The Sound Of The Souks

Tag: Marrakech

Exploring The Red City Of Marrakech.

  • Riad Blue Berber

    An authentic 17th-century riad.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Riad Blue Berber is an authentic riad in a strategic location. It is close to the Bahia Palace, Dardar rooftop bar, La Pegola, and Tinsmiths Square. It is situated on a quieter side of the medina central to many popular sightseeing spots.

    Riad Blue Berber has a very pretty courtyard. The floor is the original floor dating back to the 17th century. There is an intimate feel about this riad because it’s smaller. The rooms are quite dark inside, but that adds to its authenticity.

    The owner, Habi, is a very knowledgeable man who enjoys chatting with his guests. He is very hospitable, and the riad has a homely family feel about it.

    Mona, the cook doesn’t speak English, but she prepares a hearty breakfast for the guests each morning. She manages to interact well despite the language barrier.

    The rooftop is large with different tiers and great views over the medina. It was being modernised during my stay.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Riad Blue Berber is a cosy riad that has character and charm. Waking up to the sound of birds chirping in the courtyard was a lovely way to begin each day.

    There are four rooms. Three of the rooms have air conditioning, and the other two have fans and heaters. The riad is clean and humble, offering an authentic experience of riad life.

    I liked this side of the medina. I always felt safe walking to and from the riad even at night time. There’s always plenty going on. It’s perfect for solo female travellers. It is located 200 metres from the lively Jamaa El Fna, yet inside, it is peaceful and calm.

    The address is 5 Derb Jdid, Riad Zitoun Lakdim, kadim، 40040 Morocco.

    The riad can organise tours and cooking classes are available to teach you how to create a traditional tagine.

    I had a pleasant time at Riad Blue Berber. It’s a traditional riad, and I liked the location. The staff were happy to look after my luggage after I had checked out. It’s small details like this that make staying somewhere extra special.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.
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  • Riad Laila.

    A luxurious riad on the outskirts of the medina.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Riad Laila has a beautiful courtyard garden full of exotic plants, mandarin trees, and hibiscus. It is larger than most of the other courtyards and has a large swimming pool for guests to enjoy. The rooms are tastefully furnished with modern contemporary pieces and generous sized bathrooms. Riad Laila has recently been renovated and refurbished, and I would consider it a luxury riad.

    The rooftop is spacious. It is a great spot for sunbathing or relaxing with a mint tea looking at the views over the medina. There is a Bedoin tent and plenty of seating areas.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Riad Laila is a perfect riad for people looking for a spa like  experience in Marrakech. Staff wear uniforms and  keep a keen eye on the guests. The place is run with an air of precision.

    Everything is spotlessly clean. It’s a place where you can spend ages relaxing by the pool in peace reading a book.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    Riad Laila is at the most northern side of the medina. It is close to the bus station and a 25-minute walk from the centre. The Jardin Majorelle is a short walk away.

    Raid Laila was a lovely break from the busy medina for a couple of days. However, I did miss the charm and intimacy of a traditional family run riad. I found the environment slightly clinical. It depends on what kind of experience you prefer. If it’s a restorative setting in beautiful surroundings, Riad Laila is ideal. The garden is exceptional. The regimented presence of staff did take away from the relaxing atmosphere for me.

    Food is served at the riad, but vegetarian options appeared to be limited at the time I stayed there. This may improve in time.

    If you’re looking for a break from the sensory overload of the medina, Riad Laila is a good choice. It is aesthetically pleasing and has one of the largest gardens boasting 840m2. They have a resident tortoise called Laila who loves you to feed her hibiscus flowers.

    The address for Riad Laila is 104 Diour Jdad Zaouia Abbassia Marrakech 40000.

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  • Riad Jardin Lea.

    A riad with a family atmosphere

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Riad Lea is a traditional mid priced riad only 10 minutes walk away from the main square. It is a small cosy riad with a friendly atmosphere.

    There are 5 suites, which are authentically Moroccan. They are comfortable and include all the amenities sufficient for a pleasant stay.

    The courtyard is peaceful with the sound of birds singing. It’s a quiet, relaxed setting away from the busy touristic area. The busy part of the medina is only a short walk away.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    The rooftop is pleasant and has a jacuzzi, which is clean and well maintained.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    The staff at Riad Lea are friendly and attentive. They offered me some food whilst breaking their fast during Ramadan. It’s these little gestures that make staying in a traditional riad charming.

    There are more luxurious riads than riad Lea, but it’s the personal touches that stand out for me. The staff at Riad Lea go out of their way to  ensure guests are happy.

