Moroccan Immigrant Becomes Beloved Restaurateur in Montpellier’s Gambetta Neighborhood

El Rhalia was born in Morocco. She had a wonderful life in the countryside, which she says she is proud of. "I grew up in a large family of cattle breeders, the most beautiful in Morocco! And for all of Europe," the fifty-year-old told Midi Libre. After her father’s death, at the age of only 8, she settled permanently in Casablanca. Her grandmother’s advice will guide her throughout her life, whether in her business, her projects or her relationship with people.

Without money, she left Morocco at the age of 19. Destination Italy where one of her friends resides. Then begins an extraordinary life in Sardinia. Translator, protected by Luigi Lombardini, a famous Italian judge, she met Lady Di and the sister of the King of Morocco... But the education of her children forces her to leave Italy for Montpellier, known for the quality of its educational and cultural offerings.

In France, she became the owner of the restaurant Le Mirador. She works to raise awareness among young people from other countries who sometimes carry extreme violence. Clashes often take place in the vicinity of her establishment. "When it happens, I intervene, I stop the fights! But these young people have risked their lives to leave their country, they don’t attack anyone, they mostly hurt themselves. After the fight this summer, they came to apologize to me. They would work if we supported them," explains the Moroccan.