Modern Baja Eatery Keeps it Neighborly
UPDATE: Unfortunately due to COVID-19 we lost this neighborhood gem in November 2020.
Anyone that knows me, knows I love Mexican food. I have a couple of taco stands in the neighborhood that are good standards, but when Little Vice moved in, they changed my life. Little Vice was started by two friends that wanted a Baja style eatery similar to what they experienced on their trips to Mexico, but with quality ingredients, vegan options, and a modern flair. Who doesn’t want to be in Baja, eating tacos, drinking beer, and hanging out with good friends? It’s why I like to hang out there so often.
On this visit, we ordered the Mango Cali-Squeeze by SLO Brew and the Strawberry Mojito by Local Roots Kombucha for drinks. We had the queso and chips as an appetizer and followed it with al pastor and fish tacos. Both beer selections were light and fruity, which we appreciated on such a hot day. The queso comes with hearty chunks of poblano chiles and charred cotija cheese, which was a bit too big for my taste, but the chips were crunchy and sturdy to withstand the weight of it all. The al pastor taco is a must for each visit. It’s roasted on a spit and shaved off at the time of order and topped with guac and pineapple pico. I love the crispy roasted edges of the meat in the taco. The fish taco is not your typical deep-fried battered fish, but a light panko breading that doesn’t fight with the fresh pineapple salsa and pickled red onion topping.
What makes the overall experience memorable, are the people that work at Little Vice. They are attentive, knowledgeable about the food and drinks, and friendly. My preferred spot is at the bar, gazing at the neon Little Vice sign, chatting with the staff, and getting a peek at what’s going on in the kitchen.
The LC Loves:
- Tacos: Al pastor, shrimp, fish, and carne asada are my faves. I’m not one to choose a shrimp taco, but it’s poached in garlic butter and habanero salsa and it’s the bomb.
- Breakfast Burrito: A solid choice anytime of the day. It comes with tots inside, but I request the tots on the side, so they stay crispy.
- Bueno Bowl – It’s filling. The simple smashed black beans add to the base of the bowl and I recommend getting it with 2 types of meat.
Covid-19 Standards: Our most recent visit, was during Covid-19, so only patio seating was available. The tables on the patio were set with proper distancing with tables of 2 and 4 maximum. They offer hand sanitizer at the hostess stand and all the servers were wearing gloves, face masks, and face shields. QR codes were offered on the table stand, so we could view the menu on our phone. For those uncomfortable dining in, they offer food to go, along with beer and wine.
Even during a pandemic, the vibe is still warm and friendly and the food delicious, but I can’t wait till I can sit inside at the bar enjoying the heart of Little Vice.
Little Vice, 3317 East 7th St, Long Beach, CA 90814
