Water Damage Restoration in Long Beach, CA
Owning a home or business is one of the hallmarks of living the American Dream. While there are many fulfilling and positive aspects of owning property, one of the challenges that owners face is property damage. This type of damage can be caused by a range of disasters, both man-made and natural. Of all the types of property damage, water damage is among the most common.
Whether from broken pipes or heavy thunderstorms, it doesn't take a professor from California State University Long Beach in Long Beach to know that water damage can be incredibly harmful to your home. Water can spread quickly throughout your property, causing damage to furniture and porous materials as it moves. In the blink of an eye, you could be looking at substantial rotting, warping, and even mold growth. That's why water damage restoration in Long Beach, CA is so important - to mitigate the damage to your home and help prevent it from happening in the future.
Trying to overcome flooding and other water-related disasters on your own can seem like a lost cause. But with Disaster Response by your side, you don't have to lose hope. As a local water damage clean-up company, we provide comprehensive restoration services to properties of all sizes in Long Beach. From the first time we assess your water damage to the time we mitigate and restore, we're here for you.
Dealing with property damage can be overwhelming. You're likely concerned about a few key things:
Navigating the insurance claim process
We guide you through every step, ensuring you understand the process and get the most out of your claim.
Scheduling for a quick and quality completion
We provide a clear timeline for restoration, prioritizing both speed and quality, so you can get back to normal as soon as possible.
You might also be thinking about:
Ensuring the safety and health of your family or employees during the restoration: Our team takes all necessary precautions to protect the safety and health of everyone involved, using the latest techniques and equipment.
Understanding the full scope of the damage and what needs to be done:We conduct a thorough assessment of the damage and provide a detailed plan of action, so you know exactly what to expect.
Knowing the costs upfront and avoiding unexpected expenses: We provide transparent pricing and a detailed estimate before any work begins, so there are no surprises along the way.
Preventing future issues, such as mold growth or structural problems: We don't just fix the visible damage—we address the root causes to prevent future issues, giving you peace of mind.
Protecting your belongings and valuables from further damage: We take extra care to safeguard your possessions during the restoration process, minimizing any further impact.
Minimizing disruption to your daily life or business operations: We work efficiently and flexibly to reduce the disruption to your routine, allowing you to continue with your life or business as smoothly as possible.
Finding a trustworthy team to handle your property with care: Our experienced and highly-trained professionals treat your property as if it were their own, ensuring the highest standard of care.
Ensuring the job is done right the first time: We pride ourselves on doing the job right the first time, using industry-leading techniques and thorough quality checks to ensure lasting results.
Receiving clear communication and updates throughout the restoration process: We keep you informed every step of the way, providing regular updates and clear communication, so you're never left in the dark.
Ensuring the safety and health of your family or employees during the restoration: Our team takes all necessary precautions to protect the safety and health of everyone involved, using the latest techniques and equipment.
At Disaster Response, It's All About You
Like Kelly House in Long Beach, Disaster Response has been a pillar of the community for years. As a second-generation disaster response company, we know that our work is never about us. At its most basic, it's always about you—your situation, your needs, and your satisfaction. We engineer our processes to help you quickly recover from water floods and disasters. Our total focus is on you, our valued customer. And that, in a nutshell, is what makes Disaster Response one of the most trusted and highly-rated water restoration companies in Long Beach.
Instead of focusing on profit, bottom lines, and yearly projections, we make you our priority. That's why we're serious about providing expert-level disaster preparedness and response services when you need them the most. Could you imagine trying to decipher misleading fine print or dealing with a pushy salesperson when you're just trying to get your life back together? That's not the Disaster Response way, and it never will be.
We don't just clean up after water leaks, floods, or other disasters; we go above and beyond by providing a consultative approach that serves you for years to come. We assist you in dealing with insurance adjusters to ensure you get the coverage you deserve without unnecessary delays. We make it a point to meticulously review every detail of your claim and work hard to make sure adjusters understand the full extent of your losses. We can also provide guidance on how and when to engage a public adjuster to bypass inefficiencies in the insurance process. At the end of the day, we strive to provide peace of mind during your difficult time and work tirelessly to get your property back to its pre-loss condition.
