Marrakech boasts more than 1,564 restaurants, and finding the best places to eat can feel overwhelming. This vibrant city has everything - from roofto
Marrakech boasts more than 1,564 restaurants, and finding the best places to eat can feel overwhelming. This vibrant city has everything - from rooftop venues with stunning views to traditional spots that serve authentic Moroccan cuisine.
My frequent visits to this culinary paradise have helped me create this piece to direct you to the best places to eat in Marrakech. The options fit every budget. You can grab street food like msemen for a few dirhams at Jemaa el-Fna or dine at world-class establishments like Sesamo at Royal Mansour, which earned its spot on the World's 50 Best MENA list. Folk Marrakech serves a traditional three-course Moroccan meal for 370 dirhams (£30), while Le Marocain offers an exceptional lobster pastilla. These dining spots deserve your attention.
Image Source: Mint Tea Trails
"In Morocco, each meal is a remembrance of where we come from, a nod to those who paved the way." — Biyo POS Editorial Team, Culinary culture writers, Biyo POS blog
The breakfast culture in Marrakech differs from Western cities. Most places don't serve breakfast until 9:00 am [link_1], and locals enjoy their morning meals late into the morning [1]. The sort of thing I love about this laid-back breakfast culture is how it creates a different dining experience. You can take your time and really enjoy your first meal of the day.
The best breakfast spots in Marrakech won't show up in tourist guides. Café des Épices has become a local favorite right in the medina's heart, with beautiful views of Rahba Kedima Square [2]. Their Moroccan breakfast costs 75 dirhams (MAD 75.41) and has traditional breads, an omelet, and tea or coffee [1].
Some of the most authentic breakfast spots are street-side stalls where working men gather each morning. These simple spots serve filling dishes like white beans in tomato sauce or b'ssara (fava bean soup) for less than 30 dirhams [3]. Women rarely eat at these places since men heading to work are the main customers.
Zeitoun Café gives you great value with their Moroccan breakfast at 80 dirhams (MAD 80.43) [1]. The menu has fresh juice, hot drinks, traditional Moroccan crepes with honey and olive oil, plus your choice of omelet. Their Berber omelet, which locals call "egg tagine," is worth trying [4].
Le Jardin sits like an oasis in the medina. You can enjoy traditional breakfast dishes among colorful plants and greenery [2]. Le Kilim in Gueliz neighborhood combines Moroccan and international flavors naturally [2].
Locals will tell you to skip breakfast near Jemaa el-Fna Square. The prices are higher there and the food quality isn't as good as neighborhood spots [1].
Moroccan breakfasts are quite different from Western ones. They focus on fresh, simple ingredients that keep people fed throughout the morning [5]. Every Moroccan breakfast table has these bread varieties:
Moroccans skip bacon and eggs in favor of tasty accompaniments. Jben, a fresh cheese from the Rif Mountains, shows up on most breakfast tables next to pure honey [5]. Good olive oil plays a key role too—people pour it into small plates to dip their bread [5].
Amlou stands out as a breakfast favorite. This special paste blends almonds, argan oil, and honey in a uniquely Moroccan way [3]. Dark olives preserved in salt often come with morning meals in small appetizer plates [5].
Eggs make their way to the table as omelets or fried with runny yolks [6]. Khlea—a type of preserved dried meat—sometimes joins eggs to make a heartier breakfast, especially in cold weather [6].
Winter brings warming dishes to breakfast menus. Bissara, a hot fava bean soup with cumin, helps people stay warm on chilly mornings, especially in northern Morocco [5].
Mint tea ties everything together as Morocco's national drink. It comes in decorated teapots and small glasses, and you'll find it at almost every breakfast table [5].
Riads and hotels in Marrakech serve an expanded version of these traditional items, adding pastries, yogurt, and fresh fruit [1]. All the same, you'll get the real experience by heading out to eat where locals start their day.
Image Source: Dreamstime.com
The sun warms Marrakech's terraces by mid-morning as locals take a break with refreshing drinks and sweet bites. This time works best to watch people while enjoying aromatic drinks and tasting treats that showcase Morocco's rich culinary heritage.
