The Ritz-Carlton Launches Their First Moroccan Property: Dar Es Salam

The Ritz-Carlton Launches Their First Moroccan Property: Dar Es Salam

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on September 18, 2024

The Ritz-Carlton has officially opened The Ritz-Carlton Rabat, Dar Es Salam, marking its debut in Morocco. Located within 440 hectares of lush forest and gardens, the luxurious palace offers a peaceful retreat in the capital city of Rabat, renowned for its cultural significance and rich history.

Helen Leighton, Vice President of Luxury Brands for Europe, Middle East, and Africa at Marriott International, expressed the significance of this launch, stating, “The debut of The Ritz-Carlton Rabat, Dar Es Salam marks a significant milestone for the Ritz-Carlton brand as we expand our footprint on the African continent and celebrate our first property in Morocco.”

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The hotel provides a mix of modern elegance and traditional Moroccan craftsmanship. Guests are greeted with grand architecture, featuring high ceilings and intricate designs. The lobby is adorned with “muqarnas,” a traditional Arab-Andalusian element, alongside a striking Rococo chandelier and vibrant bonsai trees. The walls are decorated with Moroccan “Gebs” frescoes, showcasing local artisans' skill in plasterwork. The décor represents a blend of Arab-Andalusian culture, with modern touches throughout the space.

Christian Fomm, General Manager of The Ritz-Carlton Rabat, Dar Es Salam, noted, “At The Ritz-Carlton Rabat, Dar Es Salam, we honor the tradition of luxury and hospitality that has defined our brand for over a century. Our palace, set in a splendid natural environment, offers a serene and opulent retreat where every detail has been carefully considered to ensure a unique experience.”

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The property includes 100 guestrooms and 17 suites, all with private terraces that overlook the pool and gardens. The Royal Suite spans 180 square meters, offering a luxurious experience that blends Baroque influences with Moroccan elements. Guestrooms feature ornate headboards, large mirrors, and marble bathrooms, creating an atmosphere of elegance. The vibrant colors and opulent fabrics in the rooms add a sense of freshness while maintaining classic luxury.

Dining options at the hotel include a variety of local and international cuisines. The Mediterranean Brasserie offers a refined dining experience, serving dishes made from high-quality Mediterranean ingredients throughout the day. The Lobby Lounge provides a relaxing setting for afternoon tea, with a selection of Moroccan and English teas, along with local sweets. For a more casual dining option, Palapa, the poolside bar and restaurant, serves Pan-American cuisine, including ceviche and tacos, complemented by refreshing cocktails. The Blind Tiger speakeasy bar, inspired by the 1920s, offers classic and signature cocktails, along with premium wines and spirits in a sophisticated, intimate atmosphere.

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The hotel’s outdoor spaces include Andalusian-style gardens, designed for relaxation with fountains and mosaic patterns. The expansive pool area is a standout feature, surrounded by sunbeds and shaded cabanas, creating a peaceful oasis.

The Ritz-Carlton Rabat, Dar Es Salam also offers a luxurious spa with saunas, hammams, and massage rooms. The indoor pool, inspired by Roman baths, is flooded with natural light through a glass roof, providing a serene atmosphere. Additionally, a state-of-the-art fitness center is available 24/7, offering views of the surrounding gardens and the nearby Royal Golf Dar Es Salam, which features 45 holes spread across an oak forest.

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For events and meetings, the hotel provides a Grand Ballroom that can host up to 400 guests, as well as 2,200 square meters of landscaped outdoor event spaces. The sophisticated indoor and outdoor areas make it an ideal location for weddings, conferences, and private celebrations.


Namak Indian Restaurant & Bar Introduces New Menu Inspired by India’s Culinary Diversity

Namak Indian Restaurant & Bar Introduces New Menu Inspired by India’s Culinary Diversity

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on June 12, 2026

Namak Indian Restaurant & Bar has unveiled a new menu that celebrates the richness and diversity of Indian cuisine through a modern culinary approach. Curated by Executive Chef Gaurav Chauhan, the refreshed menu combines traditional regional flavours with contemporary techniques and presentation, offering guests in Dallas a unique dining experience.

