Nonna Mercato

Introduction / Overview

Nonna Mercato is not just another bakery; it is a culinary destination in the heart of Long Beach, California, bringing a refined, European-meets-Californian sensibility to the local dining scene. Operating as both an artisanal bakery and a full-service restaurant, Nonna Mercato has quickly established itself as a must-visit location for those who appreciate high-quality, handcrafted food. In a region experiencing a true renaissance of local bread and baking, this establishment, nestled in the popular Bixby Knolls neighborhood, stands out by blending traditional Italian flavors with modern culinary techniques, ensuring every visit is memorable.

The name itself, suggesting 'Grandmother's Market,' hints at a commitment to traditional methods and fresh, high-quality ingredients, a promise that the menu faithfully delivers. From the flaky, buttery Viennoiserie—a term for 'things of Vienna' that includes croissants and morning pastries—to the hearty, freshly prepared brunch dishes, Nonna Mercato caters to diverse palates. Whether you are craving a sweet pastry to start your day or a savory, fresh-made breakfast, this Long Beach gem offers an elevated experience. The atmosphere is inviting and professional, designed for both a quick visit to pick up fresh bread and a relaxed, memorable dine-in brunch with friends. For California locals who appreciate where their food comes from and demand excellence in both sweet and savory categories, Nonna Mercato offers a distinctive and highly recommended culinary experience.

Location and Accessibility

Nonna Mercato is perfectly situated in the desirable Bixby Knolls area of Long Beach, a thriving residential and commercial district. The specific address is 3722 Atlantic Ave, Long Beach, CA 90807, USA. Atlantic Avenue is a key artery in Long Beach, making the bakery-restaurant easily accessible from various parts of Southern California. The operating hours for the cafe and bakery are generally consistent, being open everyday from 8 AM to 6 PM, with the dedicated Breakfast and Lunch service running from 8 AM to 3 PM every day. This flexibility ensures that patrons can enjoy their offerings throughout the morning and afternoon.

A key benefit for visitors in California, where parking can often be a challenge, is the availability of parking options at Nonna Mercato. The location provides both a free parking lot and the option of free street parking, greatly enhancing convenience. Furthermore, the establishment is fully committed to accessibility, ensuring a welcoming environment for all.

• Wheelchair Accessible Entrance: Provides easy access for all patrons.
• Wheelchair Accessible Parking Lot: Dedicated, convenient parking spots are available.
• Wheelchair Accessible Seating: Ensures comfortable dining options within the restaurant space.
• Amenities: A clean and accessible restroom is available for dine-in guests.

Services Offered

Nonna Mercato provides a comprehensive range of services, catering to the needs of busy Californians looking for both high-quality food and flexible service options. The blend of a retail bakery counter and a full-service restaurant allows for versatile customer engagement.

• Dine-in Service: Enjoy the full breakfast and lunch menu, including the famed baked eggs and savory pasta dishes, in the inviting restaurant space.
• Takeout and In-store Pickup: Customers can quickly grab pastries, breads, and prepared meals from the bakery counter for consumption at home or on the go.
• Delivery: For added convenience, the establishment offers delivery services through popular third-party apps, bringing fresh-baked goods and meals directly to homes and offices in Long Beach.
• Onsite Services: Beyond standard dining, the location offers a unique space for patrons to gather and enjoy the ambiance.
• Coffee Service: A range of coffee offerings is available to pair with any pastry or breakfast item.
• Custom Cakes and Consulting: Nonna Mercato specializes in custom cakes and is open for walk-in consultations to discuss custom orders.
• Payment Flexibility: Accepts major payment methods including Credit Cards, Debit Cards, and NFC mobile payments for quick transactions.

Features / Highlights

What makes Nonna Mercato a highly recommended stop in the Long Beach dining scene is its masterful execution of unique and traditional items, combining to create standout features that garner strong customer loyalty.

• The Ricotta, Honey, and Pistachio Brioche: This signature item is frequently cited as a 'must-try' dish. It features a soft, buttery cube of brioche smothered in smooth ricotta, honey, and crunchy pistachio—a perfect, yet not overly sweet, sweet-savory blend.
• Exceptional Croissants and Viennoiserie: The quality of their pastries is consistently praised. The croissants are often described as "incredible" and "buttery," with specific favorites including the classic plain, the rich Pain au Chocolat, and the decadent Strawberry and Cream Croissant, featuring what customers believe to be a delightful whipped strawberry mascarpone filling.
• The Baked Eggs Dish: A highlight of the breakfast/brunch menu, the Baked Eggs are celebrated for being incredibly fresh and vibrant, served with perfectly cooked eggs, bright tomatoes, fresh herbs, creamy soft cheese (goat ricotta), and a fresh, crispy baguette.
• Artisanal Bread Program: The bakery features a comprehensive array of fresh breads baked in-house daily, including Brioche Loaves, Baguettes, Classic Loaves, and Honey Wheat, emphasizing organic and sustainable ingredients.
• Commitment to Quality Ingredients: The menu is built on sourcing the highest quality ingredients, evident in the fresh ricotta and market fruit used in many dishes, which contributes to the vibrant, clean flavors of the food.
• Gluten-Free Options: Recognizing various dietary needs, the bakery offers well-regarded gluten-free items, such as muffins and a chocolate cake donut, ensuring there are delicious options for almost everyone.

Contact Information

For reservations, custom orders, or any inquiries about the menu and daily specials, here is the necessary contact information:

Address: 3722 Atlantic Ave, Long Beach, CA 90807, USA

Phone: (562) 595-1100

Mobile Phone: +1 562-595-1100

What is Worth Choosing

Choosing Nonna Mercato is a clear decision for any Southern California resident or visitor prioritizing quality, fresh ingredients, and genuine artisanal skill. In a highly competitive market like Long Beach, Nonna Mercato’s dual excellence as a bakery and a restaurant makes it truly stand out.

The primary reason to choose this establishment lies in the unwavering quality of its products. The pastries, especially the extensive range of croissants, are consistently ranked among the best in Long Beach, praised for their generous size, perfect texture, and rich, flavorful fillings. If you are a fan of sweet brunch items, the Ricotta, Honey, and Pistachio Brioche is a mandatory selection—a perfectly composed dish that reviewers found to be not too heavy and an absolute revelation in texture and flavor. Similarly, for savory breakfast enthusiasts, the Baked Eggs are highlighted for their freshness, vibrant flavor, and perfect execution, showcasing the kitchen’s ability to handle complex savory dishes with the same mastery as their baked goods.

Furthermore, Nonna Mercato embodies a commitment to the dining experience. The availability of free, convenient parking—a rare luxury in California cities—removes a significant barrier to visiting. Once inside, the dine-in option allows for a relaxing experience, even if the popularity of the place often means a wait time of over 30 minutes, which itself is a strong indicator of the food's high demand. For those who prefer to skip the line, the comprehensive takeout and delivery options ensure the high-quality food can be enjoyed at home. While some patrons suggest obtaining coffee from a nearby spot if waiting for a table, the overall quality and unique menu items—particularly the signature brioche and baked eggs—make the occasional wait and potential slight detour for a beverage entirely worthwhile. Nonna Mercato is a jewel in Long Beach’s culinary crown, representing the best of California’s contemporary baking and Italian-inspired dining.

Nonna Mercato

3722 Atlantic Ave, Long Beach, CA 90807, USA