    Reaching riad Lea was like heading down a hobbit hole through the narrow winding alleyway. The doorway was not made for tall people, but you soon remember to duck.

    Dark winding passageways are typical in the medina and part of its charm. Riads are concealed behind red clay walls because in the Islamic faith, everyone is equal, and displaying ones wealth is vulgar.

    The breakfast at Riad Lea was a typical Morroccan breakfast, which is often heavy on carbohydrates. I enjoyed the homemade yoghurt and msemen pancakes.

    The walk to the main square is a pleasant 15 minutes. You pass interesting shops and restaurants along the way.

    I enjoyed my stay at Riad Lea. It’s not 5 stars, but it’s good value for money. It was clean and comfortable, and the staff were a credit to the riad.

    The address is.

    41 Derb Sidi Bou Amar Marrakech 40000.

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  • Kabana Rooftop Bar.

    A lively bar serving alcohol in the medina.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Kabana Rooftop Bar is a popular place serving a range of alcoholic beverages, including cocktails. They also offer a wide selection of food with a menu to suit all palates.

    You enter the bar from the road, and it’s up a flight of stairs. From the outside, it looks rather unassuming.  Inside, it is modern and contemporary attracting all age groups.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    There are traditional straw lanterns hung around the perimeter, giving off a cosy glow. Music videos play on a large screen, and the tempo is lively. They play DJ sets, and it’s a vibrant setting with a relaxed dress code.

    Video by Freebird Tracey.

    Kabana rooftop bar has a cosmopolitan vibe. You can sit at tables facing the huge bar or outside where most people prefer to hang out. Table service is provided for drinks from the bar. It is not the place for a quiet romantic meal. I imagine it may be difficult chatting intimately amidst the crowds of people and loud music.

    The food is Mediterranean inspired, and they also have a sushi menu. I took my son for his birthday and he chose the steak. He said it was cooked to perfection. The staff looked after us well, and the evening was a success.

    Some people have mixed views about the Kabana rooftop bar. They say waiting times are lengthy and thought it was pricey in comparison to other places. It gets very busy, and booking is essential  to guarantee a place. Lunchtime is quieter, and the lunch menu is very good.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    The bathroom at Kabana is rather special. It’s unisex, and the decor is extravagant.

    In summary, the Kabana rooftop bar is an exciting venue. It is typical of somewhere you’d expect to find in Gueliz. There is a spectacular view of Koutoubia Mosque from the rooftop, especially at night.It’s slightly shielded because drinking alcohol in full view of the Mosque is prohibited in Islamic culture.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    This is a modern cocktail bar with a vibrant energy. It’s within walking distance for people staying in the old city. It’s definitely worth a visit if you want an exciting evening out in the medina selling alcohol. It’s also a nice place for lunch when it’s quieter.

    Kabana rooftop bar is situated at the gate of the medina and open daily from 11.00am-2.00am. The address is Kissariat Ben Khalid R’mila,1 Rue Fatima Zahra,40000 Marrakech Morocco.

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  • Le Marrakchi Restaurant.

    A restaurant with views over Jamaa El Fna

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Le Marrakchi is a popular restaurant facing the main square. It is a fine dining experience in tasteful surroundings. It is situated on 52 Rue des Banques, Av.Jamaa El Fna40000 Morocco

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Inside the restaurant, the atmosphere is intimate. The lighting is dim, and candles flicker on the tables, giving off a warm, cosy glow.

    It’s a busy place attracting a lot of tourists because it’s one of the few places selling alcohol in the square. It is constantly buzzing with energy, but it’s a relaxing experience, and you never feel pressured.

    The decor is traditionally Morroccan,with lamps and deep red couches. There is intricate tilework on the walls, and the windows overlook the main square.

    This is a family-friendly establishment.There is a good selection of dishes on the menu, including couscous, traditionally served on Fridays in Marrakesh. 

    I had vegetable tagine accompanied by a spicy Harissa sauce. The staff were professional, and the service was quick. The food was incredibly tasty.

    It’s impossible to mistake Le Marrakchi. The outside walls take on a wonderful red glow, which can be seen right across the square.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    At Le Marrakchi, you can call in for cocktails, and you are under no obligation to dine there. Prices are competitive for a licenced restaurant close to Jamaa El Fna.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    I visited several times. The atmosphere was nice, I really enjoyed hearing the sound of life rising up from the square. The mystical call to prayer added to the ambience.

    I never felt rushed despite the fact that the restaurant was busy. I was able to sit and relax with a margarita.

    The bathroom facilities were excellent and fragrantly scented with orange blossom.

