Palm trees flank the entrance. Inside, piano music wafts through white archways into cosy alcoves lit by coloured lanterns and candles. At the bar, waiters in traditional fez caps and wide legged trousers serve cocktails to upmarket customers.

"Play it again Sam?... well, yes I do hear that once or twice," laughs the pianist whose name really is Issam.
 
Rick's Cafe was set up by former US embassy official Kathy Kriger.
 
"I wanted to remind people how there's more to American values.
"I think people have forgotten we're a country where we're free to take risks, we're hard-working and you can gamble with your dreams... I think a female entrepreneur doing this also sends a positive message."