When it comes to restaurants, I’m always up for trying something new.  But often the restaurant scene here in Marrakech fails to live up to my expectations.  Either it’s a repeat of what already exists, it’s too expensive, service is horrible or it just doesn’t live up to the hype.  And sometimes it’s all of that!

Thankfully I have a few that I return to on a regular basis.  While I typically eat Moroccan food, the best of which is prepared in the riads, from time to time I need a burger.  Or just even a change of scenery.  So to prevent any restaurant disappointment, I’m happy to share my favourite establishments in Marrakech.

Le Jardin

Set in an old, traditional riad in the medina, Le Jardin is always a hit.  The service amazing, the ambiance brilliant and the food delicious.  The team here is so friendly and goes out of their way to accommodate.  Combine this with the trendy decor and interesting spaces, a blend of cozy and open, throughout the restaurant to create a relaxing atmosphere.  In winter I tend to head up to the rooftop terrace to soak up the sun, or next to a fireplace.  It’s the perfect retreat when you’ve had enough of the souks.

32, souk El jeld
Sidi Abdelaziz
Marrakech Médina
http://www.lejardin.ma/

Le Loft

A trendy restaurant in the Gueliz district of Marrakech with a French menu.  As the owner pointed out recently, I’ve probably tried everything on the menu *embarrass smile*.   It’s just one of those places that you know will deliver.  The food, the service and the patio.  Oh the patio, a little oasis.  Outside, yet hidden, the way it has to be here in Marrakech.  Whether it’s for after-work drinks, dinner or a boozy lunch, I always head for the patio.  Casablanca beer, a nice selection of Moroccan wines, great starters and fabulous mains.  During lunch they have a menu at starter+main or main+dessert menu for just 110 Dhs/$15.

18 Rue de la Liberte
Gueliz, Marrakech
+212 524 34216
524434216

16 Cafe

While I originally avoided this cafe, thinking it was too pretentious for me, I have a new love of this cafe located in the Marrakech Plaza.  Great people watching, combined with good coffee and great sandwiches, salads, breakfast and juices make this a favourite spot any time of the day.  I’m a fan of the chicken burger, calamari and any of the salads.

Marrakech Plaza
Corner of Avenue Hassan II and Mohamed V

Catanzaro 

A Marrakech institution, the Italian food is always delicious.  Popular with both locals and the expat community, reservations are mandatory.  Especially if you’ve had enough tajines, couscous etc.  The prices here are reasonable, the food delicious, the service attentive.  It’s no wonder it’s so popular!

42 rue Tarik Ibn Ziyad
Gueliz, Marrakech
+212 524 433 731