Thankfully my entertaining dinner companion (phew) is keen to share, so I’m able to sample both seafood and meat at the same meal. We choose the Houte D’Lkasbah (a halibut with chermoula and seasonal vegetables for $24) and the Dalaa Meshouia (lamb rack with braised spinach and potato dauphinoise at $25). Chef Elatouabi’s skill in the kitchen is unquestionable. Both dishes are a superb and I actually contemplate stealing more than my share of the lamb!

Just when I thought the evening was winding down, the music suddenly takes a turn for the louder and a belly dancer shimmies and undulates her way onto the scene. Encouraged by several cocktails and caught up in the moment, I do some shimming of my own. Who knew those belly dance classes would ever pay off?

Settled back down and a little short of breath we order up some refreshing mint tea, split a tasty m’hannsha (honeyed pastry splashed orange blossom) and catch up on the week’s gossip.

Throughout the night we watch the owners dash in and out of the kitchen, visiting with their guests. Elatouabi, Fouad and their staff are charming and modest, providing just the right amount of attention.
Sadly, this night must end. With one last splash of rose water we are back to the real world and out onto the grimy streets of Gastown.