Posts Tagged ‘Restaurants in Marrakech’

Top 5 Things to do in Marrakech, Off the Beat Morocco

Tuesday, November 10th, 2015
Majorelle Gardens, Top 5 Things Marrakech

Majorelle Gardens, Top 5 Things Marrakech

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Marrakech, referred to as the “red hamra” city is a major city in Morocco known for it’s magnificent ochre color and is an attraction in itself. Marrakech boasts a vibrant street life and a rich array of drought tolerant flora and fauna, magnificent scents, exotic street food and bustling souks. Marrakech is a lively city where the traditional collides with the contemporary. A travelers experience to Marrakech can be highlighted by visiting UNESCO Heritage sites, sprawling gardens, mysterious palaces with majestic mosaic zellij tile work along with glorious houses of worship. The Top 5 Things to do in Marrakech are those that combine new trends with tradition along with off the beaten path experiences. For those who want a touch of local culture and authentic of city life our take on the Top 5 Things to do in Marrakech are stand out choices.

The Top 5 Things to do in Marrakech, Off the Beat Morocco – Recommended by Morocco Travel Designer Alecia Cohen:

#1: The Majorelle Gardens & Berber Museum – The Majorelle Gardens, previously the Jardin Bou Saf, bears its name from its original creator, Jacques Majorelle, the French expatriate artist who was born in Nancy, France, in 1886. Jacques Majorelle was the son of the celebrated Art Nouveau furniture designer Louis Majorelle. In 1947, the son opened his gardens to the public and, during this time, also painted a magnificent ceiling at La Mamounia, a five-star hotel with exquisite gardens and the place where Alfred Hitchcock wrote The Birds. Jacques Majorelle studied at the École des Beaux Arts in Nancy in 1901 and in 1919 went to Marrakech to recover from heart problems. He built the garden during those years, using a special blue color that he used extensively in the garden and that is named after him, Majorelle blue. Majorelle returned to France in 1962 after a car incident and died later that year of complications from his injuries. As a collector of unique plants from five continents, Majorelle left to Yves Saint Laurent one of the more unique collections of flora and fauna of this era as well as a place of inspiration and contemplation. Even though Morocco is no longer under the French protectorate, this original French creation is one of the most beloved areas in Morocco. The Majorelle Gardens also houses a 200 meter squared Berber Museum with its spectacular collection of Berber Silver and an exclusive collection of over 600 objects from diverse regions of Morocco. Visit the Majorelle Gardens  during the early morning to take advantage of the Marrakech sunlight.

Amal Women's Training Center, Top 5 Things to do in Marrakech

Amal Women’s Training Center, Top 5 Things to do in Marrakech

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

#2: Amal Women’s Training Center – Perfect for Couscous on Fridays, a Cooking Class and mingling with women – The Amal Womens Center & Moroccan restaurant is a non-profit organization that empowers disadvantaged women by training them in traditional and modern cuisine. Founded by Nora Fitzgerald, an American born and raised in Morocco, this fabulous small house is located in the new city of Gueliz. The Amal Center offers cooking classes and is the prefect place for couscous lunch on Fridays.

#3: Café Clock – A Camel Burger and Hikayat Storytelling Experience – Mike Richardson, owner of Café Clock in Fes launched a Mararkech offshoot that is the ideal place to go for lunch. Cafe Clock is trend setting with its fine get up of retro and vintage style Berber decor where young Moroccans, foreigners and expats can commence together to meet and enjoy Moroccan cafe fare while participating in variety of activities such as the Art of Hikayat Storytelling.  Café Clock is off the beaten path in the Kasbah region of the Marrakech medina and embodies the diversity of which Morocco is celebrated. The oral storytelling of Hikayat can be heard at Café Clock twice weekly. Hikayat is over 1000 years old and the oral culture of storytelling encompasses everything from love to recipes, legal agreements and daily life. Visit Cafe Clock at sunset for a camel burger and Hikayat Storytelling. The perfect evening for those wanting an insider experience of Marrakech.

La Maison Photographie, Top 5 Things to Do in Marrakech

La Maison Photographie, Top 5 Things to Do in Marrakech

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

#4: Maison de la Photographie – A visit to Marrakech is not complete without a visit to La Maison de la Photographie which is close to the Medersa Ben Youssef. It is truly one of the wonders of Marrakech. Housed in a converted three story Foundouk (the old inns and storage houses for camel trains coming to sell their wares in the souks) which Patrick Man’ach and his Moroccan business colleague Hamid Megrani converted in to a photographic gallery in 2009. There are photographs of Morocco from the 1860’s at the very dawn of photography when intrepid adventurers had to carry heavy equipment into what was still a largely closed country up until the 1950’s and Morocco’s independence in 1956. The exhibitions are arranged on three floors, with large size portraits and scenes from the 1860’s and 70’s to the early20th Century and the late 1950’s. The third floor has a video room showing the films of Daniel Chicault who took his cine camera to the Atlas Mountains to film in colour unique dance scenes and the village life of the Berber tribes in 1956 and 1957. Don’t miss this boutique museum or the chance to purchase one of their fabulous vintage prints.

