Celebrity
From Hollywood to Long Beach: A Celebrity-Favorite Breakfast Haven Expands
2025-03-25
A cherished breakfast destination, renowned for its waffle-centric menu and celebrity clientele, has extended its culinary reach from North Hollywood to the vibrant city of Long Beach. With comedian Gabriel Iglesias playing a pivotal role in recommending the new location, & Waffles now graces Downtown Long Beach's Pine Avenue. This strategic move brings an exciting twist to the local dining scene, offering patrons a taste of both nostalgia and innovation.
Experience the Ultimate Waffle Delight in Long Beach
The walls of this newly established eatery are adorned with captivating photographs showcasing interactions with esteemed figures such as Steve Carell, Dwayne Wade, Quavo, Jo Koy, Iglesias himself, and Tom Segura. These images not only highlight the establishment's popularity among celebrities but also underscore its reputation for delivering exceptional quality and service.A Legacy Rooted in Family Tradition
At the heart of & Waffles lies a story steeped in familial dedication and entrepreneurial spirit. Co-owners Serge and Raffi Damadyan draw inspiration from their father, Edward Damadyan, whose Primo Burgers establishments flourished in Los Angeles throughout the late 80s and beyond. For four decades, Edward's restaurants became synonymous with comfort food, although one particular item remained underappreciated—Belgian waffles. Serge recalls his formative years working alongside his father, where he developed a profound appreciation for these delectable treats. As life took unexpected turns, leading him away from physical therapy into rental car operations, the allure of the restaurant business persisted. Conversations with his father reignited dreams of reviving the forgotten gem that was once hidden within Primo Burgers' offerings.Innovating Beyond Expectations
With a vision clear and unwavering, Serge crafted a menu centered around Belgian waffles, aiming to elevate them to their rightful place in the culinary world. He envisioned dishes that would captivate taste buds while honoring traditional techniques refined by generations past. To achieve this, he incorporated modern twists like marinating chicken for twenty-four hours prior to frying, enhancing juiciness and flavor profiles significantly compared to conventional methods.When the inaugural location opened its doors in 2017 on Lankershim Boulevard in North Hollywood, it marked more than just another restaurant opening; it symbolized renewal and ambition fueled by family heritage. Encouraged by early success, Serge persuaded his brother Raffi to join forces, taking charge of kitchen operations. Together, they embarked on a journey characterized by growth and expansion, adding subsequent locations including Woodland Hills before setting sights on Long Beach.Building Connections in Long Beach
Operating out of the historic Pier 76 site near Ocean Boulevard, & Waffles seeks to integrate seamlessly into the fabric of Long Beach culture. Serge has embraced the challenge of commuting daily from San Fernando Valley by immersing himself fully in the community. By joining nearby fitness centers, exploring local eateries, and fostering relationships with fellow entrepreneurs, he aims to establish lasting connections beneficial for all parties involved.His aspirations extend further still, hoping to immortalize moments shared with iconic figures such as Snoop Dogg through framed portraits adorning interior spaces. Such ambitions reflect not merely marketing strategies but genuine enthusiasm towards celebrating regional icons who contribute uniquely to Long Beach's identity.As visitors enjoy favorites ranging from Cajun fried chicken paired with fluffy waffles to indulgent churro variations or savory cheeseburgers served atop golden-brown bases, they partake in something greater—a testament to perseverance, creativity, and unity found within every bite prepared lovingly at & Waffles.