Because the only food one sees consumed in the film is caviar, arriving at the right menu for Rick's Cafe was a real challenge. The underlying philosophy is food that is fresh, made with the best ingredients available and presented simply – so that the dish speaks for itself. With an American owner, everyone expected a Hamburger...and a good one. But the elegant setting of course demanded more...and continuing with the American theme, steaks - filet, T-bone, entrecote served with baked potatoes topped with sour cream and chives along with Rick's steak sauce – were good ideas, and seafood – oysters, sole meuniere, fresh salmon – are the reliable standards. Introducing new dishes into the repertoire involved studying, experimenting and finally a bit of gambling. The Café's menu, while simple, seeks to offer ample choices for residents of Casablanca and international visitors alike – for example there's John Dory with capers and lemon, duck breast with mango and lamb tagine but also Hungarian goulash, tempura, fish and chips and chicken pot pie! A line sung by Nat King Cole on our soundtrack, “chili con carne and sparkling champagne,” inspired the addition of that dish to the menu. Salads with a California touch – goat cheese salad with figs, giant prawns with papaya and avacado – join old standards like Cesar salad and the crab Louis of Kathy's childhood. The dessert selection also has old favorites like lemon tart and chocolate mousse along with Rick's cheesecake and brownies. An Oyster and Champagne Bar adds a touch of elegance to Saturday evenings, while the American breakfast platter is a welcome option during luncheon service.
