Hollywood star Gabriel “Fluffy” Iglesias dishes on Comedy, Cars and Cuisine
FOOD & DRINK ISSUE:
LOCAL ENTREPRENEURS TURN HERITAGE INTO CULINARY EXCELLENCE
PLUS: FOOD INFLUENCER JAMES TIR’S TOP BRUNCH PICKS
This season is all about change and if you’re thinking about making a move, now’s the time to get ahead of the holiday rush. Whether you’re buying your first home, upgrading for more space, or cashing in on your equity, I can help you navigate the fall market with confidence.
Let’s turn over a new leaf, together. Scan QR code to
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Feeding Dreams & Appetites
Food has a way of centering itself in the most pivotal moments of our lives, creating memories that stay with us long after the last bite. This month’s Food & Drink issue celebrates the undeniable impact Long Beach food culture has had on each of us.
We’re thrilled to feature our first celebrity cover story with Gabriel “Fluffy” Iglesias, who took us on an unforgettable journey from his humble beginnings wandering the waterfront at Shoreline Village to receiving his Hollywood Walk of Fame star. When we sat down with him at Parkers’ Lighthouse — the same restaurant he once could only admire from the sidewalk — we witnessed something extraordinary: the moment he learned he’d be getting his star. It was a full-circle moment that perfectly captures how our city shapes the stories we carry with us, no matter how far we travel in life.
Speaking of stories, this issue has much more! We profile two local culinary entrepreneurs who’ve turned their cultural heritage into thriving businesses, each plate they serve telling a tale of tradition, innovation and community. From coastal-inspired catering that evokes the feeling of stepping off a yacht to artisanal grazing boards that celebrate Hispanic traditions of abundance and togetherness, these stories remind us that our food scene is built on much more than just great flavors — it’s built on the dreams and cultures of the people who call this city home.
This month, I’m handing over my usual publisher’s picks to a well-known local food influencer who shares his favorite brunch plates from across the city. We’re also excited to introduce Brunch Chats, a new column where Kat and I will meet at a different Long Beach brunch spot each time for candid conversations about whatever’s on our minds — from books we’re reading to Netflix binges to the latest local happenings. Consider it your invitation to pull up a chair and join our ongoing dialogue about life in the LBC.
Long Beach has always been a cultural melting pot, and nowhere is that more evident than in our restaurants, food trucks, farmers’ markets and home kitchens. From small storefronts serving authentic family recipes to innovative chefs putting modern twists on traditional dishes, our food culture reflects the diversity and creativity that make our city so special.
So pour yourself a cup of coffee (or shake a martini), settle in, and join us as we celebrate the stories and flavors that make Long Beach’s food and drink scene truly extraordinary. With good taste,
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.
Proverbs 3:5-6
Publisher’s Picks Takeover
Food influencer James Tir (@lbfoodcoma) shares his favorite brunch plates.
Hungry for Success
Gabriel “Fluffy” Iglesias: From Shoreline to the Walk of Fame Featured 12 14 18 26
How Andrea Cruz turned pandemic uncertainty Into a charcuterie business built on heritage
Q&A: Chef Melissa Ramsay
‘Off The Yacht’: Ramsay talks food, family traditions and life in the LBC
Every Star Has A Beginning
Comic legend Gabriel “Fluffy”
at Shoreline Village, one of his favorite hometown hangouts.
Iglesias
Nirav Solanki
Honoring Margaret Bordessa Self
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
Hotel Maya 50th Anniversary “Boogie on the Bay” Celebration, July 30 | 1: Hotel Maya’s General Manager Greg Guthrie and Director of Sales and Marketing Ali Lesser. 2: Beach Cities Magazine Publisher and CEO Dan Lipton with his stylish wife Radhika. 3: Local realtor Shana R. Giles meets an adorable little photo bomber. 4: Distinguished guests, Vice Mayor Roberto Uranga and Councilwoman Mary Zendejas. 5: Bo Martinez, Director of Economic Development for the City of Long Beach, and friend Sarah Yap. 6: Hotel Maya property developer J. Jay Feinberg and his lovely wife Cookie. 7: Meet Long Beach President and CEO Steve Goodling shares remarks at the event.
