Leila

Leila, the newest restaurant from CH Projects, pays homage to founder Arsalun Tafazoli’s roots, drawing inspiration from Morocco to Iran, weaving a narrative of unity amidst diversity. Step beneath the crimson Farsi inscription that graces Leila’s entrance, and you’re transported into a captivating world meticulously crafted by CH Projects’ Department of Interior. Inside reflects the bustling night markets of Morocco—an eighteen foot water feature, intricate millwork, and walls adorned with tapestries and tiles, the dining room incorporates work from skilled craftsmen from all over the region. Inspired by the souks of Marrakech, the ambiance is a dance of light and shadow, cast by a starry ceiling and fixtures sourced from Moroccan bazaars. Plaster columns stand guard beside the main bar, while a custom kitchen island is anchored by a showpiece clay oven which offers a traditional Clayburn oven, Barrell tandoor, Robata grill and an open flame area for skewers. Fabricated in the UK by the Clay Oven Company, the group who holds the accolade of being the first to mass produce clay ovens in the region and has been doing so for 50 years, Leila’s bespoke clay oven took over nine months to be built and shipped to San Diego.