THE illustrious Nobu brand had fairy-tale like beginnings and was founded in 1994 by Chef Nobuyuki “Matsuhisa” Matsuhisa, legendary actor Robert De Niro and film-producer/ entrepreneur Meir Teper.
Their first restaurant opened in New York in 1994, followed by Mayfair in 1997 which quickly earned a Michelin star for its creative and high-level take on traditional Japanese cuisine. Today, Nobu is one of the fastest growing luxury hospitality brands with 43 hotels, 15 residences and 78 restaurants.
Nobu Marrakech
GLASS recently had the pleasure of dining at Nobu Marrakech, the first Nobu hotel on the African continent. On entering, one is awe-struck by an enormous Japanese Bonsai tree around which the lobby flows.
The interiors have been designed by Imad Rahmouni, a Marrakech design studio who have blended the ornate Moroccan aesthetic with minimalist Japanese sensibilities. Taking the elevator to the rooftop, one can enjoy this aesthetic to the fullest along with 360 degree views of The Red City thanks to the unique design of the circular building.
Nobu Marrakech Lobby
Here you will find the Rooftop Garden Restaurant & Sushi Bar which serves the classic sushi that Nobu has become renowned for but also a locally inspired menu with dishes such as lamb with apricots, prunes and almonds or beef shin with cumin, saffron and preserved lemons.
From the Japnese menu we tried the creamy spicy crab tacos, the seafood ceviche and the best spinach salad I’ve ever tasted in my life – the leaves were basted in miso paste and topped with crispy onions and were out of this world! From the Moroccan menu we tried the quail with seafood, chicken and almonds, and a chicken tagine with saffron, green olives and preserved lemons.
All of the dishes were truly exceptional. Made all the more enjoyable by dramatic views of the Atlas mountains in the distance and the mellow beats of the DJ spinning tracks by the pool. Children are also welcome, with a children’s menu available.
Nobu Marrakech Cuisine
Nobu Marrakech Rooftop
A 5 minute taxi ride from the hotel is the brand new Nobu Riad residence. Situated in the historic walled Medina, the Riad is a few minutes’ walk from the bustling Jemaa el-Fna square where the air is filled with a heady mix of melodic snake charmers’ flutes, beats of drums, friendly shouts from stall holders and the aromas of grilled meats and candied nuts.
The Riad however, is a serene sanctuary away from the hustle. This 19th-century former merchant’s home is now a 6-suite private property offering privacy and luxury for up to 12 guests. This intimate space also features its own restaurant serving Moroccan breakfasts (the Berber pancakes with honey are not to be missed!), afternoon tea, crafted cocktails and private dining featuring Moroccan cuisine classics and Chef Nobu’s signature dishes like Black Cod Miso and Yellowtail Sashimi in the private dining room or on the rooftop terrace.
Nobu Riad Junior Suite
Whether you fancy the cool vibes of the hotel or the exclusive, paired-back luxury of the Riad, Nobu Marrakech has something for everything.
by Nicola Kavanagh