Couscous Express in Central Phoenix Has Closed

No more free date shakes. Our hearts are broken.

May 17, 2017

Image: Abdul Charra, during Couscous Express' prime.

Abdul Charra, during Couscous Express' prime. Jackie Mercandetti

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Bad news, Phoenix.

One of our favorite restaurants has closed. And we learned about it in the cruelest of ways — when we tried to hit Couscous Express up for lunch today.

Owner Abdul Chaara was at the space on McDowell Road this afternoon, and reported that business really dropped off after the election. He is closed for business.

We will miss the complimentary mint tea and mini date shakes, the giant tureens of chicken and lamb. And, of course, the couscous.

Amy Silverman is the former managing editor of Phoenix New Times. She is a two-time winner of the Arizona Press Club’s Journalist of the Year award. Her work has appeared on the radio show This American Life and in the New York Times, the Washington Post, Lenny Letter, and Brain, Child.

A message from Food & Drink Editor Tirion Boan: If you value independent journalism, please consider making a contribution to support our continued coverage of Phoenix's evolving dining scene and the chefs and restaurants that serve our community.

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