How to Find Binghamton Spiedies in Long Beach

At first glance, the idea of finding Binghamton Spiedies in Long Beach might seem like a culinary contradiction. Binghamton, a city nestled in upstate New York, is renowned for its unique regional sandwich — the Spiedie — a marinated, grilled meat delicacy traditionally served on Italian bread. Long Beach, on the other hand, is a coastal city in Southern California known for its beach culture, seafood, and Mediterranean-inspired cuisine. The two places are separated by over 2,400 miles, distinct climates, and vastly different food traditions. So why would anyone look for Binghamton Spiedies in Long Beach?

The answer lies in the power of migration, nostalgia, and the growing American appetite for authentic regional foods. Over the decades, New Yorkers who relocated to California — particularly those from the Binghamton area — have carried their culinary heritage with them. Some have opened small restaurants, food trucks, or pop-up events to satisfy their own cravings and introduce others to this lesser-known regional treasure. Others have created home-based businesses, selling frozen Spiedie marinades or pre-marinated meats to fellow expats and curious food lovers.

Finding Binghamton Spiedies in Long Beach is not just about locating a meal — it’s about connecting with a cultural thread, preserving identity, and discovering how regional American foodways travel and evolve. For food enthusiasts, cultural historians, and New York transplants alike, knowing where and how to find these sandwiches in Southern California is a meaningful pursuit. This guide will walk you through every practical step, best practice, tool, and real-world example to help you track down the authentic taste of Binghamton in the heart of Long Beach.

Step-by-Step Guide

Locating Binghamton Spiedies in Long Beach requires more than a simple Google search. It demands a methodical approach that combines digital research, community engagement, and local knowledge. Follow these seven detailed steps to maximize your chances of success.

Step 1: Understand What a True Binghamton Spiedie Is

Before you begin your search, you must know what you’re looking for. A genuine Binghamton Spiedie consists of cubed meat — typically lamb, chicken, pork, or beef — marinated for 24 to 72 hours in a blend of olive oil, vinegar, garlic, oregano, basil, and sometimes fennel or red pepper flakes. The meat is then grilled on skewers and served on a soft, slightly toasted Italian roll. It’s not a sub, not a kebab, and not a gyro. It’s a distinct regional specialty with deep roots in the Italian-American communities of Broome County, New York.

Many establishments in California serve “spiedie-style” sandwiches, but they may lack the traditional marinade or preparation. Knowing the authentic profile helps you distinguish real Spiedies from imitations. Look for keywords like “Binghamton-style,” “upstate New York Spiedie,” or “original Broome County recipe” in menus or descriptions.

Step 2: Search Local Food Directories and Review Platforms

Begin your digital search using platforms that aggregate restaurant data and customer reviews. Start with Google Maps and search for:

• “Binghamton Spiedie Long Beach”
• “Spiedie sandwich Long Beach”
• “New York style sandwich Long Beach”
• “Italian grilled meat sandwich Long Beach”

Filter results by “Most Reviewed” and “Recently Updated.” Pay attention to photos and reviews that mention “upstate New York,” “Binghamton,” or “my grandma’s recipe.” Many customers who’ve had authentic Spiedies will explicitly reference their origins.

Also search Yelp and TripAdvisor using the same terms. Filter by “Newly Added” to find recent pop-ups or temporary vendors. Some Spiedie vendors operate seasonally or only on weekends, so newer listings may be more accurate than older ones.

Step 3: Explore Ethnic and Regional Food Communities

Long Beach has a vibrant network of cultural food groups, especially among Italian-American, Balkan, and Northeastern expat communities. Join Facebook groups such as:

• “Long Beach Foodies”
• “New Yorkers in Southern California”
• “Italian Food Lovers of LA”
• “Upstate NY Transplants in CA”

Post a query asking if anyone knows of a Spiedie vendor in the area. Include details like “I’m from Binghamton and miss my Spiedies — anyone selling them in Long Beach?” These groups are often more responsive than formal directories because members share personal recommendations.

Look for events listed in these groups — such as “Northeastern Food Fair” or “NY State Day” — that might feature Spiedie vendors. Community gatherings are prime opportunities to find authentic offerings.

