The Sound Of The Souks

Tag: medina

Exploring The Red City Of Marrakech.

  • 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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  • Henna Art Cafe.

    A restaurant where you can get genuine henna tattoos.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    The first place I go when I arrive in the medina is Henna Art Cafe. It’s the perfect spot to refuel myself after the flight and long queues in the 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 great 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, 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 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 also available.

    There is free WiFi, and it’s a  popular restaurant with digital nomads. It’s a friendly place and a good introduction to the medina without being 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 also does a nice fragrant tagine. If you’ve overdosed on tagine or couscous, there are plenty of other interesting options on the menu.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    Payment for your meal is taken downstairs on the way out, and cards are accepted here.

    After a meal and a rest at Henna Art Cafe, I’m always ready to tackle the challenge of trying to locate my riad. My battery has recharged. I have begun to acclimatise to the change of temperature between my own country and North Africa.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    I have a soft spot for this quirky little cafe. Henna Art Cafe was the first place I ate in the medina in 2022. I was eased into the culture change with a bowl of harissa soup and some traditional Morroccan bread.

    I could say this is where my love affair with Marrakech began.

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  • 1112 Morroccan Tea House.

    The first Moroccan tea house in Marrakesh.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    1112 is the first Moroccan tea house in marrakech, serving 12 teas from the 12 areas of Morrocco. Set inside a former riad, it is a beautiful place to come and sample the 12 delicious teas on offer, along with modern oriental cakes. There is table service, and the food is tasty and varied. There is also a selection of light snacks to accompany your choice of tea.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    The name 1112 signifies the date 1700 in the gregorian calendar and is etched into the wooden ceiling of the riad.

    The riad was beautifully restored by a morroccan family who are renowned for their expertise in the restoration of such properties since the 1990s. The architecture is beautiful.  Wooden ceilings, intricate tile work, and exotic plants make it a delightful environment to sit and reflect on the past history of the importance of tea in Morrocco.

    It’s a fascinating tea museum, and there are interesting facts about the introduction of tea into Morocco. There’s also a shop selling nicely packaged tea if you’re looking for a gift to take home with you.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    1112 has a nice rooftop. After exploring the museum, it is worth taking a look around this beautifully restored riad.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    Situated close to Ben Youssef, the address is 12 Place De La Kissariat, Ben Youssef, Marrakech.

    They are open for breakfast and lunch. It’s a lovely way to begin the day, or take a peaceful break from exploring the busy medina..

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  • Les Bains Kenaria.

    A Hammam with a Rooftop Cafe.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Les Bains Kenaria has been revived to become a sanctuary in the medina. It’s over 400 years old and has been beautifully preserved and restored. The hammam still uses the ancient Moroccan tradition of heating using the wood fired method.

    Services include newly added thermal rooms, warm baths, cold baths, a jacuzzi style pool, and a massage.

    Les Bains Kenaria is also a rooftop cafe, and this is where my experience here began. I was lured in by the lush tropical plants that spoke to me from the intricately crafted doorway.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    I made my way upstairs onto the pretty rooftop and was seated on a colourful couch. The staff were really friendly and courteous, and helped me to choose a vegetarian option from the menu.

    I had one of the most delicious tagines I’ve had in Marrakech.The fresh vegetables included fava beans and olives and tasted absolutely sumptuous. I chose a beet smoothie for the first time. It was quite different from anything I’d had before, and I couldn’t decide if I liked it or not.

    I watched the sun setting as I ate. I could hear the lively sounds of the souk below. It was a lovely atmosphere, and I could see everyday life taking place on the adjacent rooftops.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    The setting was peaceful, despite it being in the busy medina. There were tourists shopping in the street below. I was still able to enjoy my meal feeling relaxed and stressfree. I took my time and didn’t feel rushed.

    Dining on the rooftop terrace of Les Bains Kenaria was a lovely experience. The food is traditional Morroccan cuisine, and prices are very competitive. There is plenty of choice for lunch and dinner on the menu, and breakfast is also available. The lush plants and comfortable surroundings made it extra special. It was a contrast from the manic rhythm of the street below. This is definitely a place I will visit regularly.

