By Silvia Radan (AROUND AND ABOUT)
One of the very few authentic Moroccan restaurants in Abu Dhabi, Westin’s award winning Agadir is embarking on a food journey exploring and delivering distinctly different regional cuisine from three Moroccan cities.
In the months to come, you may sample cuisine from the most famous regions of Morocco and be inspired by the rich culture of a people that truly love the diversity of flavours and cooking techniques that the country has to offer. Saffron, a common ingredient in Moroccan cuisine and one that is currently valued higher than gold, will be combined with other fundamental ingredients such as dates, prunes, apricots, Ras Al Hanout spice and argan oil, as well as with those specific to each region to provide a very diverse menu.
The journey will run for the three months of February, March and April. During this time, Agadir will visit the gastronomic regions, starting with Tangier, which has Portuguese and Spanish influences with a focus on Paellas, the famed short grain rice dish cooked with chicken, seafood and vegetables. The journey will continue to the famous region of Casablanca, known for its diversity in seafood and traditional preparation of couscous. The final destination will be the mystical region of Marrakesh, where the cuisine will follow a strong French influence, most famous for the Tagine (slow cooking clay pot).
A retail area will be placed in Agadir offering an opportunity for diners (or passers by) to take home some authentic Moroccan goods. A live oud player and henna artist will be present in Agadir every night for guests, along with ample varieties of flavoured shisha. Each month will see a new signature flavour introduced for guests to enjoy in the tranquil terrace of Agadir.
Until February, diners may still enjoy Agadir’s Moroccan menu, inspired by the mystery and allure of the Arabian Nights. The restaurant blends Arabic and Mediterranean cooking styles, creating meals evoking flavours and fragrances of the Maghreb. Flickering lanterns illuminate the distinctive décor, providing an intimate ambiance to focus the senses. There are fresh breads baked daily and traditional tagines, char-grilled meats and authentic couscous. The menu boasts a comprehensive selection of vegetarian items. In the cooler months enjoy al fresco dining on the terrace with an extensive selection of shisha.
Mafraq’s birthday
Mafraq Hotel in Abu Dhabi is celebrating its first anniversary next Saturday, January 26, with a day packed with family entertainment and activities.
From midday to 5pm, the hotel’s courtyard will be transformed into a Fun Day, with a traditional Arabic souk and playground for children. There will be complimentary food and drink stalls offering Arabic and international favourites, as well as tents for henna painting, arts and crafts, face painting, Emirati specialties and much more. Adults may enjoy shisha and Emirati dancers, while children will have live entertainment in the form of clowns, magicians and stilt walkers.
Local vendors will be showcasing their jewellery, crafts and souvenirs. There will be competitions too, with prizes and giveaways such as two-for-one vouchers for the hotel’s outlets and recreation facilities valid throughout the months of February and March.
Mafraq Hotel is a four-star independent hotel in Abu Dhabi situated away from all the hustle and bustle of the city, within 15 minutes of the Abu Dhabi Big Mosque, Sas Al Nakhl Village and 10 minutes from Al Reef Compound, Khalifa, Mussafah and Masdar Cities, five minutes from Baniyas and 25 minutes from Abu Dhabi city centre.
Entrance tickets for the ‘Fun Day’ are complimentary; however. guests are required to register online to receive their entrance ticket, as tickets are limited.
For more information on the programme, timings and to register for the event visit:www.mafraq-hotel.com
.
