Long Beach ready to chow down on Super Bowl Sunday

Long Beach residents will be glued to TVs on Sunday evening, watching the Super Bowl — at home or at one of a number of local restaurants that expect to be packed, offering the traditional wings and beer or, at one, a roasted pig.

The Polar Bears will be taking their annual dip that morning and the South Shore Audubon Society will host its annual bird walk at Point Lookout Town Park, weather permitting.

Bob Johnson, owner of the Cabana Mexican-American Restaurant, on West Beech Street, said his establishment would offer two brunches — one before swimmers take to the Atlantic and one afterward. Jahstix, a.k.a. “Rastarock,” will perform live. During the game, patrons can dine on a buffet of wings and an assortment of mini-wraps.

“We expect people will be coming and going all day and into the evening,” Johnson said.

Shine’s Bar, on California Street, has been around since 1912, and has plenty of experience with Super Bowls. “We’re going to be open bright and early,” said Megan Wilson, an owner. The jukebox will be cranking, and Bloody Marys and Irish coffee will be served. As an extra, both Dottie and Patsy will be there. Both are grande dames of Long Beach, having worked for decades with Long Beach’s children at the recreation center.

“We’re the unofficial official bar of the [Polar Bear] Plunge,” Wilson said.

JJ Coopers, on West Park Avenue, will hold its annual fundraiser for the Arms Wide Open Childhood Cancer Foundation, and the New York City Police Department Pipe Band will be on hand. Nassau County police will bring a huge trailer truck to help make announcements and bring some goodies. The restaurant will roast a pig, which will be served at night, along with smoked brisket and baby back ribs. Owner Rob Richards expects 250 guests during the day and about 100 during the game.

The Cherry Valley Sandwich Shop, also on Beech Street, will celebrate its first Super Bowl. The shop opened last spring.

“We expect to be really busy,” said cashier Peter Cooper. Cherry Valley is gearing up for take-out orders of its famous chicken cutlet sandwiches topped with bacon and cheddar cheese.

Henry Valesquez, general manager of Brixx & Barley, on West Park Avenue, didn’t have to think twice when asked about Super Bowl Sunday. “I expect a sellout,” he said. There will be a tailgate party — indoors. Expect wings, sliders and acres of pizza.

Super Bowl LIV will be watched by scores of millions of football fans — even in New York, which doesn’t have a team in the game. The San Francisco 49ers will take on the Kansas City Chiefs at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Fla. The 30-second commercials, costing $5.6 million each, are always an attraction, as is the halftime show, which this year will feature featuring Jennifer Lopez and Shakira.