Habibi Miami melds Moroccan cuisine with the Rivieras of Miami and France
When I first heard about Habibi Miami, a Moroccan French Riviera-inspired dinner club opening along the Miami River, I was intrigued. Growing up Moroccan, I’ve always wanted more of my country’s design, flavors, and culture in Miami, and I was curious to see how Habibi Miami would bring a touch of the Maghreb to the city’s already glittering dining scene.
MOROCCAN GOES MIAMI
The entrance sets the tone. A 30-foot red carpet leads to a space framed by Moorish design elements and greenery, a nod to the ornate architecture of Morocco. Inside, the décor leans into retro luxury: pink and teal hues, velvet booths, silk draperies, and Turkish rugs, all tucked within a tent-like structure reminiscent of the riads of Marrakech. The influence is clear—a modern Riviera take on the Maghreb, with just enough glamour to match Miami’s buzzing social scene.
The menu offers a curated mix of flavors that weave together North African, Mediterranean, and continental influences. While not traditionally Moroccan, the dishes bear subtle nods to the cuisine’s heart. The “Merguez Pigs in a Blanket” offers a playful twist on Morocco’s iconic spiced lamb sausage, while the whole roasted cauliflower with charred wild mushrooms evokes the earthy, spice-forward flavors I grew up with.
Designed to be shared, the Mezze Royale is the perfect starter. A colorful array of creamy hummus, smoky eggplant, and vibrant seasonal vegetables arrives with pita bread ready to dip. Another good starter is the Carpaccio Loup De Mer, a delicate dish of thinly sliced sea bass, accented with bright citrus and fresh herbs. It’s light, refreshing, and plated with an artistry that matches the restaurant’s aesthetic.
The main courses are equally impressive, with the Wagyu Filet Mignon perfectly seared and melt-in-your-mouth tender. The dish captures the spirit of the restaurant: luxurious yet approachable, with just enough flair to leave a lasting impression. Every plate at Habibi Miami is designed to be visually stunning as well as tasty. The tableside dessert cart, featuring ice cream with Turkish mastic and Halva cheesecake, adds an indulgent finish grounded in cultural roots.
At the bar, the Moroccan influence is subtle but impactful. The Moroccan Margarita, featuring harissa-infused pineapple reduction and a roasted couscous-salted rim, is a clever play on regional spices, while the “Ali Fashioned,” with peanut butter-washed bourbon, Giffard’s Banana & Honey, and orange aromatics, is an exotic take on the classic Old Fashioned.
The atmosphere adds to the Habibi Miami experience. At around 11pm, the live DJ’s curated playlist shifts the vibe from relaxed to electric, creating a steady pulse that keeps the night alive. Belly dancers glide through the dining area, their shimmering costumes catching the light in syncopation with the rhythm of percussion that fills the air. Even the tableside hookah service feels elevated, with customized flavors that blend the leisurely charm of evenings in North Africa with the opulence of the Miami River.
Habibi Miami doesn’t aim to be traditionally Moroccan; rather, it embraces the region’s influence with a Riviera-inspired twist. For me, it was less about finding a slice of home and more about seeing the beauty of Moroccan culture reimagined in a new, glamorous light suited for the Magic City.
