Chef Ben earliest memories growing up in Morocco, took place in the kitchen, clinging to his mother’s apron strings, he watched as she lovingly prepared meals from her daily finds at the market.

It was those kitchen-side memories that evoked his passion for cooking and eventually led him to Los Angeles. With his mother’s recipes in tow, Chef Ben set out to bring tradition to the trendy, and perfected his own modern take on the centuries-old cuisine.

A catering opportunity in Hollywood put his dishes in the company of many well-known celebrities, including a then-rising star, Ryan Gosling. A few empty plates later, Ryan inquired about the caterer insisting it was “food he would eat everyday for the rest of his life.” The two became instant friends and after some time talking, they agreed there was something missing in L.A-the kind of place that made you feel warm and satisfied; a place where the food is made with love.

Unable to find it, they created TAGINE.