The Rabat Marriott Hotel has opened Sanuj, a new restaurant that gives a fresh take on Moroccan food while staying true to traditional recipes and cooking methods. The restaurant is named after Sanuj, also known as nigella seeds, a common ingredient in Moroccan kitchens. The hotel says the idea is to turn familiar flavours and family recipes into a modern dining experience for both Moroccan and international guests.
The menu includes Moroccan tapas, allowing diners to try several small dishes instead of one large meal. It also features traditional recipes, slow-cooked meats, rich sauces and spices from the Souss region.
Sanuj was created by the MADAËF Brand Factory, part of MADAËF, the tourism investment company of Morocco’s state-owned CDG Group. Chef Baya leads the kitchen with a menu that mixes Moroccan traditions with modern presentation.
The restaurant’s design combines Moroccan craftsmanship with a clean, modern look. It features zellige tiles, carved wood, brass lanterns, marble, Moroccan rugs and the green colours linked to the city of Fez. The hotel says the aim is to celebrate Moroccan culture without relying on old stereotypes.
Guests will also enjoy live entertainment during dinner, including oud music, singing, theatre performances and poetry curated by Saloua Regragui. The drinks menu highlights Moroccan ingredients alongside international options.
The opening comes as Rabat continues to grow as a luxury tourism destination. The city has welcomed several high-end hotels in recent years, including the Rabat Marriott, the Ritz Carlton Dar Es Salam and the Fairmont La Marina Rabat Salé.
The expansion is linked to Morocco’s preparations for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and the 2030 FIFA World Cup, with the country investing in hotels, restaurants and visitor facilities ahead of the events.
Sanuj is also part of a wider plan by MADAËF to create Moroccan hospitality brands instead of relying only on international restaurant chains. The company manages more than 50 tourism assets across the country and works with hotel groups including Marriott, Hyatt and Radisson.
The restaurant follows a growing trend in luxury travel, where visitors look for local food, culture and live experiences in one place.
