Moroccan Magic cocktails and belly dancing steal the spotlight

PLEASANT HILL, CA (August 27, 2024) — In a dimly lit venue that reminds one of a Casbah once frequented by the legendary Arabian Knights, Zahara entertains the audience with her mesmerizing belly dancing routine.

Clad in a colorful two-piece costume, she performs her act accompanied by live Sitar music. The captivating melody could tame a herd of wild cobras. Were Aladdin to fly in on his magic carpet, the enthralled patrons would likely not notice.

Welcome to the El Morocco restaurant experience.

Founded in 1977 on Meadow Lane in Concord, the business moved to its present Pleasant Hill location in 1993. Along with its famous dancing show, El Morocco offers a gourmet menu of Middle Eastern cuisine.

Having pleased customers for over 47 years, this fun place has provided a bill of fare resulting in many return visits from a loyal clientele.

Recipes from home

Present day Executive Chef-Owner Nader Shanhin has incorporated some of the recipes he grew up with in Bethlehem. His made-from-scratch creamy hummus dip should not be missed.

Nader immigrated to the United States when conditions became too unsettled in the land where Jesus was born. Moving nearby, he received training in the culinary arts while graduating from the program at Diablo Valley College.

This led to working at Boundary Oaks Golf Club, The Embassy Suites and The Cantina in Walnut Creek. Eventually, Shanhin became chef and general manager at the highly acclaimed Marrakech Restaurant in San Francisco.

After commuting for more than 10 years over the San Francisco Bay Bridge, he purchased El Morocco from its founder Fadil Shahin.

Moroccan Magic

Either sitting at the bar or lounging on cushions at low tables in the dining room, a good way to start ones meal is with their trademark Moroccan Magic cocktail.

It incorporates two types of rum, flavored brandy, with a blend of three juices, topped with a maraschino cherry. The concoction is twirled upside down three times, resulting in a multicolored effect. Talk about a new twist of “shaken, not stirred.”

The Casa (Moroccan lager beer) and the Almaza (Lebanese pilsner), pair well with the diverse menu.

For starters, we tried the Bastilla, which is a stuffed phyllo dough pie filled with a mixture of chicken, eggs and almonds, with a hint of sweet cinnamon. Also enjoyable was the Maghreb diced salad, falafels and dolma’s, that can be found in the full six course dinner.

Of note is the lentil soup, which I found delicious, despite not caring for it previously.

Entrees at El Morocco reflect traditional cuisine served in this colorful North African country. The Honey Lamb reminds me of the richness of lamb shank served in a sweet sauce. Couscous Royal with braised meat was also a winner.

Also available are a wide selection of kabobs grilled on a stick. Different types included prawn, chicken, lamb, and my favorite Kofta, ground beef cooked with exotic Moroccan seasoning.

Dancing

As we were finishing our main course, Zahara began her belly dancing show, which she performs every Friday and Saturday at 7:30 and 9 p.m. When she finished her performance, audience members joined her on the floor for an encore number.

Many clapped with appreciation. Zahara, who is the niece of the former owner of El Morocco, also operates a school, teaching her craft to aspiring dancers.

Our night ended with a pot of mint tea and Baklava, along with a promise to come back soon to this oasis of Middle Eastern culture.

El Morocco offers brunch on the weekends, from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m., featuring their Middle Eastern menu, along with other dishes such as crepes, omelets and even burritos.

Located at 2203 Morello Ave., Pleasant Hill, El Morocco is open for dinner Wed.- Sun. 5:30 to 10 p.m., staying open to 11 p.m. on Fri. and Sat.. Call (925) 349-9313 for reservations.