Must-Try Moroccan Food, Drinks, & Shopping Gems in Marrakech

Marrakech is a sensory paradise with vibrant markets, aromatic spices, and unique craftsmanship, making it an ideal destination for anyone seeking an authentic Moroccan experience. This city offers so much in terms of culinary delights, refreshing drinks, and one-of-a-kind shopping treasures. Here’s a guide to must-try local specialties, along with some top-rated spots to find them!

Traditional Moroccan Foods You Can’t Miss

1. Tagine
   A trip to Morocco wouldn’t be complete without trying tagine, a slow-cooked stew made with meat (usually lamb or chicken), vegetables, and a blend of local spices. Named after the earthenware pot in which it’s cooked, tagine’s flavors are rich and comforting. For a great tagine in Marrakech, check out Dar Zellij. Located in the Medina, this restaurant is known for its ambiance and delicious tagine varieties, all highly praised on TripAdvisor.

2. Couscous
   Couscous is a staple of Moroccan cuisine, traditionally served with meat and vegetables. On Fridays, you’ll find locals gathering to enjoy this dish as part of their weekly tradition. For a memorable couscous experience, try Al Fassia, a female-run restaurant in Marrakech famous for its authentic flavors and welcoming atmosphere.

3. Pastilla
   Pastilla is a unique Moroccan pastry, blending savory and sweet flavors in layers of thin pastry, usually with pigeon or chicken, almonds, cinnamon, and sugar. This dish offers an unforgettable experience for those seeking new flavors. La Maison Arabe, a highly rated restaurant, serves a delicious pastilla in a cozy setting, perfect for savoring this specialty.

4. Harira
   Harira is a tomato-based soup enriched with lentils, chickpeas, and fresh herbs. Traditionally served during Ramadan, it’s a comforting and hearty choice anytime. You can find great harira at Naranj Marrakech, known for its warm ambiance and fresh flavors, a favorite among tourists and locals alike.

5. Kefta
   For meat lovers, kefta (spiced ground meat, often beef or lamb) is a must-try. These are typically served as skewers or with a flavorful tomato-based sauce. Visit Le Tanjia for a kefta dish made with authentic spices and grilled to perfection, along with spectacular views of the old city.

Moroccan Desserts to Savor

1. Chebakia
   Chebakia, deep-fried sesame cookies drenched in honey and sprinkled with sesame seeds, are popular during Ramadan. Look for these at Pâtisserie Amandine Marrakech, a beloved spot with deliciously fresh Moroccan pastries.

2. Meskouta
   Meskouta is a traditional Moroccan cake often made with orange or yogurt, providing a simple but flavorful treat. It’s a light, spongy dessert that pairs beautifully with a cup of Moroccan tea.

3. Kaab el Ghazal
   Kaab el Ghazal, or “gazelle horns,” is a delicate pastry filled with almond paste and flavored with orange blossom. Al Jawda Pâtisserie in Marrakech is a popular spot for these treats and has a reputation for its fresh, high-quality pastries.

Local Drinks to Try

1. Mint Tea
   No Moroccan experience is complete without mint tea, known locally as “Moroccan whiskey.” This sweet, minty green tea is served with great hospitality and often poured from a height to create a bit of froth on top. Try it at Café des Épices, a cozy spot in the heart of the Medina with great tea and a bustling atmosphere.

2. Moroccan Coffee
   Moroccan coffee is strong and sometimes spiced with cardamom or cinnamon, offering a unique twist. Nomad in Marrakech serves excellent coffee with a beautiful rooftop view of the city, perfect for an afternoon break.

3. Amlou
   While not exactly a drink, amlou is a spread made with almonds, honey, and argan oil. Often enjoyed with bread, it’s a nutty, smooth treat you’ll find at traditional breakfast tables. You can also purchase some to take home from the local markets or co-ops.

Best Spots for Authentic Shopping

1. Argan Oil
   Known for its skin-nourishing properties, argan oil is a Moroccan specialty. While many shops sell it, authenticity matters. Herboristerie Firdaous, a top-rated shop, offers pure argan oil and provides information about its traditional uses.

2. Handcrafted Rugs
   Moroccan rugs are a wonderful souvenir with intricate designs and bold colors. Souk Cherifia, located in the heart of the Medina, offers a variety of handwoven rugs from different regions of Morocco. You can find both modern and traditional designs, all with incredible craftsmanship.

3. Ceramics and Pottery
   From intricately decorated plates to colorful tagines, Moroccan ceramics are perfect for your home or as a gift. Atelier Moro in the Gueliz neighborhood of Marrakech has a curated selection of artisanal ceramics that are modern but inspired by traditional Moroccan designs.

4. Leather Goods
   Moroccan leather is known for its quality, especially in the tanneries of Fes and Marrakech. For beautiful leather bags, shoes, or belts, visit Place des Ferblantiers near the Mellah district. This marketplace offers a variety of handmade leather items, and prices are usually negotiable.

5. Spices
   The spices in Moroccan markets will fill your senses, from saffron to cumin and ras el hanout, a Moroccan spice blend that combines multiple spices for a complex flavor. Herboriste du Paradis in the Medina is a well-reviewed shop where you can find a wide selection of spices, oils, and dried herbs with excellent quality.

Final Tips for Shopping in Marrakech

Bargaining is part of the culture in Marrakech, so don’t hesitate to negotiate prices in the souks. It’s customary to start low and find a middle ground that works for both you and the vendor. Remember to ask if items are handmade, especially for rugs and pottery, to ensure authenticity.

Marrakech is a vibrant city that offers a full sensory experience through its food, drink, and crafts. From the flavors of a steaming tagine to the intricate designs of a Berber rug, there’s something for everyone to enjoy and bring home as a memory of Morocco’s rich culture.