The Disaster Response Difference
Professional Technicians, Technology, and Processes
In fact, we'll dispatch a team of water disaster technicians to you within three minutes. We'll also advise you on what can be done to minimize the water damage in your home or business. Our water damage restoration team will use cutting-edge technology and IICRC-approved methods to restore as much of your property as possible.
Insurance Advocacy
Disaster Response works one-on-one with you and your insurance provider to expedite the claims process and get your home back to normal as soon as possible.
Satisfaction Guaranteed
We're proud of our work and stand behind every project we complete. Our goal is to exceed expectations and provide peace of mind throughout every step of your water damage restoration process. If you're not satisfied for any reason, we'll listen to your concerns and work tirelessly to rectify any issues that need addressing.
Your Guide to Water Damage Restoration in Long Beach, CA
Water damage restoration is a key step in remediating damage to your home, both structurally and aesthetically. Damage from water doesn't just affect the walls, floors, and ceilings in your home. It can also cause deeper issues that, when untreated, can weaken your foundation significantly and lead to long-term instability.
As if that weren't enough, water damage can present health hazards to your friends, family, and pets. Mold and bacteria can grow in damp areas after water incidents, causing allergies, respiratory problems, and even visits to Bella Gardens Senior Wellness Home in Long Beach for examination. Ignoring water damage can also result in irreversible harm to your belongings, including furniture, electronics, and sentimental items, leading to financial loss and emotional distress. Professional water clean-up services can repair the damage to your property, help protect valuable assets, and re-establish your home or business as a safe, healthy environment for occupants.
What Makes Our Water Damage Company in Long Beach, CA, Different from Others?
One of the most common questions we get at Disaster Response is, "What separates you from other water damage clean-up companies in Long Beach?" The first and easiest answer to that question centers around our commitment to customer service. We hold our clients in high regard because, without them, there would be no Disaster Response. As such, we work tirelessly to provide them with quality work from friendly and helpful technicians, regardless of the size of their home or business.
But that's just the start. Our clients recommend friends and family to our business because we prioritize the following:
Cost
Investing in damage restoration for your home is a smart move that can help reduce long-term costs. The best part? Our services are covered by insurance companies, so there's less worry about paying out of pocket.
Technicians
Every member of our team has years of experience, specialized training, and certifications in handling water damage. We prioritize our customers' well-being and meticulously attend to every detail to prevent any potential mold-related issues in the future. From single-family homes to
Time
Water disasters happen quicker than you might think. One moment, you're enjoying family time at Hilltop Park in Long Beach. The next, you're pulling in your driveway to a flooded home. When you call our office, we'll get to work assessing the cause of your water damage and how extensive the water damage is in your home or business. From there, we'll dispatch a team of IICRC water damage restoration experts to your location.
Tools
Disaster Response has made significant investments in cutting-edge water damage equipment, including inspection tools that enable thorough water removal. Our technicians have undergone extensive training to operate these machines and know when and when not to use them.
Process
For over 40 years, we have been helping with water damage issues, refining our process along the way. We can quickly find hidden damages that others might miss and document everything for your insurance company.
Reliable Water Damage Restoration Network
We aren't afraid to ask for help if it means a safer, more enjoyable environment for your family or customers. In fact, we have access to a network of industry pros who are experts in a range of water damage services. To make your life a little easier, we also work with insurance professionals who assist with the claims process.
What Does Disaster Response Fix?
As an IICRC-certified water damage contractor in Long Beach, CA, our technicians can address several areas of your home or business that have been damaged by a water disaster.
- Floors: It's very important to take the necessary time and steps to effectively dry your floors to prevent any potential water damage and mold growth in the future.
- Walls: Depending on the amount of water that enters your business or home, the structural integrity of your property may be at stake. Our technicians will evaluate the situation, inspect your property, and replace materials damaged by water.
- Rugs: If your rugs get wet during flooding or from another water disaster, they may be salvageable. We'll work hard to save all the rugs in your property.
