Waldorf Astoria Rabat Salé has launched Aldabaran, the first Moroccan restaurant from celebrated chef Alain Ducasse, marking a significant addition to the hotel's culinary portfolio. Located on the 33rd floor of the Mohammed VI Tower, the restaurant offers sweeping views over Rabat and Salé, positioning itself as a destination dining venue in Morocco's capital.
Ducasse, whose global empire spans Paris, Monaco, and beyond, said the collaboration with interior designer Pierre-Yves Rochon was key to creating a space that honors both Mediterranean gastronomy and Moroccan heritage. "This project is a dialogue between two cultures," Ducasse noted, emphasizing the use of local produce and traditional craftsmanship.
A menu inspired by the French Riviera
The menu at Aldabaran draws from the French Riviera, featuring dishes such as petit farcis, gambero rosso with ricotta tortellini, and lamb with caponata. Chef Morgan Perrigaud, who leads the kitchen, works closely with local suppliers, including L'Agrumiste's orchard near Fès, to source citrus fruits and other ingredients. The wine list highlights Moroccan vineyards alongside French labels, offering guests a diverse tasting experience.
One notable feature is the dedicated breakfast service, a rarity in Ducasse's portfolio. Guests can enjoy homemade pastries and a signature cookpot of eggs and mushrooms, adding a distinctive morning offering to the hotel's dining options.
Design and ambiance
Designed by Pierre-Yves Rochon, the restaurant combines contemporary interiors with Moroccan craftsmanship and Art Deco influences. The space, named after the star Aldabaran, pays homage to Arab astronomers and blends modern elegance with local architectural motifs.
Guy Bertaud, general manager of Waldorf Astoria Rabat Salé, said the restaurant will "set a new benchmark for Rabat's culinary scene," adding a unique dimension to the hotel and the city as a luxury destination. The opening aligns with the hotel's broader strategy to attract discerning travelers seeking high-end experiences in North Africa.
For travel professionals, Aldabaran represents a compelling option for clients visiting Rabat, whether for leisure or business. The restaurant's location in the Mohammed VI Tower, a landmark of the city, makes it a natural fit for corporate entertaining and special occasions. Reservations are available through SevenRooms, streamlining the booking process for agents and guests alike.
The launch comes as Waldorf Astoria continues to expand its footprint in emerging markets. Earlier this year, the brand announced plans for a wellness sanctuary in Kuala Lumpur, underscoring its commitment to luxury hospitality innovation. Meanwhile, other hotel groups are also opening new properties in the region, such as Tivoli LA VIE Muscat, reflecting a broader trend of upscale development in the Middle East and North Africa.
For agents and tour operators, Aldabaran offers a new selling point for Rabat itineraries, combining fine dining with panoramic views. The restaurant's breakfast service also enhances the hotel's appeal for business travelers, who often seek efficient yet memorable dining options.
As Morocco continues to position itself as a premier travel destination, the opening of Aldabaran adds to the country's growing list of high-end culinary attractions. With Ducasse's global reputation and the hotel's prime location, the restaurant is poised to become a landmark in Rabat's gastronomic landscape.