A Rising Star Emerges at The Whipple Group
Local real estate agent Justine Jardine Prouty (Lic #02249727) was named Keller Williams Pacific Estates’ (Lic #01917184) Rising Star in July 2025. Prouty, a California State University Long Beach alumna, joined The Whipple Group (Lic #01355505) earlier this year. The Whipple Group was ranked as the #1 group at Keller Williams Pacific Estates (the #1 Keller Williams market center in Long Beach) in the same month.
The
“Sabor”
of Puerto Rico Arrives in Long Beach
La Casa de Iris brings authentic Puerto Rican cuisine to Long Beach with its first brick-and-mortar location at 1260 Long Beach Boulevard. Owners Maria and Eddie named the restaurant after their mother, Iris Negron, the mastermind behind their savory recipes. The Boricua eatery, situated just north of downtown Long Beach, offers an authentic taste of the island’s culinary heritage.
TLD Law Partner Receives National Recognition
TLD Law Partner Lauren M. Doyle has been recognized in the 2026 Edition of Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch in America™ for Closely Held Companies and Family Businesses Law; Trusts and Estates. A second-generation business and estate planning attorney, Doyle counsels families and business owners on estate planning, trust administration, and business law. Recognition by Best Lawyers is based entirely on peer review, underscoring the respect she has earned among fellow attorneys.
ARTICLE BY JAMES TIR
Publisher’s Picks Takeover
FOOD INFLUENCER JAMES TIR (@LBFOODCOMA) SHARES HIS FAVORITE BRUNCH PLATES.
Nonna Mercato’s Baked Eggs
One of my favorite morning eats is eggs cooked in some sort of red sauce — shakshuka, eggs in purgatory, etcetera. Nonna Mercato’s baked eggs are just that, but perfected. Delicate eggs, tangy tomato-red pepper stew, and goat cheese.
Marlena’s Bufala Ricotta on Toast
This place is one of the vibiest brunch options, with incredible indoor-outdoor ambiance with tons of natural light. The ricotta toast pairs whipped ricotta with seasonal fruit compote. Simple yet delicious.
Zuzu’s Petals’ Fried Chicken N’ Waffles
The chicken and waffles here are on another level. Buttermilk fried chicken. Blueberry compote. Cinnamon pecan butter. Maple syrup. Get it.
Ammatoli’s Levantine Chilaquiles
I love chilaquiles, and Ammatoli has a Mediterranean twist on this Mexican classic. I dub them ‘pitaquiles’ as they’re comprised of crispy pita chips tossed in foul and tomatillo, and topped with egg and sumac.
The Attic’s Breakfast Rice in a Stone Bowl
The breakfast rice arrives in a hot Korean stone bowl known as a dolsot. The rice crisps up over time and commingles beautifully with the other accoutrements: bacon, andouille sausage, eggs, cilantro and sweet soy.
Elevate Every Occasion Through Culinary Artistry
The holidays are right around the corner, and there’s no better way to gather than around a table designed to impress. Our artfully styled charcuterie boards and grazing displays bring both elegance and abundance, creating a centerpiece that invites conversation and connection. Whether you’re hosting an intimate dinner or a festive office celebration, we’ll help make your holiday entertaining effortless and unforgettable. Reserve your date early—our calendar fills quickly this season.
The YMCA offers preschool programs that help children learn, grow, and thrive. Families gain access to free mental health support and community resources, while students participate in life saving swim lessons, physical education, and enrichment activities like STEM, Parent & Me programs, and music.
Hungry
ARTICLE BY KAT SCHUSTER
PHOTOGRAPHY BY
NIRAV SOLANKI
How Andrea Cruz turned pandemic uncertainty into a cheese and charcuterie business built on heritage.
For Success
When Andrea Cruz decided to launch a cheese and charcuterie business during the height of the pandemic in 2020, she was really just leaning into the traditions she was raised on.
“In Hispanic culture, food is the center of our life,” she said. “If you enter a Hispanic home, you’re not leaving hungry, regardless of whatever social, economic level that home is at.”
That feeling of abundance and togetherness became the foundation of Hungry Drea Creations. For Cruz, Hungry Drea is more than just cheese and fruit arranged on a board. It’s a way of bringing people together, rooted in the
“IN
HISPANIC CULTURE, FOOD IS THE CENTER OF OUR LIFE. IF YOU ENTER A HISPANIC HOME, YOU’RE NOT LEAVING HUNGRY, REGARDLESS OF WHATEVER SOCIAL, ECONOMIC LEVEL THAT HOME IS
AT.”