- Furniture: Your furniture is probably expensive and may hold a certain level of sentimental value. Instead of throwing it away or donating it to Historic Bembridge House in Long Beach, we can repair and restore it.
Disaster Response specializes in every kind of damage caused by rain, wind, or snowstorms. We handle water damage, mold, mildew, and more, and can be at your home or office within an hour of your call to assess the situation and put a water damage restoration plan into action.
What Tools Does Disaster Response Use for Water Damage Clean-Up?
We only use the best equipment! With our extensive experience in the Long Beach restoration industry, we've acquired state-of-the-art tools designed to tackle a wide range of challenges. This experience has also allowed our technicians to identify which type of equipment is best for a particular situation. Some of the most common water damage restoration tools we use include:
Infrared Cameras
Our infrared cameras give us the ability to see moisture in walls and ceilings that is not visible to the naked eye, almost like having "X-ray" vision. This capability allows us to detect and address trapped and hidden humidity, significantly reducing the risk of mold growth.
Moisture Meters
We use moisture meters to measure moisture levels in cellulose material. Before and after the drying process, we will conduct moisture readings in all areas of your property. If we detect moisture in an unaffected area of your building, we'll get to work quickly to dry it.
Air Movers
This equipment is designed to work in conjunction with our dehumidifiers. While our dehumidifiers extract moisture from the air and convert it to a liquid, our Air Mover helps to circulate this moisture in the air so that the dehumidifier can effectively remove it.
Ozone Generators
These advanced tools enable us to cleanse affected surfaces and the air in a more effective manner. Ozone Generators work by causing oxygen molecules to implode, making them a valuable deodorization tool.
Xtreme Xtractor
This tool is great for tackling tough moisture after water damage. It allows us to apply direct pressure to a surface, like a carpet, that has soaked up water. The pressure helps draw out the water, making it easier to remove.
Top 3 Types of Water Damage You Should Know About
Water damage can strike without warning and can wreak havoc on your property, leaving you feeling hopeless and overwhelmed. Whether it's from a burst pipe, a severe storm, or an overflowing appliance, your property needs immediate water damage clean-up in Long Beach, CA, to prevent further harm. Here are the top three types of water damage you should know about:
Clean Water Damage
This type of water damage happens from a "clean" source, such as rainwater or a broken pipe in your home. It's easier to clean up than others on this list but can still cause extensive property damage when ignored.
Gray Water Damage
Gray water damage stems from appliances such as toilets without feces, washing machines, and dishwashers. Gray water sometimes contains bacteria and contaminants that can make you or your family sick.
Black Water Damage
The name alone indicates the severity of this type of water damage. It's caused by backed-up sewer lines, river flooding, and standing water that supports bacteria growth. Black water presents serious health hazards and needs to be handled by professional water damage contractors.
If you suspect your home or business has been damaged by one or more of the types of water above, take the following steps:
- Be Safe: Turn off all electricity running through your property. Don't go near or touch any water you believe to be contaminated.
- Stop the Source of Water: If you're able, put a stop to the water at its source. That way, you can prevent more damage.
- Call Disaster Response: Contact our water damage company ASAP for water restoration services. Our team is available 24/7 to respond to emergencies.
Our Process for Water Damage Restoration in Long Beach, CA
Having a water damage restoration company by your side who knows how to remediate moisture is a key factor in getting your life back on track. At Disaster Response, we have refined our process over 40+ years of water damage clean-up experience. That way, we can provide customers with reliable, comprehensive service when they need it the most.
We utilize powerful pumps and vacuums to eliminate standing water from your property. Swift water removal is essential in minimizing damage and lowering the likelihood of mold growth. Our team is dedicated to ensuring efficient water extraction to prevent any additional complications.
After extracting water from your property, we dry and dehumidify the impacted areas. We use industrial-grade dehumidifiers and air movers to do so to eliminate moisture from walls, floors, and furniture. Proper drying helps prevent warping, swelling, and the growth of mold.
