The quest has led me to many a Mexican restaurant, and Rivera’s on 7th in Long Beach is one of them. It’s a unique family run restaurant named after Diego Rivera. Paintings from the famous artist and his wife, Frida Kahlo, as well as an eclectic collection of vintage photos featuring men with massive mustaches and sombreros cover the walls. They’ve been in this location for twelve years, and every time they go to Mexico, they bring something back to add to the fun, frenetic décor. The simple beige exterior gives no indication of the festive interior.
I went to Rivera’s with a friend for lunch on November 1st, the Day of the Dead, and with the friendly dancing-skeleton painting watching over us, it was fitting for the occasion. George, the server/part-owner who seems to spend his life there (every time I’ve gone, he’s there) welcomed us as we walked in. He’s always nice and gives great service.
I was feeling slightly worse for wear from Halloween’s drinks the night before and was looking forward to a big ol’ plate of food. I went for a beef enchilada and chile relleno combo with rice and beans, with a guacamole side to start. Since I didn’t have to work that day and was planning on partaking in a siesta, I decided to go for a margarita on the rocks. They have a beer and wine license and serve agave wine margaritas, which pack a much more mellow punch than tequila. My friend ordered a tamarindo (a kind of agua fresca) to drink and huevos rancheros to eat off of the breakfast menu, which is available all day, but you have to ask for it.
The guacamole was the perfect accompaniment to our homemade chips and salsa. The food came out ridiculously fast, about five minutes after we ordered. The enchilada was filled with shredded beef that had been stewed with peppers and seasoned just right. The chile relleno was nicely breaded and not too greasy or overly cheesy.
Everything was fresh; the rice and beans were tasty, too, but the real star of the show was the enchilada sauce. This stuff sings to me; I can hear it serenading me from my house with a smooth and seductive Spanish voice. I really do love it. My friend’s Huevos Rancheros looked tempting as well. I never knew that they had a breakfast menu before. I will definitely have to come in for brunch sometime.
Rivera’s has never been too busy whenever I’ve gone, and it’s a real gem. It’s reasonably priced, has huge portions, and I highly recommend it. I’ve brought visiting friends and family to this place and everybody just eats it up, literally!
Rivera’s is located at 2901 East 7th Street, (562) 434-8489, Mon – Sat. 9AM to 8PM, Sun 8AM to 6PM.
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