Tea has a sacred place in Moroccan culture—it's more than just a drink, it's a symbol of hospitality and friendship. Locals call their beloved mint tea "Berber whiskey" [5]. The traditional brewing method at Cafe des Épices in the medina's heart fascinated me. You'll see tea poured from a height to create light foam and served in small decorative glasses with plenty of sugar [5].
Café de France gives you one of the best views in Marrakech. This historic spot has been around since 1912 thanks to its amazing panorama. The upper balconies overlooking Djemaa el-Fna are perfect spots in late afternoon. You can watch the square come alive as food stalls and performers appear below.
Coffee lovers should check out Chez Bismilah. Owner Rahil makes each cup the traditional Saharian way—mixing ground coffee with spices and warming it gently in small brass pots on hot sand [7]. This careful process creates a dense, creamy cup like Turkish coffee.
Nous Nous blends traditional and modern coffee experiences. The name means "half half" in Moroccan Arabic—that's exactly what you get: half coffee, half milk in a glass with sugar on the side [7].
Bacha Coffee brings elegance to your coffee break. Located in Dar El Bacha, the last pasha's former home, it serves dozens of 100% Arabica coffee varieties [7]. White-jacketed waiters and luxurious Moroccan design create a sophisticated atmosphere.
The patisseries marocaines throughout the medina showcase Morocco's pastry heritage of spices, nuts, and honey-infused delicacies. Their display cases burst with colorful confections [1].
Kaab el ghazal (gazelle horns) leads the pack of traditional North African pastries [2]. These crescent-shaped cookies filled with orange blossom-scented almond paste show up at family gatherings and religious holidays [2].
Here are more Moroccan pastries you shouldn't miss:
Kech'Cup near Jardin Secret serves what locals say is the medina's best espresso, plus both Moroccan and French pastries [1]. L'Mida Rooftop adds Mediterranean touches to Moroccan dishes and serves creative desserts [5].
La Pergola Jazz Bar at Riad Monceau creates an exceptional atmosphere. Palm trees and live jazz music set the mood while you sip drinks with Moroccan twists—like the Morocco Mule [5]. The food might not be the star, but the ambiance makes it worth your time.
These mid-morning stops give you more than just food and drinks—they're your gateway to Moroccan culture. A café owner put it best: "In Morocco, coffee and tea aren't just drinks—they're reasons to pause, breathe, and connect with yourself and others."
Image Source: Tripadvisor
"To cook a tagine is to practice patience—let the flavors mingle in the slow dance of time." — Biyo POS Editorial Team, Culinary culture writers, Biyo POS blog
A morning in Marrakech's bustling souks leaves you ready for lunch in the medina. I've had countless midday meals here, and the medina has some of the city's most authentic dining spots.
Moroccan cuisine really comes alive at lunchtime. Locals and tourists flock to get their fill of traditional tajines and fluffy couscous. Chez Chegrouni is a beloved spot in the medina, known for its chicken tagine with preserved olives. Their menu also includes vegetable soups, omelets, and various couscous dishes at great prices.
L'Mida hits the sweet spot between traditional Moroccan flavors and modern touches. Their lamb tagine is so tender you could eat it with a spoon. The perfectly fluffy couscous shows off the best of Moroccan cooking [3].
Dar Moha is a real find—this poolside restaurant sits in French fashion designer Pierre Balmain's former riad. You can enjoy Moroccan-style dim sum in their garden while traditional lute music plays, giving you a peaceful break from the busy streets [6].
Dardar has made its name as one of the medina's best spots for tajines. The delicious and aromatic tajines come in several varieties - chicken with olives, lamb, beef, or vegetable. The warm welcome and stunning décor make this spot worth your time [8].
Marrakech's unique architecture creates two different worlds—busy street markets below and peaceful rooftop spaces above. Café des Épices is one of my favorite lunch spots in the medina. Nothing beats having a fresh salad while watching spice vendors below and seeing the Atlas Mountains in the distance [3].
