Where Bavarian cuisine was once served, a new Moroccan restaurant, ‘El Nador,’ has opened its doors in Munich’s Sendling district. Located at the corner of Brudermühl-/Schäftlarnstraße, directly opposite the Gasteig-HP8 cultural center, the restaurant aims to impress with authentic dishes and an oriental atmosphere.
A Taste of Morocco in Munich
Christian Gebauer, the restaurant’s owner, and Naima El Helali, a native of Morocco and the heart of El Nador, have created a space that transports guests to North Africa. The interior features wooden ornaments, oriental lanterns, and a portrait of the current Moroccan King Mohammed VI, reflecting the authenticity that Gebauer and El Helali strive for.
For Gebauer, an experienced restaurateur who previously ran the Mexican restaurant ‘La Cucaracha’ and ‘Leonhard Diner,’ Moroccan cuisine was a new venture. However, he was convinced by El Helali’s lamb dish, which he claims changed his perception of lamb altogether. This culinary revelation led to the idea of opening a Moroccan restaurant together.
Authenticity Through Family Recipes and Imported Spices
Naima El Helali, born in the Nador province of Morocco, learned the art of cooking from her grandmother and mother. She regularly brings spices from Morocco, which, according to Gebauer, are essential for the unique taste of their dishes. “You can’t get these here, that’s why it tastes so unique,” he adds.
The restaurant’s concept and interior were meticulously planned and renovated over several months. The duo took over the former ‘Ludwigs Wirtshaus’ in November of the previous year and opened El Nador in April of this year.
Tajines: The Heart of the Menu
The centerpiece of El Nador’s menu are the Tajines, traditional Moroccan stewed dishes cooked and served in distinctive clay pots. These dishes, starting from 21.90 Euros, are slow-cooked, allowing flavors to meld perfectly. Guests can choose to eat with cutlery or, traditionally, with their hands.
In addition to Tajines, the restaurant offers Moroccan mint tea and even wine imported directly from Morocco, further enhancing the authentic dining experience.
A Culinary Destination for Theater-Goers and Food Enthusiasts
While the summer months saw less activity around the Gasteig-HP8, the restaurant anticipates becoming a popular spot for visitors looking to end their theater evenings with a unique culinary experience once the cultural center is fully operational again after the summer break.
Gebauer and El Helali emphasize that El Nador is not a place for a quick meal. They encourage guests to take their time, savor the food, and immerse themselves in the atmosphere. For those in a hurry, dishes can also be ordered for delivery, though Gebauer notes that this might diminish the immersive Moroccan experience the restaurant offers.
El Nador is located at Schäftlarnstraße 62 and is open from Wednesday to Sunday, starting at 5:30 PM. Reservations can be made by calling 089 90 93 95 95.
Source: https://www.abendzeitung-muenchen.de/muenchen/essenundtrinken/die-gewuerze-bringt-sie-regelmaessig-aus-marokko-mit-muenchner-restaurant-neueroeffnung-ueberrascht-art-1152252
