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It might seem counterintuitive to go to a mostly outdoor cafe when it’s pouring inches of rain, but it turned out to be the right decision. 

Initially, we had planned to go to Gusto Bread, then considered Mangette, before realizing that both locations were closed Mondays and Tuesdays (generally when restaurants take their weekends). 

I suggested we try Ubuntu, which is adjacent to the Colorado Lagoon.  I knew it had mostly patio seating, but we’d check it out anyways and decide. My first-ever visit ended up being one of the most lovely atmospheres for a rainy day breakfast. 

The patio was understandably empty, but inside the glass structure that forms most of the cafe, heaters and blankets were laid out at the tables, adding to the cozy factor. Rain drops tapped the glass as diners sat and talked. 

I ordered a vanilla latte ($5.25) and the breakfast sandwich, a bacon, egg, and gruyère cheese sandwich with avocado on a toasted brioche ($14). My friend ordered the lentils and potato bowl with Portuguese sausage ($23.50) and a french toast flavored latte ($5.50).

The sandwich was great, not overly heavy and the addition of the avocado helped fill out the sandwich a bit more so the thick brioche bun didn’t overpower each bite. I added some extra salt to mine and some hot sauce because I love overly salty eggs. 

My friend’s bowl came with stewed brown lentils, almost an entire link of sausage, a hard boiled egg, potatoes, pickled onions and red chili. It was a hearty, savory dish that looks and tastes like comfort in a bowl. 

For me, while the food was delicious, what sets this experience apart was not only the ambiance being wonderful, but the care of service. My friend and I chatted for so long that an employee offered us the bottom brew of a fresh pot of coffee on the house which we happily accepted despite having just finished our lattes. 

At one point, a frantic, small bird got stuck inside because the doors were left open to prevent the space from getting too stuffy and staff immediately worked to help the bird out safely. 

Could I find a similar breakfast sandwich somewhere else in town? Absolutely! But the service and care put forward by staff at Ubuntu will have me coming back again and again. 

Ubuntu is at 335 Nieto Avenue. Directions | Website

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New eats around town

Moonbridge Doughnut Studio is now open in East Long Beach serving up gourmet donuts with flavors co-owners Anabelle Brown and Kim Gross bet you’ve never heard of. Read more here. A tip: get there early. Soft opening hours are from 7 a.m. to noon, but they’ve been selling out of their batches as early as 10 a.m. 

Have you been to any new restaurants or have some recommendations for me? I would love to hear your thoughts. Make sure to reply to this email or reach me here: [email protected]. 

Events and Specials

Super Bowl Sunday is quickly approaching so I’ve rounded up 10 places in Long Beach where you can watch the big game on Feb. 11. Trademark Brewing will have a free bounce house for kids, food vendors and seating you can reserve for free, Altar Society Brewing Co. is also offering table reservations with a full meal, snacks and more. Check out the full list here. 

Colossus Bread on Second Street is hosting three-Michelin star pastry chef and Long Beach native Cecilia Tolone next Tuesday, Feb. 13. Find more details here. 
The Hi-lo will be putting together a round-up of Valentine’s Day happenings at different restaurants around the city. Check back here for details.