Nomad, maybe Marrakech's most famous restaurant, has a multi-level rooftop terrace looking over the spice market. The place gets crowded but service stays quick—my vegetarian couscous arrived in about 15 minutes during my last visit [9].
La Sultana's rooftop restaurant, Le Table du Souk, gives you views of the Saadian Tombs. The menu focuses on Moroccan flavors and local ingredients, taking inspiration from market and street food. The prices run high for the portion size, but the peaceful setting in beautiful surroundings makes it worth it [10].
Kabana Food & Cocktails is the newest cool lunch spot and sits at the medina's highest point. Two chefs specialize in sushi and Mediterranean dishes, making it perfect when you need a break from Moroccan food [11].
Marrakech has some amazing vegetarian options. Earth Café stands as the city's only fully vegan and vegetarian café. Look for the eye-catching signpost down a charming alleyway in the medina. This funky diner follows a farm-to-table approach with an open kitchen right at the entrance [12].
Broc the Kasbah uses vinyl records as menus, adding to its trendy vibe. The menu features homemade ginger beer alongside avocado salad, tomato gazpacho, and Indo-Moroccan samosas [13].
Henna Art Café gives you the best value veggie meal in Marrakech. Kids can pick natural plant-based henna designs while parents enjoy juices, vegan wraps, and salads. The place doubles as a health food diner, gift shop, art gallery, and has roof terraces [12].
Nomad deserves another mention for its creative vegetarian dishes that go beyond basic salads. The menu includes plenty of meat-free options with modern spins on Moroccan classics, all served on their Instagram-famous rooftop [13].
Gäia shines as the go-to spot for fancy vegan brunch or dinner. The vibrant interior design and colorful plant-based food make every dish a winner [13].
Traditional Moroccan cuisine has lots of natural vegetarian options. Most restaurants in Marrakech serve delicious vegetarian couscous, tajine, veggie pastilla, and harira (chickpea soup) [9].
Image Source: Riad Orange
The streets of Marrakech come alive with a special energy as afternoon turns to evening. People everywhere look for quick bites to keep them going until dinner. Street food plays a huge role in the city's food culture and gives you authentic flavors at prices way below what restaurants charge.
Jemaa el-Fna stands as Marrakech's beating heart. The square transforms into what locals love to call "the oldest open-air restaurant in the world." This UNESCO World Heritage site has served food from the same spot since the 12th century. You'll find a food lover's paradise here with smoke rising from dozens of stalls.
The square packs in at least 50 different food vendors, each with their own specialty. The scene might overwhelm you at first. Vendors call out to catch your attention from every direction. Finding the best places to eat in Marrakech isn't hard though - just look where the locals eat. Make sure the meat's well-cooked and stay away from pushy waiters.
You should check out stall number 1 to get the real deal. Aicha's family has run this food stall for generations. Here are some other great options you can try:
Need a break from all the savory stuff? Walk about 100 meters from the square to find juice shops. The avocado-orange juice combo is a Moroccan specialty. The creamy avocado works magic with the citrus kick.
Harira means something special in Moroccan food culture. People break their Ramadan fast with it at sunset. The soup feels like "a warm hug after a long day of exploring" with its mix of lentils, chickpeas, fresh herbs, and warm spices. Local spots charge about 4 dirhams for a bowl - that's amazing value.
Dates and traditional Moroccan bread make the perfect companions for this soup. Food stand number 5 at Jemaa el-Fna serves the best version according to locals.
Msemen helps bridge the gap between meals perfectly. This square flatbread sits somewhere between bread and pancake. You can eat it any time of day, but fresh msemen shows up mostly in the afternoons across Marrakech.
Watching the vendors make it is half the fun. They stretch the dough on a hot griddle and turn it until it turns golden brown. The result? A pastry that's crispy outside, tender inside, with a subtle nutty flavor from the semolina dough.
