Morocco gains spotlight in China with TV show garnering 900 million views

Chinese Reality Show Dishes Up Tourism Boom for Morocco

Tangier becomes the center of culinary fusion and cultural exchange, captivating audiences worldwide.

Over 900 million viewers tuned in to watch the latest season of Chinese Restaurant, setting a new viewership record. This ninth installment took viewers on a journey to Tangier, Morocco, marking the show's first foray into Africa. Filmed from May 20 to June 9, 2025, the series saw a unique blend of Chinese and Moroccan cuisine and culture come to life.

Located in La Terraza de la Médina, within Tangier’s historic medina, the restaurant became a stage for culinary collaboration between chefs from both countries. Prominent Chinese actors Huang Xiaoming, Shen Yue, and Zhai Xiaowen joined forces with Moroccan singer and influencer Dina Ottmani, who bridged the cultural gap.

The program showcased iconic Moroccan dishes like tajines, couscous, and pastilla, while also offering glimpses into daily life and traditional architecture in Tangier. Media experts believe this storytelling approach resonated deeply with Chinese audiences, effectively promoting Morocco's rich culture and enticing tourism potential.

Previous seasons filmed in European cities like Colmar, France, sparked a surge in tourism by up to 70 percent. The Tangier season is anticipated to yield similar economic benefits.