How to Find Pakistani Food in Long Beach

Long Beach, California, is a vibrant coastal city known for its diverse culinary landscape. From fresh seafood along the pier to authentic Mexican tacos in the Belmont Shore neighborhood, the city’s food scene reflects its multicultural population. Among the many global cuisines thriving here, Pakistani food stands out for its rich spices, slow-cooked meats, fragrant rice dishes, and warm hospitality. Yet, despite its growing popularity, finding genuine Pakistani cuisine in Long Beach can be challenging for newcomers, tourists, or even long-time residents unfamiliar with the local South Asian food scene.

This guide is designed to help you navigate the streets, neighborhoods, and digital tools of Long Beach to discover the most authentic, flavorful, and culturally rich Pakistani dining experiences. Whether you're craving biryani with tender lamb, spicy nihari simmered for hours, or sweet gulab jamun served fresh, this comprehensive tutorial will walk you through every step—from identifying hidden gems to understanding menu terminology and leveraging local community knowledge.

Understanding where to find Pakistani food isn’t just about satisfying hunger—it’s about connecting with a culture that values tradition, family, and the art of slow-cooked meals. By the end of this guide, you’ll not only know where to eat but also how to appreciate the stories behind each dish.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Understand What Pakistani Cuisine Includes

Before you begin your search, familiarize yourself with the core dishes that define Pakistani cuisine. Unlike generic “Indian” or “South Asian” labels often used interchangeably, Pakistani food has distinct characteristics shaped by regional influences from Punjab, Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Balochistan.

Key dishes to look for include:

• Biryani – Fragrant basmati rice layered with marinated meat (chicken, beef, or lamb), saffron, and spices, slow-cooked to perfection.
• Nihari – A slow-simmered stew of beef or lamb shank, traditionally eaten for breakfast, thickened with bone marrow and garnished with ginger, green chilies, and fresh coriander.
• Haleem – A hearty porridge-like dish made from wheat, barley, lentils, and meat, cooked for hours until it becomes a smooth, rich blend.
• Chapli Kebab – Spicy, flattened beef or lamb patties from Peshawar, seasoned with coriander, tomatoes, and pomegranate seeds.
• Daal Chawal – Simple yet comforting: lentils cooked with cumin and turmeric, served with steamed rice and a side of yogurt.
• Samosas and Pakoras – Deep-fried snacks filled with spiced potatoes, peas, or meat, often served with tamarind or mint chutney.
• Desserts – Gulab jamun, kheer (rice pudding), and jalebi (syrup-soaked fried dough) are common.

Knowing these names will help you identify authentic Pakistani restaurants, even if the menu doesn’t explicitly say “Pakistani.” Many establishments may label themselves as “South Asian,” “Desi,” or “Punjabi,” so look for these dishes on the menu as indicators.

Step 2: Identify Neighborhoods with High South Asian Populations

Pakistani communities in Long Beach are not concentrated in one single district, but they are most active in certain corridors where grocery stores, halal butchers, and cultural centers cluster. These areas often serve as the backbone of authentic food culture.

Focus your search on:

• East Long Beach – Particularly around Anaheim Street and Pacific Coast Highway. This area hosts several South Asian grocery stores, halal meat markets, and small family-run eateries.
• North Long Beach – Near the intersection of 7th Street and Long Beach Boulevard. This stretch has seen an increase in South Asian businesses over the past five years.
• Belmont Heights and West Long Beach – While more residential, these areas have a growing number of home-based chefs offering catering and pop-up dining experiences.

Use Google Maps and search terms like “halal butcher Long Beach,” “South Asian grocery,” or “Desi market.” Once you find one, walk inside. These stores often have a small counter or kitchen in the back serving freshly made food. Many of the best Pakistani meals in Long Beach are served in these unassuming locations—not in fancy restaurants but in quiet corners where the community eats daily.

Step 3: Use Online Directories and Local Search Filters

Start with Google Maps. Type “Pakistani food near me” or “Pakistani restaurant Long Beach.” Look at the results carefully. Pay attention to:

• Photos uploaded by users – Real photos of biryani, kebabs, or naan can indicate authenticity.
• Review language – Authentic reviews often mention specific dishes like “nihari on Saturday” or “best chapli kebab in the city.” Vague reviews like “good service” or “fast delivery” may indicate non-specialized restaurants.
• Business hours – Many Pakistani restaurants open late or only serve lunch/dinner, and some are closed on Sundays. Nihari is traditionally served on weekends, so look for mentions of weekend specials.

Also check Yelp and TripAdvisor. Filter reviews by “most recent” and look for patterns. If multiple users mention “Pakistani owner,” “homemade spices,” or “family recipe,” it’s a strong sign of authenticity.