Ben Youssef Medersa, Top 5 Things to Do in Marrakech

Ben Youssef Medersa, Top 5 Things to Do in Marrakech

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

#5 Ben Youssef Medersa – Visit the Ben Youssef Medersa, one of Marrakech’s leading mosques of magnificence. Not far from Djemaa El Fna Square is the Ben Youssef that was built between 1121 and 1132. A former theological university the mosque faces towards Mecca. Each wall is marked with zellij tile work and entering in the Ben Youssef takes you back to another century and makes one feel as if they are on a pilgrimage. This dynastic mosque is one of Morocco’s greats and worth the sight and the photo-op in front of its massive shallow pool and columns in the morning or early afternoon.

For more information about the Top 5 Things to Do in Marrakech 

Morocco’s Imperial CitiesSeaside Resorts,Sahara Desert,Berber villagesA Taste of MoroccoMagical Kasbahs, Ruins & WaterfallsAbsolute Morocco, The Best of MarrakechFes, and Ouarzazate

Discover The Best of Morocco - Travel Exploration
Travel Exploration specializes in Morocco Travel. We offer Private Tours and travel opportunities to Morocco for the independent traveler and tailor-made tours for families and groups with a distinctly unique flavor. From Morocco’s Seven Imperial Cities, to the Magical Sahara Travel Exploration offers a captivating experience that will inspire you. At Travel Exploration we guarantee that you will discover the best of Morocco! Call Travel Exploration at 1 (800) 787-8806 or + 1 (212) 618882681 and let’s book a tour to Morocco for you today.

Best Restaurants in Marrakech, Fes & Essaouira Come Travel to Morocco With Us, Your Morocco Travel Guide

Thursday, January 7th, 2010

If you are in the process of planning a vacation to Morocco for Spring 2010 or a Morocco tour, then it is important to have your finger on the pulse of the best restaurants and haute cuisine in Marrakech, Fes and Essaouira. Eating in Morocco is an experience that is second to none when Moroccan travelers pair their choice of a Morocco Travel agency with a uniquely Moroccan dining experience and stay in Moroccan Riads or Moroccan Hotels that have been hand selected by Moroccan Travel Specialists. When traveling to Morocco why not ask the experts of Morocco Travel and you will then be guaranteed to discover the best of Morocco.

Since the early 1990’s Marrakech, Fes and Essaouira have expanded their offerings for foodies and today some of the best cuisine in North Africa can be had in the red city of Marrakech, Fes, a UNESCO World Heritage site or the seaside city of Essaouira. Marrakech, Fes and Essaouira boast delightful restaurants, professional chefs and haute cuisine that mélanges French and Moroccan traditional cooking styles plus and an atmosphere to boot that is uniquely Moroccan.

Tajine

Moroccan Modern cuisine is in vogue. If you are planning a Morocco vacation it is best to hit the ground running in the food category and come prepared to eat three and four course meals that are always complimented by fresh mint, Moroccan sweet and nutty deserts along side some of the best Moroccan wine and Moroccan beer, home to Morocco’s Imperial city of Meknes.

They say, “when in Rome, do as the Romans” so at Travel Exploration Morocco, we say “when in Morocco, do as the Moroccans.” The best Morocco travel agents will always provide you with a detailed list of Moroccan Riads, Moroccan Restaurants and Morocco Siteseeing excursions that tempt the senses and offer exploration of mind, heart and pallet.

BEST RESTAURANTS IN MARRAKECH

LE MARRAKECHI
This majestic Moroccan restaurant that overlooks Djemma El Fna Square is the best place to eat if you want a full view of the Djemma. Le Marrakechi has reasonably priced Moroccan cuisine for the large portions they provide and boasts and atmosphere that is filled with charm. Step into Le Marrakechi and you are led up a stairway this is covered with rose petals onto an open floor plan that is surrounded by traditional Moroccan zellij tile and has floor to ceiling clear, glass windows that abut each corner offering the clear view of Djemma El Fna. The service is spectacular as is the bellydancing show that is gratis to all those who come to enjoy Le Marrakechi.

