Buyin’ in Bixby: A Christmas shopping tour of Bixby Knolls

A trip through Bixby Knolls is always a treat, but this time of year, it’s also the perfect one-day shopping adventure. From special spirits and coffee to hearty meals and unique toys, residents can fulfill all of their Christmas wishes by visiting some of Bixby Knolls’ favorite places and supporting local businesses. 

EJ’s Pub

This family-owned authentic Irish pub is a sneaky good spot for some pre-shopping brunch and drinks, located near many of Bixby Knolls’ best and most unique shops. EJ’s serves a popular Hangover Burger that comes with bacon and a wiggly sunny side up egg; an egg scramble topped with cheese, bacon and avocado or a healthier option of eggs benedict with a side of potatoes and fresh fruit. 

Avoid the Christmas shopping headache with some pre-shopping spirits: EJ’s has a wide range of brunch-friendly drink options including a bacon-infused bloody Mary (and several other flavor options), champagne or the infamous breakfast shot with Irish whiskey, butterscotch schnapps and orange juice garnished with bacon. And yes, they offer bottomless mimosas. 

Bixby Joe Coffee & Tea

For those who prefer a caffeine kick to start their day of Christmas shopping, Bixby Joe Coffee & Tea offers plenty of flavored coffees, freshly brewed teas, espressos and plenty of pastries. Residents can park in the Bixby Joe lot and make their way around to the various shops if they’re quick enough. Make sure to pick up a stamp card to get a free drink after 10 visits and as always, a fresh copy of the Signal Tribune. 

Corked

From fine wines to craft beers and everything in between, Corked has all you need to create holiday cocktails, spoil a host with their favorite whiskey (they have over 1,000 options) or pick up a cigar for a surprise in someone’s stocking. This family-owned business also boasts unique finds such as cocktail caviar and booze-infused ice cream, perfect for a fun gift. 

Kubo LB

If you want to support women, BIPOC and LGBTQ business owners during your holiday shopping endeavors, look no further than Kubo LB. A book lover would be pleased to receive one of the shop’s carefully curated novels, and vintage enthusiasts and children alike can enjoy numerous unique items that can’t be found on Amazon. The shop also offers gift cards for the picky book reader in your life. 

Pixie Toys

There is no shortage of cute, whimsical, distinctive gifts for children and babies at Pixie Toy. From wall to wall, the shop is filled with buttery soft clothing, heartfelt books, artistic puzzles, any type of plush toy you can imagine, muppets and more. 

Residents can also find popular favorites such as Smiski figures, Pokémon cards and creatures, Care Bears, and of course, Sonny Angels for buying or trading. 

Long Beach Shakespeare Company

Nothing says holidays like “A Christmas Carol” live shows, and the Long Beach Shakespeare Company is returning with their tradition of the radio show version. For a theater lover in your life, tickets for the newly announced 2024 show is a perfect gift. Next year’s season will feature shows such as “The Comedy of Errors,” “Love’s Labour’s Lost” and “The Wizard of Oz Radio Show.” 

HiroNori Craft Ramen

After you’ve conquered a day of shopping, HiroNori Craft Ramen is the perfect spot to wind down and indulge in some tasty, belly warming soup. The restaurant has won plenty of awards for its steaming bowls of ramen, but they also offer sushi plates, wings, pork buns and sake. 

Rasselbock Kitchen

If you’re in need of something more hearty to top off the day, Rasselbock Kitchen serves up authentic German food and over 15 beers on tap. You can sit in their beer garden patio and watch the Christmas shoppers go by as you enjoy traditional goulash, potato pancakes, schnitzel, German churro pretzels and more. Children can play with the sandbox sitting in the patio area. 

Esquire Barber Shop

Prepare for the slew of work, family and friend Christmas parties by stopping by Bixby Knolls’ one and only barber shop for a fresh cut. Waitful and patient barbers will tend to your every hair need, and you won’t need to empty your wallet for it either.