Tajine – the first of its kind here – celebrates the rich culinary heritage of the North African country with a contemporary twist.
Featuring warm lighting and intricate arabesque walls reminiscent of Marrakech, Deliciae Hospitality Management’s new concept on Mohamed Sultan Road is dynamic and enchanting.
“Tajine is about Moroccan food: delightful, flavourful, playful. From small dishes to big plates, it’s a celebration of life; about meeting, sharing, and laughing around a table,” says founder Olivier Bendel.
With Mediterranean and African influences, executive chef Remy Carmignani’s menu features generous renditions of contemporised starters and mains to share. Think hearty platters, robust slow-cooked dishes, and unique salads.
Here’s what to try on your first visit:
The Mixed Platter of Moroccan Salads ($36 for three; $58 for six) is a great starter. Among them are Zaalouk (grilled eggplant) and Khizou Mchermel (cooked carrot salad). Batbout ($8) bread is perfect with this and Kefta ($19), wood-fired hand-shaped pieces of black angus beef, is also available.
Méchoui is a meat lovers’ dream feast of slow-braised lamb shoulder ($12 per 100g) served with Ras El Hanout basmati rice pilaf, dried fruits and cashews. Order this 24 hours in advance.
Tajine even revives the tradition of “Friday couscous” with Couscous Royal ($48), with lamb merguez, lamb chops, spring chicken, kefta (ground meat with spices), onion tfaya (caramelised onions) and chickpeas. It is complemented by a lamb and chicken bone broth.
Another must-try is the Pastilla, a traditional Moroccan savory pastry pie made with layers of thin filo and stuffed with
slow-cooked meats, spices, dried fruit and nuts. Each order is good for two persons. The Poulet Pastilla ($68) features organic chicken, turmeric, roasted almonds and orange blossoms, while Spinach & Artichoke Pastilla ($58) contains whipped ricotta, chickpeas, cumin, and turmeric.
The Milk Fed Veal Shank Tajine ($98) is a true North African stew, containing bone marrow, prunes, apricots, almonds, saffron, honey, and sesame seeds.
Among Tajine’s unique cocktails ($24) are Sumactini, a sweet and tangy martini inspiration made with sumac-infused vodka, pomegranate, elderflower, and pink grapefruit, and The Beast, a robust tipple with lapsang souchong whisky, PX sherry, ginger, and chocolate-spiced bitters.
Find out more at www.tajine.sg.