Working Magic on Iranian Specialty

Oak is what makes the Magic Skewers: The Manhattan Beach restaurant has molded oak ceilings, oak slat walls, oak-framed glass-topped tables and a polished oak floor with four Persian rugs scattered about.

This elegant restaurant, now a respectable 8 years old, was opened by an immigrant from Iran named Amir Pourtemour, who had no previous restaurant experience.

The name Magic Skewers refers, of course, to that Iranian specialty, the kebab. With the combo kebab ($13.95) you get a heaping plate of rice pilaf, on which rests two long skewers of chicken and lamb flanked by tomatoes and onions. The lamb has been marinated in olive oil, onions, garlic, teriyaki and Tabasco before grilling. The juicy chicken gets the same treatment, as does a Cornish hen kebab ($11.95).

The mahi-mahi kebab ($10.95) is flavored with lemon, garlic and oil, then grilled with tomatoes and garlic. Shrimp scampi here ($10.95) means 10 large shrimp sauteed in butter, olive oil, tomatoes and garlic.

Sandwiches include pita bread stuffed with either one skewer of chicken ($4.50) or sirloin steak ($5.50).

The Magic Skewers is at 1126 22nd St., Manhattan Beach. (310) 545-6755.

Open Monday through Thursday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday 11 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday noon to 9 p.m.