Whenever we deal with water damage, we have to address the potential contaminants and bacteria that can enter your home. We make sure to thoroughly clean and sanitize all affected areas to create a safe living environment. This involves cleaning carpets, upholstery, and personal belongings. Our technicians also use antimicrobial treatments to prevent mold and bacterial growth.
The final step in the process is the restoration of your home to its pre-damage condition. This comprehensive restoration process may encompass a range of tasks, from minor repairs such as replacing drywall and installing new carpeting to major reconstruction efforts. Rest assured that Disaster Response is fully equipped to manage all aspects of water damage restoration, from start to finish.
- Maintenance: Have your business or home's roof, appliances, and plumbing inspected by professionals to spot early signs of wear and tear.
- Water Alarms: If there is a flood or leak in your home, a water alarm can alert you so that you can take action immediately.
- Drainage: Your home needs proper drainage systems in place at all times. To prevent water buildup, be sure to unclog your downspouts and gutters.
- Cracks and Gaps: Be sure to seal up any cracks and gaps in your property's foundation to limit water from getting inside.
The Water Damage Company in Long Beach, CA, You Can Trust
When you want a great steak, you don't go to a fast-food joint and expect a filet. You go to a Parkers' Lighthouse in Long Beach. When you need quality disaster response services from licensed professionals, you don't go to a fly-by-night shop. You contact Disaster Response.
As a local water damage clean-up business, we believe that providing clients with effective service that they can rely on in times of stress is of utmost importance. While some of our competitors prioritize profits over people, you can rest easy knowing we care about you - and that's something you can always count on when you choose our water damage company.
Whether a pipe has burst in your commercial space and your showroom is flooding, or your home has standing water from a Long Beach rainstorm, we're here for you 24/7. Contact our office to learn more about the Disaster Response difference or to schedule an inspection for your property today.
Contact Your Emergency Disaster Response Now!
Latest News in Long Beach, CA
2024 Christmas Tree Guide: Where To Buy A Tree In Long Beach
Rachel Barneshttps://patch.com/california/longbeach-ca/2024-christmas-tree-guide-where-buy-tree-long-beach
LONG BEACH, CA — If you’re planning to put up a live Christmas tree this year, it’s a good idea to scope out what will be available from Long Beach real tree growers.There are more than 16,000 Christmas tree farms in the United States, stretching over 292,050 acres, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Larger tree farms control...
LONG BEACH, CA — If you’re planning to put up a live Christmas tree this year, it’s a good idea to scope out what will be available from Long Beach real tree growers.
There are more than 16,000 Christmas tree farms in the United States, stretching over 292,050 acres, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Larger tree farms control about 75 percent of the supply, but if you’re interested in supporting a local business this holiday season, here are some places to chop or pick out a tree within driving distance of Long Beach:
Seasonal lot:
Mr. Jingles Christmas Trees 2 17520 Prairie Ave, Torrance, CA 90504
Garden Center: Armstrong Garden Centers 17
Find out what's happening in Long Beachwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
3842 E. 10th Street, Long Beach, CA 90804
Home improvement store:
There are two nearby Home Depot stores at:
There are also two nearby Lowes stores at:
Recent data from the American Christmas Tree Association’s 2024 Consumer Report shows 99 percent of survey respondents intend to display at least one Christmas tree in their homes this year, and among them, 22 percent will opt for a live tree.
According to PickYourOwnChristmasTree, real trees will cost about $13 a foot, depending on the type of tree. At that cost, a typical 7-foot tree would cost about $90.
Years of extreme weather — drought conditions in some parts of the country and excess moisture in others — have affected Christmas tree farms.
This year, attention is focused on the Northeast, where tree farmers are struggling under severe drought conditions that are killing off young trees and could cause future shortages.
According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, about a fourth of the region was in severe to extreme drought, which hits young trees especially hard. It typically takes a tree seven or eight years to grow to the desirable height for decorating.
“Christmas tree farms in the Northeast have, unfortunately, been hit with drought conditions that will impact the crop for several years to come,” American Christmas Tree Association executive director Jami Warner told CNN.
