Sounds Of The Souks

Category: Food and Drink.

An exploration of The Red City known as Marrakech.

The best places for dining out in Marrakech.

  • Chez Bismillah Sand Coffee.

    Traditional Saharan Coffee. 

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Coffee brewed using a centuries old technique.

    Check Bismillah Sand Coffee is a hidden gem inside Souk El Kebir.

    Rich, aromatic coffee is brewed using hot saharan sand and gently spiced with a touch of Cardamom, Turmeric, or Cinnamon to give it a distinct flavour.

    To make it, the coffee is added to iced water inside small brass pots and then heated by moving it around by hand in hot sand.

    The coffee has a rich, dense, creamy flavour unlike any other coffee found in the medina.

    This charming spot is humble in appearance, cosy and inviting.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    There is also a rooftop where you can sit to enjoy your coffee in peace, a moment of self-indulgence

    Chez Bismillah offers you a serene refuge where you can sit watching the medina come to life tucked away in a quiet space away from the crowds.

    It’s an experience seeing the coffee gently warmed by hot Merzouga desert sand and savouring its unique taste.

    I was surprised how quickly the coffee became hot. I sat watching it being made from arabica and fragrant spices, which filled the air around me.

    Chez Bismillah is a unique experience firmly rooted in place and tradition.

    The friendly, welcoming proprietor gives you a glimpse into a past that conjures up images of camel traders selling cloth in the fondouk and stretches of vast desert terrain.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    It’s not just a cup of coffee.

    It’s an escape from reality, a moment of peace from the hectic rhythm of the busy alleyways of the souks.

    Chez Bismillah Sand Coffee can be found at 193 Souk El Kabir, it is open daily from 9.00am until 9.00pm with the exception of Saturday and Sunday when it closes at 7.00pm.

    tracey.wright1963@googlemail.com
    (more…)

  • Malah Cafe Restaurant In The Mellah.

    A budget restaurant in Tinsmiths Square.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Melah Cafe restaurant is located in Place des Ferblantiers, otherwise known as Tinsmiths Square.

    It is in the oldest Jewish quarter of the city towards the south of Jamaa, El Fna.

    This is the area where  artisans make things out of copper and tinplate, using skills passed down from generation to generation.

    There are shops selling traditional daggers, jewellery, tea trays, incense burners, and lamps.

    If you visit the mellah, Melah Cafe restaurant is just one of the many places to stop for a drink or a bite to eat.

    The food served is traditional morroccan and international cuisine.

    I had a really nice sandwich and fries with a refreshing smoothie, and it was very reasonably priced in comparison to the main square.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    There is plenty to watch sitting outside shaded under a large umbrella, and lots of cats wander to and fro across the square.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    I like spending time here.

    It’s not as busy as other places around the medina and close to attractions like the Saadian Tombs and El Badi Palace.

    The kasbah is a short walk away.

    There is a good selection on the menu at Malah Cafe restaurant, and food suitable for vegetarians and vegans is also available.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Opening times are;

    8.30am until 11.00pm.

    The address is:

    23 Place des Ferblantiers

    The Mellah has a huge selection of herbs and spices. Don’t forget to check out the wonderful selection whilst you are visiting Tinsmiths Square.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.
    tracey.wright1963@googlemail.com
    (more…)

  • Fluffys.

    A Great Dessert Cafe  Inside Medina Mall.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Fluffys is located on the first floor of Medina Mall

    It’s a great place to eat if you’re looking for somewhere with a friendly, relaxing atmosphere.

    The staff speak good English and are efficient and quick.

    Fluffys has a Bistro style appearance and serves high-quality food.

    The chef is visible to the guests, and you can watch him creating the dishes in front of you.

    I had a tomato pasta dish, and it was absolutely delicious.

    The pasta was exactly how I liked it and presented beautifully.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    My pancake dessert was huge, and I couldn’t finish it.

    It was incredible and unlike anything I’ve had before.

    Inside the restaurant, the decor is modern and contemporary.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    The staff were friendly and chatty, they appeared to really enjoy working here.

