Starling Diner
A casually stylish, independent cafe serving updated diner eats with a focus on fresh ingredients and unique twists.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Blue hour photography, calmer galleries
Starling Diner
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A casually stylish, independent cafe serving updated diner eats with a focus on fresh ingredients and unique twists.
"This local hidden gem breakfast spot offers really good food and fair prices with prompt service."
Avoid Peak Times
Visit during off-peak hours to avoid waits, as seating is limited and the diner is popular.
Try Specialty Drinks
Don't miss their unique mimosas with fruit flavors, or delightful coffee creations like the Caramel Steamer.
Quick Facts
Cuisine
American
Price
Mid-range
Phone
(562) 433-2041
Address
4114 E 3rd St, Long Beach, CA 90814, USA
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Award-Winning French Toast
Indulge in a unique spin on a classic, featuring stuffed French toast with delightful fruit fillings and toppings.
Creative Brunch & Breakfast
Savor inventive dishes like the Chorizo Scramble and Breakfast Polenta in a comfortable, local cafe setting.
Charming Neighborhood Vibe
Experience friendly service and a cozy atmosphere in this independent cafe, perfect for casual meetups.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Menu
Most Popular Items
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Avoid Peak Times
Visit during off-peak hours to avoid waits, as seating is limited and the diner is popular.
Try Specialty Drinks
Don't miss their unique mimosas with fruit flavors, or delightful coffee creations like the Caramel Steamer.
Mind Parking
Be aware of street cleaning schedules on Thursdays, as parking can be restricted.
Tips
from all over the internet
Avoid Peak Times
Visit during off-peak hours to avoid waits, as seating is limited and the diner is popular.
Try Specialty Drinks
Don't miss their unique mimosas with fruit flavors, or delightful coffee creations like the Caramel Steamer.
Mind Parking
Be aware of street cleaning schedules on Thursdays, as parking can be restricted.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Starling Diner is a beloved local gem praised for its creative and delicious breakfast and brunch fare, especially its signature French toast and scrambles. Diners consistently highlight the friendly and prompt service in a comfortable, albeit sometimes small, dining space. While many find the food exceptional and the prices fair, some have noted that service can slow down during busy periods, particularly when requesting refills or the check.
"Stopped in for my first time this past weekend and I enjoyed my breakfast more than I anticipated. It's tucked away in a sleepy, quiet neighborhood part of Long Beach, which I really like because they don't have a dedicated parking lot so it will be street parking, but it's very easy to find in this part of LB. I would not really call this place a diner. It's more of a local hidden gem breakfast spot. Don't expect a giant menu or a coffee counter or other things that you would see at a traditional diner. That being said the food quality is really good and I feel the prices are fair. Our server was also very nice and everything that we ordered arrived quickly after placing our order. They have a few tables outside, but most seating is indoors, but it is quite small so there may be a wait if there are large groups in front of you.
I started off my meal with a Caramel Steamer, which is basically like a cappuccino, but with caramel flavoring. For my meal, I chose the Chorizo Scramble and honestly really liked it. It came with a baguette on the side, which was a unique addition and the eggs and chorizo combo really hit the spot. It was also a good sized portion, but I was still able to finish it all. I would definitely recommend this spot to anyone living in Long Beach or to anyone searching for a great local breakfast option."
Zan Lee
"Came here for the first time last month with my family and had a lovely time here. Everything in the menu sounds so good, it was a bit difficult to decide. I got the chorizo scramble, others got the stuffed french toast and a salad. I'm convinced you can't go wrong with any of the dishes here. Will be back."
brian perez
"So, I originally wanted the seasonally Nutella French toast but my wife and I shared and she said no. So we got some French toast with fruits and stuff.
Man, I did not expect this kind of French toast. This thing looked some someone took a baguette and threw it on a plate, but it was fire. I felt super fancy and stuff.
The atmosphere was great, the service was great as well. I’m definitely coming back, for sure.
Also, all San Francisco themed which was pretty cool."
Jordan Baker
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
Starling Diner is famous for its award-winning French toast, particularly the stuffed varieties, and also highly recommended are their scrambles like the Chorizo Scramble and the Breakfast Polenta.
Parking is primarily street parking, which is generally easy to find in this quiet neighborhood. However, be mindful of street cleaning schedules, especially on Thursday mornings.
The diner has a casually stylish and comfortable atmosphere, with both indoor and outdoor seating. It's often described as a cozy, independent local cafe with friendly service.
While reservations are not explicitly mentioned, it's a popular spot, and wait times can occur. Visiting during off-peak hours is advised to avoid potential waits.
Diners recommend trying their specialty drinks, including flavored mimosas, coffee creations like the Caramel Steamer, and other refreshing beverages.
While not specifically detailed in the provided data, the menu does offer options like salads and scrambles which may be adaptable. It's best to inquire directly with the restaurant.
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The Best Brunch And Breakfast Spots In Long Beach
The casual Starling Diner is a breakfast favorite among locals, who regularly stop by for their stuffed French toast, fresh-baked scones, and seasonal specials. There may be a bit of a wait, as Starling is a popular breakfast haunt, but the hearty portions are a perfect start to a day of exploring.