“While consumers will be able to find their Christmas trees this season, some growers in the Northeast will not be able to harvest as many trees as they have in past non-drought years,” Warner said.
Cal Heads To Long Beach State For Preseason Friendly
California Golden Bears Athleticshttps://calbears.com/news/2024/11/22/rugby-cal-heads-to-long-beach-state-for-preseason-friendly.aspx
The Bears kick of 15-a-side action with a preseason friendly in Southern California.BERKELEY – California rugby will see its first 15-a-side action of the 2024-25 academic year with a preseason friendly at Long Beach State on Saturday. The Golden Bears and the Sharks will kick off at the LBSU Rugby Field at noon PT, with a reserve-grade contest scheduled to begin immediately following the conclusion of the first match.Saturday marks the beginning of Cal's 15-a-side competition schedule ...
The Bears kick of 15-a-side action with a preseason friendly in Southern California.
BERKELEY – California rugby will see its first 15-a-side action of the 2024-25 academic year with a preseason friendly at Long Beach State on Saturday. The Golden Bears and the Sharks will kick off at the LBSU Rugby Field at noon PT, with a reserve-grade contest scheduled to begin immediately following the conclusion of the first match.
Saturday marks the beginning of Cal's 15-a-side competition schedule following its appearance on the west coast fall sevens circuit in October. The Bears went undefeated in sevens play, clinching a pair of West Coast Collegiate 7s titles. Cal now shifts its focus to XVs with this weekend's contest to serve as a preview to the Bears' full 2025 schedule.
This will be the first time in recent history that Cal and Long Beach State have contested a XVs match, with the last time the two programs met being at the 2021 WCC7s tournament at Cal Poly. The Bears defeated the Sharks 21-12 en route to winning the tournament trophy.
The Bears are returning a handful of key starters this season, including junior halfback duo Solomon Williams and Rand Santos and starting center Max Threlkeld. Starting junior hooker Cade Crist will also make his return to the forward pack in addition to senior flanker Jon Puckett.
Cal will go without senior stalwarts Tom Dixon and Charlie Walsh this weekend, although both are expected to return in the new year. Walsh is set to captain the squad for the second straight season.
The Bears have added a wealth of new talent to their roster, with 20 new student-athletes eager to see their first 15-a-side action for the Blue & Gold. Freshmen Seamus Deely, Oliver Teague and Chris Biller along with sophomore transfer Jack Byszio earned call-ups to Cal's top sevens side earlier this fall and are looking to now get the call in XVs play.
STAY POSTED For complete coverage of Cal rugby, please follow the Bears on X/Twitter (@CalVarsityRugby), Instagram (@CalVarsityRugby) and Facebook (/CalVarsityRugby).
Best Internet Providers in Long Beach, California
Joe Supanhttps://www.cnet.com/home/internet/best-internet-providers-in-long-beach-ca/
What is the best internet provider in Long Beach?CNET recommends Frontier Fiber as the top internet provider in Long Beach, offering fast, symmetrical speeds, competitive pricing and unlimited data. Both Frontier Fiber and ...
What is the best internet provider in Long Beach?
CNET recommends Frontier Fiber as the top internet provider in Long Beach, offering fast, symmetrical speeds, competitive pricing and unlimited data. Both Frontier Fiber and Spectrum provide budget-friendly plans starting at $30 per month, though Spectrum boasts near-universal availability in the area. Keep in mind, however, that rates for both providers increase after the first year. For those seeking top-tier speed, Frontier Fiber offers a 7-gig plan for $300 per month.
If you prefer a consistent bill with no price hikes, T-Mobile Home Internet is an excellent alternative. It offers price stability for as long as you remain a customer, along with discounts for bundling internet and eligible mobile plans, making it an affordable choice for current T-Mobile users.
Best internet in Long Beach, California
Source: CNET analysis of provider data
Other available internet providers in Long Beach
Cheap internet options in Long Beach
Spectrum and Frontier Fiber offer the cheapest internet in Long Beach, with rates starting at $30 monthly. Note that both Spectrum and Frontier increase prices after an introductory period. T-Mobile and Verizon are the only ISPs in Long Beach that offer the perk of a price lock: Your price will stay the same for as long as you maintain service.