    There are stairs to climb to reach the restaurant. Therefore, it’s probably not ideal for people with mobility issues.However, there is an outside seating area

    Opening hours for Le Marrakchi restaurant are 12.00-12.00 am daily. They also offer a takeaway service.

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  • Palais Dar Donab.

    A restaurant set around a tranquil courtyard.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Palais Dar Donab is a treat for visitors to Marrakech. The scent of orange blossom and the sound of birds in the courtyard give you a sense of stillness. This is one of my favourite places to dine, and I absolutely love it here.

    It’s a place where you can totally unwind and enjoy the sunny courtyard. Tables are positioned around a large pool, and citrus trees line the courtyard. Pretty flowers add an array of colour.

    Image Freebird Tracey.

    The menu is extensive with food to suit all palates.They also serve a selection of excellent wines and beers.

    I was really impressed with the quality of the food.The vegetable tagine was one of the tastiest I have tried in Marrakesh. The smoothies were beautifully presented and full of vibrant fruit.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Palais Dar Donab is also a high-end accommodation. Guests and visitors mingle together, enjoying a quiet break from the busy medina.

    The pace is slow and relaxed. The staff are always attentive but allow you to enjoy the peaceful setting without feeling pressured to leave.

    The gentle sound of leaves on the trees and the trickle of water make dining here a calm experience. Tangerines drop from the trees, and  birds sing happily.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    Palais Dar Donab is an excellent setting for a romantic dinner. Music plays subtly in the background, allowing conversation to flow and creating an atmosphere of intimacy.

    Relaxing with a glass of wine, admiring the restaurants fine craftsmanship is a perfect way to recharge your batteries in the  afternoon.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    I highly recommend Palais Dar Donab. Not only for the quality of the food or the friendly service, but for the peace and serenity it offers. You come away feeling de-stressed and ready to tackle the overwhelming souks. It’s an oasis in comparison to the over stimulating Jamaa El Fna.

    Opening times are Monday-Sunday 10.00am-10.30pm. The address is 53 Dar el Basha-Bab Doukkala Marrakech, Morocco.

    The restaurant is vegetarian and vegan friendly and accepts credit card payments.

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  • Bacha Coffee.

    A dream for coffee lovers in Marrakech.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    With over 200 different coffees to choose from, Bacha Coffee is a coffee lovers paradise.

    From the flamboyant interior with tiled floors and exotic plants to the finely dressed waiters in their elegant uniforms, Bacha Coffee is an experience.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    A visit to Bacha Coffee is a treat. You have to wait for a table, but you can look around the museum whilst you wait. The gardens and architecture are lovely, and time passes quickly. You are given a bleeper to notify you when your table is ready.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    Once seated inside, you can take your time to paw over the menu. There are over 200 coffees from all corners of the world. The menu is descriptive, and the hardest part is choosing.

    I decided to try a Caribbean coffee from the Blue Mountains. It was smooth and aromatic with a subtly sweet flavour.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    The coffee is accompanied by fresh cream, chocolate chips, and vanilla pods to enhance the taste. I had a slice of cake, which was delicately spiced and complimented the coffee perfectly. My tastebuds were in heaven.

    I wish to try every coffee on the menu, so I’ve promised myself I will go back again until I have. That’s a lot of visits to Bacha Coffee.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    The only downside to Bacha Coffee is that the queues are long. I suggest arriving at 9.30 before they open and joining the queue outside. It’s worth the wait. The breakfast is excellent.

    Bacha Coffee is worth visiting  to capture perfect Instagram photos regardless of the excellent food and coffee.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    There is a shop where you can purchase coffee and the cups and saucers used in the restaurant. They also sell the containers they use for condiments, amongst other things. These make the perfect gift for someone special.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    The opening hours are Tuesday-Sunday 10.00am-6.00pm

    The address is Dar el Bacha, Rte Sidi Abdelaziz Marrakech 40000 Morocco

    Bacha Coffee is in a nice area of Marrakech surrounded by plenty of shops and good restaurants. I enjoyed my visits. The service is impeccable, and the coffee speaks for itself.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.
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  • La Fountaine Des Espices.

    A vibrant restaurant near the Secret Garden.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    If you’re looking for an authentic place to eat in the medina, I recommend trying La Fountaine des Espices.

    I stumbled across this place by accident one evening, and  I was very impressed. The food was excellent, and the interior decor was refined and tasteful. I loved the  colourful, boho vibe in the entrance and how the restaurant opens up into a neutral elegant space. The rooftop is charming with plants and Cacti in large clay pots.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    I visited this strategically located restaurant a few times. It’s a great place to go for an afternoon drink and to enjoy some sunshine on the rooftop.

