5 of the most unique places to dine out in Marrakech

Marrakech is a hub of cultural strands, blending local Moroccan culture with classical European influences and Asian flair, along with a twist of contemporaneity. This intricate multicultural atmosphere is most evident in the city’s rich culinary offerings, that blend together a variety of flavours with deftness and subtlety. While the throngs of the Medina are perfect for sampling the heady delights of Moroccan street food, for a more relaxing experience, it’s worth heading a little way out of the city, to experience some of the best cuisine in Marrakech. The Kasbah Tamadot Offering a choice between a traditional Berber tent or the dramatic views of the Atlas Mountains from the rooftop terrace, the Kasbah Tamadot promises to be a dining experience to savour, and it’s hard to pass on the opportunity to experience a luxurious take on Moroccan culture, in true comfort and style. Locally sourced produce, including fish and meat, ensures that all ingredients are of the highest quality, with vibrant flavours characterising the extensive menu. The restaurant offers both international and Moroccan dishes, ensuring that all tastes are catered to, making this a firm favourite for families. The popularity of its warm and inviting atmosphere means that booking ahead is a must. La Pause Set amongst the serene and tranquil landscape of the Agafay desert, La Pause offers the chance to truly leave the bustling world behind, and enter a fantasy world instead. A backdrop of the snowcapped Atlas Mountains is soundtracked by live Gnawas musicians, creating a sense of the romance and mystery of the nomad, while the menu offers fresh tastes collected straight from the hotel’s own garden and groves. By night, the restaurant transforms into a stunning show of light, as candle flames flicker below to ward off the cool desert chill, and a glittering starlit sky stretches out overhead. The Capaldi Intimate and laid back, the star of The Capaldi’s restaurant is undoubtedly its talented French chef, who combines the fresh flavours of Moroccan cuisine with the richer treats of traditional French food. With a comfortable, contemporary setting, the restaurant is a favourite for both locals and guests to the city alike, with sophisticated dining indoors as well as a more relaxed space outdoors beneath the hotel’s olive groves. The restaurant will even let you take away some of the experience along with you, offering to pack a private picnic that can be enjoyed in the Moroccan countryside at your ease. The Beldi Country Club One of Marrakech’s most stylish guest houses, the Beldi offers incredible ambience and charm by the brimful, set amongst the picturesque surrounds of the club’s gardens. A ’40s themed bar adds a hint of retro glamour that is perfect for enjoying a drink at any time of day, while the fragrant rooftop terrace gives the chance to enjoy lunch in a bright, relaxed and elegant environment. The evening restaurant meanwhile boasts an extensive wine list, as well as a refreshing menu of fresh local fruits and vegetables, seafood, quail and steak. Sticking to a simplistic and seasonal approach, this is unpretentious but rewarding dining. Jnane Tihihit Calm, relaxing and refined, Jnane Tihihit is a refreshing choice for lunch, with a laid back, poolside restaurant that combines fresh local flavours with an incredibly calm and soothing atmosphere. Built on the heights surrounding the Lalla Takerkoust lake, it offers a lush eco-chic environment. Surrounded by verdant greenery, you can enjoy your meal in a tranquil refuge away from the hustle of the city, amidst an atmosphere designed to be as soothing as possible. The menu offers vegetarian and Moroccan cuisine prepared with fresh ingredients mostly produced on site. Stéphane Abtan is Director at Dar Ayniwen.