La Khaïma is a nomadic cuisine restaurant located on Fairmount Avenue in the Mile End. Its name refers to the desert nomads' tent, and the place lives up to it: you share a large dish, seated on benches, to the sound of African music.

A Mauritanian-inspired restaurant in the heart of Mile End

The founder, Mohamed Ould Atigh, is of Mauritanian origin. Arriving in Montreal in 1996, he settled on Fairmount in 2007 and often welcomes visitors himself. The restaurant aims to be a place of meeting and sharing: food from Africa, with a nomadic touch.

Atmosphere: low tables and aromas of the Sahara

Low tables, cushions, tapestries in a thousand colors: the decor evokes the desert tent. Couples find an intimate corner, while groups enjoy the comfort of a Moroccan lounge. The aromas coming from the kitchen complete this journey through another world. A private room also hosts receptions: a perfect meeting place.

The dishes: couscous, soup, and mint tea

No long menu here: dishes and recipes change with the days, prepared with local products according to the Slow Food concept. The table d'hôte revolves around a couscous of your choice or mixed:

  • chicken with olives (the tenadi, enhanced with preserved lemon);
  • beef with dates (the marjen, simmered for a long time);
  • vegan version with beans.

As a starter, the M'Berberli soup, made with lentils, ginger, and caramelized onions, and mezze. To finish, mint tea or the house drink with hibiscus flower. The online menu also mentions a Sunday brunch, with shakshuka with tomatoes and peppers. Gluten-free options are available. A true pleasure to discover new flavors.

Prices, reservation, and bring your own wine

According to the online menu, the table d'hôte starts around $28, and more complete group menus go up to $50 per person. It's a "bring your own wine," which makes the evening more affordable. Reserve by phone and check prices before your visit. Music and comedy evenings are occasionally held there (see the Facebook page), and a catering service is offered for private events.

Practical information

  • Address: 142 Fairmount Avenue West, Montreal (Mile End).
  • Phone: 514 948-9993.
  • Hours: in the evening, from Monday to Sunday; check the restaurant's website before you go.
  • Daily menu: on the official site.

Frequently Asked Questions about La Khaïma

What cuisine does this restaurant serve?

African dishes with a nomadic and North African inspiration: chicken or beef couscous, lentil soup, and mezze.

Can you bring your own wine?

Yes, it's a "bring your own wine."

Are there vegetarian dishes?

Yes, a vegan couscous is offered, as well as gluten-free options.

Is it a good choice for groups?

Yes. The lounge and group menus are well-suited for this.

Also to discover in Mile End

Nearby: the Théâtre Fairmount and St-Viateur Bagel. The Festival International Nuits d'Afrique extends the journey with music.