Bar Becky, a renowned restaurant in Long Beach, California, has garnered attention for its innovative dishes that combine bold flavors with a deep sense of tradition. At the helm of this culinary hotspot is Chef Johnathan Benvenuti, whose cooking is heavily influenced by the memories and flavors from his childhood. In particular, his dishes reflect a heartfelt tribute to his mother, whose home-cooked meals laid the foundation for his culinary journey. At Bar Becky, this sentiment is captured beautifully through dishes like Mom’s Carrots, a standout that pays homage to the nurturing and comforting meals of family life.
Bar Becky’s scratch kitchen specializes in house-made focaccia, pastas, and a rotating selection of comforting classics alongside innovative, chef-driven creations and dedicated to using the freshest produce, sourced from local farmers and artisan producers, ensuring each dish is both flavorful and seasonal. Mom’s Carrots, a simple yet profoundly flavorful offering that reflects Chef Benvenuti’s deep connection to his roots. These carrots are prepared with a unique blend of spices and slow-cooked to perfection including maple, burrata, and almonds creating a tender dish that takes diners back to the comforting meals of their own childhoods. It’s the kind of dish that carries the warmth of a mother’s love and the skill of a talented chef who understands the importance of flavors that evoke memories. The balance of flavors and textures in Mom’s Carrots showcases the art of creating something both familiar and refined.
In addition to his mom-inspired dishes, Chef Benvenuti’s menu at Bar Becky features a range of other culinary masterpieces that have quickly become favorites. One such dish is the Grilled Mediterranean Octopus, a testament to Benvenuti’s skill with seafood. The octopus is perfectly charred on the grill, achieving a crispy exterior while remaining tender on the inside. What makes this dish unique is it’s served on Becky’s potato salad a homemade dish that infuses celery and salami, all of which elevate the dish with fresh flavors while keeping true to the sentiment of coming home for dinner. This seafood offering is a must-try for those who appreciate the bold and daring combinations that Benvenuti is known for.
Another highlight of the menu is the Branzino, a Mediterranean sea bass that is expertly prepared to preserve its delicate flavors. The fish is perfectly cooked, with a crisp skin and a moist, flaky interior. The dish is complemented by an array of fresh parsnip, wild mushroom, and beurre blanc that bring out the natural sweetness of the fish. It’s a dish that exemplifies Chef Benvenuti’s commitment to quality ingredients and his ability to highlight the subtle flavors of the sea. For seafood lovers, the Branzino is an unforgettable dish that represents the beauty of Mediterranean cuisine.
Bar Becky also offers hearty, indulgent options like the Roasted Duck and Prime Ribeye, which showcase Chef Benvenuti’s expertise in creating elevated comfort food. The Roasted Duck is a perfect example of his attention to detail, with the duck cooked to a crisp golden brown and served with celery root, cranberry, AND smoked salt that balances the natural richness of the meat. Similarly, the Prime Ribeye is expertly seared, offering a juicy, flavorful steak that’s cooked to perfection and served with olive oil, aged balsamic vinegar, and greens, accompaniments that complement its bold taste. These dishes further highlight Chef Benvenuti’s ability to create complex flavors while honoring the essence of comfort food.
Bar Becky also features a 3-COURSE PRIX-FIXE MENU including the extruded pastas of Semolina Artisanal Pasta who utilizes some the finest American semolina. You have many choices for your FIRST, SECOND, and DESSERT dishes. The Olive Oil Cake was a delightful surprise of must have, served atop of lemon curd and raspberry, simply scrumptious. Don’t forget Brunch with Becky’s Biscuits for the Table
Chef’s accompaniments.
The beverage program, led by Jason Scarborough, brings Michelin-star expertise to Long Beach’s Eastside. The curated wine list, though small, highlights exceptional selections from California and Italy, while our dynamic cocktail menu showcases a mix of classic creations and one-of-a-kind collaborations between our front and back of house teams.
Bar Becky in Long Beach stands as a testament to Chef Johnathan Benvenuti’s culinary philosophy, where personal history and exceptional technique blend to create a memorable dining experience. Each dish tells a story and offers a unique flavor journey. Chef Benvenuti’s ability to weave together family traditions and modern culinary techniques makes Bar Becky a must-visit destination for anyone seeking an elevated yet heartfelt dining experience in Long Beach.
For reservations: Bar Becky
(Photos Courtesy Stephan Martin)
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