    It was lovely sitting in a quiet spot, with all the mayhem of the medina outside bustling away as usual.

    I felt quite isolated from it all and enjoyed the escape for a while.

    Medina Mall has some nice, slightly upmarket outlets inside, and there are a couple of restaurants.

    Fluffys was a definite favourite of mine and terrific value for money.

    There is a good selection of food and beverages on the menu, and I chose a fruit smoothie, which was perfect.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Medina Mall is in a slightly quieter area of the medina, not far from Tinsmiths Square.

    Fluffys is popular for breakfast and lunch. However, you don’t need to book.

    Just show up and wait to be seated.

    I arrived early evening and I was seated immediately.

    I chose to sit outside the entrance where I could watch the chef preparing the food.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Fluffys is a dessert cafe chain with outlets in other parts of the world.

    They are popular for their award winning Japanese souffle pancakes, and I can highly recommend them.

    They come in flavours, including strawberry, macha,tiramisu, pistachio, and creme brulee.

    I had salted caramel with Moroccan rose flavoured ice cream.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Medina Mall is on;

    91. Hommane Fetouaki

    Marrakech 40000 Morocco.

    It is open from 9.30 am until 11.00pm daily.

    Fluffys is one of the most exciting places I eaten in.

    The brunch courses look amazing. There are plenty of choices, including dishes suitable for vegetarians.

    I will definitely visit again to work my way through the tantalising menu.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.
    tracey.wright1963@googlemail.com
    (more…)

  • Pepe Nero Italian Restaurant.

    A popular Italian restaurant in the medina.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Pepe Nero is an exceptionally good restaurant tucked away on a quiet street in the medina.

    It is an Italian restaurant, but they also serve delicious Moroccan cuisine.

    The setting is absolutely stunning, with a pretty courtyard surrounded by beautiful foliage and gentle trickling fountains.

    I ate here a few times during my visit to Marrakech, and I enjoyed the food immensely on both occasions.

    The menu is creative, and they also have delicious pasta dishes suitable for vegetarians like myself.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    I had pasta with truffle, and it was a delight on the senses, beautifully presented and cooked to perfection.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    The desert menu is also good, with a fine selection of light deserts to compliment the main course.

    Alcohol is served, including a selection of wines, cocktails, and spirits.

    The ambience is relaxing with music playing in the background.

    It can get slightly livelier in the evening, but it never becomes overly stimulating and still maintains a sense of calm.

    Despite the music tempo, I never had to raise my voice to be heard. The atmosphere is still calm and conducive to a pleasant, romantic evening.

    Pepe Nero is open for lunch and dinner, and there are two courtyards as well as a nice enclosed dining area.

    Guests can sit around the pool where bougainvillaea drapes down the wall or in the second courtyard area with a couple of attractive fountains, burbling in the background.

    If the weather is cooler, the internal dining area is elegant and refined.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    The staff at Pepe Nero are professional and friendly.

    They are knowledgeable and help you to make the right choices when choosing from the menu.

    The experience of eating here was worth every dirham..

    Good food, a beautiful, unpretentious environment, and excellent service combined to ensure the perfect dining experience.

    I would certainly recommend Pepe Nero if you enjoy Italian food and want a change from Tagine or couscous.

    There is a small car park close to the restaurant also.

    Pepe Nero is also a riad called Riyadh Al Moussika, I have written an article about staying here.

    Opening hours for the restaurant are;

    1.00pm until 4.00pm daily.

    6.00pm until 11.30 daily.

    The address is;

    17 Derb Cherkaoul

    Marrakech 40000 Morocco.

    Booking is advisable as this is a popular restaurant and can get busy, especially during the evening.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.
    tracey.wright1963@googlemail.com
    (more…)

  • Riyadh Al Moussika

    A beautiful riad, above Pepe Nero Italian Restaurant.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    I was fortunate enough to stay at Riyadh Al Moussika in the medina.

    The interior was absolutely spectacular as it was once home to the Pasha of Marrakech.

    The two courtyards were beautifully preserved and a haven of peace and tranquillity in the morning.

