We’re often asked about the best places to eat in Marrakech, especially for those visiting the famous Red City for the first time. Morocco is known for many things, from its deserts and mountains to its rich culture and music, but it’s often the promise of exotic spices and new flavor sensations that draw many travelers to North Africa. Dining in Marrakech is sure to be a highlight of any trip to Morocco, offering everything from fine dining with succulent lamb and chicken tagine at food stalls, to discovering new restaurants in the medina and sipping cocktails at some of the best rooftop bars in the city. There’s no better place to indulge your taste buds—the food in Marrakech is among the best in the country.
As frequent travelers to Morocco, we’ve had the chance to experience dozens of Marrakech’s best restaurants and discovered that Moroccan cuisine is much more diverse than the humble tagine (though they’re delicious!). Here are what we personally consider to be the top restaurants in Marrakech:
The Best Restaurants in Marrakech
Nomad Restaurant
Where: Nomad Restaurant is located at 1 Derb Aarjane, overlooking the famous Rahba Lakdima spice square (Place des Épices).
With its candlelit rooftop terrace tables and friendly service, Nomad is one of our favorite Marrakech restaurants. This relatively new spot in the medina offers modern Moroccan cuisine—simple yet stylish and packed with flavor. Traditional dishes are given a refreshing twist, making it a great option for those wanting something different from the usual tagine and couscous. There are intimate dining rooms inside for those seeking shelter from the sun, while the open kitchen adds a vibrant, contemporary feel. It’s definitely one of the best restaurants in the Marrakech souks.
Perfect for: Romantic candlelit dinners, expat lunches, and the fashionable crowd.
We recommend: Courgette and feta fritters, Nomad spiced lamb burger with aubergine, and the famous orange cake (it’s so good!).
Tip: Make a reservation for dinner, it’s a popular spot! Ask for a table on the rooftop terrace.
La Maison Arabe Restaurant
Where: La Maison Arabe is located in Derb Assehbi, just a 5-minute walk from Djemaa El Fna.
Nearby sights: Bab Doukkala Mosque, Dar El Bacha Musee des Confluences.
La Maison Arabe is one of the best places to eat in Marrakech, and we can’t recommend it enough. This luxury riad-hotel is famous for its two exceptional restaurants, both of which are open to non-residents. One focuses on traditional Moroccan cuisine, but our favorite is Les Trois Saveurs, possibly the most romantic restaurant in Marrakech. Dining on the terrace, surrounded by Moroccan candle lanterns and live traditional music, is an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a regular, this is some of the best dining you’ll find in the city.
Perfect for: Special occasions, impressing Instagram followers, or adding a touch of class to your trip.
We recommend: The flower salad (quirky and refreshing), any of their lamb dishes (all are delicious), and the wine (it’s the only place we’ve found that picks a decent bottle of red).
Tip: Table reservations are essential (ask for a poolside table); arrive early to enjoy jazz and cocktails in the bar; dress smartly but comfortably. La Maison Arabe also offers renowned cooking classes, including a half-day session in their country garden and an ‘express’ class in the medina. We highly recommend both!
La Trattoria Restaurant
Where: La Trattoria is located at 179 Rue Mohammed el Beqal in Gueliz (the New Town).
Nearby sights: Musee MACMA, Marrakech Train Station.
If you’re looking for a break from the medina, head to La Trattoria in Gueliz. The large selection of cocktails and other drinks in the garden lounge is a great way to start your evening, and the charming ambiance, complete with a pianist, sets the tone for a relaxed experience. The menu offers a blend of Italian and Moroccan dishes, and while the presentation might not always be gourmet, the flavors are delightful. The roof opens on good weather days, offering a magical dining experience under the stars. After dinner, head to the Art Deco Bar for a drink before your taxi back to the medina.
Perfect for: A romantic evening for two.
We recommend: The steaks (incredible!) and the spinach and ricotta ravioli.
Tip: Advance booking is a must, and ask your hotel to help with the reservation. A taxi is recommended as the walk is further than it seems!
Le Trou Au Mur Restaurant
Where: Le Trou Au Mur is located at 39 Derb el Farnatchi in the north-east of the medina.
