beer. The event's combination of vintage charm and modern craft brewing is sure to captivate both beer enthusiasts and nostalgic revelers alike.