    The sound of birdsong and the gentle trickle of water from the fountains was a lovely way to begin each day.

    The riad is also a popular Italian restaurant called Pepe Nero, which I feature in a separate article.

    Once the restaurant is open for business, music is playing, but during the afternoon, between 4 and 6, it is peaceful and relaxing.

    The evenings can become livelier, so earplugs are a must if you wish to retire to bed early as the tempo of the music is slightly louder.

    I didn’t really find this an issue, and the restaurant closes at 11.30pm, becoming quiet very quickly afterwards.

    The rooms are huge and feel very noble.

    The blue suite is incredibly grand, fit for royalty.

    I stayed in the single room, and it was perfectly adequate for me with all the amenities I required.

    Rooms in riads are generally quite dark to keep them cool, but this is part of the authenticity of them.

    Riyadh Al Moussika is a very traditional riad, with intricate tilework adorning the water features and stunning plants, trees, and bougainvillaea climbing the walls.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    The rooftop is separated into private areas for guests, with sun loungers to absorb some  hot African sun.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    It was a pleasurable experience, sipping a Disaronno and listening to the burbling fountain whilst gazing into the clear pool surrounded by exotic foliage.

    The location of Riyadh Al Moussika is also very good.

    It is in a quiet area with a small carpark close by.

    There are several restaurants and cafes situated a ‘stones throw’ away, including Mandala Society.

    The staff were very professional but still maintained a friendly, welcoming atmosphere.

    They were helpful and polite at all times.

    Complimentary water and mint tea were available for guests each day, which was a nice touch.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    The breakfast was a good start to each day and consisted of typical Moroccan sweet treats with the option of omelette also.

    Msemen pancakes, croissants,  cheese, fruit, and yoghurt, freshly squeezed orange juice, and coffee all served in the tranquil courtyard.

    I really enjoyed my stay in Riyadh Al Moussika and would highly recommend it.

    The music is definitely something to bear in mind if you are someone who likes to retire early, but as a solo traveller, it took away the feelings of isolation that can sometimes occur.

    Taking a pair of earplugs definitely helped.

    The excellent service and exquisite environment made up for the slight inconvenience of the bustling restaurant vibe.

    Riyadh Al Moussika can be located at;

    62 Derb Boutouil,

    Marrakech 40000

    Morocco.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.
    tracey.wright1963@googlemail.com

    (more…)

  • Krepchy.

    A restaurant in a quieter area of Marrakech with more local people than tourists.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Krepchy in the Kasbah was a lucky find.

    I wanted to try something else as an alternative to the usual breakfasts offered by my accommodation.

    At Krepchy, there is a good choice, and everything is freshly cooked to order.

    I was pleasantly surprised at how nice the waffles were, and they were very filling.

    Eating breakfast at Krepchy really set me up for the day.

    The portion size was good, and the quality of the food was excellent.

    I enjoyed a traditional pot of atay sitting outside and chatted with the passing local people going about their daily life.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    It was fun..

    The atmosphere was relaxing and the staff were friendly.

    The interior decor of this little establishment is pleasant with beautiful Amazigh artefacts adorning the walls and colourful Berber rugs strewn along the floor.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    Krepchy has been awarded 5* by trip advisor, and it’s not hard to see why.

    It’s a popular little place.

    They also serve lunch and dinner, becoming quite busy during peak times.

    There’s a good menu with several choices available, including dishes suitable for vegetarian and vegans.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Hours of opening are from 8.00 am. until 1.30 am.

    The address is;

    Sidi Belabed, Route, Marrakech 40014.

    Krepchy is an authentic Morroccon restaurant with tourists and locals alike enjoying its delicious, competitively priced food.

    For a glimpse into real, authentic life in Marrakech, this is one place you’ll find it.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    For advice on other places to eat, contact me via the email address below;

    tracey.wright1963@googlemail.com
    (more…)

  • Staying In The Kasbah.

    An authentic district of Marrakech with more local people.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    The Kasbah is a quieter part of Marrakech, with fewer tourists than the medina.

