Top 6 Must-Try Restaurants in Fes, Morocco
When it comes to food in Morocco, Fes stands out as a culinary gem. With an abundance of choices, deciding where to eat can be overwhelming. To help you navigate the vibrant food scene in Fes, we’ve curated a list of six outstanding restaurants. Each offers a unique dining experience, blending traditional Moroccan flavors with Mediterranean inspirations, catering to various tastes and budgets.
Savor the Best of Moroccan Cuisine in Fes.
Exploring the culinary delights of Fes can be a delightful yet daunting task. The city’s rich gastronomic heritage is evident in its numerous restaurants, each offering something special. Here, we highlight six of the best places to eat in Fes, ensuring you get the most out of your culinary journey.
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1: Café Clock: A Culinary Adventure.
If you’ve ever wondered what camel tastes like, Café Clock is the place to satisfy your curiosity. Renowned for its camel burgers, this unique café offers a rare opportunity to try something truly different. Though the restaurant may be a bit challenging to locate, the search is well worth it. Nestled in a restored townhouse, Café Clock provides a cozy retreat where you can explore an array of intriguing local dishes.
Beyond camel burgers, the menu is diverse, featuring options such as tofu, quinoa, grilled chicken sandwiches, and mouth-watering desserts like lemon tart. Daily specials add an element of surprise, ensuring there’s always something new to try. The cuisine at Café Clock blends traditional Moroccan flavors with European influences, making it a favorite among tourists and locals alike. The café serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, catering to all-day dining needs.
In addition to its culinary offerings, Café Clock is known for its cooking classes. These classes provide a hands-on way to delve into Moroccan cuisine, perfect for food enthusiasts looking to expand their culinary skills. Be sure to try their famous date milkshake, and don’t miss the chance to enjoy your meal on the rooftop terrace, which offers breathtaking views of the medina.
Café Clock is more than just a restaurant; it’s an experience that combines great food, education, and stunning scenery, making it a must-visit spot for any traveler.
2: Maison Blanche: A Gourmet Delight.
For a gourmet experience that will tantalize your taste buds, look no further than Maison Blanche. While this elegant restaurant may not serve traditional Moroccan cuisine, its French and Mediterranean dishes are nothing short of exceptional.
Maison Blanche stands out with its modern furniture and stylish interior, offering a sophisticated atmosphere that contrasts with many other local dining spots. The menu changes seasonally, ensuring fresh and innovative dishes year-round. One of the highlights of dining at Maison Blanche is their extensive wine list, with many options available by the glass, allowing guests to perfectly pair their meals with fine wines.
Known for its contemporary take on Moroccan cuisine, Maison Blanche expertly blends traditional ingredients with modern cooking techniques. The chic, minimalist decor creates an ideal backdrop for enjoying beautifully presented dishes such as seared duck breast with fig sauce and vegetable tagine. While the restaurant’s elegance and unique offerings come at a higher price point, it remains a favorite among food connoisseurs for its exquisite flavors and refined dining experience.
Maison Blanche promises a memorable dining experience with its exquisite food, extensive wine selection, and stylish ambiance, making it a top choice for those seeking contemporary culinary delights.
3: Dar Touria: A Feast for the Senses.
For those who savor generous portions and rich flavors, Dar Touria is a culinary destination not to be missed. Nestled in a beautifully restored old house, this charming restaurant offers an authentic Moroccan dining experience that is both hearty and delightful. Conveniently located near several guesthouses, it is an ideal choice for travelers seeking a taste of local cuisine without venturing far from their accommodations.
Dar Touria specializes in traditional Moroccan food, with a menu that begins with an impressive array of salads. Diners often find themselves greeted with more than a dozen different dishes in the first course alone, a testament to the restaurant’s commitment to providing a true feast. These first courses feature a variety of flavors and textures, showcasing the diversity and richness of Moroccan cuisine. From fresh, zesty salads to savory, spiced vegetables, each dish is crafted to highlight the unique culinary heritage of the region.
The restaurant is a perfect choice for families, thanks to its ample portions and welcoming atmosphere. However, whether you’re dining with family or friends, it’s advisable to arrive with a healthy appetite to fully enjoy the myriad of dishes on offer. Each meal at Dar Touria is a multi-course affair, designed to provide a comprehensive exploration of traditional Moroccan flavors.
Dar Touria is open for dinner and late-night meals, making it a flexible option for diners with varying schedules. The restaurant’s hours cater to both early diners and those seeking a late-night culinary adventure. Regardless of when you choose to visit, you can expect to be treated to a dining experience that is both satisfying and memorable.