Don’t overlook Facebook Groups. Search for “Long Beach Foodies,” “South Asian Community in Long Beach,” or “Halal Food LA.” These groups are goldmines for real-time recommendations. Locals often post photos of meals, share opening times, and even announce pop-up dinners or catering events.

Step 4: Visit South Asian Grocery Stores and Ask Locals

One of the most reliable ways to find authentic Pakistani food is to visit a Pakistani or South Asian grocery store. These stores often serve as community hubs. Examples in Long Beach include:

• Desi Bazaar – Located at 5001 E. Anaheim St. This store has a small kitchen in the back serving fresh parathas, daal, and chicken karahi daily.
• Asia Market Long Beach – 4900 E. Anaheim St. Offers pre-made meals on weekends and can direct you to home chefs who deliver.
• Halal Meat & Grocery – 6245 E. 7th St. The owner frequently recommends local Pakistani cooks who cater for events and sometimes sell meals on Fridays.

When you visit, ask: “Do you know any Pakistani families who cook at home and sell meals?” or “Who makes the best biryani around here?” Most store owners will gladly give you names, phone numbers, or WhatsApp contacts. Many Pakistani home cooks operate without websites or social media, relying entirely on word-of-mouth.

Step 5: Look for Catering Services and Home-Based Chefs

A significant portion of authentic Pakistani food in Long Beach is prepared by home-based chefs who cater to the community. These individuals often don’t have storefronts but maintain private Facebook pages or WhatsApp groups where they post weekly menus.

To find them:

• Search Facebook for “Pakistani Home Cooking Long Beach” or “Halal Pakistani Catering LA.”
• Look for posts with photos of steaming pots, handwritten menus, and group orders.
• Many chefs offer weekly meal plans: “Biryani + Raita + Naan – $12 per serving, order by Tuesday for Friday delivery.”
• Some chefs specialize in regional dishes: one may make Sindhi biryani with dried plums, another may focus on Balochi-style lamb.

These services are often more affordable and more authentic than restaurants. You’re eating food prepared exactly as it would be in a Pakistani household—with the same spices, techniques, and care passed down through generations.

Step 6: Attend Cultural Events and Festivals

Long Beach hosts several cultural events throughout the year where Pakistani food takes center stage. These are excellent opportunities to sample multiple dishes in one place and meet the people behind the food.

• Long Beach Pakistan Day Celebration – Held every March 23rd at the Long Beach Convention Center. Dozens of vendors serve traditional dishes, and many are from local families who have been cooking for decades.
• South Asian Food Fair – Organized annually by the Pakistani Student Association at California State University, Long Beach. Usually held in October, this event features student-run stalls with homemade meals.
• Ramadan Bazaars – During the holy month of Ramadan, mosques like the Islamic Center of Long Beach host nightly bazaars with food stalls offering iftar meals: samosas, dates, haleem, and sweet drinks like sherbet.

These events are not only about food—they’re about community. You’ll hear stories, learn about traditions, and often receive recipes or contacts for ongoing food services.

Step 7: Use Delivery Apps Strategically

While apps like Uber Eats, DoorDash, and Grubhub are convenient, they often mislabel Pakistani restaurants as “Indian” or “Middle Eastern.” To improve your search:

• Search for specific dishes: “biryani,” “nihari,” or “chapli kebab” instead of “Pakistani.”
• Filter by “highly rated” and read reviews carefully. Look for comments like “tastes like my mom’s cooking” or “spices are real—no pre-mixed powder.”
• Check if the restaurant has a website or Instagram. Authentic places often post behind-the-scenes videos of spice grinding or meat marinating.

Some restaurants in Long Beach, such as Desi Delight and Pakistan Kitchen, have optimized their delivery profiles with accurate tags and high-quality images. These are your best bets on apps.

Step 8: Learn Basic Urdu Phrases for Better Communication

While many Pakistani restaurant staff speak English, knowing a few Urdu phrases can build rapport and lead to better service or even hidden menu items.

• “Aap kaise hain?” – How are you? (Starts a friendly conversation.)
• “Biryani kaisi hai?” – How is the biryani? (Shows interest in quality.)
• “Kya aap nihari bana sakte hain?” – Can you make nihari? (May trigger a special order if they don’t have it on the menu.)
• “Yeh masala kahan se aata hai?” – Where do you get this spice? (Respected question—many chefs take pride in their spice blends.)

Even a simple “Shukriya” (Thank you) goes a long way in creating a positive experience.

Best Practices

Practice 1: Prioritize Authenticity Over Popularity

A restaurant with 500 reviews and a glossy website may not be more authentic than a tiny counter with 12 reviews and a handwritten menu. Focus on places where the majority of customers are South Asian. If you see a group of Pakistani families eating together, that’s your cue.