52, rue des Banques, just off Djemâa El Fna, Marrakesh
Phone: +212- 524-44-33-77

Le-Marrakechi- Marrakech

LE TANJA
Le Tanja is a stylish brassarie in the old medina and has excellent tajines, couscous and fish dishes. The serene, elegant rooftop terrace with beautiful rose-filled fountain is a great place to relax at sunset with views over the ancient alleyways.

14 Derb J’did Hay Essalam, medina
Phone: 212-24-383-836

JAD MAHAL
Jad Mahal is a combination of bar, restaurant and dance complex. Since its opening in December 2003, Jad Mahal has been a hit amongst travelers and hip young Marrakech’s and is a trendy addition to the Marrakech nightlife scene. Located just outside the old city, Jad Mahal boasts and elegant courtyard with two dining rooms, with a blend of Indian and Moroccan Décor.

Fontaine de la Mamounia
Phone: +212-524-436-984

LE FOUNDOUK
This is one of the best places to eat in the Marrakech Medina with lovely staff and a romantic and chic vibe. Guided by men in cloaks and a lantern, down a dusty alley, you’ll find this chic purple-hued dining den:a riad eatery with a cosmopolitan feel, good cocktails and excellent Moroccan/Mediterranean fusion food. Ask for a table along the railing for the best views or up on the roof terrace in nice weather. Le Fondouk is a funky place to dine with a mixed menu of French and Moroccan cuisine served on three levels.

Souk El Fassi Kaat Bennahit
Phone: +212-524-378-190

Le-Foundouk-Marrakech

DAR YACOUT
This is the place to go for Palace style dining. Ignore the fact it is a tourist haunt and enjoy a full evening starting with drinks on the roof, appetizers served around one of the many grand fireplaces, before you descend to one of the glass walled dining rooms over- looking the pool courtyard. You’ll be seated along a banquette with a 5’ diameter table  which will be piled with an astounding amount of food while being entertained by traditional Moroccan music. This place is all about the architectural wow factor.

79 rue Sidi Ahmed Soussi, Arset Ihiri
Phone: +212-524-380-29-29

LE COMPTOIR
Le Comptoir is a hot sport for pre- or after dinner drinks- and dinner. It has both an upper level and lower level Soho style bar and a simply arresting belly dancing show, compliments of the owners. It is a favorite stop for Marrakech Film Festival luminaries and has extremely delicious cuisine that mélanges French- Moroccan style.

Avenue Echouhada (Hivernages/ Gueliz)
Phone: +212-524-383-836

Le-Comptoir-Darna- Marrakech

CAFÉ DES ÉPICES
One of the few good places to stop and rest and have some lunch right in the souks. Salads, sandwiches and pastries are all on the menu here, and you can wash it all down with a choice of spiced teas.Seats are available on the rooftop terrace, as well as inside.WiFi available.Credit cards not accepted. Open daily 8am-8pm

Place Rahba Qedima (Spice Souks)
Phone: +212-524-39-17-70

TERRACES DES ÉPICES
Kamal Laftimi (is a smart young Moroccan who started out with a small riad, Tlaata wa Sitteen. His Café des Épices in the heart of the souks is now an obligatory stop for anyone in need of a light lunch and the Terrace repeats the formula with laidback seating in open-sided booths, cool music and big views.This time he has added a good all-day Franco-Moroccan dining menu.Specialties include salads and grilled meat and fish, and  there is always a range of fresh juices – orange, of course, all year round, and whatever else is in season.Young expats not normally seen on this side of town can be found lounging on the banquettes, while an increasing number of foreigners in search of a quiet moment in the souk are making their way up the stairs to this rooftop hide-away. No Liquor.

15 Souk Cherifia, Sidi Abdelaziz
Phone:+212-524-37-59-004

Palais-De-Fes

BEST RESTAURANTS FES

PALAIS DE FES
Palais De Fes serves authentic Moroccan cuisine, considered among the best of the best in Fes. Located in the heart of the medina, the restaurants terrace offers stunning views of the winding streets. A must is this restaurants pastilla (pigeon pie) which is a tender meat soaked in aromatic sauce and layered with vegetables, raisns and local spices beneath a pastry crust sprinkled with connamon and sugar.

5 Makhfia Ech Cif
Phone: +212-55-761-590

DAR ROUMANA
Dar Roumana means House of Pomegranate. This Riad and restaurant offers creative Moroccan cuisine by a French-trained chef who is an American, Jennifer Smith. The restaurant is located in a beautiful Riad and Smith offers a combination of Fassis and Modern Moroccan cuisine with French twist. Reservations are required.

