Chef Kimo: A Beautiful Journey From Music to Moroccan Food

The Moroccan culinary and cultural landscape is in mourning. Kamel Laâbi, widely known as Chef Kimo, passed away during the night of February 4–5, 2026. He was 57 years old. Indeed, he was a vibrant figure on social media and a fierce defender of local heritage. Today, he leaves behind a legacy where the rich flavors of Fez harmoniously blended with the melodies of Andalusian music.

The Artistic Roots of Kamel Laâbi: An Exceptional Heritage

Originally from Fez, Kamel Laâbi carried the elegance and refinement of his hometown within him. Furthermore, he was the grandson of the legendary Haj Abdelkrim Raïs. This master of Arabo-Andalusian music inspired him deeply. Therefore, he understood from an early age that cooking, much like music, is an art of transmission.

With the group “Frères Laâbi,” he brought musical instruments to life. However, it was behind the stove that he truly won the hearts of the Moroccan people. His iconic restaurant in Rabat, “Chez Kimo”, was more than just a gourmet destination. In fact, it was a unique fusion space where the melody of strings perfectly complemented the aroma of authentic tagines.

How He Became a 2.0 Ambassador of Moroccan Cuisine

Consequently, the late culinary icon skillfully harnessed the power of social media to popularize and protect the national gastronomic heritage. Steering clear of superficial trends, he generously shared the secrets of ancestral recipes. In addition, he constantly reminded his audience of the importance of staying rooted in local ingredients.

His commitment went far beyond adults. Because he was passionate about taste education, he frequently organized workshops for children. He firmly believed that the sustainability of Moroccan identity rested in the hands of the younger generation.

A Community Mourning a Huge Loss

Since the announcement of his passing this morning, tributes have been pouring in. His peers, celebrities, and thousands of followers are sharing their grief. Today, everyone remembers a man whose smile and kindness were just as famous as his culinary talent.

“Chef Kimo didn’t cook just to feed people. Instead, he cooked to tell a story—the story of our roots and our hospitality.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Chef Kimo

1. Who was Chef Kimo, and what was his real name?

Chef Kimo, whose real name was Kamel Laâbi, was a prominent Moroccan chef, musician, and content creator. Originally from Fez, he became widely recognized for his dual passion. He focused on preserving traditional Moroccan cuisine and celebrating Arabo-Andalusian music.

2. What was the connection between Chef Kimo and Andalusian music?

Kamel Laâbi was the grandson of Haj Abdelkrim Raïs, a legendary figure in Arabo-Andalusian music. As a musician himself within the “Frères Laâbi” group, he integrated this artistic sensibility into his culinary world. Thus, food and music beautifully intersected in his restaurant.

3. Where was Chef Kimo’s restaurant located, and what was its specialty?

His flagship restaurant, “Chez Kimo”, was located in Rabat. It was renowned for its authentic local heritage cuisine. Specifically, it highlighted traditional dishes from Fez (Fassi cuisine) in a warm, cultural atmosphere.