One of the highlights of dining at Dar Touria is the stunning view of Fes from the restaurant’s rooftop terrace. As you enjoy your meal, you can take in the picturesque scenery of the city, adding a visual feast to your culinary experience. The rooftop setting provides a serene and beautiful backdrop, perfect for enjoying the evening and soaking in the atmosphere of this historic city.
For those who may be concerned about finding the restaurant, Dar Touria offers a convenient solution. Guides are available to escort you from your hotel to the restaurant and back again, ensuring that your journey is as seamless and enjoyable as your dining experience. This thoughtful service allows you to relax and focus on enjoying your meal, without the stress of navigation.
The interior of Dar Touria is just as inviting as its rooftop terrace. The décor blends traditional Moroccan elements with a cozy, welcoming ambiance. The dining area is designed to make guests feel at home, providing a comfortable and relaxed setting in which to enjoy the culinary delights.
4: Eden at Palais Amani: The Perfect Romantic Dining Experience in Fez.
If you’re in Fez with your loved one and seeking a restaurant that embodies romance and elegance for a special occasion, Eden at Palais Amani stands out as the ideal choice. Located in the medina near the iconic Chouara Tannery, this exquisite restaurant is part of a luxurious 5-star riad, renowned for its sumptuous Andalusian-style architecture and enchanting atmosphere.
Eden offers a choice of dining experiences that cater to a romantic setting. You can opt to dine fireside in the sophisticated Art Deco dining room, where the ambiance is both warm and intimate. Alternatively, you might prefer to enjoy your meal in the serene garden, a true paradise where the air is filled with the fragrant scent of citrus and the gentle sounds of tinkling fountains create a soothing backdrop.
The menu at Eden is a tribute to classic Moroccan cuisine, skillfully prepared with seasonal ingredients and presented with impeccable attention to detail. Highlights include pastillas filled with fresh-caught seafood, royal beef tagines, and tender lamb shoulders, all designed to share and savor. If you find it hard to choose from the delectable offerings, the tasting menu for two is an excellent option, allowing you to experience a variety of dishes.
One of the unique features of Eden, setting it apart from many other Moroccan restaurants, is its service of alcohol, including a fine selection of Moroccan wines. This adds an extra layer of indulgence to your dining experience, perfect for toasting a special occasion.
Dining at Eden at Palais Amani is not just about the food; it’s about the overall experience. The elegant surroundings, coupled with the exquisite cuisine, create a romantic ambiance that is perfect for celebrating love. The riad’s luxurious architecture, with its intricate details and lush gardens, enhances the romantic atmosphere, making it a memorable place for a special night out.
Whether you’re celebrating an anniversary, a milestone, or simply want to enjoy a romantic evening with your loved one, Eden at Palais Amani offers a setting that is both magical and unforgettable. The combination of exceptional Moroccan cuisine, a refined selection of wines, and an enchanting ambiance ensures that your dining experience will be one to cherish.
5: La Maison Bleue: A Gourmet Dining Experience in a Romantic Setting.
If you’re in search of a gourmet meal in Fez, look no further than La Maison Bleue, which proudly describes itself as one of “the most Romantic Hotels of the World.” This upscale dining venue is set in a former 20th-century home, providing an intimate and elegant atmosphere where guests are welcomed as if they were entering a private residence.
At La Maison Bleue, you can expect to indulge in traditional Moroccan cuisine, meticulously prepared and presented through a set, four-course menu that changes with the seasons. This ensures that every visit offers a fresh and exciting culinary experience, highlighting the best of Moroccan flavors and seasonal ingredients.
The dining experience at La Maison Bleue is enhanced by its enchanting setting. Candlelit tables are arranged within three cozy salons, creating an intimate and romantic ambiance perfect for a special evening. For an even more memorable experience, you can choose to dine in the marble courtyard. Here, the soft tranquility of a fountain and the serenade of musicians add to the magical atmosphere, making every meal a feast for both the senses and the soul.
To fully enjoy the exquisite offerings at La Maison Bleue, it is essential to make reservations ahead of time. This ensures that you secure a table at this highly sought-after dining location and allows the staff to prepare for your arrival with the utmost care and attention.
From the moment you enter La Maison Bleue, you are greeted with warm hospitality and a sense of being a cherished guest in a luxurious home. The combination of traditional Moroccan cuisine, a romantic setting, and attentive service makes La Maison Bleue an exceptional choice for those looking to enjoy a gourmet meal in Fez.
6: Najmat Souafine: A Blend of Tradition and Modernity.
Located in the charming Ziat district of Fez, Najmat Souafine seamlessly combines traditional and contemporary elements to create a unique and stylish dining experience. This restaurant is known for its inventive culinary selections, which are crafted daily based on the freshest available ingredients rather than adhering to a fixed menu.