Source: CNET analysis of provider data
How to find internet deals and promotions in Long Beach
The best internet deals and the top promotions in Long Beach depend on what discounts are available during that time. Most deals are short-lived, but we look frequently for the latest offers.
Long Beach internet providers such as Verizon may offer lower introductory pricing or streaming add-ons for a limited time. Many, including Frontier, T-Mobile Home Internet and Spectrum, run the same standard pricing year-round.
For a more extensive list of deals and promos, check out our guide on the best internet deals.
How fast is Long Beach broadband?
Long Beach ranks 51st out of the 100 most populated cities in the US for internet speed, according to Ookla speed test results. Residents receive median download speeds of 232Mbps and upload speeds of nearly 40Mbps. That’s faster than Anaheim, San Diego and Los Angeles but slower than Santa Ana, San Bernardino and Irvine. (Disclosure: Ookla is owned by the same parent company as CNET, Ziff Davis.)
Source: CNET analysis of provider data
What’s a good internet speed?
Most internet connection plans can now handle basic productivity and communication tasks. If you're looking for an internet plan that can accommodate videoconferencing, streaming video or gaming, you'll have a better experience with a more robust connection. Here's an overview of the recommended minimum download speeds for various applications, according to the Federal Communications Commission. Note that these are only guidelines and that internet speed, service and performance vary by connection type, provider and address.
For more information, refer to our guide on how much internet speed you really need.
How CNET chose the best internet providers in Long Beach
Internet service providers are numerous and regional. Unlike the latest smartphone, laptop, router or kitchen tool, it's impractical to personally test every internet service provider in a given city. What's our approach? For starters, we tap into a proprietary database of pricing, availability and speed information that draws from our own historical ISP data, partner data and mapping information from the Federal Communications Commission at FCC.gov.
This guide leverages an in-house artificial intelligence tool called RAMP, which is trained on our own writing and uses our database to generate content about specific internet service providers that our writers can use in determining and presenting our picks for a given guide. Check CNET’s AI policy for more information about how our teams use (and don’t use) AI tools.
Because our database is not exhaustive, we go to the FCC's website to check the primary data for ourselves and make sure we're considering every ISP that provides service in an area. Plans and prices also vary by location, so we input local addresses on provider websites to find the specific options available to residents. We look at sources, including the American Customer Satisfaction Index and J.D. Power, to evaluate how happy customers are with an ISP's service. ISP plans and prices are subject to frequent changes; all information provided is accurate as of our prepublication fact-check.
Once we have this localized information, we ask three main questions:
The answer to those questions is often layered and complex, but the providers who come closest to “yes” on all three are the ones we recommend. When selecting the cheapest internet service, we look for the plans with the lowest monthly fee, although we also factor in things like price increases, equipment fees and contracts. Choosing the fastest internet service is relatively straightforward. We look at advertised upload and download speeds and consider real-world speed data from sources like Ookla and FCC reports.
To explore our process in more depth, you can visit our how we test ISPs page.
What’s the final word on internet providers in Long Beach?
Long Beach residents have a few good home internet options to choose from. Fiber internet is available to 2 in 3 residents, almost entirely from Frontier Fiber. Fortunately, Frontier’s plans start at just $30 a month, far less than you’d usually pay for the speed it provides. If you don’t want to deal with the headache of a price increase, T-Mobile Home Internet guarantees it will never raise your price.
Internet providers in Long Beach FAQs
What is the best internet service provider in Long Beach?
Frontier Fiber is the best internet provider in Long Beach, with prices starting at just $30 a month and symmetrical upload and download speeds. There are no data caps, equipment fees or contracts required with Frontier.
Is fiber internet available in Long Beach?
Yes, fiber internet is available to 69% of Long Beach residents, according to FCC data, primarily through Frontier.
Who is the cheapest internet provider in Long Beach?
