One of the most elegant spots in Long Beach, L'Opera presents classic pasta, veal and seafood dishes in a style that would please Italian royalty. This kind of service may make some feel pampered and others a bit stuffy. The food will simply make you feel full. A starter might be potato dumplings saut?ed with exotic mushrooms in a fresh tomato-basil sauce. Entr?es include New Zealand roasted rack of lamb with deep-fried baby artichokes drizzled with mint dressing Don't indulge in the huge portions without leaving some room for the creations of the pastry chefs, who've deservedly won several local and statewide competitions. The signature finale is sacchetto di cioccalote, an edible chocolate grocery bag filled with wine custard and berries. The d?cor is like something from the 19th century. Wine staff is comfortingly attentive. --Gayot.com