Curley's Cafe — Restaurant in Signal Hill

Having lived just down the road from this Signal Hill institution for more than 15 years, it's odd that only after having moved a few miles away I would be drawn in to routinely dining here. So, what's up you ask? For years My parents and some good friends of theirs have made Wednesday evenings at Curley's apart of their routine. Although often invited, It was so routine that nothing seemed pressing about joining them. That was until my fine folks retired to Oregon and now seeing them was far less often and no longer on a whim the way I was used too. So, when they came to town and were wrapped up in catching up with old friends you can bet that Wednesday evening they were heading to Curley's. This was an invite I couldn't pass up, and now more than ever understand how good company, along with excellent food, served by one heck of a personable waiter named Jason and awesome live entertainment for a reasonable amount were so compelling. This is traditional diner food served in portions and prepared in a way you don't find often these days. The entertainment is usually a duet banjo and tuba with vocals from both mixed in. Usually American standards from the 1920's (roaring 20's) with sing a longs (lyrics provided to every table), the crowd of anywhere from 20 to 60 people are welcoming and a jovial bunch, and the atmosphere is so infectious it's impossible to imagine anybody not joining in for a thundering chorus of "she'll be coming round the mountain, when she comes". On evenings when the duet isn't available they are covered by the likes of a very talented Barbershop Quartet, or a sit in artist. But if this kind of "all in" audience participation live entertainment isn't exactly your thing, no need to hesitate; the front dining room and bar are left to the charms of what ever commentary patrons may have to what ever sports game is being aired on the TV monitors where there is no expectation of participation. The food and service are well worth giving Curley's a try. I regret waiting over 15 years...

I have been near this location several times mostly after eating near by.

The exterior of Curley's did not really draw me in to this eating establishment. What drew me here was out of pure curiosity.

I looked them up wow I really need to visit. Our family decided let's dine in next time near by. And here we are !

I rated 3 out of 5 due to my biscuit was So nuked by the microwave made my biscuits and gravy inedible.

I wanted to tell the woman who wore many hats. But i did not wantt to make the fuss. But biscuits and gravy is my one favorite carb. Scrambled Eggs for my mother in law. I had eggs bacon and potatoes which I might ad were delicious full of flavor.

We parked, I quickly walked in leaving my family behind to get a photo or two. we were quickly seated. Our drink order was taken along with our Appetizer.

I could not wait for our Appetizer to come out the kitchen. They arrived my Deep fried pickles spears were delicious.

One problem. We had with the burger combo was they forgot to make fries Chile cheese fries. The woman who wore many hats had no name tag. Immediately corrected our order.

I will be back as well as my family.

The interior of Curley's seemed to have...

Leave your kids at home! Please don’t ruin this. This is my favorite Sunday morning breakfast spot in Long Beach. Lots of booze and lots of great food. The chicken fried steak is one of my favorites. Today I got the eggs Benedict and the enchilada cheese omelette, And two bloody Mary’s. I also always get a short stack. The pancakes here are thicker then a crepe but not too thick, and they put in a touch of cinnamon , …… "Beg your pardon? Cinnamon takes a back seat to no babka. People love cinnamon. It should be on tables at restaurants along with salt and pepper. Anytime anyone says, 'Oh This is so good. What's in it?' The answer invariably comes back: cinnamon. Cinnamon. Again and again. Lesser babka? I think not." Jerry Seinfeld.

This is a great classic dinner with good booze...