The guest list reflected the city’s eclectic mix of art, fashion, and entertainment. Attendees included Alexander Hankin, Ally Shapiro, Carly Ziff, Brooks Marks (Next Gen NYC), Eric Goldie, Georgia McCann (Next Gen NYC), Jordan Emanuel (Winter House), Kate Barton (Designer), Kim Shui (Designer), Meredith Marks (Real Housewives of Salt Lake City), Piper Phillips, Shabnam Safarzadeh, Shay Safarzadeh, and Vivi Armacost, among others. Together, they celebrated not only the unveiling of a new restaurant but also the fusion of cultures, artistry, and hospitality that Ayah embodies.
A Modern Moroccan Escape
Nestled on West Houston Street, Ayah stands as a testament to the elegance of Moroccan design and the vibrancy of its cuisine. Inside, intricate tilework, soft lantern lighting, and warm, earthy tones create an atmosphere that feels both exotic and intimate—a hidden gem where every detail evokes the timeless beauty of Morocco’s riads and souks.
From the moment guests arrived, they were immersed in a sensory journey that paid homage to Morocco’s rich heritage. The evening unfolded like a celebration in Marrakesh—complete with the aromas of saffron, preserved lemon, cumin, and rosewater wafting through the air, complemented by the rhythmic pulse of contemporary North African music.
A Collaboration Rooted in Tradition and Innovation
At the heart of Ayah’s concept is a culinary partnership between Chef Geoffrey and Chef Aïcha Sbaih, whose vision intertwines authenticity with innovation. Chef Sbaih, a French-born Moroccan chef, grew up surrounded by the culinary traditions of her homeland—her approach to food is steeped in reverence for heritage while embracing modern techniques.
Together, the two chefs have crafted a menu that takes diners on a gastronomic voyage through Morocco’s diverse regions. Each dish tells a story—from fragrant tagines and smoky grilled lamb with harissa to delicately layered b’stilla and vibrant salads with orange blossom dressing. The flavors are bold yet balanced, evoking the soulful warmth of Moroccan hospitality while offering a refined, contemporary dining experience that feels right at home in SoHo’s cultural melting pot.
A Celebration of Community and Creativity
The launch event wasn’t just about introducing a restaurant—it was about cultivating a community around shared experiences. The evening captured the essence of “vibe dining”—where food, ambiance, and connection converge. Guests mingled beneath ornate lanterns, sharing stories over mezze platters and spiced cocktails that hinted at dates, mint, and rose. Laughter and music filled the room, blending effortlessly with the aroma of simmering spices and freshly baked bread.
As one guest noted, Ayah isn’t merely a restaurant—it’s a “transportive experience,” a place where the boundaries between dinner and cultural immersion blur. The event reflected what 3rd Space Hospitality has consistently done best: curating environments that are as soulful as they are stylish, appealing to the senses and emotions alike.
The Next Chapter in SoHo’s Culinary Story
With its elegant interiors, exquisite menu, and creative spirit, Ayah is poised to become New York City’s next must-visit destination for both dining and design enthusiasts. It bridges old-world authenticity with modern flair, inviting guests to celebrate life, connection, and the artistry of Moroccan cuisine.
As 3rd Space Hospitality continues to redefine experiential dining, Ayah stands as its most inspired creation yet—a restaurant that captures not just the flavors of Morocco, but its heart.