Nearby sights: Musee de Marrakech, Orientalist Museum, and Maison de Photographie.
This chic, quirky restaurant is relatively new to the Marrakech dining scene, and while its decor may not be for everyone, we really enjoyed it. The restaurant is set in a quieter part of the medina, away from the crowds. The menu includes both Moroccan and international dishes, with some inventive options. We found it to be one of the best meals we had during our recent trip.
Perfect for: A quiet, intimate dinner away from the crowds, with a fun dining room experience.
We recommend: Tride (a traditional Moroccan dish), tempura vegetables, and the homemade mini donuts (where you can inject your own fillings).
Tip: Choose the rooftop during warmer months, and the cozy dining room in winter.
Kosybar
Where: Kosybar is located on the rooftop in the heart of the Jewish quarter, at Place des Ferblantiers.
Nearby sights: Badi Palace, Bahia Palace, Saadian Tombs.
Kosybar is one of our top picks for the best restaurants in Marrakech, as it’s the perfect place to unwind after a long, hot day of sightseeing and shopping in the souks. We’ve been visiting this 19th-century house for nearly a decade, and have seen its service go from less-than-ideal to friendly and acceptable. It’s probably the best rooftop restaurant in Marrakech, offering comfy sofa-style seating and shaded canopies. It’s an excellent spot for cold drinks, a bowl of complimentary olives, and some dipping bread to tide you over before dinner. If you’re looking for a Marrakech restaurant that serves alcohol, this is one of the few that do! The views of Place des Ferblantiers and the nearby crumbling walls of the Badi Palace (often home to nesting storks) are fantastic. While there’s a stylish restaurant and bar downstairs for evening entertainment, the rooftop is the star of the show during the day, especially when paired with their delicious pizza.
Perfect for: Relaxing with drinks in the shade while listening to chilled-out music, perhaps with some light bites or a simple lunch.
We recommend: Sharing a plate of Moroccan salads with a bowl of chips for lunch. Their pizza is a guilty pleasure after all the tagine, and they certainly don’t skimp on the chili oil.
Tip: The ice and salads here are safe to consume—we’ve never been sick after eating here!
La Ferme Medina Restaurant
Where: La Ferme Medina is tucked away in the medina at 236 Riad Laarrouse.
Nearby sights: Dar El Bacha, Musee des Confluences.
Offering a delightful mix of Moroccan and international dishes, La Ferme Medina is a great choice for simple, fresh meals in a rustic, leafy setting. It’s not about gourmet experiences here, but rather enjoying stone-baked pizzas, refreshing salads, and smoothies in a relaxed garden atmosphere. The little seating booths tucked away in the gardens and a soothing water fountain help to create a cool escape from the heat. La Ferme Medina also offers rooms, although they might be noisy in the evenings with the restaurant downstairs.
Perfect for: A quiet retreat in an unexpected leafy corner of the medina.
We recommend: The pizzas, salads, and refreshing smoothies and juices—ideal for the hot Marrakech weather.
Tip: Avoid dining here on a Sunday if you’re a meat eater, as they sometimes run out of meat after a busy Saturday evening service.
Le Jardin Restaurant
Where: Le Jardin is located at 32 Souk Jeld Sidi Abdelaziz, in the Mouassine area of the medina.
We visited Le Jardin with some hesitation, thinking it was just another Instagram hotspot, but we were pleasantly surprised. This charming 16th-century building with lush gardens and cozy terraces turned out to be one of the best dining spots in the Marrakech old town. Despite its social media fame, the atmosphere here is far from overwhelming, with a nice buzz as diners enjoy their meals. The menu offers both Moroccan and European dishes, making it an excellent choice for both lunch and dinner. We initially came out of obligation while searching for the top restaurants in Marrakech, but left feeling full and happy, and will definitely return next time.
Perfect for: Instagrammers and shoppers in need of a break from their explorations.
We recommend: The kefta tagine, Berber pastilla, and their fresh fruit juices.
Tip: Make a reservation if you’re a larger group or dining during peak lunch or dinner times.
Cafe des Epices
Where: Cafe des Epices is located on the opposite side of the spice square (Place des Epices) from Nomad Restaurant in the medina.
