Tucked away on a quiet street in Kensington, Raphia is not just a boutique – it’s a beautifully wrapped love letter to Morocco. A sensory celebration of heritage, craftsmanship and familial pride, Raphia is redefining what it means to indulge with intention in one of the world’s most cosmopolitan cities.
Founded by Zineb Faress, Raphia is a story steeped in personal meaning. The brand’s name itself is drawn from the names of her daughters, embodying a sense of legacy, love, and continuity. But this isn’t just about sweet treats — it’s about preserving a culture, honouring ancestry, and offering Londoners an authentic, luxurious taste of Morocco through artfully crafted products.
From the moment you enter Raphia’s elegant store, you’re transported. The minimalist interiors act as a canvas for what really matters: the product. Carefully curated collections of artisanal chocolates, pistachio-stuffed dates, spiced pastries, and heritage confections take centre stage. They are made using traditional recipes and ingredients – think argan oil, orange blossom, saffron, and ras el hanout – with a distinctly refined presentation that feels contemporary yet timeless.
This is Morocco reimagined through a modern, ethical lens. Every item is packaged with sustainability in mind, a nod to the brand’s zero-waste ethos. Thoughtfully selected suppliers and natural materials reflect Zineb’s vision for a business that’s as responsible as it is beautiful. Here, indulgence isn’t at odds with values — it is an expression of them.
Raphia’s sweets are more than a luxury gift or a moment of self-spoiling; they are ceremonial. Whether given during Ramadan, shared at Eid, offered at Diwali, or simply sent as a heartfelt gesture, each box tells a story of celebration and connection. This universality — the way Moroccan flavours speak to London’s diverse cultural fabric — is what makes Raphia so distinct. It’s deeply rooted in one place, yet resonates everywhere.
The brand has quickly become a favourite for Londoners seeking meaningful, design-led gifting. Whether it’s a corporate order for a Mayfair boardroom or a last-minute hostess gift for a dinner party in Notting Hill, Raphia offers something rare: artisanal quality with soul. And while the packaging is exquisite, it’s the care behind each creation that lingers long after the last bite.
Raphia is more than a shop — it’s a statement. It reflects a growing appetite in London not just for quality, but for stories. For depth. For brands that honour tradition without feeling stuck in the past. For luxury that feels human.
At its core, Raphia is about nourishment — of the senses, of relationships, of cultural memory. In a fast-paced city known for its fusion of identities, Raphia invites us to slow down, savour, and remember where we come from. It’s Morocco, distilled through love, and delivered with elegance — one handcrafted box at a time.