A gorgeous grazing board designed by Andrea Cruz of Hungry Drea Creations.
same cultural values that shaped her life. And that, she says, will always be the main drive.
But Cruz, an immigrant from Peru, hadn’t planned on becoming an entrepreneur.
“How did it happen? The short answer is COVID.”
Before the world shut down, she had worked in the natural products industry, where she spent her days doing demonstrations inside luxury grocery stores like Whole Foods, Sprouts, Gelsons and Lazy Acres.
“That’s actually how I became exposed to cheese, because when the stores would be slow, I would walk around the store and I would find myself in the wine department, which happens to be next to the cheese department.”
When that job ended during the months of lockdown, Cruz decided to give a side project she’d tested months earlier a real chance.
“Before COVID, I actually did a trial run for Valentine’s Day of 2020. And when COVID came and the shutdown happened, a few of the people that had ordered for that first run started messaging me. ‘Hey, are you still doing this? Are you still doing this?’ And I was like, I guess I can.”
From there, Cruz began to develop what would set her plating style apart from others. In the years she’s been in business, she’s become known for meticulous detail. Oh, and everything on her boards are edible.
“I always get someone asking whether something like the cup I put the olives in is edible, and I’m like, yeah, it’s actually made of cane sugar, so technically, you can eat it. I just don’t know if you want to,” she said, laughing.
She also keeps her sourcing close to home.
“I try to shop local as much as possible. The majority of my produce does come from the local farmers market, like I have my berry guy, and I only go to him.”
It’s no secret that the charcuterie and grazing trend took off during the pandemic. But in the years that lockdown has faded further into the rearview mirror, business has slowed, Cruz admitted.
“The biggest challenge is probably just to stay motivated,” she shared. “The creating and making, that’s easy, that’s my fun, but it’s the reaching out and getting the business and the marketing that can be difficult.”
Still, Cruz holds onto the lessons she’s learned, one of those lessons being that she loves working for herself.
“If I’m willing to make money for a random person, why was I not willing to do it for myself?”
And to those just starting out, she insists: “Your price is your price. If you don’t set your worth, people are not going to value it.”
Andrea Cruz, Long Beach local and owner of Hungry Drea Creations.
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Q&A: Chef Melissa Ramsay
ARTICLE BY KAT SCHUSTER
PHOTOGRAPHY BY
ATIRA RODRIGUEZ AND CANDICE WONG
Melissa Ramsay’s journey to becoming a chef is a story of heritage, travel and community. Raised on the bold, smoky dishes of her Jamaican father and the soulful stews of her Cape Verdean mother, every plate she creates is a love letter to her roots. Through her catering venture, Fresh Off The Yacht, she blends coastal and island influences into an immersive dining experience that feels both elevated and comforting. In this Q&A, Ramsay shares how Long Beach shaped her journey, the philosophy behind her cooking and her vision for bringing soulful, globally inspired flavors to every table she serves.
‘OFF THE YACHT’: RAMSAY TALKS FOOD, FAMILY TRADITIONS AND LIFE
IN THE LBC
Chef Melissa Ramsay.
Photo by Atira Rodriguez.
“MY MENUS ARE SHAPED BY PLACES I’VE TRAVELED AND LIVED — ESPECIALLY COASTAL TOWNS AND ISLANDS WHERE FOOD IS TIED TO THE WATER, THE LAND, AND THE PEOPLE.”
CAN YOU WALK US THROUGH YOUR TIES AND HISTORY WITH LONG BEACH?
Long Beach is home in every sense of the word. It’s where I’m building my business, raising my family, and connecting with a community that loves food as much as I do. The city’s diverse culture reminds me of my own roots — my father’s Jamaican side and my mother’s Cape Verdean side — and that mix of influences finds its way into my cooking, from the spices I choose to the way I plate a dish.
DO YOU HAVE A FAVORITE RESTAURANT IN LONG BEACH? OR A FAVORITE POP-UP?
I love how Long Beach is full of hidden gems and creative food pop-ups. I can’t pick just one, but I’m drawn to places where the chefs are putting their soul into the food — those menus that feel like they tell a story. That’s the energy I try to bring to my own events, too.
WHAT DID YOU DO BEFORE YOU BECAME A CHEF? AND WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO BECOME A CHEF?
