My first Mother’s Day was sweet and relaxing. My mom and cousins came over for brunch, and my mom and I cooked together. We made bacon, eggs, pancakes (we used the Kodiak Protein-Packed Flapjack & Waffle Mix—highly recommend!), and Simply Potatoes Shredded Hash Browns from Target. Everything turned out delicious. We topped the pancakes with fresh-cut strawberries, whipped cream, and a light drizzle of honey.
Later that day, it was way too hot to cook, so my husband and I decided to go out for dinner with our daughter. We headed to one of our favorite local pizza spots, Portofino Pizzeria & Deli, at 5900 E Spring St in Long Beach. We hadn’t been there since the beginning of my pregnancy. Fun fact—we were actually eating there when we came up with part of our daughter’s name, before we even knew we were having a girl! So it felt really special to go back, now with her sitting at the table and enjoying a meal with us.
My husband ordered the pizza combo—two slices and a drink.
I tried the chicken panini with a side salad
We also ordered the calamari. I wasn’t a big fan of it, but my husband enjoyed it.
Our daughter had some of the vegetable soup and seemed to like it.
The restaurant is small and cozy, with a warm and welcoming vibe. It is always the same staff working, so it might be family-owned. They have a big pizza oven in the back, so it does get pretty warm inside, but they usually keep the front door open to let in some fresh air. It’s a great casual spot for lunch or dinner. The pizza is thin crust and light—just writing about it makes me want to go back tonight!
How about you? Have you been to Portofino Pizzeria & Deli? Or is there a favorite pizza place you recommend? We’re always up for trying something new.
If you’re nearby, here are two great libraries to visit in the area:
Bach Neighborhood Library 4055 Bellflower Blvd, Long Beach, CA 90808 (Just a short drive from the pizza place—perfect for a book + pizza day!)
El Dorado Neighborhood Library 2900 N Studebaker Rd, Long Beach, CA 90815 (Located right inside El Dorado Park—perfect for a post-lunch stroll with the family.)
Let me know your favorite local pizza place—and don’t forget to drop your favorite library recommendations too!
