A whimsical place for lunch in the medina.
The first place I go after arriving in the medina is Henna Art Cafe.
It’s the perfect spot to stop and refuel myself after my flight and the long queues at Marrakech Menara airport.
Henna Art Cafe is a place where I can familiarise myself with where I am and check Google maps for the location of my riad.
It’s a quirky place with decent food and the funkiest little bathroom, even if it is a bit of a tight squeeze.
On the first floor, you can get henna tattoos done, and there are plenty of designs to choose from.
All are 100% natural, and the henna ladies are very professional.
I would recommend getting your henna tattoo done in a reputable place like here as opposed to Jamaa El Fna.
Henna Art Cafe has a really relaxing vibe, and I often stop by to enjoy a meal at lunchtime whilst shopping in the medina.
It’s also very reasonable if you’re on a tight budget.
There is a good selection of food on the menu, vegetarian, vegan, and gluten free options are available.
There is free WiFi, and it’s popular with digital nomads.
It’s a friendly place and a good introduction to the medina without being too overly stimulating.
Henna Art Cafe is located in the heart of the medina, just a three minutes stroll down Riad Zeitoun al Kdim from Djemma El Fna.
It is open 7 days a week from 11 to 8.30 PM.
During Ramadan, it closes earlier at 5.30 PM.
I recommend the freshly squeezed lemon juice. It’s tangy and refreshing and packed with vitamin C.
Henna Art Cafe does a nice fragrant tagine, but if you’ve overdosed on tagine or couscous, there are plenty of other interesting options on the menu.
Payment for your meal is taken downstairs on the way out, and cards are accepted here.
After a nice meal and a rest at Henna Art Cafe, I’m always ready to tackle the challenge of trying to locate my riad.
My battery is recharged, and I have begun to climatise to the change of temperature between my own country and that of North Africa.
I have a soft spot for this quirky little cafe.
Henna Art Cafe was my first introduction to the medina, and I was eased into the cultural change with my first bowl of harissa soup and traditional Morroccan bread.
I could say this is where my love affair with Marrakech began..
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