Nestled on a quiet street between Oberkampf and the North Marais, Le Tagine is a jewel of a Moroccan restaurant that has been a beloved destination for Parisians seeking authentic couscous and tagine for over four decades.
Upon arrival, diners are greeted with a warm welcome by either the lead waiter or the owner, Marie-Josée Mimoun, along with her charming Dachshund. The warmly lit dining room, filled with the enticing aroma of spices, sets the stage for a memorable dining experience.
A Relaxed and Diverse Crowd
The restaurant attracts a diverse clientele, from young couples to multi-generational families who have been regulars for decades. The atmosphere is ultra-laid back, with diners dressed in jeans and stylish sneakers.
Natural Wine Focus
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Long before natural wine became a buzzword in the bistronomy scene, it was a central focus of the drinks menu at Le Tagine. When Mimoun opened the restaurant with her late husband 40 years ago, this was particularly unusual for a Moroccan restaurant. The wine list boasts a wide selection of well-priced natural and biodynamic grower wines and Champagnes.
The Food: Couscous and Tagine Excellence
Le Tagine is renowned for its exceptional couscous and tagine dishes. While there are always a few seasonal specials (such as the artichoke dish, if available), the house signatures are a must-try. The restaurant offers nearly ten variations of couscous, featuring triple-cooked semolina, an array of vegetables, and tender, melt-in-your-mouth meats.
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Even if you're feeling full, don't miss the opportunity to enjoy a cup of traditional Moroccan mint tea to complete your dining experience.
Highlights from Le Tagine Menu
Here's a simplified table highlighting some of the must-try dishes and drinks at Le Tagine:
| Category | Dish/Drink | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Couscous | Various options | Triple-cooked semolina with vegetables and tender meats (lamb, chicken, beef). |
| Tagine | Lamb Tagine | Slow-cooked lamb with aromatic spices and seasonal vegetables. |
| Seasonal Dish | Artichoke Dish | When available, a must-try seasonal specialty. |
| Dessert | Moroccan Mint Tea | A refreshing and traditional way to end your meal. |
| Wine | Natural Wines | Extensive selection of natural and biodynamic wines. |
Service and Atmosphere
Le Tagine is a small, intimate establishment. Mimoun expertly manages the front-of-house operations with the help of one other staff member and the talented chef behind the scenes.
Eater (2024) notes that "Paris has dozens of North African restaurants serving couscous and tagines, but what sets this cheerful Moroccan restaurant apart is the outstanding quality of its produce, making it a favorite among Parisian chefs. Here, the couscous is made with fresh seasonal vegetables and succulent baby lamb from the Pyrenees. They also bake their bread and North African pastries in-house, while the wine list features an interesting selection of mostly natural wines."
Le Fooding (2021) describes the ambiance: "Sheer curtains strung up from the ceiling, mashrabiya lamps, benches covered in cushions… At this marock’n’roll lounge, you’re usually toasting with a glass of natural wine, possibly from the Domaine Gramenon, the Foillards, the Tricots, Arena…"
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Aaron Ayscough (2014) shares his personal experience: "I started frequenting my friend Marie-Jo Mimoun’s adorable Morroccan restaurant Le Tagine about two years ago."
Le Tagine has been serving delicious Moroccan cuisine paired with incredible natural wines for over three decades, making it a must-visit destination in Paris.
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