Nearby sights: Souks, Djemaa el Fna.
Cafe des Epices is a great spot for a simple, satisfying meal while taking a break from the bustling souks and the square. With a menu that includes sandwiches, salads, burgers, and tagines, it’s the perfect stop for travelers seeking a casual meal. The seating is available at street level as well as on the roof terrace, offering great people-watching opportunities as tourists haggle with stallholders.
Perfect for: People-watching in the vibrant spice square.
We recommend: Swordfish sandwiches, Nutella crepes, and trying out their interesting coffee menu.
Tip: This cafe is quite popular, but if you hang around a few minutes, a table will free up. It’s perfect for a casual lunch while browsing the souks.
Grand Balcon du Cafe Glacier
Where: Grand Balcon du Cafe Glacier overlooks Djemaa el Fna (the main square).
Nearby sights: Djemaa el Fna, souks.
While restaurants around Djemaa el Fna aren’t known for their gourmet offerings, the Grand Balcon du Cafe Glacier stands out for its amazing rooftop terrace, offering sweeping views of the entire square. The food may not be the best in Marrakech, but it’s an ideal place to enjoy panoramic views while sipping a drink. For dining, you’ll need to make a purchase to access the terrace, and a waiter will eventually take your order. The vast terrace wraps around the building, so you’re bound to find a great spot, even if it’s not directly facing the square.
Perfect for: Watching life unfold in the square and taking photos without the usual distractions from snake charmers.
We recommend: Their surprisingly good pizzas, at an affordable price (around DH45 for a Margherita). We often share one for lunch.
Tip: The tables at the edge of the terrace are the most coveted, but don’t worry if they’re taken—just wait for a better spot to open up! Try to visit both during the day and evening for the best views. Also, play the game of counting the satellite dishes on the rooftops—you’ll never get the same number twice!
Dar Cherifa Restaurant and Cafe
Where: Dar Cherifa is located off Rue Mouassine, nestled deep within the souks in the heart of the medina.
Nearby sights: Souks, Le Jardin Secret, Mouassine Mosque.
Dar Cherifa is a peaceful and hidden gem, tucked away in the quiet alleys of the medina, just a ten-minute walk from the main square. This literary cafe, set in an ancient riad, features small tables around a rose-petal strewn fountain in the courtyard, and a terrace for additional seating. The architecture is impressive, with intricate stucco and carved wood, reminiscent of the nearby Ben Youssef Medersa. The food here is simple yet elegant, perfect for brunch, lunch, or an early dinner. Occasionally, they host art exhibitions, concerts, and intimate events with candlelight, creating a serene ambiance.
Perfect for: A calm pot of mint tea and pastries to unwind after the hustle and bustle of the medina.
We recommend: Sitting in the shaded courtyard by the fountain instead of the roof terrace during the heat.
Tip: The cafe often appears closed from the outside, but just push open the door and follow the passage to the courtyard.
Naranj Restaurant
Where: Naranj is located on Riad Zitoun Jdid, between Djemaa el Fna and Place des Ferblantiers.
Nearby sights: Bahia Palace, Badi Palace, Dar Si Said, Maison Tiskiwine.
Naranj is a hidden Lebanese restaurant off Rue Riad Zitoun Kedim, the main route between Djemaa el Fna and Place des Ferblantiers. On a recent visit, we found it fully booked for dinner, so we stopped by for virgin mojitos and a quick peek at the interior. The staff were welcoming, and we enjoyed the rooftop seating. Naranj’s small yet thoughtfully designed menu features traditional Lebanese dishes in a comfortable, rustic, yet modern setting, making it a great alternative to traditional Moroccan and European cuisine.
Perfect for: Trying something different from the typical Moroccan and European dishes.
We recommend: The mezze platters and hamshouka, which come highly recommended.
Tip: Be sure to book in advance (even before arriving in Marrakech) as the restaurant is often fully booked due to its popularity.
Le Comptoir Darna Restaurant
Where: Le Comptoir Darna is located on Avenue Echouhada in Gueliz.
