The Imperial Fez, a Moroccan restaurant known for its immersive dining experience, will relocate to Norcross after 30 years on Peachtree Street in South Buckhead. The news was first reported by Tomorrow's News Today.
Husband-and-wife chef-owners Rafih and Rita Benjelloun announced the move in a Feb. 7 post on the restaurant's Facebook page.
“We would like to first express our immense gratitude and sincere thanks for all of the support you have given us over the last 30 years and are excited to see everyone at the new location,” said Rita Benjelloun in a prepared statement.
According to Rafih Benjelloun the restaurant’s building was recently sold and the new owners have planned extensive renovations that would require the Imperial Fez to cease operations for several months. Rather than temporarily shut down, the couple chose to find a new location for their restaurant.
With its dimly-lit, sumptuously decorated dining room and frequent belly-dancing performances, the Imperial Fez has provided a unique dining experience for decades. Over the years, the restaurant has been recognized nationally for its ambiance and dinnertime performances, including a feature on the Food Network's show 'Craziest Restaurants in America.'
Credit: Louie Favorite / AJC
Credit: Louie Favorite / AJC
The last date of service at the Buckhead location has been tentatively scheduled for Feb. 29.
“It will depend on whether the building’s new owner gives us any wiggle room, because we do have reservations through March,” said Rafih Benjelloun.
The restaurant’s new location at 4790 Peachtree Industrial Boulevard in Norcross will celebrate its grand opening Mar. 1, though that date is subject to change as well.
“We will not have any overlap where we would be operating two locations,” said Benjelloun. Though relocating the Imperial Fez is a major change, he said that he is not concerned that the location change will affect business.
“We have customers come from all over the country, whether its Chicago or Denver or wherever,” he said. “With us, it’s not just about food. You can feel the soul when you come visit us and that’s what’s important.”
Reservations at the new location can be made by calling 404-351-0870.
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