I’ve been in the restaurant world since my teenage years. My parents raised me around bold, soulful flavors — my dad’s smoky Jamaican cooking and my mom’s Cape Verdean comfort dishes were just part of daily life. After years of working in every role within hospitality, I realized that my true calling was to bring those flavors and stories to the table in my own way by pursuing a career and studying to become a chef.
YOUR DISHES ARE DESCRIBED AS GLOBALLY INSPIRED WITH A CLEAR COASTAL AND ISLAND SENSIBILITY. COULD YOU WALK US THROUGH HOW YOUR TRAVELS INFLUENCE YOUR MENUS, AND PERHAPS SHARE A DISTINCT MEMORY OR DISH THAT CAPTURES THAT INSPIRATION?
My menus are shaped by places I’ve traveled and lived — especially coastal towns and islands where food is tied to the water, the land, and the people. One memory that stays with me is walking through a seaside market, smelling fresh fish being grilled over open flames, surrounded by baskets of tropical fruit. That kind of sensory moment is what I try to recreate for guests — a plate that feels like a little trip.
Chef Ramsay brings restaurantquality excellence to an intimate home dining experience, serving the evening’s signature dish with style. Photo by Candice Wong.
Rustic sourdough with chive butter, handcrafted by Chef Ramsay, sets the stage for an unforgettable garden dinner party under the lights. Photo by Candice Wong.
“My Cape Verdean stew, Cahupa, is deeply personal. Every time I make it, I’m honoring the meals I grew up with while adding my twist.”
— MELISSA RAMSAY
WHO TAUGHT YOU HOW TO COOK? WHO/ WHAT WAS YOUR INSPIRATION?
My first teachers were my parents. From my father, I learned how to coax depth out of spices and smoke; from my mother, I learned the beauty of slow-simmered stews and vibrant seafood. They both taught me that food is more than nourishment — it’s connection, heritage, and love.
DO YOU HAVE A DISH YOU SERVE THAT HOLDS PERSONAL HISTORY OR HAS A GOOD STORY BEHIND IT?
My Cape Verdean stew, Cachupa, is deeply personal. Every time I make it, I’m honoring the meals I grew up with while adding my twist.
“FRESH OFF THE YACHT” BEAUTIFULLY EVOKES A FEELING. HOW DOES THAT CONCEPT GUIDE THE ATMOSPHERE AND EXPECTATIONS YOU CREATE THROUGH YOUR CATERING EXPERIENCES?
Fresh Off The Yacht is about creating a moment that feels like you’ve just stepped into a breezy, relaxed, but still elevated experience. I want guests to feel the ease of the islands, the brightness of coastal cuisine, and the warmth of being welcomed into someone’s home — even if we’re serving under the stars or on a yacht deck.
WHAT PERSONAL EXPERIENCES OR PHILOSOPHIES SHAPED YOUR APPROACH TO CULINARY CREATIVITY?
My philosophy is simple: Let the ingredients shine, tell a story, and respect the traditions that inspired the dish. Growing up with two distinct island cultures taught me how to blend flavors without losing their authenticity. That balance — bold but thoughtful — is the heartbeat of my cooking.
HOW DO YOU ADAPT YOUR CULINARY APPROACH DEPENDING ON THE TYPE OF EVENT, VENUE, OR GUEST EXPERIENCE?
I start by thinking about the mood of the event. A formal dinner might call for refined plating and a slower pace, while a backyard gathering invites a more casual, family-style feel. No matter the setting, I adjust the menu and presentation so it feels personal and effortless for the guests.
BEYOND SOURCING INGREDIENTS LOCALLY, WHAT OTHER SUSTAINABLE PRACTICES HAVE YOU INTEGRATED INTO YOUR CULINARY OPERATIONS—WHETHER IN PLATING, WASTE REDUCTION, OR MENU DESIGN?
I’m mindful about reducing waste — whether that’s reimagining leftovers into new dishes, choosing reusable or compostable serveware, or designing menus that make the most of every ingredient. It’s about respecting both the food and the planet.
WHAT IS YOUR ULTIMATE VISION FOR YOURSELF AS A CHEF AND FOR FRESH OFF THE YACHT? WHERE DO YOU SEE YOURSELF IN FIVE YEARS?
I see Fresh Off The Yacht becoming a go-to name for coastal-inspired, culturally rich dining experiences — whether that’s through private events, pop-ups, or a permanent space. I’d love to host guests in a setting that feels like a mix between a seaside retreat and my family’s kitchen.
IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE YOU WANT TO SHARE ABOUT YOURSELF, YOUR GROWTH AS A CHEF, OR FRESH OFF THE YACHT?
My journey is built on heritage, travel and a love for community. Every event is a chance to share where I’ve been, where I come from and the flavors that connect it all. Food is my way of telling that story, one plate at a time.
A BAD HOME REMODEL
BRUNCH CHATS WITH ATIRA & KAT
ARTICLE BY LONG BEACH CITY LIFESTYLE PHOTOGRAPHY BY ATIRA RODRIGUEZ
The best conversations happen over shared meals — it’s where ideas spark, stories unfold and connections deepen. Each month, publisher Atira Rodriguez and editor Kat Schuster will settle into a cozy corner of one of Long Beach’s wonderful brunch spots to chat about whatever’s capturing their attention. From the latest binge-worthy series to the rhythm of life in our beloved coastal city, these conversations offer a glimpse into the minds behind Long Beach City Lifestyle. Think of it as eavesdropping on two friends who love this city as much as you do — and who always know
where to find the perfect weekend brunch. Pull up a chair and join the conversation.
Atira: It feels so fitting that we’re launching this column in our Food & Drink issue. And I think we chose the perfect brunch spot to kick it off at Nettuno.
Kat: Right? I’ve been thinking about how food culture has really evolved here. It’s not just about the trendy new spots — places like this show how Long Beach has the perfect mix of classic and contemporary. Speaking of food culture, have you ever seen Five Star Chef on
Carmelized French Toast takes center stage at Atira and Kat’s brunch outing at Nettuno.
Long Beach City Lifestyle’s publisher and editor have real talk about pop culture, Long Beach life and other unfiltered thoughts over weekend brunch.
Netflix? I stumbled across it recently and there’s a Long Beach chef who competed on the show. Her name is Raquel Fleetwood. Pretty cool.
Atira: No, I’ll have to check it out. I haven’t had much time to watch T.V. since becoming a mom four years ago. When I do, it’s more like Mickey Mouse Playhouse, Ms. Rachel or something like that. Mom life, amiright?
Kat: I can only imagine.
Atira: I love that kid, but I also appreciate having some girl time with you. We have to do this again.
Kat: Yes, let’s do this once a month!
Atira: I love it — I’ll let you choose the next spot!
more info
Nettuno, located on the main level of the iconic Fairmont Breakers Hotel, is a welcoming culinary haven perfect for morning coffee, leisurely weekend brunch, professional gatherings, or romantic evenings. This luminous, modern space seamlessly blends sophisticated design with genuine hospitality. Rooted in traditional Italian family recipes, Nettuno is an upscale yet comfortable dining experience that transforms every visit into a special occasion.
HOURS:
• Breakfast: Monday-Friday, 7:00 AM-11:00 AM
• Lunch: Monday-Friday, 11:00 AM-3:00 PM
• Brunch: Saturday & Sunday, 7:00 AM-3:00 PM
• Dinner: Friday-Monday, 5:00 PM-10:00 PM
• Closed for dinner: Tuesday-Thursday
Morning light illuminates diners at Nettuno, an upscale Italian brunch destination in Long Beach.
Nettuno’s Lobster Florentine Benedict with tomato, spinach and focaccia.
Atira turned a magazine into community.
City Lifestyle isn’t just a publication — it’s a pulse. A rhythm of voices, neighbors, and stories woven together by someone who believes in the power of connection. As we expand, we’re looking for people ready to turn care into community. Are you ready to be that spark?
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Published by Atira Loved by Long Beach
Gabriel “Fluffy” Iglesias opens up about his humble Long Beach roots, career milestones and the healing power of comedy.
Every Star Has A Beginning
ARTICLE BY KAT SCHUSTER
PHOTOGRAPHY BY NIRAV SOLANKI
On July 2, Gabriel Iglesias took a seat inside the Queensview Steakhouse at Parkers’ Lighthouse, and stared out at the harbor view he once only admired from the sidewalk.
Long before he became “Fluffy” — the first stand-up comic to sell out Dodger Stadium — Parkers’ was out of reach for a much younger Iglesias.
“I used to ditch school and come to Shoreline Village with my friend. We didn’t have money, but his uncle worked at a Greek restaurant that’s no longer here, so we’d eat there and walk around,” he said, gesturing toward the window.