Practice 2: Visit During Peak Hours for Best Quality

Many Pakistani dishes are made fresh daily in small batches. Nihari is often prepared overnight and sells out by noon. Biryani is best served hot, right after cooking. Visit between 12:00 PM and 3:00 PM for lunch, or 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM for dinner. Avoid late-night orders—food may have been sitting too long.

Practice 3: Ask About Spice Levels

Pakistani food is known for its bold flavors, but spice levels vary. Ask: “Kya yeh bahut teekha hai?” (Is this very spicy?) If you’re sensitive to heat, request “medium” or “mild.” Many chefs are happy to adjust based on preference.

Practice 4: Bring Cash

Many home-based chefs and small eateries operate on a cash-only basis. Even some restaurants with online ordering still prefer cash for in-person pickups. Always carry $20–$50 in small bills.

Practice 5: Respect Cultural Norms

Many Pakistani families are religious and may not serve alcohol. This is normal. Don’t ask for wine or beer unless you’re certain it’s offered. Also, avoid discussing politics or sensitive topics—focus on food, family, and culture.

Practice 6: Support Local and Small Businesses

Authentic Pakistani food in Long Beach is often run by immigrants who work 12-hour days to preserve their culinary heritage. Tip generously, leave positive reviews, and recommend them to friends. Your support helps keep these traditions alive.

Practice 7: Try the Specials and Seasonal Dishes

Don’t just stick to biryani. Ask: “What’s special today?” or “What do you eat at home on weekends?” You might discover rare dishes like Shami Kebab, Qorma, or Chana Chaat that aren’t on the menu but are prepared daily.

Practice 8: Document Your Experience

Take photos (ask permission first), write down names of dishes, and note the names of the people you meet. This builds your personal guide to Pakistani food in Long Beach and helps others in the future.

Tools and Resources

Google Maps

Use advanced filters: “Open now,” “Highly rated,” and “Photo reviews.” Save locations you find. Create a custom map titled “Pakistani Food in Long Beach” to track your discoveries.

Yelp

Use the “Trending” tab and sort by “Newest.” Look for reviews mentioning “homemade,” “family recipe,” or “from Pakistan.” Avoid places with only 4-star reviews and no detail—these may be fake.

Facebook Groups

• Long Beach Foodies
• South Asian Community in Long Beach
• Halal Food LA & OC
• Pakistanis in California

Post questions like: “Looking for someone who makes authentic nihari on weekends.” You’ll get multiple private messages within hours.

Instagram

Search hashtags:

LongBeachPakistaniFood, #PakistaniBiryaniLB, #DesiFoodLA. Follow local food bloggers like @eatsinlb or @halalhustleca. They often feature hidden gems.

WhatsApp Communities

Many Pakistani families run WhatsApp groups for food delivery. To join, ask a store owner or community member for an invite. These groups are often invite-only but are the most reliable source for fresh, daily meals.

Local Libraries and Cultural Centers

The Long Beach Public Library has community bulletin boards where flyers for food events are posted. The Long Beach Cultural Arts Center occasionally hosts cooking demonstrations and food tours.

University Resources

California State University, Long Beach has a South Asian Student Association (SASA). They host cultural nights and can connect you with students who cook traditional meals.

Food Blogs and Podcasts

Search for “Pakistani food California” on YouTube. Channels like “Desi Food Diaries” and “The Halal Kitchen” feature Long Beach spots. Podcasts like “Taste of the Diaspora” occasionally interview Pakistani chefs in Southern California.

Real Examples

Example 1: Desi Bazaar – The Hidden Kitchen

Located at 5001 E. Anaheim St., Desi Bazaar is a modest grocery store with a small counter in the back. No sign says “restaurant.” But every day at 11:30 AM, a pot of nihari simmers on the stove. The owner, Mr. Ahmed, migrated from Lahore 22 years ago and serves his mother’s recipe. His biryani is made with real saffron and slow-cooked lamb. Locals come in droves on weekends. He doesn’t accept online orders—cash only, and he often runs out by 2 PM. A meal costs $10. The experience is simple: you order, wait 10 minutes, and eat at a plastic table with a paper napkin. But the flavor? Unforgettable.

Example 2: Fatima’s Home Kitchen

Fatima, a mother of three from Faisalabad, started cooking for neighbors during the pandemic. She now runs a WhatsApp-based catering service. Every Friday, she posts a menu: “Chicken Karahi, Daal, Rice, Raita – $15. Order by Wednesday.” She delivers within a 5-mile radius. Her dishes are spiced with hand-ground masalas and include homemade pickles. One customer said, “It tastes like I’m back in Pakistan.” Her group has over 200 members.

