World Tour: Marrakesh Palace (DC)

Last night I had the pleasure of taking a trip to Morocco. Not on a United Airlines flight, but it sure did look like a familiar setting. I guess I should start by telling you where I went last night...Marrakesh Palace in Dupont is where I trekked in the heavy District heat for what I thought would be simple couscous and the like. It was well worth the walk from the Dupont Metro (*which easily feels like 15 NY blocks in this weather...). I decided to get the Marrakesh Feast which covers all the basics of a classic Moroccan meal. Soup Harira, Mixed Green Salad, Bastilla Chicken and Lamb Couscous make up the traditional menu.

Good option for someone that has either never visited Morocco or it has been a very long time since your last trip. For me it has been about 5 plus 4 stars and 2 silver moons since we tasted actual Moroccan fare in Morocco. With a timeline like that, we cannot even remember the flavors except for the astringency of cloves in the food. Marrakesh Palace was a good reminder of the authentic aroma of turmeric and ginger soaked lamb and chicken. One of the most distinct flavors I noticed in all of the food was the use of cilantro...why I think cilantro is strictly a Latin American flavor is beyond me but Marrakesh had a healthy portion in most of the dishes that I tasted. Excellent compliment.

Until I get a cheap flight to Morocco, Marrakesh Palace will have to do. Not a bad supplement if I do say so myself, they even have the belly dancers come around daily so you get the total Moroccan experience...