Well-loved Lebanese spot with reliably tasty grills and mezza, lively patio energy, and solid service; prices are mid-to-high for the area but value holds if you order smart.
Open Sesame Grill delivers solid A-grade performance through exceptional food quality anchored by standout shawarma, kabobs, and mezza, paired with warm, attentive service. The lively 2nd Street patio setting and strong loyalty base reflect a beloved neighborhood institution, though occasional consistency variations and tight table spacing prevent grade A territory. Competitive with Long Beach's better dining destinations for authentic Lebanese cuisine.
Set on Belmont Shore’s 2nd Street, this spot buzzes with lively patio energy and colorful rooms where servers check in warmly and plates crowd the table. One diner captured the vibe: "We emptied every plate and felt genuinely looked after." Expect a scene that is casual and bustling rather than hushed fine dining. The cooking leans classic Lebanese: juicy shawarma, tender kabobs, lemony mezza, and manoushe that is easy to share. It is produce-forward and tradition-driven more than experimental, with standouts like flash-fried cauliflower and zesty garlic potatoes. Prices sit a touch higher than neighborhood counters, but quality ingredients and steady execution make it feel fair. Families fit in easily thanks to familiar comfort items—pita, rice, fries, grilled chicken, and falafel sandwiches. There is no explicit kids menu, but the current menu includes many kid-approachable plates and vegan or gluten-free choices. For quieter conversation, opt for an inside booth over the street-facing patio.
Area vibe: Bustling Belmont Shore strip with shops, bars, and beachgoers; casual yet polished dining scene.
Safety: Generally safe, high foot traffic and lighting; typical busy coastal street conditions.
What's nearby: Near 2nd Street retail corridor, close to beach, cafes, and nightlife; popular for evening strolls.
Standouts include the shawarma and kabobs plus Mezza plates and the manoushe, with several items in the $10–$27 range.
Casual spot with a lively, sometimes loud patio, tight tables, limited street parking, and occasional service or cleanliness hiccups.
A lively, casual Lebanese grill with a popular patio and colorful interior, best for social dinners rather than quiet conversation.