Frontier Fiber and Spectrum are the cheapest internet providers in Long Beach, with prices starting at $30 per month. After one to two years, the price increases.
20 exciting spots defining Long Beach’s modern culinary scene
Danielle Dorseyhttps://www.latimes.com/food/list/best-new-exciting-restaurants-long-beach-guide
Tucked between Orange County’s theme parks and Los Angeles’ star spotlight, Long Beach can be overlooked when there’s not a Grand Prix in town. That’s a boon for locals who can enjoy easy access to metropolitan amenities without sacrificing the friendly, know-your-neighbor attitude that Long Beach is known for.Of course, Long Beach has always been a worthy Southern California destination. Parked in the city’s bustling port is the Queen Mary, a nearly century-old ocean liner that’s since transformed ...
Tucked between Orange County’s theme parks and Los Angeles’ star spotlight, Long Beach can be overlooked when there’s not a Grand Prix in town. That’s a boon for locals who can enjoy easy access to metropolitan amenities without sacrificing the friendly, know-your-neighbor attitude that Long Beach is known for.
Of course, Long Beach has always been a worthy Southern California destination. Parked in the city’s bustling port is the Queen Mary, a nearly century-old ocean liner that’s since transformed into a tourist attraction with restaurants, shopping and overnight suites. Just across the bay sits the largest aquarium in the state, where you can eat a sustainably sourced fish taco with a view of the seal and sea lion exhibit.
Yet too many visitors stick to the port city’s shoreline attractions, leaving whole neighborhoods unexplored. On the Eastside, for instance, a thriving enclave is home to the largest Cambodian community outside of Cambodia.
March 21, 2024
Recently, it’s the local culinary scene that’s attracting outside interest. Take Gusto Bread, an artisanal panadería that opened on Retro Row in 2020 and was named a finalist in the outstanding bakery category of the 2024 James Beard Foundation awards. Or Heritage restaurant, which became the city’s first Michelin-starred establishment in 2023, an honor it retained at this year’s awards ceremony.
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Something is changing in the food scene here: Quietly, Long Beach has transformed into a densely concentrated dining paradise.
“Long Beach is going through a huge renaissance,” says Phil Pretty, Heritage chef and co-owner alongside his sister Lauren Pretty. The siblings also run Heritage farm, which fuels the restaurant’s zero-waste program, supplies produce for the daily-changing tasting menu and serves as an event space. Last month, the Prettys debuted a dual-concept bagel shop and dinner bistro in downtown Long Beach.
April 1, 2024
“There are multiple chefs in town that are doing stuff the right way and doing it really well and are all about their craft,” says Phil. He cites friend and colleague Carlos Jurado’s restaurant Selva, which weaves Colombian and Californian influences, and Ammatolí, chef-owner Dima Habibeh’s six-year-old temple to Levantine cooking, as examples.
“We look at ourselves as a smaller L.A., but it’s really condensed and you have all these different chefs from different walks of life bringing their best, whether it be farm-to-table, barbecue or tacos and Mexican food,” says longtime local and pitmaster Chad Phuong, whose Battambong BBQ pop-up blends Texas barbecue traditions with Cambodian flavors and techniques. “We have everything, and we want to celebrate it.”
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That celebratory spirit is paving the way for new food concepts to find local success in a tumultuous industry, and the condensed city limits only make collaboration among Long Beach food businesses that much easier.
“We help each other out,” says Jessica Sarwine, who co-owns Oh La Vache with former Cheese Store of Silver Lake cheesemonger Erika Ponzo, of their surrounding community on Retro Row. “If we’re all elevating each other, then we’re all doing well. It’s not like there’s only room for one of us.”
Long Beach native Brennan Villarreal, who co-runs the Got Your Back pop-up with his partner, Sasha Schoen, credits his generation for driving this supportive and community-minded ethos. “I’ve watched this community that I grew up with and now they’re investing back in the city, getting married, buying houses in Long Beach, having kids in Long Beach, and all of our tastes have grown up with us.
