Morocco, the land of colorful spices, exotic scents, and rich history, has captured the hearts of many travelers and food enthusiasts. But what if I told you that you don’t have to travel all the way to Morocco to experience its authentic flavors and ambiance? That’s right. You can now taste the best of Morocco right in the heart of Atlanta.
At Babette’s Cafe, you can indulge in a delicious meal that serves as a gateway to the Moroccan culinary world. This cozy restaurant nestled in the Inman Park neighborhood offers a diverse menu that celebrates the country’s vibrant cuisine.
Start your culinary journey with their famous baba ghanoush, a smoky dip made with roasted eggplant, tahini, and olive oil. Or perhaps you’d like to try the meze platter, a colorful spread of hummus, tzatziki, grilled pita bread, and marinated olives.
For the main course, take your pick from the chef’s specials, such as the lamb tagine, a traditional Moroccan stew slow-cooked with dried apricots, almonds, and fragrant spices. Or savor the chicken bastilla, a sweet and savory pie filled with shredded chicken, almonds, cinnamon, and powdered sugar.
Vegetarians and vegans won’t be disappointed either. The menu features several plant-based options, including the vegetable couscous, a medley of seasonal vegetables, chickpeas, and fluffy semolina grains.
To complete your meal, sip on a refreshing mint tea, a staple drink in Moroccan culture. The tea is brewed with fresh mint leaves and poured into small glasses with a theatrical pour from high above.
The ambiance of Babette’s Cafe is also worth mentioning. The warm hues of orange and red, intricately patterned tiles, and wooden accents create a cozy and welcoming atmosphere that transports you to Morocco.
But Babette’s Cafe is not the only place in Atlanta that brings the flavors of Morocco to your plate. Many other restaurants and cafes in the city have started to incorporate Moroccan ingredients and spices into their menus.
Le Jardin Francais, a French-style bakery and cafe, offers exquisite Moroccan almond cookies, delicately flavored with rose water and orange zest. At the Mediterranea cafe in Grant Park, you can try the Moroccan chicken sandwich, a scrumptious combination of grilled chicken, harissa aioli, and pickled carrots. Meanwhile, the Atlanta Botanical Garden hosts an annual Moroccan Festival, where you can taste traditional Moroccan dishes, watch belly dancing performances, and shop for handmade crafts.
In conclusion, Atlanta is a foodie’s paradise, where you can explore diverse cuisines from around the world. The Moroccan culinary scene is no exception. So, the next time you’re craving exotic flavors or want to embark on a culinary adventure, head to Babette’s Cafe, or any of the other Moroccan-inspired spots in the city. You won’t be disappointed.