One of Long Beach’s Oldest Dive Bars Was Evicted Last Week

One of Southern California’s oldest bars permanently closed in Long Beach last week. The Acapulco Inn originally opened in 1955, and is the latest business to shutter on the main drag of Second Street in Belmont Shore.

Eater spoke with Brian Addison of LongBeachize who first reported about the closing. On April 5, an eviction notice was posted on the door, which left many questions for regulars. And no answers were given, as the owner has remained silent on the matter.

A few years back, longtime owner Don Heckman stepped away from daily operations and partnered with Tracy and Dina Alcantar, and Artistrides “Hawaiian Bob” Gascon to run the business. The Aclantars were responsible for recent upgrades, including remodeling the outdoor seating area and minor construction that brought more light to the dark bar.

Long Beach is home to some of Southern California’s oldest bars, including the Reno Room which opened in 1945, Joe Jost’s in 1924, and The Annex in 1952. The Acapulco Inn was well-known as an essential dive bar in Long Beach, complete with shuffleboard, pool tables, and air hockey. Acapulco Inn also held the title as the oldest establishment on Second Street, easily surpassing Papalucci’s which opened in 1990.

• Belmont Shore Dive Staple Acapulco Inn Suddenly Closes Up Shop After 60 Years [LongBeachize]