The beauty of msemen lies in how you can enjoy it. Sweet lovers drizzle it with honey, jam, or Nutella. If savory's more your thing, try versions stuffed with meat, vegetables, and spices. At 3-4 dirhams, you get to taste real Moroccan flavors without breaking the bank.
The medina's alleys hide countless other street food gems. To really understand where to eat in Marrakech like a local, venture beyond the main square. Look for vendors who focus on just one or two dishes - they're the ones who know their craft best.
Image Source: Marrakech Sunset Properties
The dining scene in Marrakech takes on a magical quality as darkness falls over the red city. Restaurants with spectacular panoramic views and enchanting atmospheres become havens where guests can enjoy memorable meals under starlit skies or surrounded by lush greenery.
Nomad has become a Marrakech institution that gives diners stunning views of the spice market from its multi-level rooftop terrace [4]. The 60s-inspired space features various dining areas where guests can relax over meals while taking in panoramic vistas [4]. The rooftop gets packed during golden hour, so you'll want to arrive before sunset to grab one of the best tables [10].
Café des Épices welcomes guests with relaxed open-sided booths right in the heart of the souks [4]. Its terrace makes a perfect spot to enjoy light dinner options while soaking in the evening buzz from Place des Epices below.
Le Grand Balcon du Café Glacier provides an unmatched view of Jemaa el-Fnaa with comfortable plush cushion seating where you can watch the square come alive at night [4]. The historic Café de France, dating back to 1912, boasts three large rooftop terraces that showcase stunning views of both the bustling square and Atlas Mountains in the distance [4].
Le Salama stands out as one of Marrakech's most beautiful rooftop spots [10]. Located just off Jemaa el-Fnaa in the old town's heart, this three-story establishment's covered rooftop level showcases breathtaking views of the red cityscape. The restaurant truly comes alive after sunset with traditional shows that accompany your meal [10].
Kabana Food & Cocktails sits at the highest point in the Medina [11]. The restaurant pairs its impressive views with live music and DJs every weekend, while two chefs create amazing sushi and Mediterranean dishes [11].
Le Jardin serves as a peaceful retreat from Marrakech's vibrant atmosphere on the outskirts of the busy souks [4]. This garden cafe and art space delights guests with fresh produce-focused meals, including mezze dishes like sweet carrot hummus and local olives marinated in Moroccan argan oil [4].
La Maison Arabe's Les Trois Saveurs restaurant might be Marrakech's most romantic spot [14]. The terrace looks out over a beautiful pool surrounded by flickering Moroccan candle lanterns, while live traditional music creates an intimate atmosphere [14].
Couples love Kosybar, which occupies a 19th-century building with cozy sofa-style seats and canopy shades [14]. Regular visitors say, "When the weather is good, the roof is rolled back and you can dine under thousands of twinkling stars" [14].
Dar Zellij enchants diners with its beautiful hand-painted ceilings and detailed tile inlays [15]. The restaurant's outdoor courtyard, surrounded by citrus trees, creates a truly magical dining experience for couples [15].
La Table de La Kasbah offers the perfect romantic evening on its elegantly decorated roof terrace. Couples can watch street life unfold below while staying cool under misting jets [14]. Belly dancers perform around 9pm, often incorporating candles into their routines to enhance the magical atmosphere [14].
Marrakech's evening dining scene stands out because it perfectly blends exceptional cuisine, architectural beauty, and atmospheric settings to create unforgettable dining experiences.
Image Source: riad aguaviva
The night comes alive in Marrakech after dinner with a mix of late-night food and amazing performances. The Red City becomes a playground for night owls who want good food and entertainment as midnight draws near.
You'll easily find quality food after dark in Marrakech. Kiss Ko ranks highest on TripAdvisor's late-night restaurant list and serves French and American cuisine until late [16]. L'Auberge Espagnole brings Spanish flavors with tapas that customers praise for its "top class service" [16].
Most Jemaa el-Fna food stalls pack up around midnight based on customer traffic [2]. Prince Street next to Grand Hotel Tazi remains a reliable spot for night owls, with snack shops serving tasty paninis, salads, and shawarma well into the night [2].