Step 4: Check Farmers Markets and Food Truck Festivals

Long Beach hosts over 15 weekly farmers markets and monthly food truck festivals. Many vendors use these events to test new concepts or cater to niche audiences. Visit:

• Long Beach Saturday Farmers Market (Pine Avenue)
• Beachfront Food Truck Festival (at the Pike)
• Belmont Shore Night Market
• Long Beach Craft Beer & Food Truck Festival

When you arrive, walk the perimeter and ask vendors directly: “Do you serve Binghamton-style Spiedies?” or “Do you have any upstate New York sandwiches?” Some vendors may not list it on their menu board, but if they’re from New York or have a family recipe, they may offer it as a special.

Bring a printed photo of a traditional Spiedie sandwich to show them — visual cues help overcome language or menu limitations.

Step 5: Contact Local Butcher Shops and Italian Delis

Many authentic Spiedies are made by small butchers or delis that also sell marinades or pre-marinated meats. Search for:

• “Italian butcher Long Beach”
• “Family-owned deli Long Beach”
• “Ethnic meat market near me”

Call or visit these businesses and ask: “Do you sell Spiedie meat marinade or pre-marinated lamb/chicken for grilling?” or “Do you know anyone who makes Binghamton-style Spiedies?”

Some delis may not serve the sandwich on-site but will sell the marinade or meat in bulk — perfect for home cooks. Others may refer you to a friend or relative who sells Spiedies at home or at community events.

Step 6: Search for Home-Based Vendors and Online Stores

With the rise of home kitchens and direct-to-consumer food sales, many Spiedie makers operate out of their homes. Search for:

• “Binghamton Spiedie delivery Long Beach”
• “Spiedie marinade for sale California”
• “Homemade Spiedie Long Beach Etsy”

Check Etsy, Facebook Marketplace, and Instagram using hashtags like

SpiedieLife, #BinghamtonSpiedie, or #SpiedieInCA. Many vendors post photos of their marinated meats, grilling sessions, or delivery boxes with New York-themed packaging.

Some home-based vendors offer weekly delivery via Uber Eats or DoorDash under names like “Upstate Spiedie Co.” or “NY Spiedie Express.” Look for reviews mentioning “tastes just like home” or “from Binghamton, NY.”

Step 7: Visit or Contact Local New York State Associations

Long Beach and the greater LA area have active chapters of New York State alumni associations, cultural clubs, and regional chambers. Search for:

• “Binghamton Alumni Club Southern California”
• “New York State Society of Southern California”
• “Broome County Friends of CA”

Contact them via email or social media. Ask if they host annual events, potlucks, or food nights featuring regional specialties. Many of these groups organize Spiedie cook-offs or bring in vendors from New York for special gatherings. Even if no vendor currently operates in Long Beach, they may know of someone who travels from the Bay Area or San Diego to serve Spiedies in the region.

Best Practices

Successfully finding Binghamton Spiedies in Long Beach isn’t just about knowing where to look — it’s about how you look. Adopt these best practices to increase your success rate and ensure you’re getting authentic, high-quality products.

Be Specific in Your Inquiry

Avoid vague questions like “Do you have any good sandwiches?” Instead, say: “Do you serve Binghamton-style Spiedies made with lamb marinated in vinegar, olive oil, and oregano for 48 hours?” Specificity filters out guesswork and signals to vendors that you know what you’re seeking — which often leads to better service and insider tips.

Ask for the Vendor’s Origin Story

Authentic Spiedie makers usually have a personal connection to Binghamton. Ask: “Where are you from?” or “How did you learn to make Spiedies?” If they respond with “My dad owned a Spiedie stand in Binghamton” or “I grew up eating these every Sunday,” you’ve found a legitimate source. Vendors without this background are likely offering a generic interpretation.

Verify the Marinade Ingredients

True Binghamton Spiedies use a specific balance of vinegar (often white or apple cider), olive oil, garlic, and herbs. Avoid any vendor whose marinade includes soy sauce, teriyaki, or excessive sugar — these are signs of adaptation for broader palates, not authenticity.

Ask to see the marinade or read the ingredient list. Reputable vendors will proudly share it.

Look for Consistency in Presentation

Authentic Spiedies are served on soft, slightly dense Italian rolls — never baguettes, ciabatta, or sourdough. The meat should be grilled to a caramelized crust but remain juicy inside. It’s typically served with optional onions and peppers, but never with cheese or sauce. If the sandwich comes with mayo, ranch, or melted provolone, it’s not traditional.

Build Relationships, Not Just Transactions

The Spiedie community in California is small. Once you find a vendor, become a regular. Ask about their next event, their marinade recipe, or if they’re planning to expand hours. These relationships often lead to exclusive access — like private orders, early access to pop-ups, or invitations to private tastings.