    Staying in the Kasbah, you feel totally immersed in the culture of Marrakech as you rub shoulders with the friendly locals.

    There are plenty of restaurants and shops including a good fixed price store selling everything you will find in the souks at a realistic price.

    *See my separate post on Dar Bouchaib.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    Inside the Kasbah, you can visit tourist attractions like the Saadian tombs and El Badi Palace.

    Zeitoune Cafe overlooking the mosque is a lovely spot for lunch or a drink whilst taking a break from sightseeing.

    Sitting outside on the colourful cushions people watching in the Moroccan sun was quite an experience.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    The kasbah is about 15 to 20 minutes leisurely walking from the main square with plenty to see along the way.

    The walk is interesting, with many shops and vendors selling all kinds of stuff.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    In the kasbah, there are a  range of budget and high-end riads to stay in.

    It is definitely quieter than the medina.

    I stayed in Riad Hikaya, it was absolutely lovely and a totally relaxing few days for me.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    *See my separate article about staying at Riad Hikaya.

    The Kasbah is the historical citadel in Marrakesh with fortified walls.

    The narrow alleyways make it an exciting place to visit, and there are fewer motorcycles and donkeys trying to negotiate the streets at the same time as you, making it less stressful than the medina.

    There are plenty of good restaurants to enjoy nice food so you won’t have to go too far.

    The Kasbah is home to the Clock restaurant and its legendary camel burger and storytelling evenings.

    Also, the Kasbah Cafe is a popular place for lunch and dinner.

    Krepchy does a fantastic breakfast, and the prices are very reasonable.

    I highly recommend the waffles.

    To return from the medina, consider taking a tuk-tuk if the weather is hot.

    It’s quite an adventure in itself as you rattle along the bumpy streets.

    Spending an hour or two enjoying this interesting area of Marrakech is definitely worth it.

    The locals are very friendly, and it was a pleasure getting the opportunity to sit and chat with them.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    I would recommend staying in the kasbah if you prefer a quieter, more authentic experience in Marrakech.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.
    tracey.wright1963@googlemail.com
    (more…)

  • Mandala Society.

    A hip joint playing cool music and serving excellent food.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    I was lucky enough to stumble across this wonderful little place in the medina

    The music they were playing alone was enough to keep me seated happily for a while as I sipped on a deliciously fresh fruit smoothie.

    There is a chilled, boho vibe in this little place with an air of sophistication that suits all ages and walks of life.

    I went at lunchtime and it was quite busy so I sat on the rooftop to eat my food.

    The view across the medina was pleasant, and the energy was good up there.

    I tried the avocado toast, and it was so delicious.

    The creative way that the chef used fresh fruit to decorate the meal added a touch of refinement to my meal, making a simple brunch rather more special.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    The interior decor is cosy, yet modern, bright, and airy.

    Friendly staff wait on the tables, and the menu is both exciting and interesting.

    I found the price of lunch competitive and the quality of the food served is very good.

    I sat listening to The Doors, Bob Dylan, and a few other tunes from the late sixties and seventies.

    It felt like such a great vibe, and I was happy to sit and just enjoy the music they were playing.

    It was quite a treat in the middle of a busy medina.

    I could have hung out there for hours..

    Travellers and tourists alike frequent Mandala Society, giving it a contemporary style, yet with a cosy intimate twist.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    You can find Mandala Society at 159 Rue Riad Zitoun el Jdid,

    Marrakech 40000.

    The opening hours are,

    9.30am to 10.30pm daily.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    For more information about this and other places to eat,

    tracey.wright1963@googlemail.com
    (more…)

  • La Pergola Rooftop Bar.

    One of the places popular for cocktails in the medina

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    La Pergola rooftop bar is quite a little jungle.

    Situated in the medina, close to Jamaa El Fna, La Pergola is a popular restaurant serving food and alcohol including a great range of cocktails.

    The beautiful palm trees that grow up from the courtyard of Cafe Arabe make the ambience very tranquil and relaxing.

    It has a jungly, exotic ambience as you sit nestled amongst the palms.

