Getting around
Where are the best restaurants in Marrakech?
- Medina
- Rooftops & riads
- Modern
- Gueliz & Hivernage
- Budget
- Square & souk stalls
- Tip
- Book popular rooftops
Quick answer
Marrakech splits between atmospheric medina restaurants and rooftops — places like Nomad, Le Jardin, Café des Épices and Terrasse des Épices — and the modern dining of Gueliz and Hivernage, from bistros to fine dining. For traditional Moroccan feasts try classic riad restaurants; for a cause, the non-profit Amal. Book ahead for the popular rooftops.
In the medina
For atmosphere it's hard to beat a medina rooftop at dusk. Long-time favourites near Rahba Kedima include Nomad (modern Moroccan), Café des Épices and Le Jardin (a leafy courtyard). Terrasse des Épices and Nomad are reliable for a stylish meal with a view. For a lavish traditional feast in a palatial riad, spots like La Maison Arabe and Dar Yacout deliver the full tagine-and-pastilla experience. The social-enterprise Amal restaurant trains disadvantaged women and serves excellent home-style Moroccan lunches.
In the new town — and on the street
Gueliz and Hivernage hold the city's modern and international dining: contemporary Moroccan, French bistros, Italian, sushi and cocktail-bar kitchens, generally with alcohol licences. At the other end, the cheapest and most authentic eating is on Jemaa el-Fnaa and in the souks — grills, tanjia and snacks for a handful of dirham. A food tour or dining experience is a great way to find the good stuff; popular rooftops fill up, so reserve ahead.
Related questions
What are the best rooftop restaurants in Marrakech?
Near Rahba Kedima in the medina, Nomad, Café des Épices, Le Jardin and Terrasse des Épices are perennial favourites for modern Moroccan food with a view. Book ahead, especially for sunset tables, as they're popular.
Where do locals eat in Marrakech?
Locals eat at the street grills and stalls of Jemaa el-Fnaa and the souks, at simple neighbourhood eateries in areas like Gueliz, and at home. For authentic, affordable food, follow the busy stalls or join a street-food tour.
Do you need to book restaurants in Marrakech?
For popular medina rooftops and higher-end riad restaurants, yes — especially at dinner and sunset. Casual eateries and street stalls don't need reservations. Booking a day ahead secures the best tables and views.