Tajine House
About Tajine House:
Tajine House is a celebration of Moroccan flavor, comfort, and tradition brought to life in the heart of Columbus. Known for its rich spices, hearty stews, and slow-cooked tajines that fill the air with warmth and aroma, the restaurant offers an authentic taste of Morocco in a fast-casual, market-forward setting. From tender lamb shanks to vibrant salads and classic couscous, every dish is prepared with care, depth, and the culinary heritage of its founders. As a merchant of the historic North Market, Tajine House brings global flavor into a beloved local institution, inviting visitors to experience Moroccan cuisine in an accessible and welcoming way.
How Did the Idea Come About?
The idea for Tajine House grew from a moment of opportunity—and the shared dream of its founders. Alex Daray and Lotfi Khomsi, who immigrated to the U.S. in 2001 and met in Columbus in 2007, had always envisioned creating a space where they could share the dishes they grew up with. That opportunity came when they saw a small but promising opening inside Park Street Poultry & Game at North Market. The space sparked their imagination: what if they transformed this corner of the market into a place where diners could enjoy slow-cooked Moroccan tajines, grilled kebabs, and the bright, comforting salads of their childhood? With the culinary experience and passion of their partner, Mourad Bassou, the concept quickly evolved into a real restaurant—one rooted in culture, community, and a deep love of food.
What’s Your Favorite Thing About Being a Part of The North Market?
For the owners of Tajine House, being part of the North Market is more than simply operating a food stall—it’s becoming part of a living, breathing community. Their favorite thing is the way the market brings people of all backgrounds together under one roof. Here, visitors wander with curiosity, eager to discover new flavors and learn about cultures beyond their own. As a merchant, Tajine House gets to be part of those moments of connection—serving someone Moroccan food for the very first time, hearing stories from customers who grew up with similar dishes, and sharing the traditions behind every recipe. The North Market’s energy, foot traffic, and long-standing history give Tajine House the perfect environment to introduce Moroccan cuisine to Columbus in a meaningful, personal way.
What Are Must Orders on the Menu?
- Lamb Shank or Chicken Tajine
- Moroccan Kafta (Meatballs)
- Taktouka (Roasted green pepper salad with garlic and tomato)
- Zaalouk (Slow-cooked and seasoned roasted eggplant and tomato salad)
- Cucumber Salad
Story of Tajine House and the Owners:
The story of Tajine House begins long before the restaurant opened—rooted in the journeys of its three founders: Alex Daray, Lotfi Khomsi, and Mourad Bassou. Alex and Lotfi both arrived in the United States in 2001, each carrying memories of home and the flavors that shaped their lives. When they met in 2007, they bonded quickly over their shared heritage and their desire to build something of their own. Lotfi had already dipped into the world of food and markets, having opened Casablanca Market in Hilliard, and his experience helped lay the groundwork for what would come next.
Their partnership expanded when Mourad Bassou joined—a natural fit thanks to his restaurant background and deep familiarity with hospitality. Together, the three men formed a team with passion, experience, and a shared mission: to bring authentic Moroccan cooking to Columbus in a way that reflected both tradition and modern convenience.
When they found a space within North Market, everything fell into place. They began cooking the dishes they knew best—slow-simmered tajines, flavorful kafta, tender chicken kababs, bright salads, and aromatic mint tea. The response was immediate and enthusiastic. Locals embraced the warmth and depth of the food, while visitors appreciated the chance to experience Moroccan cuisine made with authenticity and heart.
From one market stall to a growing presence—now also at North Market Bridge Park—Tajine House stands as a testament to the founders’ belief in community, cultural sharing, and the power of good food to bring people together. Their story is one of heritage turned into hospitality, and of three friends who transformed a small opportunity into a beloved part of Columbus’s food scene.
Phone:
(380) 206-9853
Website:
Merchant's operating hours:
Sunday & Monday: 10:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Tuesday - Friday: 10:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Saturday: 9:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Holiday Hours