Best Places to Eat in Marrakesh

Discovering the Flavors of Marrakesh: A Guide to the Best Places to Eat

Marrakesh, a vibrant city in Morocco, is a food lover’s paradise. From traditional Moroccan cuisine to delicious street food, there’s something for every palate and budget. Here are the best places to eat in Marrakesh, with a focus on popular street food:

Street Food Heaven: Jemaa el-Fnaa

The iconic Jemaa el-Fnaa square is a must-visit destination for any food enthusiast. This bustling marketplace offers an array of street food stalls, each serving up mouth-watering dishes.

  • Grilled Meats: Try the succulent grilled lamb or chicken skewers, marinated in a mix of spices and herbs.
  • Fresh Orange Juice: Quench your thirst with a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice, perfect for hot days exploring the city.
  • Moroccan Pancakes (Rghayif): Savor these crispy, flavorful pancakes, often served with honey, butter, or jam.
  • Bahia Palace: This historic palace is surrounded by street food stalls offering a range of snacks and drinks.
    • Msemen: Thin, folded bread stuffed with spiced meat, onions, and olives.
    • B’stilla: A flaky pastry filled with layers of meat, onions, and spices.
  • Rahba Kedima: This charming square in the old medina is home to several street food stalls.
    • Kebabs: Juicy meat skewers, grilled to perfection.
    • Harsha: A traditional Moroccan soup made with lentils, chickpeas, and vegetables.

Best Restaurants for Traditional Moroccan Cuisine

While street food is a highlight of Marrakesh’s culinary scene, there are also many excellent restaurants serving up traditional Moroccan dishes. Here are some top recommendations:

  • Le Tobsil: This cozy restaurant in the old medina serves exquisite tagines (slow-cooked stews) and other Moroccan classics.
  • Al Fassia: Located near Jemaa el-Fnaa, this popular restaurant offers a range of traditional dishes, including pastilla (meat pie) and b’stilla.
  • Dar Moha: This beautifully decorated riad-turned-restaurant serves up modern twists on traditional Moroccan cuisine.

Tips and Essentials

  • Hygiene: When eating street food, make sure to choose stalls with high turnover rates and follow proper food safety guidelines.
  • Language: While many vendors speak some English, it’s helpful to learn basic Arabic phrases like “shukraan” (thank you) and “mumkin” (how much).
  • Currency: Moroccan dirhams are the local currency, but euros and US dollars are widely accepted.
  • Respect Local Customs: Dress modestly when eating at traditional restaurants or in public areas.

Indulge in the flavors of Marrakesh and experience the warm hospitality of the Moroccan people. Bon appétit!