    The opening hours are 9.00 am until 8.00pm daily. The address is Bain Maure, N 132,Marrakech 40040, Morocco.

    Next time, I may even try the Hammam.

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  • Kafe Merstan.

    A restaurant with  spectacular views of the sunset in Marrakesh.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Kafe Merstan restaurant and rooftop terrace is located near the spice square and vegetable market.They serve traditional Morroccan food, and prices are very reasonable. It’s ideal for travellers on a budget. I enjoyed one of the tastiest tagines I’ve had here. The quality of the food was very good.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Kafe Merstan is popular during sunset. Tourists arrive to watch the sun go down from the pretty rooftop. It’s a spectacular view, therefore it can get busy during this time of evening.

    The interior is traditionally decorated with a contemporary, modern twist. Colourful soft furnishings and rattan lampshades give off a homely, boho vibe.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    Seating is upstairs on the rooftop, so people with mobility issues may not find it easily accessible.

    Payment is by card or cash downstairs. However, there’s a minimum of 200 MAD for a card payment.

    The address for Kafe Merstan is 2 Souk Chaaria Kast Benahid, Marrakech 40000, it’s open every day from 12.00-10.00. The restaurant is close to Ben Youssef Madrasa and the Museum of Marrakech. It’s in a strategic position if you need a break from sightseeing. I found it to be an ideal spot for lunch due to its close proximity to many attractions.

    Kafe Merstan offers a good selection of vegetarian dishes, including a very tasty vegetable pastilla.

    Kafe Merstan may give you the impression of a no frills restaurant from the entrance. However, the food was good, and it was clean and cosy upstairs.

    I recommend coming to Kafe Merstan to watch the setting sun from the rooftop terrace. Arrive early and get a good seat. It’s one of the best views.

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  • Mo Mo’s Restaurant.

    A quirky restaurant with views over Jamaa El Fna.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Mo Mo’s restaurant is a colourful and tastefully decorated restaurant in the medina. Inside, the tables are decorated with attractive earthenware. There is so much to catch your eye. Mo Mo’s has a mid century feel about it, similar to 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 terrific. You’re able to observe 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 busy, making the guests feel welcome. It was a great atmosphere.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Mo Mo’s is popular with all age groups. There is plenty of space inside to accommodate a large group of people.

    It’s a whimsical restaurant with plenty to look at. It’s very instagrammable, and guests were taking photos of the fascinating decor.It’s unlike other places in the medina, yet still exudes the same charm. My impression was that it’s 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. However, 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 to include more dishes eventually. The breakfast is an innovative take on a full English breakfast served in a tagine.

    I can vouch for the drinks. There was a good choice of fresh juices and smoothies available. I had a delicious smoothie, and I could taste each individual fruit they’d used. It was very healthy.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    If you’re looking for a restaurant with an explosion of colour. Traditional yet with a modern twist, Mo Mo’s is the perfect place. It is both exciting and elegant 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.

    The restaurant accepts card payments.

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  • Terrace Bakchich.

    A budget friendly restaurant in the medina

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    This unassuming restaurant cafe in the medina is undoubtedly one of the most popular amongst the locals in Marrakech. The Guardian voted it one of the 10 best places to eat in the medina.

    From the outside, the restaurant looks humble, but the food is another story entirely.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    There are a number of excellent tagines on the menu, and most diners come just to sample those. Choose from rabbit, fish, meat, or vegetarian options. They’re all cooked to perfection by the well-known and respected friendly chef.

    This lively little restaurant has almost become an institution in the medina. It’s not just a meal. It’s an experience. For travellers on a budget, the food here is cheap but not at the expense of its quality. It is a  known fact that if a restaurant is full of locals, it must be good.

    Upstairs, there is a small rooftop terrace overlooking the lively alleyways of the souk. It is opposite Chez Bismillah Sand Coffee and impossible to miss with its colourful and quirky interior.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Terrace Bakchich has managed to retain its authenticity amidst the growing tide of tourism. It is not fancy. The food speaks for itself. If you’re looking for good food in an environment that is charming, rustic, and cosy, this place is for you. The experience of eating with the locals is the best way to get to know the culture of the city.