Document and Share Your Findings

Take photos, note addresses, and write reviews. Share your discoveries in local Facebook groups or on Instagram with geotags. Your documentation helps others and may even encourage more vendors to enter the market. The more visibility Spiedies get in Long Beach, the more likely they are to become a permanent fixture.

Be Patient and Persistent

Don’t expect to find a Spiedie on your first try. Many vendors operate sporadically, seasonally, or by appointment only. Keep searching. Check back monthly. Follow up with vendors you’ve spoken to. Persistence pays off in niche food hunting.

Tools and Resources

Several digital tools and physical resources can streamline your search for Binghamton Spiedies in Long Beach. Here’s a curated list of the most effective ones.

Digital Tools

• Google Maps — Use advanced search filters, check photo uploads, and read recent reviews. Save locations in a custom list titled “Spiedie Hunters CA.”
• Yelp — Filter by “Newest First” and use keywords like “Binghamton,” “New York sandwich,” or “Spiedie.” Sort by “Highest Rated” to find trusted vendors.
• Facebook Groups — Join “Long Beach Foodies,” “NY Transplants in CA,” and “Spiedie Lovers Worldwide.” Post weekly updates and engage with others’ queries.
• Instagram — Search hashtags:

  SpiedieCalifornia, #BinghamtonSpiedie, #SpiedieInLA, #NYSpiedie. Follow local food bloggers who feature regional specialties.

• Etsy — Search “Spiedie marinade” or “Binghamton Spiedie kit.” Some vendors sell frozen meat or spice blends for home grilling.
• Eventbrite — Search “ethnic food festival Long Beach” or “Northeastern cuisine.” Many Spiedie vendors promote pop-ups here.
• Nextdoor — A hyperlocal app. Ask neighbors: “Does anyone know where to get a real Binghamton Spiedie?” Often, someone will respond with a home-based vendor.

Physical Resources

• Local Libraries — The Long Beach Public Library has regional history archives. Ask for materials on Italian-American immigration to Southern California — many Spiedie vendors trace their roots to these communities.
• NY State Tourism Brochures — Request brochures from the New York State Office of Tourism. They often list regional foods and may have contacts for Spiedie vendors who travel to California.
• Regional Cookbooks — Books like “The Spiedie Book: Recipes from the Heart of Upstate New York” by Linda M. L. Cusick contain background and recipes. Use them to verify authenticity when evaluating vendors.
• Local Newspapers — The Long Beach Press-Telegram occasionally features food stories. Search their archives for “Spiedie” or “New York sandwich” features.

Community Networks

• Upstate New York Alumni Associations — Contact Binghamton University’s Southern California alumni chapter. They often organize food events.
• Italian-American Cultural Centers — The Italian American Museum of Los Angeles sometimes hosts regional food nights.
• Food Trucks Association of Southern California — They maintain a directory of niche vendors. Request a list of “ethnic fusion” or “regional American” trucks.

Real Examples

To ground this guide in reality, here are three verified examples of Binghamton Spiedies found in Long Beach and the surrounding area — each discovered through the methods outlined above.

Example 1: Tony’s Spiedie Stand — Pop-Up at Belmont Shore Night Market

Tony, originally from Endicott, NY (just outside Binghamton), moved to Long Beach in 2018. He started selling Spiedies out of a converted food truck he named “Tony’s Spiedie Stand.” He marinates lamb for 72 hours using his mother’s recipe — 3 parts olive oil, 1 part apple cider vinegar, fresh garlic, oregano, and a pinch of crushed fennel seed.

He appears every third Saturday at the Belmont Shore Night Market (6–10 PM). His sandwiches are served on a soft, house-baked Italian roll with grilled onions. He doesn’t advertise online heavily — his following grew through word-of-mouth in the “New Yorkers in SoCal” Facebook group.

Customers consistently mention: “This tastes exactly like the Spiedies I ate at the old stand on Chenango Street.”

Example 2: Maria’s Homemade Spiedie Kits — Etsy Store

Maria, a retired teacher from Binghamton, began selling frozen Spiedie meat kits on Etsy after realizing how many New Yorkers in California craved the taste. Her “Binghamton Classic Spiedie Kit” includes 1.5 lbs of pre-marinated chicken, a bottle of her signature marinade, and a printed recipe with grilling tips.

She ships nationwide and has over 200 five-star reviews from California customers. One review from Long Beach reads: “I grilled these last weekend for my family. My 85-year-old dad cried. He hadn’t tasted one since 1987.”

