Keep coming back to this spot, for many reasons. The food, service, ambiance, location, novelty. I've been during the daytime for a latte in the sun, and I've been at night for an incredible dinner service. I would say I prefer the nighttime experience, just because the coffee is pretty over priced, and they haven't nailed the daytime-cafe-vibe yet. Needless to say, they have certainly nailed the nighttime vibe. Wonderful small plates, super yummy pizzas, creative and beautiful dishes. Recently, my group of four and I shared a pizza and a few small dishes as well as entrees. Out of all of the dishes, my Alaskan halibut was agreed upon as the best, which was surprising! The creamed leeks beneath the fish were unlike anything I've ever had. We also REALLY enjoyed the snap pea salad. Such unique flavor combinations! The burnt basque cheesecake and marscapone gelato were wonderful treats to end our meal. I will continue to come back!
D W.
Great food, servers were so friendly and helpful and the ambience very welcoming and relaxed. Loved it!
Richard R.
At Marlena, prepare to embark on a taste adventure that's like a rollercoaster for your taste buds! Picture this: octopus that's so tender, it practically melts in your mouth, pizzas with toppings that dance on your palate, and pastas that make you want to do a happy pasta dance. And don't even get me started on their drink recommendations it's like they have a magic wand for pairing perfection! The staff are like culinary wizards, waving their wands to ensure your dining experience is nothing short of magical. After our first visit, we're already planning our breakfast bonanza. Marlena, you've stolen a pizza our hearts we'll be back for more flavor packed fun!
Hannah R.
I will never go here again. I went for brunch and it wasn't busy at all. I didn't review the menu prior, but figure I can always find an option. I am lactose intolerant, not because I choose that (lol) I am allergic to dairy. I noticed most dishes had cheese and I asked if something could be modified and the waitress said no. I've heard this answer before it's fine. So then I went on to something else and asked if it could be modified and the waitress said "No, we wouldn't want to compromise the integrity of the dish." Okay, I get it you're culinary kings and queens whatever. But it's the attitude I received. I did not want to eat steak and salmon (the only nondairy options) at 11ish AM. She was frustrated and said that she would go ask the chefs what we could do. She came back and said that they could do eggs and toast. The waiter brought out food and asked if we needed anything else. I said hot sauce....I'm eating plain eggs and bread. He looked so disturbed and went and consulted the waitress. They brought Chalula and said I am sorry that's all we can do. I almost died laughing. Clearly they are new to the area. Lb always has options for people. They literally were trying to make me feel like I was low class for being allergic to dairy. Then as we were leaving all of their staff were talking in a group blocking the exit.
Felipe Latorre
Clean and chic vibe, friendly service staff, and overall good menu items; however to me most of the orders were misses. The martini with rosemary and salt was far too savory to pair well with anything, the pappardelle lacked some flavor depth, and the pea pizza was also on the bland side. The octopus was the star of the show however, and the cauliflower was lovely (both pictured). I’m sure we’d have a different experience with a different set of items ordered. It’s still worth checking out.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 4
Service: 5
Patrick Mckenzie
We've dined her a couple times now.Beautiful setting...feels like your outside more than in. We've enjoyed the spicy salami pizza, the beet and labneh salad, and Dungeness crab avocado, toast.Everything has been delicious.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 5
Service: 4
Julia B
Great spot, great food, great ambiance.
Kevin Fernando
I wanted to treat my father to dinner this evening around 6pm, but unfortunately there were no available tables until 9pm and the bar was fully occupied as informed by the two younger hostesses tonight, and it was recommended to make reservations prior. Totally understandable if reservations are committed to full capacity, however, less than 5 min after leaving, I went on their website to check the link to make reservations. Automatically the date was set to this evening Feb 23, and I happen to come across not only one, but THREE patio reservations on the toast tab feature available before 9pm tonight; 6:15pm, 6:30pm, and 6:45pm. Also at the time of initially inquiring the hostesses, the outer patio areas were mostly unoccupied. It is absolutely disheartening to receive refusal of accommodation, especially shortly after the discovery of 3 available time slots for the same evening near the initial arrival time. It makes a potential guest feel unwelcome, much like the experience of Julia Robert’s principal character in pretty woman. I truly wanted to support a local business for a delightful gastronomic experience, but unfortunately I wasn’t granted the opportunity, despite the website’s ample availability. Other than a clerical error, the only reason accountable would be discrimination, and I can only hope the issue is associated with the former.
