Grillfire Sizzles in Long Beach

Part of the George Martin group of restaurants, Grillfire in Long Beach keeps the tradition of great service with an eclectic selection from the menu. Located on West Park Avenue, it’s an easy walk from the beach or the train station.

Décor: Grillfire creates a warm, inviting atmosphere with an exotic curtain from the entryway into the seating area, with plenty of fireplaces for cozy dinners. Several earthy colors combine with a polished, hip finish to give off a modern, yet comfortable vibe. There are TVs, too, so that you can catch the big games with friends.  

The Drinks: The wine list is extensive, with a wide variety of prices from a bottle of Santa Marine Pinot Grigio at $26 to a Laetitia Pinot Noir Estate at $42. Glasses go from a $9.50 Robert Mondavi Cabernet Sauvignon to a $7 Canyon Road White Zinfandel. Beers on tap include Blue Moon seasonal, Stella Artois, Newcastle and Shocktop.

Apps: Standard favorites like BBQ Chicken Wings ($8) and Sliders ($8 for 3) are popular, but some apps can also be split, like Buttermilk Dipped Onion Rings with Bleu Cheese Fondue ($6) and their famous World Best Mac & Cheese ($9 for half, $12 for full).

Entrees: Steaks and burgers are the most popular on the menu, but there’s plenty of variety within just those two options. The GF Marinated Skirt Steak ($23) is served with crisp tobacco onions, and the Black Label Steakhouse Burger ($17) comes with bleu cheese, creamed spinach and onion rings. There are several seafood options as well, like the Teriyaki Glazed Ahi Tuna ($22) and the Grilled Jumbo Gulf Shrimp ($19) served with a choice of either the teriyaki glaze or mango barbeque sauce.

If you’re looking for chicken, try the Classic Sautéed Chicken, with either Marsala or Picatta sauce ($17), or the Homemade Chicken Pot Pie ($16). All entrees are served with a choice of one side plus a salad for $3.

Sides: Grillfire sides are hearty and satisfying. The mashed potatoes ($4) are seasoned perfectly and the creamed spinach ($5) is a favorite of regulars. A healthy and tasty option is the steamed broccoli ($5), another favorite.

Desserts: Decadent desserts like the Molten Chocolate Lava Cake ($7) are popular, as is the lighter Belgium Waffle and Ice Cream, available in half ($7) and full ($9) sizes. A favorite is the DIY S’mores ($7), made by guests over their own personal campfire.

Service: Generally the wait time isn’t too long, anywhere from immediate seating to 15 minutes. On weekends when the weather is warmer, expect to wait slightly longer. Service is prompt and friendly, with management keeping a close eye on everything.

Signature Dish: Known for their burgers, the Black Label Kobe Blend is a favorite. A juicy mix of sirloin, Kobe, ribeye and short rib, this burger is served with lettuce, tomato, pickle, and shoestring fries ($15).

Chef Name: Fausto Salto