    Part of Riad Monceau, La Pergola is open to the public and a very busy place, so booking for an evening meal or cocktails is recommended.

    It can be heaving with tourists due to its proximity to the main square.

    I spent an hour enjoying some peace and tranquillity during the afternoon, which is a much quieter time to visit than during the evening.

    I found it very relaxing sitting amongst the exotic trees and plants, listening to gentle background music.

    I enjoyed the fresh smoothies, which were beautifully presented with attention to detail.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    Like most places serving alcohol in the medina, it is quite pricey.

    That is because Marrakech is a Muslim country, and alcohol is not widely consumed.

    The stunning surroundings of La Pergola make it worthwhile a visit, and although I didn’t try the food, the menu looked very good.

    I may be tempted to go again and indulge myself.

    Le Bistro Arabe is situated below  La Pergola in the courtyard.

    During the evening, they have live jazz musicians and serve food and alcohol.

    To get to La Pergola, you have to cross the courtyard of Le Bistro Arabe and mount the stairs until you come to the rooftop.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    During the evening, you can hear the live jazz band in Le Bistro Arabe.

    The atmosphere is very lively, and finding somewhere to sit is not easy.

    Booking beforehand guarantees you a seat.

    Seating is on different levels, giving views across the medina or looking down on the people below.

    Comfortable couches attract people to come and relax over a drink or two with friends and family.

    La Pergola is open daily from noon until 11.00pm.

    The address is;

    7/8 Riad Zitoun Lakdim.

    Marrakech 40000

    Morrocco.

    Situated in Riad Monceau, directly above Le Bistro Arabe.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    There are plenty of great shops in this area, and a stop off in La Pergola makes a welcome break from sightseeing.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    For more information, contact me via the email address below;

    tracey.wright1963@googlemail.com
    (more…)

  • Mo Mo’s Restaurant.

    A quirky place to dine with terrific views over the medina.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Mo Mo’s restaurant is a colourful and tastefully decorated restaurant in the medina.

    Inside, the tables are set with attractive earthenware, and there is so much to catch your eye strategically placed around the restaurant.

    There is a mid century feel to the restaurant, similar to the Tiki style.

    The colourful interior is vibrant and exciting, with pink and pale blue tones creating a relaxed ambience.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    The rooftop is very popular and the perfect place to watch the sun set over the medina.

    The views across the main square are perfect for observing all the action from a distance.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    I decided to relax with a drink and watch the setting sun.

    It was quite spectacular.

    The opening time for serving dinner was 6.00pm, and the tables were filling up rapidly.

    The waiters were very busy due to the popularity of Mo Mo’s, and they were friendly and helpful, making the guests feel welcome.

    The menu is interesting, and the food is of good quality with decent portion sizes.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Mo Mo’s is popular with all age groups, and there is plenty of space inside and out to accommodate a large number of people.

    There is certainly plenty to look at, and it’s a very instagrammable place.

    People were taking photos of the fascinating decor.

    It’s unlike other places in the medina, yet still exudes the same charm.

    It is modern and elegant, with a touch of chilled, mellow 1960s energy.

    Mo Mo’s serve Mediterranean food alongside traditional Moroccan specialities.

    Some reviews suggest that the menu is limited, but people say that they enjoyed the food and rated it as high quality.

    Mo Mo’s is quite a new restaurant, so the menu may be tweaked as time goes on to include more dishes.

    The breakfast is an innovative take on a full English breakfast served in a tagine.

    I can vouch for the drinks.

    They were beautifully presented and fresh.

    There was a good choice of juices and smoothies.

    I had a lovely smoothie and I could taste each individual fruit, it was very healthy.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    If you’re looking for somewhere with an explosion of colour, traditional yet with a modern twist, this is the perfect place.

    It is exciting and classy at the same time.

    I will definitely be returning..

    Mo Mo’s is open daily from 11.00am to 12.00am

    The address is;

    1 Riad Zitoun, Lakdim, Marrakech 40000 Morocco.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    tracey.wright1963@googlemail.com
    (more…)