The journey of finding authentic and delicious sesame balls in Ventura, California, is quite rewarding. I have always been a fan of sesame balls. That glutinous rice flour, filled with sweet pastes like red bean or lotus seed coated in sesame seeds, feels like a soul food. Sesame balls are a famous dessert, also known as Jian Dui, in Chinese cuisine. They are quite common in Cantonese dim sum.
Besides that, they are also available in slight variations in Vietnamese and Japanese cuisine.
Finding Sesame Balls in Ventura, CA: A Culinary Adventure
While finding the best sesame balls in Ventura, California, I came across Asiatique Eatery, a cosy spot with a well-deserved 4.5-star rating. Asiatique is a popular Asian restaurant in that locality serving a fusion of flavors with a little bit of everything. It is an excellent go-to spot for those who love variety. Being an Asian restaurant, you may find sesame balls here. They make balls perfectly crispy on the outside with a soft, sweet filling that’s just right.
What I love about Asiatique Eatery is the balance they strike between quality and quantity. They serve generous and large portions worth every penny paid. Plus, the service is impressively fast, making it a great place to grab a quick but satisfying meal. For those in the mood for more than just sesame balls, the menu at Asiatique Eatery has a range of Asian dishes like flavorful pho, hearty ramen, and fresh sushi rolls. With such a wholesome variety, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
On my hunt for sesame balls in Ventura, CA, the next places I came across were some authentic Japanese restaurants. The Kabuki Japanese Restaurant, Gotetsu, Koba Sushi, and Izakaya Zin are some of the must-try places. These promising Japanese restaurants have adopted the flavours that suit local palettes, making them included in their broader menu. While sesame balls are traditionally more of a Chinese or Vietnamese dessert, some Japanese restaurants in Ventura do serve them. These places also serve delicious Japanese specialities like tempura, sushi, and bento boxes, which are worth trying.
Similarly, I checked out some Vietnamese places in Ventura as well. I have a particular liking for Vietnamese cuisine, and it landed me at places like Banh-Mi-Grill, Pho Saigon, Mai’s Café, Saigon Kitchen Togo, and Love Pho Café. These spots seem promising for both traditional Vietnamese fare and the elusive sesame balls. On days when sesame balls are out of stock, you can also try a variety of desserts alongside their savoury offerings.
Don’t hesitate to ask Mochi, a chewy, sweet rice cake made from glutinous rice flour. It is quite similar to sesame balls minus the crisp exterior and sesame seeds coating.
Another must-try treat is Dorayaki, two fluffy, pancake-like patties with a sweet filling, usually red bean paste.
If you are a fan of sesame balls like I am, take some time and walk across Ventura’s streets. You will come across some excellent restaurants along with some roadside joints serving delicious options.