“Walking next to the water was free. Looking at the Queen Mary was free. We spent a lot of time right here.”
One day, in 1993, his wealthy boss, who would dock right outside the restaurant, brought Iglesias to Parkers’ for a meal.
“That was the first time I opened a menu and saw lobster,” Iglesias recalled. “The first time I ever tried it was right here in this building.”
But on the day of Long Beach City Lifestyle’s interview with Iglasias, Parkers’ became the backdrop for one of the biggest surprises of his 49 years.
“I’m sorry, I never do this,” Rob Greenwald, Iglesias’ publicist said, interrupting the interview. Leaning in toward Iglesias, Greenwald held out his phone. “We just got a star.”
On the screen was a press conference announcing the Hollywood Walk of Fame Class of 2026.
British TV personality Richard Blade’s voice crackled from the phone: “We’re finally gonna get a Fluffy star!” he announced.
Iglesias stared at the screen earnestly, stunned, as if the air had been knocked out of him. “I’ve got chills,” he finally said. “This is actually happening.”
Then, a round of celebratory tequila shots came to the table, and the interview resumed.
FROM SHORELINE VILLAGE TO HOLLYWOOD
Iglesias was preparing for what he thought would be his biggest career
Gabriel “Fluffy” Iglesias enjoys a glass of red wine along with his favorite dishes at Parkers’ Lighthouse.
Wall-to-wall framed photos and memorabilia at Iglesias’ Signal Hill compound chronicle his inspiring journey and friends he’s met along the way.
achievement yet — “One Night Only” with fellow comedian Jo Koy at the 70,000-seat SoFi Stadium on March 21, 2026. Now, he’s also planning his Walk of Fame ceremony.
“Honestly, no,” Iglesias says, after we asked him if this was something he had envisioned for himself. “When you look at the Walk of Fame, you see singers, producers, Broadway actors. You don’t see people who are just stand-up comics.”
For Iglesias, it was a monumental moment when he got his hands in cement at the Chinese Theater this year.
“I was the first to get in as only a comic, not an actor. Robin Williams is in there for being an actor. Kevin Hart, Eddie Murphy — they’re actors.”
Like many of his biggest influencers, Iglesias is a storyteller at his core.
Growing up, he took notes from comedians like Williams, Murphy, Billy Crystal and Paul Rodriguez.
“Paul Rodriguez was huge for me. He was the only guy on TV who looked like me,” he says. “I remember thinking, ‘How did he do it? How did he sneak in?’”
Iglesias has become one of the most recognizable comics in the world, selling out arenas, headlining Netflix specials, voicing animated characters and building an international fan base. But on this July afternoon, in the city where it all began, his origin story was less about punchlines and more about perseverance when the odds were stacked against him.
Parkers’ Lighthouse, which opened in 1983, is just over two miles away from the small corner apartment where Iglesias’ mother raised him and his five siblings. And about two blocks from Parkers’, at the foot of The Pike, was The Comedy Club, which has long been closed.
“My brother tried to sneak me in, but they weren’t having it,” Iglesias says. “The coolest thing my brother ever said in life was, ‘You watch — my brother will be back.’”
Iglesias said his biggest break was the first time he got on stage.
“Day one. If I don’t get up on that stage for the first time, we’re not having this conversation. That first step is everything. If you want something, you have to take that first step — even if you fall on your face.”
Before Iglesias became a household name in comedy, he struggled to pay his bills and held two 9 to 5 jobs. But working at Robinsons-May in the credit department and selling cell phones for LA Cellular during the day while telling jokes by night eventually led to burnout.
After he was evicted from his apartment, his sister took him in, but under one condition.
“‘You can sleep on the couch. You’ve got a year,’” his sister told him.
That “year” became the launchpad for a career that has stretched across decades, arenas and streaming platforms. Through it all, Iglesias has never pre-written his material.
“I don’t sit and write. Nothing I’ve done has ever been written down. Stuff happens and I talk about it on stage. The more frustrating the situation, the funnier it usually is.”
But Iglesias has long recorded his shows.
“If something worked, I go back, listen, and build on it.”
For Iglesias, the healing power of comedy goes both ways.
“People come up to me all the time and say, ‘I’m going through something, and thank you for the hour break. It helped,’” he said. “When people hear someone else dealing with something, they don’t feel alone. Talking things out on stage has helped me, too — especially with loss.”