Example 3: Pakistan Day Festival 2023

At the 2023 Pakistan Day celebration, over 30 vendors served food. One standout was a 70-year-old woman from Sindh who made Sindhi Biryani with dried plums, mint, and rosewater. She didn’t have a booth name—just a handwritten sign: “Maa’s Recipe, 1972.” People lined up for 45 minutes. She sold out by 1 PM. Her story? She moved to Long Beach in 1980 and has cooked at every Pakistan Day since. This is cultural preservation in action.

Example 4: The Pop-Up at the Mosque

Every Friday during Ramadan, the Islamic Center of Long Beach hosts an iftar bazaar. One family from Karachi runs a stall selling Haleem made with wheat, lentils, and beef, cooked for 12 hours. They serve it with lemon wedges and fried onions. The pot is always full by 6 PM. No one takes pictures. No one posts online. But the line speaks volumes.

Example 5: Online Delivery Success Story

Pakistan Kitchen is a small restaurant on 7th Street that only opened in 2021. They don’t have a website. But they optimized their DoorDash profile with clear photos of their chicken tikka and lamb biryani. Their reviews mention “real spices,” “no MSG,” and “tastes like home.” Within a year, they became the top-rated Pakistani restaurant on the app in Long Beach. Their secret? The owner’s wife prepares the food every morning at 4 AM. They don’t advertise—they rely on word-of-mouth and perfect execution.

FAQs

Is there a dedicated Pakistani restaurant in Long Beach?

There isn’t a large, standalone restaurant labeled “Pakistani Restaurant” in Long Beach. Most authentic food comes from small grocery store counters, home kitchens, or South Asian eateries that serve multiple cuisines (Pakistani, Indian, Bangladeshi). Look for specific dishes rather than labels.

Can I order Pakistani food for delivery in Long Beach?

Yes, but use specific search terms like “biryani,” “nihari,” or “chapli kebab” on Uber Eats or DoorDash. Avoid generic “Indian” filters—many Pakistani dishes are mislabeled. Some home chefs also offer delivery via WhatsApp.

Are Pakistani restaurants halal in Long Beach?

Almost all authentic Pakistani food establishments in Long Beach serve halal meat. Many use certified halal butchers. If unsure, ask: “Is the meat halal?” or “Where do you get your chicken?”

What’s the best time to visit for Pakistani food?

For restaurants: 12:00 PM–3:00 PM for lunch, 6:00 PM–9:00 PM for dinner. For home chefs: weekends are best. Nihari and haleem are typically available Friday–Sunday. Call ahead if you’re traveling far.

Do Pakistani restaurants in Long Beach serve vegetarian options?

Yes. Common vegetarian dishes include chana masala, aloo paratha, dal tadka, and vegetable samosas. Many places offer vegan options upon request. Always ask: “Kya yeh vegetarian hai?”

How much should I expect to pay for a meal?

At a grocery counter or home kitchen: $8–$15 per plate. At a small restaurant: $12–$20. Family-style meals (serves 4): $40–$70. Desserts: $3–$6.

Are there any Pakistani bakeries in Long Beach?

Yes. Several South Asian grocery stores sell fresh naan, sheermal, and kulcha. For desserts, look for gulab jamun and jalebi at Desi Bazaar or Asia Market. Some home bakers also sell cookies and cakes on weekends.

Can I take a cooking class for Pakistani food in Long Beach?

Not currently through formal institutions, but many home chefs offer private lessons. Ask at grocery stores or in Facebook groups. Some offer one-on-one sessions for $50–$100, including ingredients.

Why is Pakistani food in Long Beach hard to find?

Because it’s often served in informal, community-based settings rather than commercial restaurants. The community is tight-knit, and many chefs prefer to cook for family and neighbors than to market publicly. It’s not hidden—it’s just not advertised like chain restaurants.

How can I support Pakistani food businesses in Long Beach?

Leave honest reviews, share posts on social media, recommend them to friends, visit during off-hours to avoid crowding, and respect their cultural practices. Your loyalty helps them thrive.

Conclusion

Finding Pakistani food in Long Beach is not about checking off a list of restaurants—it’s about stepping into a world of tradition, warmth, and flavor that has been carefully preserved by immigrant families who call this city home. The best meals aren’t found in glossy ads or crowded food halls. They’re in the quiet corners of grocery stores, in the WhatsApp groups of mothers cooking for their neighbors, and at the back tables of community centers during Ramadan.

This guide has given you the tools, the locations, the questions to ask, and the mindset to seek out authentic Pakistani cuisine. But the real journey begins when you walk into a place, smile, and say, “What’s special today?”

Each dish you taste carries the history of a homeland, the labor of generations, and the love of a family who chose to share it with you. Whether you’re a foodie, a curious traveler, or someone missing the flavors of home, Long Beach has a place for you at the table.

So go ahead—try the nihari. Ask for the recipe. Thank the cook. And come back next week.