Chelsea Square now features a taste of North African culture following the opening last Friday of Casablanca – a hybrid establishment combining bakery, café, grocery store and restaurant. The venue occupies street-level space in one of Chelsea Square’s oldest buildings at 222 Broadway. Casablanca showcases Moroccan and French influences distinctly. The baker hails from Morocco and is fluent in French, with baking techniques that are entirely French in approach. The baguettes emerge light and airy, while pastries reflect classic French design with an eclectic range of offerings. A lunch and dinner buffet presents a world-class selection designed to satisfy diverse tastes. The establishment distinguishes itself further by offering espresso and cappuccino, amenities that will appeal to residents seeking specialty coffee beverages in the evenings. The grocery component stocks essential items for neighborhood customers. At Friday’s opening celebration, several local dignitaries made appearances, including City Manager Jay Ash, Representative Paul Donato and Chelsea City Council President Leo Robinson, who participated in ribbon-cutting ceremonies. The workforce across Casablanca’s departments consists largely of family members, making this fundamentally a family-operated business. Mohammed Oumarhouch and Atef Abdelwahab serve as partners; Oumarhouch is an established Chelsea businessman recognized for operating the 7/11 across from the Chelsea District Court.