When Iglesias had his hands imprinted at the Chinese Theater, a certain someone was notably missing from the event. It was the same weekend his beloved Risa, his dog of 17 years, passed away.
“Everyone kept asking, “Where’s your dog? ‘Are you going to put her paw print next to your hand?’ I was just crushed. But I talked about it.
That’s how I process things.”
THE GABRIEL IGLESIAS VW FLUFFY MUSEUM
Tucked into an industrial area of Signal Hill is Fluffy’s compound, which serves as the comic’s office and merchandise headquarters. But in recent years, it has transformed into a car museum.
When we visited the compound, a rainbow of 32 vehicles, the majority of which were classic Volkswagen buses, gleamed in a
A happy Fluffy, still beaming from the news that he will be honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
“That first step is everything. If you want something, you have to take that first step — even if you fall on your face.”
row inside the massive warehouse, each one equipped with a dog bed, of course.
Iglesias said he first acquired the property to accommodate an ever-expanding Fluffy merchandise business. From shirts to Funko Pops, Iglesias has created a gamut of collectible items for his fans.
But the cars? It started with a little help from Iglesias’s friend, Jay Leno.
Years back, after helping Iglesias recover a Trans Am for his ex wife, which was her first car, Leno’s team told him they could find him whatever he wanted.
“‘Well you know, if you ever run into a Volkswagen bus — that was my first car,’” he told them. “So a couple days later, boom, a Volkswagen shows up.”
Iglesias worked to restore and fix up that 1967 bus the way he would have if he had the means the first time he owned one.
Over the course of a couple years, Iglesias says the car collecting continued, until eventually, he would fill up a section of his compound, which in 2014 officially became The Gabriel Iglesias VW Fluffy Museum. Inside, we ogled at each vehicle, all meticulously cared for. Other highlights of the space include a life-sized Iron Man suit, an original “Back to the Future” style Delorean and a Volkswagen fish tank.
The warehouse also includes muscle cars from the 60s and 70s, modern daily drivers and more memorabilia.
His favorite car?
“You’re not gonna believe it,” he said. “A Toyota Sienna. Eighteen cupholders. Did you know that? I’ve been left on the side of the road by every single one of those classic cars.”
For Iglesias, the compound is more than a collector’s haven for himself. One day he envisions the museum as a space open to the community.
“Everything about me — my voice, my point of view, my stories — it all comes from Long Beach”
Last year, Iglesias was given the Key to the City. But he doesn’t want to hang it up at home.
“I want to give it to a local business to display.”
He holds a special affection for the Washington neighborhood where he grew up, but he says he’s lived all over the city. Iglesias didn’t travel until his comedy career started to take off around the age of 21. Up until then, his days were mostly spent in the LBC.
“I’ve lived anywhere and everywhere in this city, the good part of town, bad part of town — the halfway transitional part of town.”
STILL LONG BEACH AT HEART
“Everything about me — my voice, my point of view, my stories — it all comes from Long Beach,” Iglesias told us.
Even with homes in Whittier, California and Texas, and tour dates around the world, Long Beach is still “absolutely” considered home.
“Anytime I get the chance to promote a Long Beach business, I do. Mexihanas, Los Compadres, those are my spots.”
“1497 ½ Henderson. That’s where I spent my childhood. I even took a picture of the window where my mom used to yell at me, blew it up, and put a sign underneath it that says, ‘Every story has a beginning.’”
Now, with the SoFi Stadium gig on the horizon and a Walk of Fame star in his near future, Iglesias is thinking about how to extend the stage to others.
“I had to create my own stage,” he said. “I’d love to be able to give someone else that platform.”
Iglesias’ pristine collection of Volkswagon buses line the floor of the Gabriel Iglesias VW Fluffy Museum.
A mural of Long Beach’s Waterfront in the conference room at Iglesias’ compound proves he still has love for his hometown.
Once Upon A Lime
ARTICLE BY THE WICKED WOLF STAFF PHOTOGRAPHY BY THEA MERCOUFFER
The Wicked Wolf’s bartenders share the magic behind one of their signature cocktails.
