A Modern Twist to the Intoxicating Flavors of Morocco

Looking for inspiration for my upcoming Moroccan themed party, I booked us for dinner at Mourad Lahlou’s restaurant; Mourad in San Francisco. A native of Marrakesh, Mourad opened his first San Francisco restaurant called Aziza, earning him a Michelin star. His newest restaurant, Mourad is a modern interpretation of a cuisine deeply rooted in the past. Their food showcases the rich and vibrant flavors of Morocco with a modern twist utilizing fresh, local, artisanal ingredients.

Upon entering the restaurant, your first view is an amazing floor to ceiling sculpture showing a cross section of a tree trunk and it’s roots. The restaurant’s high ceilings give it an open and airy feeling while the look is modern and sleek adorned with explosive firework styled chandeliers. The second story boasts an impressive glass enclosed wine cellar. The restaurant has a pleasant atmosphere and offers a comfortable space for it’s guests.

I must begin by telling you about the impeccable service we received from beginning to end during our dining experience. We were catered to – by no less than six professionals, each trained as a cog in a machine that runs ever so smoothly. Without overstepping in any way, each person attended to our every need with skill and knowledge displaying customer service that was the best I have ever seen. One of my favorite samples of their graciousness was presenting us with a tag to retrieve our “doggie bag” at the front counter on our way out. A small touch that was soo sweet!

I was enthralled with the food! It sung out a flurry of Moroccan flavors holding back ever so slightly so as not to shout at you. I loved the way they offered family style share plates that incorporated all of their sides. There wasn’t a dish ordered that we didn’t love. I will state that my very favorite was the Black Cod. Each item on the plate was exquisite in itself and together created a symphony in my mouth. Down to the tiny fresh pea pods with their baby peas, the whole dish was divine!

Here are the rest of the photos with captions of each item for your perusal.

I won’t bore you with the pics of all of the sides, but they were perfect accompaniments to our meal including couscous with brown butter, kale with olive and citrus, duck fat roasted potatoes with buttermilk & dill and heirloom beans with tomato, feta and za’atar crumble. I will, however, make a special note about their Moroccan Tea. It was a medley of lemon verbena, mint and gunpowder tea and was truly sublime!

The desserts were works of art:

If that wasn’t enough, we were gifted a last small treat…

A magnificent 5 Star meal!