30 Derb el Amer, Zkak Roumane
Phone: +212-35-741-637

LA MAISON BLEUE
La Maison Bleue is one of Fes’ oldest and most stylish traditional Moroccan Fasis restaurants. Couscous, Sheep Brains, Fasis Salads and Pastilla with Powered Sugar are offered at pre fix or ala carte while you sit surrounded by zellij tile, vaulted ceilings and are serenaded by Gnaoua Music.

2, Place de l’Istiqlal
Phone: +212-5-35-74-18-43

ZAGORA
This is a modern Moroccan restaurant located in the ville nouvelle, new city of Fes on Mohamed V. It offers Moroccan and Continental Cuisine. Their fish dishes, salads and selection of wines are a nice compliment to the typical Moroccan cuisine if you are spending several days in Fes.

5 Bd Mohammed V
Phone: +212-05-35-624-618

Le-Chalet-De-La-Plage

BEST RESTAURANTS ESSAOUIRA

CHEZ SAM
This restaurant offers stunning views of the sea and is just a ten minute walk towards the end of the seaport in Essaouira. Chez Sam offers excellent seafood for the value. They are one of the more reasonably prices seafood restaurants in town. The staff is very friendly and they offer wine to compliment the variety of kinds of seafood served. Chez Sam has both an upstairs area to dine which enables guests to enjoy the views of the sea.

Au fond du port
Phone: + 212-44-47-65-13

ELIZIR
Elizer, pronounced Elixer is one of Essaourias best restaurants. This 60’s retro style restaurant has a reputation that keeps on moving. With its stylistic modern- Moroccan cuisine and décor, Elixer is sure to leave you with a most memorable dining experience during your stay in Essaouira.

Phone: +212-24-470-21-03

LE SIROCCO
Le Sirocco is a well-established Franco-Moroccan restaurant in Essaouira. It is a reliable favorite of returning tourists and local expats alike. Prices are a bit higher than most other restaurants in town, but well worth it. The owners are French and the food is simply delicious. Le Sirocco offers the standard Moroccan fare in addition to specialties such as dark chocolate molten cake and excellent fish dishes.

Rue Ibn Roch
Phone: +212-524-472-396

LE CHALET DE LA PLAGE
Le Chalet de la Plage is a beachfront institution in Esaouira that has some of the best seafood in town. Built entirely of wood in 1893, the restaurant is in its fourth family of proprietors, the Jeannots, and the dark, maritime-theme interior is adorned with pictures and mementos of a past guest list that includes a French president and Hollywood movie stars. Diners feast on items from a French-language menu that offers Oualidia oysters, shrimp, calamari, lobster, and a wide selection of line fish. There’s also a small choice of other meats, soups and salads, three-course set menus, and Chez Jeannot’s suggestions du jour. A well-stocked bar is complimented by a select wine list, chosen by local vintner Charles Melia.

Boulevard Mohammed V
Phone: + 212-24-47-59-72

For a complete more information on Morocco’s best Restaurants and Travel Exploration Morocco

For more information about Travel and Tours to Morocco plus highlights on Moroccan culture visit Morocco’s Imperial CitiesSeaside Resorts,Sahara DesertBerber villagesA Taste of MoroccoMagical Kasbahs, Ruins & WaterfallsAbsolute Morocco, The Best of MarrakechFes, and Ouarzazate.

Discover The Best of Morocco - Travel Exploration

Travel Exploration specializes in Morocco Travel. We provide Tours and travel opportunities to Morocco for the independent traveler and tailor-made tours for families and groups with a distinctly unique flavor. From Morocco’s Seven Imperial Cities, to the Magical Sahara Travel Exploration offers a captivating experience that will inspire you. At Travel Exploration we guarantee that you will discover the best of Morocco! Call Travel Exploration at 1 (800) 787-8806  or 1 (917)703-2078  and let’s book a tour to Morocco for you today.

Best restaurants in Marrakech, Best restaurants in Fes, Best restaurants in Essaouira, Best restaurants in Morocco, Restaurants in Marrakech, Restaurants in Fes, Restaurants in Essaouira, Where to eat in Marrakech, Where to eat in Fes, Where to eat in Essaouira, Where to eat in Morocco, Marrakech haute cuisine, Fes haute cuisine, Essaouira haute cuisine, 4×4 Travel to Morocco’s best restaurants, Dining experience in Marrakech, Dining experience in Fes, Dining Experience in Essaouira, Marrakech restaurants, Fes restaurants, Essaouira restaurants, Morocco restaurant guide, Marrakech restaurant guide, Fes restaurant guide, Fes restaurant guide, Morocco Travel, Tours to Morocco, Morocco Vacations, Morocco Holidays