The Wicked Wolf isn’t just a cocktail bar and tea house — it’s a fairytale-inspired experience that infuses this theme into every detail, from whimsical decor to imaginative signature cocktails. These cocktails — dubbed “Wolf Classics” — all bear enchanting, storybook names that transport guests into a magical world. Now, the Wolf’s talented bartending staff is sharing the secret behind one of their most popular Wolf Classics, revealing how you can craft Once Upon a Lime at home.
ingredients:
• 4 cucumber slices
• 3 basil leaves
• 1 oz. lime juice
• 1/2 oz simple syrup
• 1/2 oz elderflower liqueur (like St-Germaine)
• 2 oz. vodka
• 2 oz. soda water
directions:
Step 1. Muddle 3 cucumber slices and 2 basil leaves in a shaker.
Step 2. Add lime juice, simple syrup, elderflower liqueur and vodka; shake and double strain.
Step 3. Add soda water and ice.
Step 4. Garnish with remaining cucumber slice and basil leaf.
HAPPY HOUR | FOOD + BEVERAGE
Once Upon a Lime —
A Wolf Classic, garnished with fresh basil and a lime wheel, served in an enchanting crystal-cut glass.
BIXBY KNOLLS
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
OCTOBER 6TH
DSF Werks: Motor Monday
3180 Orange Avenue, Signal Hill | 5:00 PM
Motor Monday is a weekly open garage meetup where local nonprofit DSF Werks invites young people and mentors to show up, hang out, work on project vehicles or personal vehicles and have a burger together. They do basic mechanical repairs, oil changes, tire rotations and any other projects that they can fit in. This weekly event is open to the community and all friends of DSF Werks.
OCTOBER 10TH
4GIRLS Annual Gala
Recreation Park Golf Course | 6:30 PM
Don your finest attire and a mask that reflects your spirit for an enchanting evening of elegance, mystery, and purpose at the 4GIRLS Annual Gala: Masquerade Ball. This year’s gala promises an unforgettable night filled with fine dining, inspiring stories and dazzling surprises — all in support of 4GIRLS programs that empower middle school girls to embrace their full potential. Tickets for purchase at 4girls.org
OCTOBER 17TH & 18TH
Formula Drift: Shoreline Showdown
Long Beach Arena | 10:00 AM
The Formula Drift series serves as the premier international showcase for drifting, an auto-racing discipline where drivers intentionally oversteer their vehicles, causing them to slip and slide across the track in a spectacular demonstration of precision and power. Long Beach will host the 2025 finale featuring a brand new, one-of-a-kind street course layout. Drifting begins at 10 A.M. on Friday and 8 A.M. on Saturday.
OCTOBER 18TH
Musica Angelica: Quattrocento “Four Centuries of Italian Music”
First Congregational Church of Long Beach | 7:30 PM
“Sprezzatura,” an Italian term meaning effortless mastery or the art of making something difficult look easy, serves as the theme for this concert program directed by Gonzalo Ruiz. The performance exemplifies this virtue through a vibrant musical journey spanning from early Baroque gems by Francesca Caccini and Isabella Leonarda, through tempestuous instrumental works by Antonio Vivaldi and Gioachino Rossini, to modern cinematic themes by Nino Rota. A hosted pre-reception will take place from 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM.
OCTOBER 25TH
Long Beach Airport Festival of Flight
3590 E Wardlow Road | 9:00 AM
The Airport’s signature annual event celebrates Long Beach’s rich aviation history and local community, with thousands of attendees expected. This popular free festival returns for 2025 featuring aircraft on static display, live music, children’s activities, food and beer vendors, and more. The Festival of Flight is free and open to the public.
OCTOBER 31ST
Night Dive
Aquarium of the Pacific | 7:30 PM
Party like it’s 1925 at the Roaring Twenties-themed Night Dive. Swing to the tunes of the Good Time Jazz Band and learn new dance steps with a partner or new friend. Food will be available from the station on the Front Plaza, and drinks can be purchased from cash bars throughout the venue. Guests can also groove to DJs spinning in the galleries and so much more.
Summertime in the LBC
THE HOTTEST SEASON FOR LONG BEACH REAL ESTATE
Summer Market Recap: June-August 2025
Homes in 90803 are staying on the market 18 days longer with 9 more homes selling this summer. Compared to Summer 2024...
Homes in 90808 have appreciated 6% in value in one year with the number of sold homes remaining steady.
Homes in 90815 are staying on the market an average of 8 days longer and have appreciated 6.5% in value.
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