Michael’s on Naples, Long Beach

For a memorable dining experience in Italian cuisine, look no further than Michael’s on Naples.  Nestled in the heart of romantic Naples, this contemporary little gem of an Italian Ristorante has it all – style, exquisite cuisine, an award winning wine list and five star service.

Deservedly rated as one of the top ten restaurants in all of Los Angeles, Michael’s is elegant, smart and consummately Italian.  To visit here is to feel like you’ve suddenly been transported to a chic little place in Rome for a special occasion dinner.  At Michael’s, General Manager Massimo Aronne and Executive Chef David Coleman combine forces to present their guests with an evening devoted to the good things in life.

Crisp white linen tablecloths gleam against the dark wooden interiors of the small dining room, and original artwork on the walls is warmly lit by the room’s gleaming shell chandeliers.  Adjacent is an attractive bar, and guests can also wander upstairs to a cozy rooftop patio where they can snuggle up next to a fire and enjoy entertainment, happy hour wines and appetizers.

The dinner menu features a tempting array of pizzettes, fresh pasta and tantalizing meat and seafood dishes.  Everything is made in house and fresh daily, including their pastas, flatbread pizzas, fennel sausage, sauces and desserts.  To make the most of our visit, we took part in Chef’s six course tasting with wine pairing, featuring some of the most wonderful things on the menu.  Our waiter and sommelier was extremely passionate about Italian wines, and his pairing choices were impeccable.

First Course:                       Ahi Sashimi, Crostini with Lemon Aioli

Second Course:                Striped Heirloom Beets with Goat Cheese Mousse, Farro, Hazelnut Brittle, Prosciutto and Frisée

Third Course:                     Potato Gnocchi with Braised Oxtail and Taleggio Cheese

Fourth Course:                  Whole Grilled Mediterranean Sea Bass with Artichokes, Potatoes and Taggiasche Olives

Fifth Course:                      Prime New York Strip Steak with Cipollini Onions, Potato Gnocchi, Rapini Florets, and Reduction

Sixth Course:                     Almond Cake with Rosemary Cream and Italian Doughnuts served with Orange Glaze

Every course was superb and attractively presented – we sent big compliments to the kitchen especially on the Potato Gnocchi with Braised Oxtail.  It was melt-in-your mouth delicious!  After a meal like this, all we can say is Tutto è stato bello!!  Ciao Michael’s, until next time – we most certainly will be back!

WHERE:                                               5620 East 2nd Street • Long Beach, CA 90803

PERFECT FOR:                                    A romantic evening out or special occasion dinner

DON’T MISS:                                      Striped Heirloom Beets appetizer, Potato Gnocchi with Braised Oxtail, Almond Cake with rosemary cream