Najmat Souafine offers a delightful fusion of Mediterranean and Moroccan cuisine, catering to a wide range of palates. Diners can enjoy their meals on a shady terrace, which provides a comfortable and inviting atmosphere. The restaurant’s emphasis on fresh ingredients ensures that each dish is flavorful and of the highest quality.
The menu at Najmat Souafine is designed to accommodate various preferences and budgets, with small, à la carte options available. This flexibility makes the restaurant accessible to a diverse audience, from solo diners and couples to families with children. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner or a casual meal with family, Najmat Souafine offers an appropriate setting.
One of the standout features of Najmat Souafine is its expansive rooftop terrace. This outdoor seating area allows guests to enjoy their meals while taking in the beautiful views of Fez. The terrace provides a serene and picturesque backdrop, perfect for both daytime and evening dining.
Najmat Souafine is open for lunch, dinner, and late-night meals, accommodating a variety of dining schedules. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely lunch, a delightful dinner, or a late-night bite, the restaurant is ready to serve you.
Notes on Alcohol in Morocco.
While traveling through Fez, it’s important to note that although large hotels and villas typically have stocked bars, many restaurants in Fez do not have licenses to serve alcohol. However, some restaurant owners might permit patrons to bring their own wine. To avoid any inconvenience, it’s best to inquire about the restaurant’s alcohol policy before you sit down for a meal.
Whichever restaurant you choose, make sure to savor the diverse culinary offerings available in Fez. From traditional Moroccan dishes to contemporary culinary creations, the city’s vibrant food scene promises to delight your palate with exciting new flavors and experiences. Embrace the opportunity to try something different, and you will not regret the culinary adventure that awaits you in Fez.
Why is Fes Morocco famous?
Fes is often referred to as the spiritual capital of Morocco, a testament to its rich cultural and religious heritage. Historically, it was one of the world’s most important centers of scholarship, housing the bastion of Islamic teaching. The city is home to the University of Al-Karaouine, which was founded in 859 AD and holds the distinction of being the oldest continuously-operating university in the world.
This prestigious institution has played a crucial role in the intellectual and cultural development of the Islamic world, attracting scholars and students from across the globe. The university’s enduring legacy as a center of learning and spiritual reflection underscores Fes’s significant place in the history of education and religion.
What is the traditional food in Fes Morocco?
Pastilla, also known as b’stilla or bastilla, is a beloved stuffed pastry originating from Morocco. This rich and flavorful pie offers a unique blend of sweet and savory tastes, making it a favorite dish for special occasions such as holidays, weddings, and parties.
What to buy from Fes?
If you’re searching for memorable souvenirs to commemorate your time in Morocco, here are some enticing options to consider:
1: Carpets: Moroccan carpets are renowned for their intricate designs and exquisite craftsmanship. Visit a Fes carpet shop to explore a wide selection of traditional rugs and carpets, each telling its own unique story through patterns and colors.
2: Jewelry: Morocco boasts a vibrant tradition of jewelry-making, with artisans creating stunning pieces adorned with semi-precious stones, intricate metalwork, and traditional motifs. From elegant necklaces to ornate bracelets, you’re sure to find a treasure to cherish.
3: Spices: Bring home the flavors of Morocco with a selection of aromatic spices. Explore bustling markets in cities like Marrakech and Fes to discover a kaleidoscope of colors and fragrances, from vibrant saffron to fragrant cumin.
4: Tea: Moroccan tea is an integral part of the country’s culture, known for its refreshing minty flavor and ceremonial preparation. Stock up on fragrant loose-leaf tea blends and traditional tea sets to recreate the Moroccan tea experience at home.
5: Berber Carpets: Hand-woven by Berber tribes in the Atlas Mountains, Berber carpets are prized for their rustic beauty and traditional designs. These unique rugs make for striking statement pieces in any home.
6: Leather Poufs: Add a touch of Moroccan flair to your living space with a leather pouf. These versatile pieces of furniture are both stylish and functional, providing extra seating or serving as footrests.
7: Leather Clothing: Morocco is famous for its high-quality leather goods, including jackets, bags, and shoes. Browse local leather shops to find beautifully crafted pieces made from soft, supple leather.
Is it safe to walk at night in Fes?
Yes, Fes is generally considered safe for walking at night. The residents are known for their friendliness and hospitality, contributing to the overall sense of security in the city. However, it’s advisable to exercise caution, especially late at night or in the early morning hours.
Avoid carrying large bags or displaying expensive cameras openly, as this may attract unwanted attention. By taking simple precautions and being mindful of your surroundings, you can enjoy exploring Fes safely during both day and night.