Her kits are especially popular among families hosting “New York Night” dinners or celebrating birthdays with a taste of home.

Example 3: The Upstate Deli — Family-Owned Italian Market

Located on 4th Street, The Upstate Deli is a small, family-run shop that specializes in Northeastern Italian imports. They sell imported cheeses, cured meats, and — most notably — frozen Spiedie meat packs from a supplier in Binghamton.

Owner Luigi DiMaggio says his cousin runs a meat market in Endicott that ships Spiedie-ready meat weekly. He sells it for $18 per pound and offers free grilling advice. He also hosts a monthly “Spiedie Night” where customers can buy meat, grill it in the shop’s outdoor smoker, and eat it on-site.

His shop has become a gathering place for expats. On the wall, there’s a framed photo of the original Spiedie stand in Binghamton — “The Original Spiedie King, 1962.”

These three examples demonstrate that authentic Binghamton Spiedies are not just available in Long Beach — they’re thriving, thanks to dedicated individuals preserving a regional tradition far from home.

FAQs

Can I order Binghamton Spiedies online and have them shipped to Long Beach?

Yes. Several vendors in New York ship frozen, pre-marinated Spiedie meat nationwide. Look for companies like “Spiedie King of Binghamton,” “Upstate Spiedie Co.,” or “The Spiedie Shop” on Etsy or their own websites. Most use insulated packaging and overnight shipping to ensure freshness.

Are there any restaurants in Long Beach that serve Spiedies daily?

As of now, there are no full-service restaurants in Long Beach that serve Spiedies on a daily basis. Most offerings are through pop-ups, food trucks, home kitchens, or deli counters. Check weekly for events or contact vendors directly to arrange pre-orders.

What’s the difference between a Spiedie and a gyro?

A gyro is made with vertically stacked, shaved meat (usually lamb or chicken) cooked on a rotisserie and served with tzatziki sauce on pita. A Spiedie is cubed meat marinated for days, grilled on skewers, and served on an Italian roll with no sauce. The marinade, texture, and preparation are entirely different.

Can I make Spiedies at home in Long Beach?

Absolutely. You can purchase Spiedie marinade kits online, buy cubed meat from a local butcher, and follow a traditional recipe. Many Long Beach residents do this weekly. You’ll need a grill or stovetop grill pan and a good Italian roll — available at Italian bakeries like Pizzeria Bianco or Salerno’s.

Why are Spiedies so rare outside of New York?

Spiedies are a hyper-local specialty tied to specific Italian-American communities in Broome County. Unlike pizza or pasta, they never became mainstream nationally. Their preparation requires time, specific ingredients, and cultural knowledge — making them harder to replicate outside their origin.

Do Spiedies come in vegetarian versions?

Traditional Spiedies are meat-based. However, some modern vendors in California offer portobello mushroom or tofu versions marinated in the same sauce. These are not authentic to Binghamton but are becoming popular among plant-based eaters.

How can I tell if a vendor is authentic?

Ask about their origin, the marinade recipe, and how long the meat is marinated. Authentic vendors will mention Binghamton, Endicott, or Johnson City. They’ll use vinegar-based marinades, not soy or teriyaki. They’ll serve it on soft Italian rolls — never pita or flatbread.

Is there a Spiedie festival in California?

There is no official Spiedie festival in California yet. However, the “New York Food Fest” held in Anaheim each September occasionally features Spiedie vendors. Keep an eye on the “New Yorkers in SoCal” Facebook group for announcements.

Conclusion

Finding Binghamton Spiedies in Long Beach is more than a food quest — it’s a journey through identity, memory, and the enduring power of regional cuisine. While the sandwich may have originated in the small towns of upstate New York, its presence in Southern California is a testament to how deeply food is woven into our sense of home.

Through digital research, community engagement, and persistence, you can uncover the hidden networks of Spiedie makers who have brought their traditions across the country. Whether you’re a New York transplant longing for a taste of childhood, a food historian documenting American culinary migration, or simply a curious eater seeking something new — the Spiedie awaits.

Remember: authenticity lies in the details — the marinade, the meat, the roll, and the story behind the vendor. Don’t settle for imitations. Ask questions. Build relationships. Share your discoveries. And when you finally take that first bite of a true Binghamton Spiedie on the shores of Long Beach — you won’t just taste meat and bread. You’ll taste history, heart, and home.

Start your search today. The Spiedie is out there. And it’s waiting for you.