Discovering new dining options is always exciting, but supporting restaurants that have proven their worth over the years is equally important. As food trends and preferences evolve, successful establishments must embrace change while maintaining their core values. One shining example is Parker’s Lighthouse in Long Beach, where I dined during its 40th celebration.
It had been years since I visited Shoreline Village, and I had forgotten the impressive view of Queensway Bay. On one side is the iconic Parker’s Lighthouse, a beautiful structure resembling the Thomas Point Shoal Lighthouse in the Chesapeake Bay. On the other side, you can see the majestic Queen Mary and the ornamental Lions Lighthouse.
My partner and I were surprised and thrilled to see the beautifully presented food stations set up throughout the expansive venue. An incredible seafood spread of fresh oysters, poke, and sushi rolls greeted us on the patio overlooking the harbor. We grabbed a table with views of the Queen Mary and the Lighthouse. A live band played 80s tunes added to the vibe.
An impressive mezze station filled with charcuterie, grilled vegetables, hummus, and cheese greeted the guests. In the back dining room, chafing dishes loaded with colorful jambalaya, mesquite-grilled salmon with cilantro over poblano creamed corn, miso-sake glazed tofu, garlic cheese bread, and several salads.
The Brulee New York cheesecake and Dark Chocolate Ganache Cake were both delicious, but we especially enjoyed the silky Horchata Panna Cotta. The topping of rice-crispy candied almonds added a delightful crunch, while the fresh blueberries complemented the panna cotta beautifully.
The Queensview Steakhouse is on the third floor, offering an unforgettable view of the magnificent British ocean liner across the bay. This upscale surf-and-turf dining room features a separate menu that includes signature craft cocktails, a raw bar with an iced seafood tower, prime steaks, grilled fish, lobster, scallops, Gulf shrimp, and much more.
To celebrate its 40th anniversary, the restaurant is reintroducing some classic favorites. This month’s highlights include the Crab Stuffed Jumbo Shrimp appetizer wrapped in prosciutto and served with a lobster cream sauce, a Cajun Chicken and Shrimp Linguine lunch special, Grilled Surf n’ Turf Skewers, and nostalgic Bananas Foster Sundae topped with peanut brittle for dessert.
Parker’s Lighthouse offers a delightful experience in many ways. Enjoy Happy Hour from 3 to 6 p.m. with $10 craft cocktails, wine, and an excellent selection of small bites. You can also savor a casual meal in the dining room or impress someone special at the Queensview Steakhouse on the top floor. Plus, they’ve decorated for the holidays!
Need a holiday gift? If you buy a $100 gift card, you’ll receive a $20 bonus card you can keep for yourself!
Parker’s Lighthouse, 435 Shoreline Village Drive, Long Beach; 562.432.6500; parkerslighthouse.com