As the stars begin to twinkle over the Red City, a new kind of glow lights up the night.
Marrakech – A new culinary gem has just begun to shine under the starry skies of Marrakech.
Nestled within the charming Riad Izza, the iconic city’s latest dining spot — Noujoum — officially opened its doors on Saturday night.
MWN Lifestyle was exclusively invited to experience the magic firsthand, where the allure of the stars wasn’t just above us; it was on the menu too.
In an interview with MWN Lifestyle, Aicha Benazzouz, the brand and event ambassador at Riad Izza, shared insights about the inspiration behind the new restaurant.
“We chose the name Noujoum because it means ‘stars’ in Arabic, perfectly aligning with the celestial and elevated ambiance of our rooftop restaurant,” Benazzouz explained.
The name pays homage to the former home of Bill Willis, the famous American designer, whose influence is woven into the very fabric of Izza’s decor.
“The name evokes a sense of wonder and discovery, just like the experience we want to create, where guests can enjoy an enchanting night under the stars, immersed in art, culture, and fine cuisine,” Benazzouz added.
The dishes offered at the restaurant, such as crab and leek croquettes or truffle artichoke beef carpaccio, combine Moroccan ingredients with refined flavors.
Chef Ahmad El Hardoum, the chief orchestrator at this new promising dining hub, has meticulously curated a menu that promises an unforgettable experience.
Benazzouz also emphasized the role of Riad Izza’s ambiance in enhancing the dining experience at Noujoum.
“The atmosphere of Riad Izza, with its gardens and unique artworks, provides an intimate and enchanting setting,” she remarked. “It complements the culinary experience, making each meal an immersion in art and culture.”
The restaurant team is planning themed nights, featuring local artists’ performances and culinary evenings dedicated to Moroccan culture.
These events will be paired with live music and signature cocktails, creating an immersive experience for guests.
Collaborations with local artisans and producers are also a key part of Noujoum’s vision
They work with local producers to ensure the freshness of our ingredients, and collaborate with Moroccan artists whose works decorate the restaurant.
Describing the perfect evening at Noujoum, Aicha envisioned it starting at sunset.
“A perfect evening would begin at sunset with cocktails and small sharing plates under a starlit sky,” she said, adding that the evening would be set to live music or a DJ, offering an intimate yet memorable experience for diners.
The opening night of Noujoum was nothing short of magical. The restaurant’s celestial name perfectly reflected the atmosphere, as both Moroccans and foreigners gathered to experience its debut under the starry Marrakech sky.
Among the distinguished guests were artists like Fahd Benchemsi, adding a touch of celebrity allure to the evening.
The menu did not disappoint either—guests were treated to an exquisite selection of dishes that highlighted the fusion of Moroccan ingredients with global flavors.
As plates were passed and glasses clinked, the air was filled with the harmonious blend of Gnaoua music and smooth R&B rhythms.
The live performances created an eclectic yet captivating soundtrack to the night, setting the stage for a night to remember.