    The restaurant serves traditional Morroccan food. It tastes authentic, like having a meal cooked by a local family. There is plenty of choice on the menu, and each dish is beautifully presented.  I highly recommend the smoothies. I had the detox smoothie with apple, green lemon, celery, cucumber, and turmeric. It tasted delicious.

    On one occasion, I chose the vegetable tagine, and it was cooked to perfection. Service was quick, and the waiters were very attentive. They regularly checked that I was happy. On another occasion, I tried the pastilla, and I loved it.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    Fountaine des Espices is near the Secret Garden. The colourful entrance leads you upstairs to the tastefully furnished dining area. This is the most popular place for an evening meal. The vibrantly coloured areas are ideal for lunchtime.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    If you’re looking for a nice meal in a peaceful, relaxing environment, I highly recommend Fountaine des Espices. It’s particularly nice during the evening. Candles flickering on the tables, give off a nice romantic ambience whilst your dining.

    Fountaine des Espices is a welcome break from the busy souks.The address is 131 Rue Mouassine, and it’s open from 10.00 am until 12.00 am. The busiest time is 3.00 pm.

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  • Cafe Arabe.

    A popular restaurant in the medina.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Cafe Arabe is a popular destination for people looking for Italian and traditional Morroccan cuisine. It is open all day and serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

    The open-air restaurant has a rooftop overlooking the medina.The incredible views of the sunset draw people in to enjoy a cocktail.There is also a large patio area with comfortable seating.

    I visited for a break from the intensity of the souks and the heat. I had a fresh fruit smoothie, and I was given breadsticks and olives to accompany it. I enjoyed looking out over the rooftops of the medina. It was a pleasant way to relax and cool down. There was no pressure to order food, and I appreciated the relaxed energy of the restaurant.

    I decided to book a meal for later in the evening. The vibe in the afternoon was good, and the food being served looked delicious.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    One thing I particularly liked was the decor. The exotic green colour leading upstairs to the terrace is stunning. This was my favourite part of the restaurant, I could have sat there quite happily. The bathroom is also very clean and well maintained.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    Returning later for a meal, it was incredibly busy. The atmosphere felt very different. There were people queuing to be seated and waiters rushing about trying to cope with the demand. 

    I ordered a cold beer with olives whilst waiting for my food order to be taken. I eventually chose a margarita pizza, which turned out to be very nice. I would have liked a desert, but service was slow on this particular evening. The staff appeared to be under considerable pressure. I hoped to try again the following evening, but the restaurant was fully booked.

    I realised booking at least a few days in advance was essential to guarantee a place in this busy restaurant.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    My opinion of Cafe Arabe is that the food is good. Prices in the restaurant are average, considering its proximity to Jamaa El Fna. However, in Marrakech, there are so many excellent restaurants to dine in. I personally favour a more peaceful environment for dinner. I will only visit at lunchtime in the future.

    Cafe Arabe is open daily from 10.00am-12.00am, and the address is 184 Rue Mouassine Marrakech 40000 Morocco

    Booking a table for 6.00pm is the best time to come. Before it gets too busy.

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  • La Pergola Rooftop Bar.

    A popular cocktail bar and restaurant in the medina

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    La Pergola rooftop bar is  a little jungle, situated in the medina,close to Jamaa El Fna. It’s a popular restaurant serving food and alcohol, including a wide range of cocktails. The beautiful palm trees that grow from the courtyard of Le Bistro Arabe give it a jungly, exotic vibe.

    Part of Riad Monceau, La Pergola is a busy place, so booking for a meal or cocktails is recommended. It is usually heaving with tourists looking for alcohol near the main square.

    I spent an hour enjoying some peace and tranquillity in the afternoon. It was a quieter time to visit than during the evening.It was very relaxing, sat amidst the exotic palms listening to gentle background music. I enjoyed a fresh smoothie, which came beautifully presented with attention to detail. The energy was completely different from the loud noise and crowds in the evening.

    Image 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 quirky surroundings of La Pergola make it worth a visit. Although I didn’t try the food, the menu looked very good. I am tempted to go again and indulge myself.

    The  Jazz bar Bistro Arabe is situated below La Pergola in the courtyard of Riad Monceau. They also serve food and alcohol. La Pergola is on the rooftop terrace.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    During the evening, you can hear the live jazz band in Le Bistro Arabe below. The atmosphere is lively, and if you haven’t booked, finding a seat is not easy.

    Seating at Le Pergola is on different tiers. There are views across the medina, and you are looking down on the people below. Comfortable couches around the bar attract people to relax 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.

    There are plenty of shops in the area near La Pergola. It’s close to Dardar rooftop bar and Dar Essalam.

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