“Hopefully the OG staples live forever,” adds Schoen. “I would hate to not have Thai curry pizza or El Sauz’s tacos ever again, but it’s fun to see things move and change and push the boundaries.”
I’ve spent months getting to know the spots driving Long Beach’s resurgent dining scene, including the state’s first women-focused sports bar, a bottle shop dedicated to sake and a Filipino-inflected restaurant housed in an art compound. And even though it’s a 40-minute drive from my Mid-City home on the clearest traffic day, I keep finding reasons to return.
Long Beach Voters Approve $990 Million Measure AC to Transform LBCC Campuses
Press Releasehttps://www.lbcc.edu/press-release/long-beach-voters-approve-990-million-measure-ac-transform-lbcc-campuses
Long Beach, CA – While election results have yet to be finalized, it seems that Long Beach voters have approved Measure AC, a $990 million bond measure that will provide critical upgrades and modernization for Long Beach City College’s (LBCC) campuses. This landmark investment will enhance campus facilities, create state-of-the-art learning environments, and fund affordable housing for students, establishing LBCC as a model for the college of the future.“On behalf of the LBCC community, I want to ext...
Long Beach, CA – While election results have yet to be finalized, it seems that Long Beach voters have approved Measure AC, a $990 million bond measure that will provide critical upgrades and modernization for Long Beach City College’s (LBCC) campuses. This landmark investment will enhance campus facilities, create state-of-the-art learning environments, and fund affordable housing for students, establishing LBCC as a model for the college of the future.
“On behalf of the LBCC community, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to the voters for your support of Measure AC,” said Dr. Mike Muñoz, LBCC President. “This measure represents an extraordinary commitment to our students and the future of Long Beach City College, and we could not have done it without the LBCC Foundation and community supporters like them. With these funds, we will be able to transform our campuses with cutting-edge facilities that match the ambition and potential of our students. From upgraded nursing labs and state of the art classrooms, to affordable housing and sustainable design, Measure AC will make LBCC an institution where students can thrive academically and personally.”
The passage of Measure AC will allow LBCC to address essential infrastructure needs, including repairing and modernizing academic and job-training classrooms and labs. These upgrades are crucial as LBCC continues to serve as a primary training ground for local healthcare professionals, first responders, and other essential workers. By revitalizing its campuses, LBCC is poised to enhance educational access and equip students with the skills necessary to meet regional workforce demands.
Vivian Malauulu, Board of Trustees President expressed her gratitude to the community, saying, “We are deeply appreciative of the Long Beach voters who believed in this initiative and recognized the need to invest in LBCC’s future. The unanimous decision by our Board to place Measure AC on the ballot reflects our shared vision for a stronger, more accessible LBCC. We would especially like to thank Trustee Uduak-Joe Ntuk, who served as the Honorary Campaign Chair and worked tirelessly to make this measure a reality.”
Measure AC will fund the following improvements:
With almost 100 years of service to the Long Beach community, LBCC remains dedicated to providing affordable, high-quality education. The passage of Measure AC will allow LBCC to support the growing student body, expand programs like the Long Beach College Promise, and strengthen the college’s role as a critical provider of workforce training and transfer opportunities. LBCC will keep the community informed as it embarks on this journey, ensuring transparency and accountability through a civilian oversight committee.
“Measure AC is more than just a facilities upgrade; it’s a commitment to the well-being and future success of our students,” added Dr. Muñoz. “By enhancing our campuses and providing affordable housing, we’re breaking down barriers to education and building a community where every student has the opportunity to achieve their goals.”
For more information on Measure AC and upcoming projects, please visit LBCC’s website.
About Long Beach City College Long Beach City College consists of two campuses with an enrollment of over 25,000 students each semester and serves the cities of Long Beach, Lakewood, Signal Hill, and Avalon. LBCC promotes equitable student learning and achievement, academic excellence, and workforce development by delivering high quality educational programs and support services to our diverse communities. Visit www.LBCC.edu for more information about Long Beach City College.
MEDIA CONTACT
Stace Toda, Director of Communications & Community Engagement Long Beach City College stoda@lbcc.edu (562) 938-4004