By Charlene Duryea Editor, Washington Flyer Magazine & Travel Guide

If you haven't been to Casablanca lately, however, you're in for a treat. The food there is as sumptuous as always, but Arabic bands and singers every Friday and Saturday in addition to nightly performances enhance the atmosphere by belly dancers.

Twelve private alcoves bordering Casablanca's dramatic dining room offer private, pillow seating for three couples, or ultimate lounging space for just the two of you. After the ritual of washing your hands with water hand-poured from and ornate teapot and placing a thick towel in your lap as a napkin, you’re ready to begin the feast.

Casablanca's thick and wholesome homemade tomato and lentil soup is a traditional way to begin a Moroccan dinner. It is followed by a medley of tasty salads including carrot, cucumber and tomato, eggplant and potato and then the bastilla - a pie of phyllo dough filled with chicken, eggs and nuts and topped with powdered sugar.

Next you'll choose one or more main courses from a long list of chicken, lamb, beef or couscous options. I adore the chicken with lemon and olives; it falls off the bone, making eating with your hands even more fun. Want to try Moroccan food at home? Owner Rafi Labriny is happy to hand out recipes - just ask.

Step out from the Cobblestone Streets of Old Town and enter exotic Morocco. At Casablanca, dining means not only fine food and excellent service, but also an immersion into the rich culture of Morocco.

Casablanca is a family restaurant. It has been designed and built in true Moroccan style by many members of the Labriny family. Brass and fabrics have been hand carried from Morocco to create the ambiance that we hope you will enjoy. So when we say you are the honored guest in our traditional Moroccan home, we truly mean just that. We have imported our home here to you.

We invite you to relax and enjoy an evening of fine food and extraordinary hospitality. Visit today!