Carl Foisy
An overall remarkable dining experience and culinary delight. First impression is visually pleasing with a beautiful aesthetic overall. Very welcoming and open vibes. The menu is concise with all of your favorites like duck, octopus, pork chop, halibut and some tasty veggie options including a tasty cauliflower dish. We had a party of 12 and shared some fabulous homemade pizzas, but also ordered several entrees and the tutti-frutti peas and pastas. Besides the approachable wine list, they also made a marvelous espresso and had some non alcoholic drinks too. The desserts were equally superb to the first part of the meal, and we all really enjoyed ourselves. Beyond the top notch food n drink, and the gorgeous atmosphere …the people made the place tops. Their attention to detail and high level of hospitality was also very enjoyable. Looking forward to visiting again. Things indeed a dining destination. Bravo Marlena LB!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
John Moreland
I would have given it 3 stars, but gave them the benefit of the doubt since I went on Valentine's Day. The food generally was under seasoned and was pretty disappointed that they ran out of dessert while another couple that ordered and sat down after us got it. There are a few gems that came out, but was really disappointed by the slow service -- our meal took over 3.5 hours. I will try again to see how the regular service is.
Overall, pretty disappointing. Took 2.5 hours for a prefix 5 course Valentine’s dinner with 30-40 min in between each course. The pasta dishes were undercooked and lukewarm. Nothing stood out in terms of flavor. Our server hardly did anything which makes sense since our bill included automatic 22% gratuity. Overall, the experience was not worth $300 for a party of 2.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 3
Service: 2
Alexis Hillman
Marlena is elegant with an awesome vibe. My husband and I went for brunch, and the food was amazing. The whole staff was friendly and helpful. Our server was very knowledgeable about the menu and made great suggestions. I had steak and eggs, and my husband had the spicy salami pizza. We also LOVED the Polenta Benedict! I can't wait to come back and try the Riccota Pancakes. Beautiful place and beautiful delicious food. I highly recommend this wonderful gem of a restaurant.Dietary restrictions: Nice GF options are available.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Julio Salmeron
Go there and just enjoy Make sure you make reservations they do have bar seating and they have a little small area where kids can actually sit at but it's only two seats.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Carpaccio
Ricardo The Realtor
What a great dining spot Marlena is to frequent on the community of Naples Island here in Long Beach, CA.We have been there several times now and have had a great time, every time. The food is so delicious that you must try everything. The bread plate, pasta, pizza & steak were all so tasty. They have great staff to great you , make you delicious cocktails (David - bartender) and serve you the food. Come on down and let them know that Ricardo the Realtor sent you. See you there!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Scott Yngsdal
Ordered the skirt steak. Steak was good, but nothing but some salsa Verde on top. Nit even a broccoli floert @ $45.00. Not again. Other complaints from my table as well. Everything from portions, taste, and price.
Keep coming back to this spot, for many reasons. The food, service, ambiance, location, novelty. I've been during the daytime for a latte in the sun, and I've been at night for an incredible dinner service. I would say I prefer the nighttime experience, just because the coffee is pretty over priced, and they haven't nailed the daytime-cafe-vibe yet. Needless to say, they have certainly nailed the nighttime vibe. Wonderful small plates, super yummy pizzas, creative and beautiful dishes. Recently, my group of four and I shared a pizza and a few small dishes as well as entrees. Out of all of the dishes, my Alaskan halibut was agreed upon as the best, which was surprising! The creamed leeks beneath the fish were unlike anything I've ever had. We also REALLY enjoyed the snap pea salad. Such unique flavor combinations! The burnt basque cheesecake and marscapone gelato were wonderful treats to end our meal. I will continue to come back!
Great food, servers were so friendly and helpful and the ambience very welcoming and relaxed. Loved it!
At Marlena, prepare to embark on a taste adventure that's like a rollercoaster for your taste buds! Picture this: octopus that's so tender, it practically melts in your mouth, pizzas with toppings that dance on your palate, and pastas that make you want to do a happy pasta dance. And don't even get me started on their drink recommendations it's like they have a magic wand for pairing perfection! The staff are like culinary wizards, waving their wands to ensure your dining experience is nothing short of magical. After our first visit, we're already planning our breakfast bonanza. Marlena, you've stolen a pizza our hearts we'll be back for more flavor packed fun!
I will never go here again. I went for brunch and it wasn't busy at all. I didn't review the menu prior, but figure I can always find an option. I am lactose intolerant, not because I choose that (lol) I am allergic to dairy. I noticed most dishes had cheese and I asked if something could be modified and the waitress said no. I've heard this answer before it's fine. So then I went on to something else and asked if it could be modified and the waitress said "No, we wouldn't want to compromise the integrity of the dish." Okay, I get it you're culinary kings and queens whatever. But it's the attitude I received. I did not want to eat steak and salmon (the only nondairy options) at 11ish AM. She was frustrated and said that she would go ask the chefs what we could do. She came back and said that they could do eggs and toast. The waiter brought out food and asked if we needed anything else. I said hot sauce....I'm eating plain eggs and bread. He looked so disturbed and went and consulted the waitress. They brought Chalula and said I am sorry that's all we can do. I almost died laughing. Clearly they are new to the area. Lb always has options for people. They literally were trying to make me feel like I was low class for being allergic to dairy. Then as we were leaving all of their staff were talking in a group blocking the exit.