Le Comptoir Darna is known for its sultry, glamorous vibe, making it the perfect spot for a chic night out. The intimate setting features red leather seating, gold chandeliers, and velvet drapes, giving the restaurant a romantic, upscale atmosphere. The food is good but not extraordinary, with a mix of traditional Moroccan and European dishes. The real draw is the ambiance, complete with live musicians and belly dancers after 9 pm, creating a lively and captivating experience.
Perfect for: a no-frills lunch in a pretty courtyard.
We recommend: pizza!
Tip: arrive a bit early or a bit late as this place is really popular and you may have to wait for a table at peak times.
Le Tanjia Restaurant
Where: Le Tanjia is located overlooking Place des Ferblantiers, on the edge of the Mellah in the medina.
Nearby sights: Saadian Tombs, Badi Palace.
Dining at Le Tanjia’s elegantly designed roof terrace offers a delightful experience. Located just off a small square near Kosybar, the restaurant lets you watch the vibrant street life below while enjoying a cooling mist from above. It’s one of the pricier restaurants in Marrakech, with European-style prices, but the food and service are excellent. Belly dancers perform around 9pm, often with the ambiance set by flickering candlelight.
Perfect for: A relaxed meal accompanied by live North African and Arabic music.
We recommend: The Tanjia, a traditional slow-cooked meat dish, famous in Marrakech.
Tip: To get a table on the edge of the roof terrace with views of the square, be sure to book ahead.
Dining In Your Marrakech Riad
Dining in Marrakech’s riads offers a truly special experience. We’ve yet to be disappointed by a meal at a riad, and often eat there multiple times due to the consistently delicious food. Meals here feel like home cooking, with ingredients carefully chosen and dishes made with great pride. On our first night, we love to dine in the riad, where we are greeted with a table set on the roof terrace, surrounded by rose petals and candles. As the call to prayer echoes through the evening, the relaxed atmosphere is perfect for starting your holiday.
Some of our favorite riads for dining include: Riad Assakina, Riad Camilia, Riad Cinnamon, Riad l’Orangeraie, and Riad Mur Akush.
We recommend: Opt for a later dinner, when the temperatures are cooler, and enjoy the peaceful rooftop atmosphere.
Tip: If you want to dine at your riad, be sure to place the order the night before or early in the morning. This allows the cook time to gather fresh ingredients from the market, and if you’re lucky, you may even be invited to join the shopping trip.
Eating at the Night Market Food Stalls
Where: Djemaa el Fna.
The night market in Djemaa el Fna is an exciting, lively experience full of energy and street food. You’ll find stalls offering everything from sheep’s eyeballs to chicken kebabs. The atmosphere is vibrant with the sounds of sales pitches, each stall vying for your attention with catchy jingles. Although we’ve never personally eaten at the food stalls due to hygiene concerns, many people have enjoyed meals here without issues. A good tip is to choose a stall that’s popular with locals to ensure better food quality.
Perfect for: A dinner and show experience, as the square comes alive with street performers at night.
Tip: The orange juice sellers in Djemaa el Fna provide refreshing drinks, freshly squeezed right in front of you. They use bottled water, so it’s safe to enjoy.
How to Be Sensible When Dining Out in Marrakech
To avoid common food-related issues in Marrakech, here are a few sensible guidelines, especially if you’re eating at public cafes or restaurants (high-end spots like those listed above are typically safe):
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Drink only bottled water (use it for brushing your teeth too).
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Avoid ice unless you’re at a trusted restaurant.
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Don’t eat uncooked vegetables or salads, as they may have been washed in untreated water.
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Dining at a riad is generally safer in terms of hygiene compared to public eateries.
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Carry antibacterial hand gel and use it after handling money or touching things in public.
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If you do experience stomach issues, drink plenty of bottled water and let your body flush it out naturally.
Service in Marrakech Restaurants
Service in many Marrakech restaurants tends to be laid-back and sometimes lacking in attention, but this is common throughout Morocco. The exception to this rule is La Maison Arabe, where we experienced impeccable service.
Meal Times in Morocco
In Morocco, dinner is typically served later, around 8 or 9pm, which can be quite late compared to UK standards. Adjusting to this schedule is part of the experience, especially when you’re eager to explore during the cooler part of the day. If you’re not used to eating late, try to relax and enjoy the experience at your own pace.