Inspired by India's diverse culinary landscape, the new menu has been designed to honour authentic recipes while introducing creative interpretations that appeal to modern diners. The result is a collection of dishes that showcase both heritage and innovation.

Among the highlights are a range of inventive appetisers and small plates, including Truffle Dahi Puchka, Raw Mango Salad, Burrata Bomb, Jhol Momo, Samosa Chaat, Bun Tikki, Papdi Chaat, Pani Puri and Chapli Smash Burger. These dishes bring familiar Indian flavours to the table with a fresh and contemporary twist.

The restaurant's popular tandoor programme remains a key feature of the menu. Vegetarian options include Bharwan Paneer Tikka, Hara Bhara Kebab, Malai Tandoori Broccoli, Tandoori Bharwan Mushroom and Tandoori Paneer Makhani. Non-vegetarian offerings feature dishes such as Amritsari Macchi, Chicken Afghani Tikka, Tandoori Salmon, Bhatti Da Kukarh, Tandoori Chicken, Lamb Seekh Kebab and Tandoori Masaledar Lamb Chops.

The curry section pays tribute to India's rich culinary traditions with signature dishes including Old Delhi Lamb Nihari, Laal Maas, Butter Chicken, Chicken Korma, Chicken Vindaloo and Chicken Tikka Masala. Vegetarian favourites such as Dal Tadka, Saag Paneer, Matar Paneer, Pindi Chole, Bhindi Do Pyaza, Subz Korma and Rajasthani Kadhi Kachori further showcase the variety of regional Indian cooking.

Guests can also explore a wide selection of rice dishes, including Hyderabadi Chicken Dum Biryani, Lucknowi Goat Biryani, Veg Dum Biryani, Kathal Biryani, Jeera Pulao, Matar Pulao and Vegetable Pulao, each reflecting distinct regional influences from across India.

Complementing the food menu is a range of freshly prepared breads from the tandoor, including Chur Chur Naan, Garlic Naan, Lachcha Paratha, Rumali Roti, Tandoori Roti, Cheese Naan, Bullet Naan and Breadbasket. The beverage menu features favourites such as Mango Lassi, Masala Buttermilk, Milkshakes and Iced Tea.

For dessert, Chef Chauhan has introduced a selection inspired by classic Indian sweets, including Ghevar Glow, Kesar Phirni, Gulab Jamun Bliss, Kesar Gajar Halwa Dream and Sweet Silk Bites (Cham Cham).

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Speaking about the new menu, Executive Chef Gaurav Chauhan said, "Our goal was to create a menu that respects tradition while embracing innovation. Every dish tells a story, whether it comes from the streets of Delhi, the royal kitchens of Rajasthan, or the vibrant culinary traditions of Punjab. We want every guest to experience the richness, diversity, and warmth of Indian cuisine through a modern perspective."

With this refreshed culinary offering, Namak Indian Restaurant & Bar continues to strengthen its position as one of Dallas' leading destinations for contemporary Indian dining, bringing together authenticity, creativity and memorable dining experiences.


Tacos Atarantados Expands in Miami with New Brickell Location

Tacos Atarantados Expands in Miami with New Brickell Location

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on June 12, 2026

Tacos Atarantados, the Monterrey-born taquería from Grupo Buenas Vibras and Mandala Group Hospitality, has officially opened its newest location in Brickell, Miami. The launch follows the success of the brand's Wynwood outlet and marks its second location in the United States.

Located alongside Sala de Despecho, the new venue introduces an all-day and all-night hospitality experience that combines dining, music, entertainment and nightlife. Designed to cater to different occasions, the concept welcomes guests for everything from lunch and dinner to late-night dining and social gatherings.

To mark the opening, Tacos Atarantados will give away $2,500 worth of gift cards on June 18, with the first 100 customers receiving a $25 gift card.

Inspired by Mexico's tradition of tacos as an everyday social experience, Tacos Atarantados blends authentic flavours with a modern, chef-led approach. The Brickell outlet is the brand's most immersive concept so far, bringing together its signature food offerings and the vibrant atmosphere of Sala de Despecho to create a multi-experience destination.

