Moroccan Experience

An Authentic Moroccan Dining Experience

Imagine driving down a serene, bamboo-lined driveway on a warm summer night. As you approach a charming farmhouse overlooking the Conestoga River, you are greeted by Chef Bushra Fakier. Dressed in a traditional Moroccan djellaba and headscarf, she welcomes you to an evening that promises to transport you straight to Morocco.

Arrival and Welcoming Ritual

Upon arrival, you are guided to the front patio where a silver wash basin and a beautiful arrangement of sweet treats await. Chef Bushra invites you to wash your hands as she pours water from a kettle, a traditional Moroccan gesture of hospitality. You then enjoy the first of many delights: almond milk and dates, setting the tone for the authentic experience to come.

Atmosphere and Ambiance

Moroccan music fills the air as you make your way to a vibrant setup of tents and tapestries. These radiant tents, adorned with plush pillows, woven rugs, and hanging lights, create a lively and inviting atmosphere. Red flags with green stars, symbolizing the Kingdom of Morocco, flutter gently in the breeze, adding to the immersive experience.

Indoor and Outdoor Spaces

Chef Bushra offers both beautiful indoor and outdoor dining spaces, each with its own magical charm. The outdoor space, with its colorful tents and open-air ambiance, provides a lively and immersive setting. The indoor space, equally enchanting, is designed to accommodate guests in a cozy and intimate environment, perfect for smaller gatherings or inclement weather. Both spaces are meticulously decorated to reflect the rich cultural heritage of Morocco, ensuring an unforgettable experience regardless of the setting. Guests have the option to choose between standard dining tables and chairs or low tables with cozy pillows for seating, reflecting traditional Moroccan dining customs. The tents are not only visually stunning but also provide a comfortable and intimate setting for the evening.

Culinary Journey

The culinary journey begins with several rounds of appetizers served tableside. The sound of Moroccan music builds, enhancing the lively atmosphere. Chef Bushra, with her team, brings out luminous tagines, traditional Moroccan cooking vessels, filled with delicious dishes. These ornate domes, used for slow cooking, serve as stunning centerpieces on the buffet. As the main course is unveiled, you are treated to a feast fit for royalty. The diafa, a lamb shank tagine served with caramelized prunes, quail eggs, and sesame seeds, is tender and flavorful. The Moroccan chicken tagine, cooked with saffron, preserved lemons, and olives, offers a rich and subtly spicy taste. Accompanying the meal is hibiscus juice, a refreshing beverage with a delicate floral aroma.

Tea Service and Desserts

After dinner, the evening concludes with a traditional Moroccan tea service. Chef Bushra, seated among her guests, pours hot tea from a height, demonstrating skill and tradition. The tea is served with baklava, Moroccan biscotti, and peanut butter cookies, providing a sweet ending to the memorable night.

Ladies Night

Once a season, the Moroccan Experience takes on a slightly different format, elevated to an exclusive ladies’ night. Women embracing the occasion can quite literally let their hair down, dance, and enjoy a Moroccan feast, with a couple of additions. There is often a DJ on hand, and guests can experience the temporary artwork of henna, traditionally found at celebratory events. (Date TBD.)