Restaurants near nightclubs in Gueliz stay open late [2]. Night owls love Hysushi Gueliz for its exceptional late-night sushi [16]. Italian options such as Aglio e Olio and La SICULA satisfy pasta cravings after dark [16].
Bn Saleh and Le Vrai Traditionnel serve authentic Moroccan tagines late into the evening [16]. MySky welcomes guests until late with what guests call "the best view in Marrakech" [16].
Comptoir Darna remains Marrakech's original and best entertainment spot since 1999. The venue perfectly blends Eastern and Western vibes [17]. Stunning belly dancing shows start at 10 PM each night [17]. The first floor later turns into a nightclub with energetic house music [18].
Jad Mahal combines great food with shows featuring oriental dancers, gnawa performers, and fire breathers [19]. Buddha Bar Marrakech creates a party atmosphere using 3D hologram projections around an impressive Buddha statue from India [19].
BÔ-ZIN, just 10 minutes from downtown, serves light and delicious food in a magical setting [19]. Dancers and drummers create electric vibes every weekend [7].
Epicurien at Casino de Marrakech features an amazing live band from 11:30 PM, Wednesday through Sunday [7]. Lotus Club presents the dazzling "Revue Ohlala" dance show every night except Mondays [7].
Night owls can choose between Le Blokk's live shows with 1960s beats [19] or Azar's oriental performances with belly dancers and oud music [20]. Marrakech's nightlife scene turns every evening into an unforgettable party.
Marrakech's magnificent fine dining establishments offer a truly exceptional culinary experience to celebrate special occasions. These venues stand way beyond the reach and influence of regular restaurants.
La Grande Table Marocaine at Royal Mansour celebrates Moroccan culinary excellence by reimagining ancestral heritage with modern techniques. The venue has earned its place as the city's finest Moroccan restaurant under the leadership of renowned chef Hélène Darroze.
Quattro at Four Seasons showcases contemporary Italian masterpieces. Chef Roberto Dal Seno brings 23 years of international experience to create dishes with complex flavors that "tell an unforgettable story."
Leopard Marrakech earns perfect ratings consistently through its blend of French, Mediterranean, Spanish, and Lebanese cuisines. The prices range from MAD 60-392, making luxury available with "impeccable service and neat atmosphere."
Restaurant Yamakan delights guests with its stunning setting and professional staff who serve traditional Moroccan cuisine. The set menu costs MAD 490 and features delicacies like beef tagine cooked until "the beef shredded easily."
These establishments create more than just a dining experience - they blend culinary artistry with theatrical elements. LAYALI Nouba serves Moroccan and Lebanese cuisine with entertainment, and prices range between MAD 80-281 for standard evenings.
Royal Mansour delivers "an unforgettable sensory experience arranged by great chefs" in settings described as "opulent and majestic." Traditional afternoon tea becomes "a sensational experience" in these regal surroundings.
Service standards match international expectations, and attentive staff ensures uninterrupted service from arrival through departure. Restaurant Leopard's guests often mention the "excellent cuisine, impeccable service and neat atmosphere. In short, very good address in Marrakech!"
Palais Dar Soukkar and similar top venues provide complete dinner experiences with entertainment at around MAD 500 per person. The memories created here are worth every dirham spent.
Image Source: Fast Track Marrakech Airport
Getting the real local dining experience in Marrakech takes more than a list of restaurant names - you just need to know the unwritten rules that make the difference between authentic meals and tourist disappointments.
The best way to find great restaurants in Marrakech is simple: eat where locals eat. You should skip the restaurants near Jemaa el-Fna Square since most are tourist traps with disappointing food [21]. These places rarely put the same care into their cooking as authentic venues do.
The best way to spot genuine places to eat in Marrakech is to look for Moroccan families. If a place is packed with tourists, keep searching. The street food scene at Jemaa el-Fna works the same way - locals stick to just a few favorite stalls [22].
Stay cautious of overly friendly locals who suggest restaurants, as they might get paid to send tourists to overpriced spots [5]. The same goes for fake guides who tell you certain places are closed or try to lead you to "better" restaurants [5].