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While Starling Diner's brunch menu offers lots of comfort food with a twist (think stuffed french toast with berries and roast beef hash), but what we especially love are their tasty mimosas that come in flavors like peach-mango or pear, and adorned with flowers and lavender. Coffee Cup Cafe is an old-school diner and a staple that’s been in Long Beach 20 years. Slide into a booth or a seat at the counter, and the friendly staff will help you to some french toast or a chile verde omelet.
Long Beach Neighborhood Guide
This neighborhood cafe has been featured on Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives, as well as publications like LA Weekly, and you'll know exactly why when you dine here and get taken to FLAVATOWN. Being one of the few restaurants in the business that is Filipinx-owned but doesn't serve Filipino cuisine, we recommend their signature stuffed French Toast dishes made with handmade baguettes or any of their scrambles which will easily become one of the best eggs you've had in the area.
Long Beach & Gateway Cities Restaurants
Located among the quaint Long Beach neighborhood of Belmont Heights is a charming neighborhood diner known for their friendly service and fresh meals. Starling Diner can be found on East 3rd Ave between North Roswell and Belmont Avenue. Guests will feel at ease in the brightly lit dining room, where the décor will make customers feel as if they have taken a seat at their grandmother’s kitchen table.
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This restaurant might have "diner" in the name, but this isn't a greasy spoon diner with frozen beef patties and thawed chicken tenders. Instead, you're in for an extravagant meal with ingredients like blue crab, smoked salmon, spicy chorizo, and local cheeses. Whether you're stopping in for breakfast or enjoying a sit-down lunch, this meal will probably be remembered as the highlight of your day.
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Th e Starling Diner is a local cafe that serves up fresh, made-by-hand diner eats. From their award-winning brunch to their classic French Toast, the Starling Diner is a fantastic Long Beach breakfast or brunch option. With a focus on fresh ingredients and unique spins on traditional dishes, the Starling Diner has been featured on The Food Network, The New York Times, Forbes, L.A.
Best Breakfast Spots in Long Beach
Located among the quaint Long Beach neighborhood of Belmont Heights is a charming neighborhood diner known for its friendly service and fresh meals. Like walking into all classic diners, guests immediately feel right at home. Starling Diner strives to be an idyllic and cozy place where friends and family can gather over a good meal and enjoy life’s simple pleasures.
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Starling Diner is has an old-style outdoor entrance and a very French interior decor style inside. And the food here is so good and different than your typical classic diner breakfast. The best dishes to get are the Eggs Benjamin (sauteed spinach, smoked salmon, poached eggs), breakfast bruschetta (creamy mascarpone & fresh fruit), and stuffed French toast.
Wake Up Call: Long Beach Coffee Shops & Breakfast Spots
The Starling Diner is a casually stylish, independent local cafe serving updated diner eats, putting their unique spin on traditional meals and menus. Voted “Best Brunch” and “Best French Toast,” the Starling Diner has been featured on The Food Network, The New York Times, Forbes, L.A. and OC Weekly, and more.
17 Best Breakfast Spots In Long Beach
Away from the bustle of downtown, this popular restaurant located in a quiet neighborhood does not disappoint. If you are looking for a greasy spoon diner this is not it, instead, this restaurant prides itself on local and sustainable ingredients. Some of the city’s best French toast can be found here.
10 Hidden Gem Restaurants In Long Beach
They are best known for their breakfast, though they serve a great lunch as well. They have seasonal dishes, some especially good ones during the winter season, and have the absolute best French Toast. With the cute diner atmosphere and the great service, you’ll be happy you came to diner here.
Top 17 Must-Try Restaurants in Long Beach for Food Lovers
For a delicious brunch or breakfast, head to Starling Diner. This charming house-like neighborhood diner serves up classic American comfort food with a twist. From hearty omelets to flavorful sandwiches and homemade pastries, Starling Diner will satisfy your morning cravings.
7 of the Best Breakfast and Brunch Spots in Long Beach
Whether you crave sweet or savory, Starling Diner has something delicious waiting for you. In the heart of Belmont Heights, this local favorite serves up fresh fare daily from 8am to 3pm. French bistro chairs and gallery wall decor establish a friendly ambiance for a catch-
11 Best Brunch Spots in Long Beach, CA
4114 E 3rd St, Long Beach, CA 90814Phone: 562-433-2041 Visit Website. A post shared by Starling Diner (@starlingdiner). The Starling Diner is the next place that I think you should seek out for all your brunch needs.
MeeMa’s does breakfast and brunch right in Long Beach
Really good Sunday morning spots like The Pan, Loaded Café, The Breakfast Bar, The Local Spot, The Coffee Cup, The Attic, Starling Diner, Sunrise Café, Vibes Beach Café, Waffle Love, The Nest, Claire’s at the Museum.
Best Brunch in Long Beach, CA (2025) — 20 Top Places!
This eatery with a standout facade is a culinary destination for its delicious eggs, toasts, sandwiches, and other classics, paired with a variety of hot and cold drinks, including cocktails.
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Starling Diner – A Trendy Cafe: If you’re looking for a trendy cafe with a wide range of breakfast and brunch options, Starling Diner on E Broadway is a perfect choice.
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