Mike Ferranti
Google
LB Social is a local and tourist favorite in Long Beach, NY, I dine there a few times a month, ordered catering from them for private parties in our home, and had a couple of private events there... more than enough experience to share that its a fantastic place to dine.
THE FOOD
The first thing that they hit it out of the ballpark is on the food.... man, every single thing I've had (probably had every item on the menu over time --if I include the tasting of my family members entrees and appetizers--- I am constantly _baffled_ by just how CONSISTENTLY excellent the food quality, taste, temperature, and value is. Honestly it really doesn't make sense to me. I'm used to even very good restaurants getting it wrong from time to time. Not LB Social.
Something as seemingly simple as the Chicken Parmesan which I've had dozens of time, still somehow amazes my kids and I. It's an 11 out of 10. We literally 'shake our heads' trying to figure out how they do it so well (not an exaggeration). We've never a mediocre dish, I can't stress enough how big a deal this high level of quality plus such flawless consistency really is. To be fair the Chef and Founder has a Michelin Star --which is a pretty big deal.
Other entrees I've been blown away by, to name a few are the Short Ribs, the Filet Mignon, and the Angry Lobster Pasta. The cocktails are excellent too. Good enough to wind up walking home!
THE SERVICE
The Service is very solid, unlike so many restaurants, they seem to have little to no turnover. It's nice to see the same well qualified severs and even the bussers seem more professional and attentive than most places I frequent. The Chef and Founder is often on the floor and will come to your table and pour your wine. A pretty nice touch. The bartender and servers recognize and warmly greet regulars --and seem to notice when a new guest is there ---and they go out of their way to connect with them. Impressive.
THE AMBIANCE
I would describe it as hip and pretty cool. Its not a lavish fine dining place --this is in Long Beach after all, a chill beach town-- though it is cool, has warmth to it, and cozy. The music isn't too loud, and the bar is always packed, with people dining at it as well as drinking. I'd say the ambiance is part of why you go there.
It's not a 'budget' restaurant but its not a NYC steakhouse either, moreover its a great value, given the exceptional quality and service. Great place for a big date, birthday or anniversary or whatever your celebrating --even if your just celebrating "Thursday."