Categories: Lifestyle

Casablanca Moroccan Kitchen: A Culinary Journey To Morocco In The Heart Of Los Angeles

As a Moroccan entertainment reporter based in Los Angeles, I yearn for my couscous fix, reminiscent of my days in Morocco. Let me emphasize that Casablanca Moroccan Kitchen truly delivers.

Nestled in the lively center of Los Angeles, Casablanca Moroccan Kitchen stands out as a culinary sanctuary that instantly transports you to the vibrant streets of Morocco. This establishment offers a delightful journey for your palate, showcasing dishes brimming with rich flavors and lively hues, all accompanied by warm Moroccan hospitality.

When my American friends or colleagues mention their yearning to jet off to Marrakech, I steer them straight to Melrose Avenue for a taste of Casablanca Moroccan Kitchen. As soon as you step foot into this chic yet cozy eatery, you’re transported to the vibrant streets of Morocco. The intricate tiling, traditional lanterns, plush seating, and charming Moroccan decor create a little slice of paradise right in the city’s heart.

IMAGE: LYON PORTRAIT

The beautiful ambiance, with roses adorning the tables and the soft glow of candlelight, sets the stage for a truly romantic dining experience. Owner and chef Anis and his lovely wife Naima treat every guest like a cherished friend rather than just another customer. Their warmth, generosity, and genuine hospitality make you feel at home.

The talented chefs at Casablanca work their magic in the kitchen, whipping up dishes that celebrate life itself. Each bite is a symphony of flavors, with fragrant spices, exotic herbs, and top-notch ingredients in perfect harmony. It’s a dining adventure you won’t soon forget. So, if you’re craving a taste of Morocco without the jet lag, Casablanca Moroccan Kitchen is the place to be.

Prepare to indulge in a tempting selection of Moroccan delicacies from their menu. Begin with their fresh appetizers – the Casablanca Salad, a delightful combination of marinated grilled eggplant, ripe tomatoes, crunchy cucumber, tangy feta cheese, and zesty lemon vinaigrette. Don’t miss out on the Beet Salad, brimming with earthy beets, crispy almonds, creamy feta cheese, aromatic herbs, and their signature house dressing.

Having tried nearly every dish on the menu, despite not being a fan of red meat, I find myself unable to resist the Kefta Tagine (meatball tagine). Enjoying it alongside Moroccan tea while being serenaded by oriental music and entertained by a belly dancer is a delightful experience. This culinary journey delights the palate and transports diners to a world of exotic flavors and lively energy.

Are you feeling adventurous? Explore their Zaalook, a delicious combination of grilled eggplant, garlic, tomatoes, and olive oil that will transport your taste buds to Morocco. Or maybe you prefer the Crevette Pil Pil, succulent marinated shrimp in a fresh tomato sauce with garlic, herbs, and a hint of lemon. For those craving a heartier meal, you must try their pastillas.

Enjoy the Chicken Pastilla with sweet caramelized onions, cinnamon, powdered sugar, eggs, and crunchy almonds. Alternatively, savor the Veggie Pastilla filled with sautéed Brussels sprouts, bell peppers, zucchini, cabbage, garlic, and preserved lemon.

Are you feeling fancy? Opt for the Scallops Pastilla with tender scallops, sautéed veggies, garlic, and lemon zest. Lastly, the Seafood Pastilla is a seafood lover’s dream with shrimp, scallops, tilapia, and various sautéed veggies.

Delight in the tempting tagines, each accompanied by warm homemade bread. Choose from options like Chicken Tagine with caramelized onions, preserved lemon, and green olives, Lamb Honey Tagine with honey, prunes, apricots, onions, and almonds, or the Vegan Tagine packed with potatoes, carrots, zucchini, cauliflower, peas, and preserved lemon. A personal favorite? The Chicken Tagine – it’s so delightful, and it will bring joy to your taste buds.

IMAGE: SIMO BENBACHIR

Their couscous dishes offer a variety of vegetables like zucchini, carrots, cabbage, turnips, garbanzo beans, butternut squash, and onions, making them a vegetarian’s delight. You can choose from Chicken Couscous with a half Cornish hen and seven vegetables or Lamb Couscous with a succulent lamb shank and seven vegetables.

Suppose you’re in the mood for grilled dishes. In that case, their Moroccan Grill menu includes options such as Marinated Shrimp, Roasted Chicken, Kefta Meshoui, Merguez Sausage, and a Mix Grill platter, all accompanied by sautéed vegetables. Sample the Tanjia, a flavorful dish featuring slow-cooked beef shank, saffron, and preserved lemon.

Trust me, your taste buds will thank you. Bon appétit!

Author Bio: Simo Benbachir (also known as Simo Ben), the first Moroccan entertainment reporter in Hollywood and author of the bestseller “Sneaky Showbiz.”