We love supporting local businesses, so when a new restaurant opened just a few minutes from our house, we knew we had to try it! I’m so glad we only waited a few days! Cesar’s Bistro on PCH in Long Beach serves “the new Latin American cuisine,” and there claims are warranted. They took a small space in an awkward strip mall, and turned it into an airy, artsy, and beautiful bistro. To top it all off, the service is impeccable. This family-owned operation makes sure that their employees are attentive, conversational, and know their stuff! The chef and various family members also come by to check in on you during your meal and truly appreciate the local support and satisfaction. And the food, oh the food!

We started off with the Caribbean Sweet Plantains topped with cinnamon and crema. I love plantains, but my dining companions not so much…until now. They loved these warm, sweet delights, but only wished we saved them for dessert.

These Fantastic Rustic Potatoes are truly FANTASTIC! With the choice of topping them with pulled pork or shredded chicken, I can highly recommend both! They are then topped with grilled onions, cheese, and a signature sauce. This a must for the table!

The empanadas are fresh and perfectly crispy. They have beef – potato, pineapple – ham – cheese, and sausage empanadas to choose from. Served with spicy mayo, these are another great addition to the table for everyone to share.

I apologize for the state of this Ropa Vieja Arepa. It was stuffed to the brim with pulled pork, grilled onions, and pineapple chutney! And, I mean stuffed! It couldn’t even stay presentable long enough for the photo! I have had a traditional arepa only a couple of times before and this surpassed them all! The corn cake arepa is the perfect thickness and tastes delicious!

This is a great addition to Long Beach and a new favorite of mine! I can’t wait to come back and try their breakfast menu, which looks equally delicious!

For more information, visit: http://www.cesarsbistro.com/