In the heart of Marrakesh, a city known for its vibrant culture and artistic heritage, Moroccan restaurateur Kamal Laftimi has created a new culinary and social landmark: the Pétanque Social Club. In this place, Laftimi‘s latest venture not only offers a unique dining experience but also celebrates and nurtures the city’s flourishing artist community.
On December 20, 2023, in Marrakesh, Morocco, the renowned Moroccan restaurateur Kamal Laftimi, aged 53, showcased his latest venture, the Pétanque Social Club. Situated in the upscale neighborhood of Gueliz, outside the historic medina quarter of Marrakesh, the club stands as a testament to Laftimi’s childhood memories of the dynamic Jemaa el-Fna square. Known for designing spaces that encourage spontaneous interactions and creative exchanges, Laftimi’s Pétanque Social Club is his newest addition to the city’s vibrant culinary scene.
Originally a 1930s club for French colonists, the property was a favorite haunt of Laftimi’s in his twenties. After acquiring it in 2019, he spent four years meticulously restoring its large courtyard garden and 2,000-square-foot building, which now houses multiple dining areas, a bar, and an open kitchen. The club, often referred to as PSC, was intentionally kept discreet without signage, initially known only to a select group of Marrakesh locals.
The PSC’s décor, conceptualized by Ibiza-based designers Diego Alonso and Alexeja Pozzoni, features a mix of reclaimed materials and local craftsmanship. Its walls are adorned with graffiti-style art by Yassine Balbzioui, adding to its eclectic and theatrical ambiance.
The club’s Swedish chef, Carl Goldberg, infuses Mediterranean dishes with North African influences. The menu encourages communal dining, featuring items like burrata with tomatoes, cumin-roasted carrots with hummus, and a variety of shared entrees and desserts. The drinks menu includes Sahara Spritzes and local wines, complementing the dining experience.
Laftimi recently hosted a celebratory dinner at the PSC, marking one of Marrakesh’s first major gatherings since a devastating earthquake. The event was attended by prominent figures from the local cultural scene, fostering discussions on contemporary art and the city’s resilience.
Kamal Laftimi’s Pétanque Social Club is more than just a restaurant; it’s a cultural hub that epitomizes the spirit of Marrakesh. Through his innovative approach to dining and community engagement, Laftimi has created a space that not only offers exceptional culinary experiences but also serves as a gathering point for artists and cultural connoisseurs, contributing significantly to the vibrant tapestry of Marrakesh’s artistic community.
