Move over, Starbucks! Long Beach is brimming with holiday cheer in a coffee cup—and let’s be real, supporting local shops beats handing over our dollars to big corporations any day. Imagine sipping on a cozy gingerbread latte or a brown butter toffee latte, brewed right here in our own backyard, each sip bursting with the flavor of the season. These aren’t just your average coffee shops; they’re spots full of personality, love for their craft, and drinks that’ll have you feeling like it’s holiday magic in a mug.
Whether you’re out in East Long Beach, vibing in Bixby Knolls, or taking in the sights downtown, our local coffee spots are seriously stepping up their holiday game. They’ve got everything from pumpkin spice twists and warm, spiced cider creations to all the comforting flavors that make you want to cozy up. So why not skip the long lines and mega-chain production and head to one of these unique spots? Let’s spread some holiday cheer and caffeinate with our fave local brews!
Holiday Coffee Plus: Black Ring Coffee Roasters
Move over, cookie-cutter coffee chains—Black Ring Coffee Roasters in Long Beach is where the magic happens. Tucked away at 5373 Long Beach Blvd, this gem is serving up holiday cheer with a Scandinavian industrial vibe that’s both minimalist and cozy. Think clean lines, warm woods, and just the right amount of industrial edge. It’s the perfect spot to settle in with a festive drink and take in the laid-back, local scene.
And speaking of festive drinks, Black Ring’s holiday menu is a treat! They’re crafting a Gingerbread Latte that’s rich, spicy, and sweet—like a cozy sweater in a cup. For those who prefer a cold twist, the Gingerbread Sweet Cream Cold Brew offers that same nostalgic gingerbread flavor with a smooth, creamy finish. And don’t miss the Peppermint Mocha Latte; it’s like sipping a winter wonderland, with just the right blend of chocolatey richness and peppermint zing.
Pair any of these holiday drinks with one of their delicious pastries, baked fresh to complete the experience. Whether you’re stopping by for a morning pick-me-up or an afternoon treat, Black Ring is the ultimate spot to enjoy the season.
Black Ring Coffee Roasters is located at 5373 Long Beach Blvd, Long Beach, CA 90805, making it a convenient spot for locals and visitors to enjoy unique, expertly crafted coffee in a relaxed setting. Black Ring offers a welcoming space filled with great drinks and delicious pastries. Check out more about them and their offerings on their website.
Ground Hideout Coffee, A Holiday Coffee Hidden Gem
Ground Hideout Coffee is a true hidden gem in the East Village Arts District of Long Beach, where coffee lovers can relax in a chill haven. The shop has a clean, minimal feel accented with thoughtfully placed plants, creating a refreshing and tranquil atmosphere. With both indoor and outdoor seating options, Ground Hideout offers the perfect spot to cozy up with a book, work on a laptop, or catch up with friends, rain or shine. The ambiance is warm and welcoming, ideal for those who appreciate a space as vibrant as their coffee.
Ground Hideout Coffee’s menu is packed with unique signature drinks that make it a must-visit for anyone looking to try something new. Their Orange Cardamom Latte is a bright, aromatic twist on a classic, blending the citrusy sweetness of orange with a hint of spice from cardamom. The Matcha Rose Latte offers a soothing mix of earthy matcha and floral rose, creating a drink that’s as visually beautiful as it is delicious.
Their holiday specials add a festive twist to the menu, featuring drinks like the Spiced Gingerbread Latte topped with nutmeg, the cozy Campfire Latte with toasted marshmallow and dark chocolate drizzle, and the Candy Cane Mocha for a peppermint-chocolate delight. For something unique, the Holiday Espresso Tonic combines double ristretto, cranberry compote, tonic water, cinnamon, and a charred rosemary sprig—a refreshing, bubbly option for the season.
When it comes to food, Ground Hideout Coffee has an impressive lineup of hearty options. The Chimichurri Melt is a fan favorite, featuring roast beef, housemade chimichurri, provolone cheese, red onion, and aioli, all toasted on sourdough bread for a perfectly melty sandwich. Their Avocado Toast is another standout, topped with smashed avocado, cherry tomatoes, and micro-greens on toasted sourdough, with options to add a fried egg or bacon. For a more filling bite, the Breakfast Burrito comes packed with eggs, a potato skillet with bell peppers and onions, bacon, and cheese, all wrapped in a flour tortilla and served with housemade salsa—plus, there’s a vegetarian option available.
Other breakfast favorites include the Breakfast Biscuits, with a fluffy buttermilk biscuit, cheddar cheese, and egg, paired with your choice of ham, bacon, or spinach. The Sunrise Sandwich is another delicious pick, layering a fried egg, bacon, tomato, arugula, red onion, and housemade habanero jam on a toasted brioche bun. These food options make Ground Hideout a perfect stop for breakfast or lunch, whether you’re in the mood for something savory or a little spicy.
Located at 356 E 4th St, Ground Hideout is in the heart of downtown Long Beach, making it an easy stop for locals and visitors alike. You can learn more about their offerings and vibe on their Instagram page, where they frequently update fans on new drinks, seasonal specials, and events.
Italy in Long Beach at Aroma Di Roma
Aroma Di Roma, with locations in both Downtown Long Beach and Belmont Shore, is a cozy coffee spot that brings an authentic Italian vibe right to SoCal. Step inside, and you’ll catch the lively energy of Italian soccer games on TV, paired with the comforting aroma of fresh coffee and pastries. This place has an inviting, laid-back atmosphere that makes it the perfect spot to relax, people-watch, or catch up with friends over a delicious cup of coffee.
Their menu features a delightful array of signature drinks, like the rich and smooth Mocha-Angelo and the Latin Latte, which have become favorites among locals. This season, Aroma Di Roma is rolling out a holiday drink menu with festive flavors that capture the spirit of fall and winter. Options like the Maple Cinnamon Latte, Pumpkin Chai, and Caramel Cider offer warm, comforting notes that are perfect for the cooler months. For something unique, try their Chocolate Churro Latte or the Pumpkin Cold Brew for a refreshing holiday twist.
Beyond coffee, Aroma Di Roma serves a variety of delicious food options that bring a touch of Italy to Long Beach. From breakfast favorites like the Uova Benedetto (poached eggs, prosciutto, provolone, and pesto on focaccia) to hearty paninis and refreshing salads, there’s something for everyone. Their Avocado Toast, topped with basil, sun-dried tomatoes, and parmesan on gluten-free bread, is a must-try. With its prime locations and welcoming atmosphere, Aroma Di Roma is a fantastic spot to enjoy some holiday cheer and delicious Italian-inspired treats. You can check out more about them and their menu on their website.
Aroma Di Roma has two prime locations in Long Beach:
- Downtown Long Beach: 444 W Ocean Blvd, Long Beach, CA 90802
- Belmont Shore: 4708 E 2nd St, Long Beach, CA 90803
Each location offers the same cozy Italian vibe with soccer on TV, great coffee, and delicious food options, making them perfect spots to enjoy holiday-themed drinks and seasonal treats.
Exploring Long Beach’s coffee scene is like a holiday adventure in every cup! From cozy, festive lattes to unique seasonal specialties, our local coffee shops are brimming with holiday cheer and creativity. Supporting these local spots not only fills your cup with amazing flavors but also keeps our community thriving. So, let’s skip the big chains this season and enjoy the personal touches and warm vibes that make Long Beach’s coffee shops so special.
For more on where to find the best drinks, eats, and things to do in Long Beach, check out our local guides at LBC Vibe. Happy holidays, and here’s to sipping local!
