Open Sesame

For restaurateur and Open Sesame owner Ali Kobeissi, a certain hallmark is making him “feel quite old.” But ultimately, that very hallmark is a celebration: his Lebanese staple in Belmont Shore is about to surpass a quarter of a century of serving the community. It has also allowed the man to reflect on the beautiful life he has been able to build for himself through Lebanese cuisine—and how the need to slow life down is a part of what makes Open Sesame a success.

After all, Open Sesame is Ali’s secret recipe card from Lebanon to Long Beach. With eyes wide for a new journey in his life, he is ready to let his son and daughter take the reins on the restaurant’s two locations. All the while, he gets to enjoy the sweet slow life while the rest of us continue to revel in his hummus and tawook.

Written and photos by Brian Addison. 

For the full feature on Open Sesame, click here.