    Terrace Bakchich is close to the vegetable and fruit markets, so ingredients are always fresh.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    With the most expensive dish on the menu being 150 dirhams, eating here is kind on the wallet. This leaves you with more money to spend in the souks. The restaurant only accepts cash, so be sure you have some with you if you’re thinking of visiting.

    Terrace Bakchich is near to popular attractions such as Ben Youssef Madrasa and Marrakech Museum. The location is 294 Rue Talaa Marrakech, and opening times are 10.00am until 10.00pm daily. Outdoor seating is available.

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  • Le Salama Restaurant.

    A restaurant with live entertainment.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Le Salama is a modern restaurant with a lively atmosphere. There is a popular rooftop area that gets very busy with tourists.I recommend booking in advance. I tried to get a seat, and it was virtually impossible.

    Inside the restaurant, the decor is traditionally Morroccan with an al fresco vibe. There are beautiful plants throughout, and it feels as though you are sitting somewhere in nature.

    There are two bars serving a range of alcoholic and non alcoholic drinks.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    I ordered a plate of delicious Morroccan pastries with a cold glass of Casablanca beer. Other diners were enjoying a variety of dishes from the menu. The food looked  appealing. I decided to book a table on the rooftop terrace for the following evening.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    At 9.00pm each evening, the entertainment begins. Belly dancers perform around the tables, encouraging diners to participate. It was fun to watch everyone having a good time.

    Video by Freebird Tracey.

    I have to admit that the service was slightly slow. However, it was Ramadan, so exceptions have to be made during this month.

    Being a solo female traveller, I didn’t feel conspicuous at all. The waiters were polite and helpful.  The fact I only ordered dessert and one drink wasn’t an issue. I didn’t feel pressured to leave, and I was free to enjoy the live entertainment.

    Le Salama is steps away from Jamaa El Fna. It’s the perfect place to grab a bite to eat and recharge your batteries. The architecture of the restaurant from outside is interesting.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Le Salama can be found on 40 rue des banques, and it’s open until 2.00 a.m. They serve a good range of cocktails and are open for lunch and dinner. They also have a children’s menu.

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  • L’Mdina  Restaurant.

    A restaurant close to the main square.

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    L’Mdina has an interesting menu that includes a good variety of options.

    They serve tangia, which is tender meat cooked for hours in an earthenware pot. The pot, called a tangia, is left  in the embers of the local hammam and collected later in the day. It’s this method of slow cooking that results in the meat falling off the bone. The meat inside is cooked to perfection, succulent, and tender. The fragrant aroma as it is tipped out onto the plate makes your mouth water

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    I enjoyed the vegetable tagine, with root vegetables and chickpeas. The sauce was delicately spiced, and the vegetables were cooked how I like them.

    The salads at L’Mdina are also delicious. They are created by combining an infusion of delicious flavours together. The result is a colourful, vibrant taste sensation.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    L’Mdina serves Moroccan, Mediterranean, and international dishes with a traditional gastronomic touch. It is located about 2 minutes from the square. People are also welcome to have a coffee and listen to some live music without having to dine in the restaurant. The live musicians play a mix of traditional Morroccan and Latin American music. They entertain diners in the background so that it’s still possible to chat

    The restaurant seats 60 people and is beautifully decorated with an authentic Moroccan theme.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    The restaurant is a perfect setup. The combination of good food, a relaxing ambience, and the fact that it’s budget friendly makes it a great place to visit.

    It is possible to eat outside on a warm evening. This allows guests to experience the restaurant’s vibe combined with the energy of the main square during the evening. L’Mdina is close enough for a break from the hustle and bustle, whilst still feeling a part of it. 

    There is a set menu at lunchtime for 85 dirhams, and it’s worth every penny. The menu is suitable for vegetarians with vegans also.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    If you are looking for live entertainment and good wholesome food, I highly recommend L’mdina.

    The restaurant’s address is 42 rue des banque Marrakech 40000 L’Mdina opens at 12 midday and closes at 23.00. They accept card payments.

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