July 25, 2007

La Creperie [Long Beach]

For being the only creperie within reasonable driving distance from Orange County, La Creperie isn't horrible.

Belmont Shores + entrees under $15 + Parisian charm + struggling musician + no competing creperies = an instant formula for success.

La Creperie can credit part of its popularity from its trendy location on busy 2nd Street in Belmont Shores. It is one of the few casual sit-down restaurants that actually serves food with a side of ambiance, as evidenced by the recent amendment of "Bohemian Bistro & Bar" to the La Creperie name. There's live jazz on the piano or guitar seven days a week and the no reservation policy almost always ensures a wait.

On this particular Thursday night, we arrived at 7 and waited a solid hour (we were quoted 40 minutes) before our table for six was ready. At least the manager was attentive to our needs and kept us informed of potential tables and seating arrangements. Next time, I’d advise splitting up into smaller parties.

The savory crepes are made with buckwheat flour and almost always come slathered (bathed might be more appropriate) with a sauce (cream, tomato, pesto, broth). I am often overwhelmed by the excessive amount of fillings, but I suppose that when you are in America, you must eat as the Americans do.



My SO’s standby is the Carbonara, though I don’t have any favorites from the sloppy creations. I did, however, find a hidden crepe in the appetizer section called the Crepe Vendome, a combination of Brie, green apples, onion, and chicken. The combination of cheese and fruit made me think of France, though the mango and lime chutneys with sour cream just confused my palate. At least they weren’t swimming sauce.

I dont really have any quibbles with the dessert crepes, though you could probably toss strawberries and nutella on toast and have it be good.

It's not like the restaurant has much competition, so even a half-assed effort is better than none at all.

La Creperie
4911 E 2nd St
Long Beach, CA 90803
(562) 434-8499

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