22 Must-Visit Restaurants in Marrakech

Bright and breezy, Plus61 presents itself as a laid-back Australian Mytoury, yet its offerings are deeply influenced by Moroccan cuisine, utilizing as much local produce as possible. Recent favorites on the rotating menu have featured a roast sirloin sandwich with eggplant relish, roasted onions, and chili, along with a roasted cauliflower salad topped with almonds, minty chickpeas, and pomegranate. The full bar also serves unique cocktails (and mocktails) that change with the seasons, mirroring the food offerings. [$$]

For some of the finest pastries in Marrakech, look no further than Amandine. This patisserie offers a delightful selection of both French and Moroccan pastries and cookies, along with a full drink menu if you wish to linger a bit longer. Try a plate of assorted Moroccan cookies, especially the sweet briouat (fried, honey-soaked phyllo pastry filled with almond flour, orange blossom water, and sugar), paired with a French treat like the religieuse a choux filled with caramel cream and drizzled with more caramel. The cafe also provides takeout boxes, making for perfect souvenirs or gifts. [$]

La Trattoria stands as one of Marrakech’s oldest international dining spots, nestled within one of the city's few remaining Art Deco villas. The restaurant features a bar, an inviting dining room, and a courtyard where tables surround a large, beautiful pool. Throughout the venue, vintage Western elements blend seamlessly with traditional Moroccan decor. Guests savor classic Italian fare, particularly seafood spaghetti and various fish dishes, but make sure to save room for the tiramisu for dessert. [$$]

Even with Morocco’s steep alcohol taxes, Marrakech boasts some fantastic bars. Barometre offers particularly creative mixed drinks served in intricate custom glassware, alongside beer and wine. The bar also provides a comprehensive multicourse food menu to accompany your drinks, but don't expect any tagines here. Fresh, contemporary dishes include risotto-style mhamsa with clams, crab salad with prawn cream, and duck leg confit. Barometre is an ideal spot for couples or a night out with friends, though be ready for a bill that reflects those taxes. [$$ - $$$]

This restaurant not only offers delicious meals but also champions a philanthropic cause. The organization aims to uplift local women by providing training in cooking and restaurant skills, such as hosting and food safety, along with interview preparation and language lessons in French and English. The menu changes daily, with dishes selling out throughout the day. Open only for lunch, it’s advisable to make reservations, especially on Fridays when the traditional couscous attracts a large crowd. [$]

Al Fassia, led by Saïda Chaab and her family, has been exclusively operated by women since its establishment in 1987, making it as unique now as it was then. For nearly as long, this restaurant has been recognized as the dining destination in Marrakech. Begin with the pastilla, a baked phyllo pastry filled with chicken or pigeon, slow-cooked onions mixed with creamy eggs, almonds, and a dusting of powdered sugar. Then, try one of the more intriguing tagines, such as chicken with caramelized pumpkin or beef paired with almonds, shallots, and rice. While Al Fassia has a location in Agdal, the Gueliz branch offers a superior atmosphere and more reliable culinary quality. [$$$]

Head chef and owner Assia Kabous shines in Morocco's culinary landscape, not only for her role as a woman in a predominantly male field but also for her talent in elevating traditional Moroccan home cooking to a sophisticated dining experience. Alongside classic Moroccan tagines, her kitchen offers lesser-known dishes often absent from restaurant menus, such as tride (chicken and lentils served on a layer of fluffy msemmen bread), chaariya medfouna (spiced chicken nestled in steamed vermicelli noodles), and djaj m’qualli (crispy refried roasted chicken). [$$]

Gueliz was established during Morocco's French protectorate as a residential area for the international community, and it has evolved into a vibrant hub of art galleries, boutiques, and dining options like this charming French bistro. Le Petit Cornichon features a rotating menu, with updates shared weekly on its Instagram. Diners typically find two or three starters, mains, and desserts, but there's also an à la carte option. Be aware that smoking is permitted inside, which might deter some guests. [$$ - $$$]

Set within a charming riad, Dar Moha is located next to the historic Dar el Bacha palace, which once belonged to the pasha of Marrakech. This traditional area enhances chef Moha Fedal’s innovative take on Moroccan cuisine, which blends Andalusian influences to create something unique. While purists might be divided, the highlight is the salad course featuring 14 seasonal salads, both raw and cooked. Paired with warm appetizers, these salads can make a light meal, but for something heartier, try the sea bass and prawns in chermoula. [$$ - $$$]

Stepping into this café after exploring the breathtaking Dar el Bacha Museum of Confluences feels like a journey back to the 1920s. While Casablanca boasts Art Deco designs, they are rare in Marrakech, especially when intertwined with the grandeur of Moroccan residential architecture, making Bacha a captivating place to discover. Coffee aficionados will appreciate the extensive menu featuring over 200 varieties, including some rare finds. Don’t miss pairing your coffee with the signature orange blossom churros drizzled in melted chocolate. [$$]

Unlike most riads in Marrakech that serve as bed and breakfasts, Ksar Essaoussan focuses solely on the dining experience. The petite à la carte dinner menu is perfect for average appetites, but for those feeling adventurous, the prix fixe option offers a lavish seven-course meal. This includes generous servings of two types of b’stilla pies (one savory and one sweet), two seasonal tagines, and couscous. Plus, unlike many restaurants in the medina, Ksar Essaoussan offers wine to complement your meal. While the entrance can be tricky to locate, reservations come with a helpful staff member who will guide you to the door. [$$ - $$$]

