3rd Space Hospitality, the team behind such restaurants as Maison Close and Petite Disco, has opened the Morocco-inspired Ayah on Houston Street in New York City.
Ayah’s kitchen is headed by Geoffrey Lechantoux, the executive chef. Lechantoux trained under chef Meryem Cherkaoui, a graduate of the Institute Paul Bocuse and an ambassador for Moroccan gastronomy.
Cherkaoui’s restaurant, La Maison du Gourmet, has cemented her reputation, with appearances on Top Chef France and MasterChef France. Lechantoux is joined by chef Aïcha Sbaih, a French-born Moroccan chef who grew up with the traditions of Moroccan cuisine. Their collaboration produces a menu that blends classic and contemporary Moroccan flavors.
“We’re excited to bring Morocco to New York,” Lechantoux said in a statement. “Every dish and every detail have been crafted with authenticity to create an immersive dining experience that transports our guests to Morocco’s vibrant culinary world.”
Menu highlights include:
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Chhiwates: an assortment of traditional Moroccan small plates crafted from vegetables, spices, and aromatic herbs.
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Pastilla: crispy pastry filled with spiced chicken, almonds, and cinnamon — a signature Moroccan delicacy.
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Tagines and Couscous: slow-cooked stews with spices and sweetness, paired with semolina grains served with vegetables and broth.
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Whole Fish: Tableside service, featuring whole fish deboned and served in front of guests.
The bar program at Ayah, crafted by Adrien Lefort, includes drinks like The Dellah, made with a mix of citron-flavored vodka, jasmine tea, watermelon, mint, lime juice, and champagne.
Designed in collaboration with DMDesigns, Ayah blends Moroccan crafts with New York sensibility. The custom-made tables, handcrafted windows, and velvet curtains were meticulously created by Moroccan artisans and imported.
The space features rich fabrics, carved tables, gold-accented mirrors, and custom-designed lighting selected to evoke Moroccan culture. With three dining rooms, a central bar, and banquet tables for larger groups, the atmosphere transitions from intimate dinners to lively celebrations.
3rd Space Hospitality also created Talya Montauk, Monsieur Bistro, and other restaurants.
Contact Ron Ruggless at [email protected]
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