Best American Restaurant in Belmont Heights, Long Beach

I'm a Southern California girl, raised by Vietnamese parents who came to America in search of a better life. Their sacrifices and work ethic are part of who I am. I grew up knowing nothing is handed to you. If you want something, you work for it, you fight for it, and you put your whole heart into it. For me, that something has always been food. With more than 20 years in the kitchen, cooking became so much more than a career. It's how I express myself, how I connect with people, and how I show love. I trained at Le Cordon Bleu in Pasadena, then interned at Wolfgang Puck Catering in Hollywood. That internship turned into an eight-year journey, starting as a cook and working my way up to sous chef. Along the way I started Butter Bean Treats, my line of pet treats made with real, wholesome food to pamper dogs (and cats) with something nutritious. It was one of the first times I felt like I was building something completely my own. Then came my biggest dream: Lacquered. I opened Lacquered eight years ago, and this restaurant is my American dream. Even the name tells our story. We make 12 dipping sauces in-house, so you can pick your favorite and "lacquer up" your protein. Sauces are one of the most fun, flavorful parts of a meal, and I love sharing that with every guest who walks in.