Pine Avenue has long been regarded as the main artery of Downtown Long Beach, but beyond Broadway the vital organ of downtown is often forgotten. Third Friday’s is working to fix that. Highlighting the continued closure of Pine between 4th and 5th this monthly event focuses on local businesses, live music, and street vendors. Don’t worry, this isn’t the only area of Downtown participating! Multiple other restaurants and bars along Pine, 3rd, and Broadway are a part of the fun. If you are going to be visiting this awesome event here’s your definitive guide for Third Friday’s on Pine.
The best spot to start off your evening is at Romeo Chocolates. This part confectionary shop, part hip wine bar is actually the official beer garden of the event. During the pandemic and the closure of pine to vehicle traffic, Romeo’s took full advantage by adding outdoor cabanas and other seating. This little oasis on Pine is the perfect place to grab a glass of wine or an ice-cold beer before wandering off to check out where live music will be playing. Anheuser-Busch will be there and ready to pour with their signature Golden Road bus. Let the record show, Romeo’s is more than just a beer garden! Their handmade, hand polished chocolates are incomparable in texture and flavor. Ranging from classic flavors to more adventurous pairs like their award-winning Raspberry and Rose Water truffle, the chocolates are unbeatable. There are also a plethora of pop-up vendors in the area selling jewelry, pottery, and other fun handmade goods. The closed off street gives the whole affair the feeling of an old school block party, where neighbors gather to run into each other casually and catch up.
A few doors down from Romeo’s is the Daily Dose, where a DJ plays and there’s even more outdoor seating. The Daily Dose is a new kid on the block (as it even says on their website) only opening a few months ago. They offer more than just your classic coffee and tea, with a full menu of fresh juices, acai bowls, and even some treats for your dog. If you’re looking to sit back with a quick bite or something less alcoholic to sip on this might just be the spot for you. The live music is the perfect mix of upbeat and relaxing, giving a fun environment while still leaving room for chit chat between friends. Their dog friendly menu also attracts more than a few pups, only adding to the fun of course.
A little further down Pine you’ll find live music playing from unexpected places. At the last 3rd Friday I ended up at an art show/live concert in the Farmers & Merchants building. Local band Mark and the Gallery’s played a killer set surrounded by some very radical art. This discovery was all thanks to the 3rd Friday’s Passport which you can pick up at any of the participating bars or restaurants. This Friday in particular Long Beach Gives has teamed up with Pueblita Tortilla’s to pop-up in front of Kress Market. Pueblita makes some of the best, fresh tortillas in town and if you’re looking to help out the local community while eating good they are the ones to look for. Every month they donate the majority of their profits to local non-profit organizations. Working in tandem with Long Beach Gives, this week over 200 non-profits will benefit from the sale of these tasty tortillas.
Visiting any local business on Pine is always a treat, from The Pie Bar to The 4th Horseman to Pharmacy Boardshop there is quite literally something for everyone. Made by Millworks has been popping up with some of their most popular local products and Catalyst Cannabis dispensary sometimes runs special deals during the event! The more support events like this receive the more often they will happen. So, if you’re looking for something to do this Friday make sure you stop by Downtown Long Beach for 3rd Fridays.
