TREAT YOUR TASTEBUDS DURING RAMADAN

New York City’s Islam communities preparing to recognize Ramadan, by way of a month-long sunrise to sunset fast, means come May 15, every meal counts. This is an ideal time for both Muslim and non-Muslim New Yorkers to discover the finest foods the Islamic culture has to offer. Case in point, the delectable Moroccan cuisine at Bab Marrakech in Brooklyn’s Bay Ridge section.

Only eleven months old, this dining treasure is owned by the Moroccan couple, Ismail Bourrich and his wife, Bouchra Salmi, and stars brilliant chef Malika Hakmoune, who grew up in Marrakesh. The menu offers amazing native dishes capable of satiating foodies with a seafood palette, love for veggies or carnivore card. Just read this brief excerpt from the restaurant’s New York Times review on its lamb shank (then read the full review here): “the flesh easily tugged off the bone, is long braised with giant fattened prunes and slivered almonds are strewn like petals. There are whiffs of cinnamon and jam, along with a hot-sweet streak of ginger.” Mouth-watering!

Now if you intend to visit Bab Marrakech during Ramadan, be aware that the restaurant’s hours shift during the holy month. Doors open at 2 p.m., but for takeout only; meals are served from 8 p.m. to 4 a.m.

Read more stories for the soul in search here.