Clean and chic vibe, friendly service staff, and overall good menu items; however to me most of the orders were misses. The martini with rosemary and salt was far too savory to pair well with anything, the pappardelle lacked some flavor depth, and the pea pizza was also on the bland side. The octopus was the star of the show however, and the cauliflower was lovely (both pictured). I’m sure we’d have a different experience with a different set of items ordered. It’s still worth checking out.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 4
Service: 5
We've dined her a couple times now.Beautiful setting...feels like your outside more than in. We've enjoyed the spicy salami pizza, the beet and labneh salad, and Dungeness crab avocado, toast.Everything has been delicious.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 5
Service: 4
Great spot, great food, great ambiance.
I wanted to treat my father to dinner this evening around 6pm, but unfortunately there were no available tables until 9pm and the bar was fully occupied as informed by the two younger hostesses tonight, and it was recommended to make reservations prior. Totally understandable if reservations are committed to full capacity, however, less than 5 min after leaving, I went on their website to check the link to make reservations. Automatically the date was set to this evening Feb 23, and I happen to come across not only one, but THREE patio reservations on the toast tab feature available before 9pm tonight; 6:15pm, 6:30pm, and 6:45pm. Also at the time of initially inquiring the hostesses, the outer patio areas were mostly unoccupied. It is absolutely disheartening to receive refusal of accommodation, especially shortly after the discovery of 3 available time slots for the same evening near the initial arrival time. It makes a potential guest feel unwelcome, much like the experience of Julia Robert’s principal character in pretty woman. I truly wanted to support a local business for a delightful gastronomic experience, but unfortunately I wasn’t granted the opportunity, despite the website’s ample availability. Other than a clerical error, the only reason accountable would be discrimination, and I can only hope the issue is associated with the former.
An overall remarkable dining experience and culinary delight. First impression is visually pleasing with a beautiful aesthetic overall. Very welcoming and open vibes. The menu is concise with all of your favorites like duck, octopus, pork chop, halibut and some tasty veggie options including a tasty cauliflower dish. We had a party of 12 and shared some fabulous homemade pizzas, but also ordered several entrees and the tutti-frutti peas and pastas. Besides the approachable wine list, they also made a marvelous espresso and had some non alcoholic drinks too. The desserts were equally superb to the first part of the meal, and we all really enjoyed ourselves. Beyond the top notch food n drink, and the gorgeous atmosphere …the people made the place tops. Their attention to detail and high level of hospitality was also very enjoyable. Looking forward to visiting again. Things indeed a dining destination. Bravo Marlena LB!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
I would have given it 3 stars, but gave them the benefit of the doubt since I went on Valentine's Day. The food generally was under seasoned and was pretty disappointed that they ran out of dessert while another couple that ordered and sat down after us got it. There are a few gems that came out, but was really disappointed by the slow service -- our meal took over 3.5 hours. I will try again to see how the regular service is.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 4
Service: 3
Restaurantji Recommends
Overall, pretty disappointing. Took 2.5 hours for a prefix 5 course Valentine’s dinner with 30-40 min in between each course. The pasta dishes were undercooked and lukewarm. Nothing stood out in terms of flavor. Our server hardly did anything which makes sense since our bill included automatic 22% gratuity. Overall, the experience was not worth $300 for a party of 2.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 3
Service: 2
Marlena is elegant with an awesome vibe. My husband and I went for brunch, and the food was amazing. The whole staff was friendly and helpful. Our server was very knowledgeable about the menu and made great suggestions. I had steak and eggs, and my husband had the spicy salami pizza. We also LOVED the Polenta Benedict! I can't wait to come back and try the Riccota Pancakes. Beautiful place and beautiful delicious food. I highly recommend this wonderful gem of a restaurant.Dietary restrictions: Nice GF options are available.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Go there and just enjoy Make sure you make reservations they do have bar seating and they have a little small area where kids can actually sit at but it's only two seats.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Carpaccio
What a great dining spot Marlena is to frequent on the community of Naples Island here in Long Beach, CA.We have been there several times now and have had a great time, every time. The food is so delicious that you must try everything. The bread plate, pasta, pizza & steak were all so tasty. They have great staff to great you , make you delicious cocktails (David - bartender) and serve you the food. Come on down and let them know that Ricardo the Realtor sent you. See you there!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Ordered the skirt steak. Steak was good, but nothing but some salsa Verde on top. Nit even a broccoli floert @ $45.00. Not again. Other complaints from my table as well. Everything from portions, taste, and price.
Atmosphere: 3
Food: 3
Service: 5