Open Sesame, Long Beach

The chefs at Sesame Moe’s–formerly Open Sesame Grill–view cooking as an art that involves more than simply following recipes. To them, and to original owner and executive chef Moe Bonakdar, cooking is something that requires a soulful touch—something that gets passed through the generations. This dedication manifests itself in the restaurant’s dishes, which carry a Mediterranean tune. Exotic tastes and aromas follow every creation that leaves the Sesame Moe’s kitchen, including fried potatoes and sautéed cauliflower. There are also entrees such as tawook—tender chunks of chicken cooked over a low flame with fresh spices and herbs.