It's 12am and you're in Long Beach with a few friends who have decided that it's time for a late-night meal. No one wants to pay more than $20 and everyone is fine with sharing. Head to Koh Russei for beef skewers, lemongrass chicken, and an order of the sweet and sour deep-fried catfish. You'll know you've made it when you see the big red "Bamboo Island" sign on Anaheim Street calling your name. They're open till 2am on weekends.

photo credit: Matt Gendal