Smart travelers plan their visits ahead so they can confidently say no to unwanted help. Instead of taking random advice, ask business owners who run their own shops or restaurants - they won't need extra money from misdirecting tourists [5].
Upscale restaurants need reservations. Places like Malek Emerald might give away your table if you're more than 15 minutes late.
Fancy restaurants have strict dress codes. Royal Mansour wants elegant clothes in public areas and bans shorts in bars and restaurants after 6 PM [23]. Nobu Marrakech requires smart casual dress and explicitly bans shorts, flip-flops, and sportswear [24]. Comptoir Darna won't let you in with sportswear, shorts, or sandals if you're a man [25].
Tipping is customary but optional in Morocco. Leave about 5 MAD for small meals, while 10% works for full dinners [21]. Always leave cash tips right on the table.
Here's what to expect from servers: they'll show you to your seat, hand you a menu, and then step back [26]. This is normal - just signal when you want to order [27].
Morocco runs mostly on cash, so keep dirhams handy [21]. You'll find ATMs everywhere, even in the old town, but cards only work in big malls and some restaurants outside the medina [21].
Note that a one-dirham tip, even if it's 10%, comes across as an insult. Whatever your bill says, the minimum acceptable tip is 2 MAD [27].
Marrakech is a food lover's paradise where old traditions blend with modern cooking. My time in the city's food scene has shown that amazing meals are everywhere - from 5-dirham snail soup at Jemaa el-Fna to elegant dinners at Royal Mansour.
The right dining choices can transform your experience here. The best meals come when you follow the local rhythm: late breakfasts, long lunches, afternoon mint tea breaks, and dinners that go late into the night. Local knowledge beats tourist tips - watching where Moroccan families eat will help you find real flavors at fair prices.
The city rewards food lovers who step away from popular spots. Beautiful garden restaurants serve traditional tagines in secret courtyards, while new rooftop spots create fusion dishes with amazing Atlas Mountain views. Some of the best food comes from street vendors who have made the same dish perfectly for generations.
My experience with Marrakech's restaurants shows that meals here are more than just food - each plate tells a story of culture, tradition and genuine hospitality. A simple harira soup or a luxurious Royal Mansour feast both promise real flavors and memorable moments when you tune into the city's unique food culture.
Q1. What are some must-try traditional Moroccan dishes in Marrakech? Some essential Moroccan dishes to try in Marrakech include tagine (slow-cooked stew), couscous, harira (hearty soup), and pastilla (savory-sweet pastry). For breakfast, don't miss traditional items like msemen (square pancakes) and baghrir (spongy pancakes) served with honey and olive oil.
Q2. Where can I find the best street food in Marrakech? The best street food in Marrakech can be found at Jemaa el-Fna square, especially in the evening when food stalls set up. Look for popular items like snail soup, harira, and potato sandwiches. For the most authentic experience, observe where locals eat and follow their lead.
Q3. Are there any vegetarian-friendly restaurants in Marrakech? Yes, Marrakech offers several vegetarian-friendly options. Some popular choices include Earth Café, which is exclusively vegan and vegetarian, Nomad with its modern takes on Moroccan classics, and Henna Art Café offering vegan wraps and salads. Many traditional Moroccan dishes like vegetable tagines and couscous are naturally vegetarian as well.
Q4. What should I know about tipping in Marrakech restaurants? Tipping in Marrakech is customary but not mandatory. For small meals, leaving around 5 MAD is appropriate, while for full dinners, 10% of the bill is standard. Always leave tips in cash directly on the table. It's considered insulting to tip just one dirham, so leave at least 2 MAD as a minimum tip regardless of the bill amount.
Q5. Are there any dress code requirements for dining out in Marrakech? Dress codes vary depending on the restaurant. For high-end establishments, smart casual attire is typically required, with some places prohibiting shorts, flip-flops, and sportswear, especially in the evening. It's best to check specific dress code requirements when making reservations at upscale restaurants to avoid any issues.