The culinary programme is led by Chef Jorge Guadiana, whose experience spans Northern Mexico, France and the United States. He has also worked under Michelin-starred Chef Carlos Gaytán at Mexique in Chicago. His cooking style combines Monterrey street food traditions with refined techniques and contemporary hospitality.

Speaking about the opening, Chef Jorge Guadiana said: "Bringing Tacos Atarantados to Brickell feels like a natural evolution of everything we've built. Everything we do is rooted in technique and tradition, the kind passed down and earned over time. We take that seriously and we're proud to share it here."

The opening builds on the brand's presence across Mexico, where it operates more than 16 locations. The Brickell restaurant further strengthens its growing footprint in the United States while expanding the hospitality experience beyond traditional dining.

The menu features signature items including Trompo de Puerco, Trompo de Res, Suadero tacos, Pirata Atarantado, Gaoneras and Abrazo de Rib Eye. Guests can also enjoy the brand's popular Cachetadas, made with a flour tortilla, crispy cheese crust and yogurt-chipotle spread, available with different meat options. Complementing the menu are sides such as Papas Enchiladas con Carne, Elote Atarantado, Frijoles Atarantados and fresh Guacamole, along with desserts including Cachatada de Gloria and churros.

Commenting on the expansion, founder Patricio Bernardini said: "Miami has always been a city that understands energy, culture, and hospitality. Expanding into Brickell allows us to continue growing the Tacos Atarantados universe while staying true to what defines us, a chef-driven taco concept with an atmosphere that feels alive from the moment you walk in. Together with Sala de Despecho, we're creating a destination that brings people together through food, music, and memorable experiences."

With roots in Monterrey and a growing presence across Mexico and the United States, Tacos Atarantados continues to build its reputation by combining food, culture, music and hospitality. The Brickell opening not only marks the brand's second U.S. location but also reflects Mandala Group's ongoing efforts to introduce its hospitality concepts to new markets.

Tacos Atarantados Brickell is located at 1250 S Miami Ave, Miami, FL 33130. The restaurant operates Sunday through Tuesday from 11:30 a.m. to midnight and Wednesday through Saturday from 11:30 a.m. to 2 a.m.


Amsterdam Plans Higher Tourist Tax and Cruise Terminal Closure to Manage Tourism Pressure

Amsterdam Plans Higher Tourist Tax and Cruise Terminal Closure to Manage Tourism Pressure

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on June 11, 2026

Amsterdam is planning a major overhaul of its tourism strategy with proposals that include raising its tourist tax to 20 per cent by 2030, closing the city's cruise terminal, and purchasing businesses and properties in the city centre to reduce tourism-related pressure.

The proposals were unveiled in a coalition agreement released this week by the city's ruling parties. According to a report by The Independent, the measures are aimed at addressing the growing impact of tourism on public spaces, local infrastructure, and residents' quality of life.

Amsterdam currently charges one of the highest tourist taxes in Europe, with visitors paying 12 per cent of their overnight accommodation cost. Day visitors are also subject to a tourist tax of €15.

Under the proposed plan, the tourist tax will increase to 16 per cent next year and then rise by one percentage point annually until it reaches 20 per cent in 2030.

“Amsterdam remains an attractive destination for visitors from all over the world,” the coalition agreement said, as per The Independent report. “Tourism contributes to the city’s economy, but at the same time places significant pressure on public spaces, quality of life and municipal facilities.”

City officials said the additional revenue generated through the tax increase would be used to make Amsterdam cleaner, safer, and more liveable for both residents and visitors.

One of the most significant proposals involves shutting down Amsterdam's cruise terminal. The coalition government stated that it wants to “end the option to reach Amsterdam by sea cruise” and plans to discuss possible alternatives with national and regional authorities.

The agreement also includes plans to buy buildings and businesses in the city centre as part of wider efforts to transform the area and ease tourism-related congestion.

In addition, Amsterdam is considering increasing its entertainment levy, which applies to activities such as canal boat tours, boat rentals, and other water-based experiences. The move is intended to ensure that day visitors contribute more towards maintaining the city's infrastructure and public services.

The proposed measures reflect Amsterdam's broader efforts to balance the economic benefits of tourism with the need to protect local communities, public spaces, and the overall quality of life in one of Europe's most visited destinations.

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