There’s a new kid in town. And by kid I mean cafe. But not just any old cafe. Or a repeat of what already exists. It doubles as a cross-cultural cafe, sister to the Fes location.
Meet Cafe Clock Marrakech!
This bright and airy new cafe located in the Kasbah district of the Marrakech medina and in an authentic neighbourhood is just what Marrakech needs. In fact, the cross-cultural programming is already bursting at the seams: Wednesday evening jam sessions, Thursday evening al-halqa story-telling, Sunday evening concert series, regular cooking classes, yoga, and more activities being added.
In fact, I had the chance to sit down with the owner Mike Richardson and hear about some of his ideas for the new cafe.
Richardson hopes the cafe will become “a familiar reference point within the old city for both locals and tourists. A place where everyone is welcome, people can mingle, a place where musicians can play, artists can paint, people can learn.”
For those visiting the city, Richardson hopes the cafe will be a “safe and familiar environment to learn more about the city in a fun upbeat environment.” In fact, they even offer a program called Kech Download whereby visitors can meet one-on-one with a local Marrakchi for two hours and learn about customs, etiquette, bargaining etc of the local society.
While the Kasbah district is relatively unknown to tourists, despite housing the Saadian tombs and a few large riads, that was one of the draws to the area for Richardson. He’s hoping the cafe can be “a draw to the area, an area that it still relatively untouched, but with a community feel, an area that is open an spacious and the biggest mosque in Marrakech is currently being renovated.”
And he’s right. Head up to the roof top terrace for a spectacular view.
When it comes to menu options, Richardson has included popular menu options from the Fes location, including the yummy camel burger, and added some new additions. Like the homemade ice cream. But there are no shortages of fresh and healthy options, including vegetarian, available at reasonable prices.
Or places to sit and enjoy a wonderful view while soaking up the cool ambiance.
How to find Cafe Clock Marrakech
Walk through Bab Agnaou
When you see the Kasbah mosque directly ahead of you, turn to the right. Or if you are coming from Jeema el Fna passing through the grand taxi area, once you see the mosque, walk straight passing by with the mosque on your left.
Walk straight down this street, enjoying the sights and sounds of an authentic Marrakech medina neighbourhood, admiring the shops selling the works of local painters and the workshops of tradesmen along the way.
When you get to the end where the hammam is located, turn to the left and you’ll see the rooftop terrace, providing great views of the local community.
Step inside and admire the art works adorning the walls. Then find a cozy spot and let one of the friendly and adorable staff take care of you.
Be sure to like Cafe Clock on Facebook for upcoming events.
Location:
Cafe Clock
224 Derb Chtouka
Kasbah, Marrakech Medina
This is now my favourite place to hang out in the Medina