Morocco is a paradise for food lovers, offering a culinary landscape rich in flavors, spices, and traditions. From bustling street markets to high-end restaurants, Moroccan cuisine reflects the country’s diverse cultural heritage, blending Berber, Arab, Andalusian, and French influences. A culinary tour of Morocco is more than just a journey through delicious dishes; it’s an exploration of the country’s soul. Here’s your ultimate guide to Moroccan culinary tours, including where to eat and what to try.

1. Marrakech: A Feast for the Senses Where to Eat:

  • Jemaa el-Fnaa: The heart of Marrakech’s food scene, this lively square is filled with food stalls offering everything from grilled meats to fresh juices. It’s a must- visit for a true taste of Moroccan street food.
  • Nomad: A modern twist on traditional Moroccan cuisine, Nomad offers rooftop dining with stunning views of the medina. Dishes like spiced lamb burgers and quinoa tabbouleh reflect a contemporary approach to local flavors.
  • Al Fassia: A female-run restaurant known for its authentic Moroccan dishes, particularly its exquisite tagines and couscous. The ambiance is warm, and the food is exceptional. What to Try:
  • Tagine: A slow-cooked stew made in a clay pot, typically featuring lamb or chicken with vegetables, dried fruits, and a rich blend of spices.
  • Pastilla: A sweet and savory pastry filled with pigeon (or chicken), almonds, and spiced with cinnamon and sugar.
  • Bissara: A traditional fava bean soup, often served with a drizzle of olive oil and cumin. Top Tip: Take a cooking class in Marrakech to learn how to make your own tagine or pastilla from scratch, and immerse yourself in the local culinary traditions. 2. Fes: The Culinary Capital Where to Eat:
  • Cafe Clock: A popular spot in the Fes medina, Cafe Clock is known for its creative dishes, including the famous camel burger. It’s also a cultural hub, hosting cooking classes, concerts, and storytelling nights.
  • Dar Roumana: This elegant restaurant offers a fine dining experience in a beautifully restored riad. The menu combines traditional Moroccan ingredients with French culinary techniques.
  • Riad Rcif: An authentic Moroccan dining experience in a stunningly decorated riad. The dishes are rich in flavor, and the setting is straight out of a fairy tale. What to Try:

• B’stilla: A savory pastry filled with pigeon, almonds, and spices, dusted with powdered sugar and cinnamon.

  • Harira: A hearty soup made with tomatoes, lentils, chickpeas, and lamb, often served during Ramadan to break the fast.
  • Mrouzia: A sweet and savory lamb stew with raisins, almonds, honey, and Ras el Hanout (a Moroccan spice blend). Top Tip: Explore the souks of Fes to discover a world of spices, olives, and preserved lemons. Don’t miss out on tasting freshly baked bread from communal wood-fired ovens. 3. Casablanca: Modern Flavors Meet Tradition Where to Eat:
  • La Sqala: Located in a historic fortress, La Sqala offers a peaceful garden setting with a menu that celebrates Moroccan classics. It’s a perfect spot for breakfast or lunch.
  • Rick’s Cafe: Inspired by the movie “Casablanca,” Rick’s Cafe offers a mix of Moroccan and international dishes in an elegant, nostalgic atmosphere.
  • Le Cabestan: A chic seaside restaurant known for its fresh seafood and contemporary Moroccan cuisine. The ocean views are spectacular, especially at sunset. What to Try:
  • Seafood Pastilla: A modern twist on the traditional pastilla, filled with fresh seafood instead of poultry.
  • Mechoui: Slow-roasted lamb, typically seasoned with cumin and served with bread or couscous.
  • Zaalouk: A smoky, spiced eggplant and tomato salad, often served as a starter or side dish.

Top Tip:

Take a stroll along the Corniche in Casablanca and stop by local cafes to enjoy mint tea and pastries while taking in the coastal views.

4. Essaouira: Coastal Delights Where to Eat:

  • Fish Market: Head to Essaouira’s fish market, where you can choose your fresh catch and have it grilled on the spot at one of the nearby stalls.
  • Elizir: A cozy, eclectic restaurant offering a menu that changes daily, based on the freshest ingredients available. Expect a mix of Moroccan and Mediterranean flavors.
  • Taros: A popular spot with locals and tourists alike, Taros offers a mix of Moroccan and international cuisine with live music and a lively atmosphere. What to Try:
  • Grilled Sardines: Essaouira is famous for its fresh sardines, simply grilled with olive oil and lemon.
  • Calamari Tagine: A coastal take on the traditional tagine, made with tender calamari and vegetables.
  • Moroccan Mint Tea: No meal is complete without a glass of this sweet, refreshing tea, typically served with a side of honey-drenched pastries. Top Tip: Visit the port in the morning to watch the fishermen bring in their catch, and enjoy the freshest seafood the town has to offer.

5. Chefchaouen: A Culinary and Visual Delight Where to Eat:

  • Aladdin Restaurant: Located in the heart of the blue city, Aladdin offers a mix of Moroccan and Mediterranean dishes with stunning views from its rooftop terrace.
  • Bab Ssour: A cozy restaurant offering traditional Moroccan dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. The ambiance is relaxed, and the food is full of flavor.
  • Cafe Hamsa: A great spot for a leisurely meal, with a menu featuring Moroccan staples and vegetarian options. What to Try:
  • Goat Cheese: Chefchaouen is known for its fresh, locally produced goat cheese, often served with honey or in salads.
  • R’fissa: A hearty dish made with chicken, lentils, fenugreek, and msemen (layered flatbread).
  • Herbal Teas: Besides the ubiquitous mint tea, try some of the locally grown herbal teas, such as verbena or thyme. Top Tip: Take time to explore the local markets where you can find a variety of fresh produce, olives, and handmade cheeses unique to the region. Conclusion A culinary tour of Morocco is a journey through a diverse and vibrant gastronomic landscape, where each region offers its own unique flavors and traditions. Whether you’re dining in

the bustling medinas or enjoying a meal with a view of the ocean, Moroccan cuisine is sure to leave a lasting impression. From Marrakech to Chefchaouen, each city offers something special for the food lover, making a culinary tour of Morocco an unforgettable adventure.