While options around Jemma el Fna usually consist of simple sandwiches or shawarmas, Fine Mama stands apart. In addition to classic Moroccan fare like tagines, it offers an impressive breakfast and brunch menu, along with internationally inspired vegan and vegetarian dishes. Don’t miss the delicious Buddha bowl filled with falafel, fresh veggies, lentils, and beetroot hummus. Everything pairs perfectly with the restaurant's variety of juices. [$ - $$]

Jemaa el Fna comes alive at night with numerous stalls, once a hub for locals but now predominantly attracting tourists. Among the many options, stall No. 14 stands out as a gem. This stall specializes in fresh fish and seafood, fried to perfection daily. Regular offerings include calamari, sole, sardines, and shrimp, accompanied by eggplant salad, spiced fresh tomatoes, and fries. Be prepared to navigate through crowds for a seat, but it’s an experience that immerses you in the vibrant night market atmosphere. Look for the sign that says “stall #14” after 5 p.m. [$]

Step away from the bustling medina and into a serene retreat at this riad-turned-restaurant, where Italian and Moroccan cuisines blend harmoniously. The courtyard is alive with lemon trees, reflecting the restaurant’s name and inviting guests to explore citrus-infused dishes like lemon and mint ravioli. For those leaning towards Moroccan flavors, options such as chicken tagine with oranges and apricots await. [$$]

Finding the low-key Cafe Tiznit can be quite the adventure. Nestled among the olive stalls in Souk El Kassabine, you’ll need to navigate through the olive vendors and roast sheep sellers of Mechoui Alley, then take a quick left to uncover the stairs that lead to the restaurant. Your determination will pay off, particularly with their exquisite rabbit tagine. This dish, one of the most distinctive in the Red City, is offered in two delightful styles: one featuring raisins and onions, the other with potatoes and olives—both are superb. [$]

Don’t expect anything luxurious—or even silverware—on this narrow street, renowned for mechoui, which features whole sheep roasted in underground clay ovens located beneath several homes. Vendors here also sell tangia (sheep slow-cooked with garlic, saffron, and preserved lemons in a clay pot) and ras (roasted sheep’s head), all priced by weight. Remember to enhance your meat with the provided salt and cumin for a burst of flavor. [$ - $$]

Since its debut in 2014, Nomad has established itself as a contemporary staple. Spanning multiple floors with a variety of indoor and outdoor seating, this restaurant presents a diverse Mediterranean menu infused with Moroccan influences. Standout dishes like the sardine tart and vegetarian pastilla (a pastry filled with goat cheese, tomato confit, and seasonal veggies) reimagine traditional Moroccan flavors. Additionally, options such as grilled lamb chops and flourless orange cardamom ginger cake cater to gluten-free diners. However, Nomad's fame can be a double-edged sword, as the service may feel impersonal and reservations are a must. [$ - $$]

For gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan diners in Marrakech, Henna Art Cafe is a must-visit. The menu is thoughtfully designed, with clear labels for dietary restrictions, and the friendly staff is always ready to assist with any specific requests. After enjoying your meal, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the attached 100 percent organic henna studio for some body art to commemorate your healthy dining experience. [$]

As one of the newest additions to Marrakech's restaurant scene, Le Trou Au Mur has quickly made a name for itself. The menu features a delightful mix of Moroccan and international cuisine, offering diners the chance to create their own unique combinations. Don't miss the opportunity to savor the mechoui (roast sheep) cooked in the restaurant's impressive clay oven, paired with one of their signature sauces, such as the traditional preserved lemon sauce or a flavorful barbecue sauce. [$$ - $$$]

Naranj is a charming establishment run by a Syrian-Lebanese couple, offering a delightful array of Middle Eastern dishes. Start with their flavorful mezze plate and consider trying one of their sandwiches, such as the musakhan featuring spiced chicken. For something heartier, opt for the fatet batinjan, a delectable layering of eggplant, ground beef, tomato sauce, and yogurt atop crispy fried pita chips. The restaurant serves both lunch and dinner, but be sure to make evening reservations due to its popularity. [$ - $$]

As Marrakech welcomes a diverse influx of immigrants from various West African nations, Blackchich stands out by showcasing Senegalese culinary traditions alongside Moroccan flavors. This medina Mytoury is a great choice for lunch, dinner, or whenever you're in the mood for mafe yappou nague (beef in peanut sauce) paired with rice and vegetables. The cafe also offers a selection of tartines topped with fresh ingredients, such as goat cheese, hummus, and assorted vegetables. [$ - $$]

Nestled within a lovely garden in the medina, La Famille specializes in refreshing vegetarian dishes. The menu features daily options for pasta and salads, alongside pizzas and various dips, all of which shift frequently to reflect seasonal ingredients and the chef's inspirations. Be sure to leave space for one of their delightful desserts, such as fresh fruit tarts or their exceptional chocolate cake. Although La Famille operates only for lunch, its immense popularity often necessitates a reservation. [$ - $$]