06/13/2024
THE BEST ROOFTOP RESTAURANTS AND BARS IN MARRAKECH
4 Comments / Africa, Morocco / By globaltripdiaries.com
Rooftops at night with lanterns overlooking the square
Table of Contents
Introduction to Rooftop Restaurants in Marrakech
Why pick rooftop restaurants or bars in Marrakech
The best rooftop restaurants and bars in Marrakech
Dar Dar
Nomad
Le Jardin
Le Salama
Café des Épices
Le Trou au Mur
Kabana
Le Grand Balcon du Café Glacier
La Famille
Dining Tips for Marrakech Rooftop Restaurants and Bars
Making Reservations:
What to Wear:
Conclusion
INTRODUCTION TO ROOFTOP RESTAURANTS IN MARRAKECH
The best rooftop restaurants and bars in Marrakech. If you’re plotting a trip to Marrakech and eager to soak in some seriously stunning views while you dine, you’re in the ideal place. Picture this: you’re sitting atop a charming rooftop terrace, sipping a mint tea or a glass of wine, with the majestic Atlas Mountains in the backdrop and the vibrant buzz of Jemaa el-Fnaa Square just a stone’s throw away. Sounds pretty ideal, right?
Marrakech isn’t just famous for its rich history and vibrant souks. It’s also home to some of the most beautiful rooftops in North Africa. Whether you’re looking for the perfect spot to watch the sunset or a lively place to enjoy some live music. The city’s rooftops offer the best of both worlds—delicious food and unforgettable views.
This blog will guide you through the best rooftop dining experiences Marrakech has to offer, from the lush, palm-dotted terraces to the cosy spots hidden away from the usual tourist paths. Expect a mix of traditional dishes served with modern twists, impeccable service, and interiors that tell a story as rich as the culture surrounding them.
Get ready to explore the rooftop restaurants and bars that make Marrakech a top destination for those who love to pair their cultural trips with a touch gastronomy with a view. Let’s dive into a world where every meal is not just about what’s on the plate but also about the panoramic views and the vibrant atmosphere.
Fancy exploring beyond Marrakech on your holiday? Check out my guide to the best Marrakech to Fes desert tour here
WHY PICK ROOFTOP RESTAURANTS OR BARS IN MARRAKECH
Seeking out a rooftop spot for dinner, lunch, or drinks in Marrakech is an absolute must-do for any traveller. More so than many other places I have travelled to. Imagine escaping the bustling energy of the streets below, where the vibrant hustle of daily life and the colourful chaos of market stalls fill every corner. As you ascend the stairs to a rooftop terrace, the noise fades away, and the atmosphere shifts dramatically. Suddenly, you find yourself in a tranquil oasis, high above the city’s frenzy.
This serene environment offers a relaxing atmosphere that’s perfect for unwinding and savouring your meal. Whether you’re tucking into traditional dishes, enjoying a refreshing cocktail, or just soaking in the views, the rooftops of Marrakech provide a perfect backdrop. Here, amidst comfortable seating, often surrounded by water features and lush greenery or palm trees, you can truly appreciate the beauty and calm that these elevated hideaways have to offer, making them the ideal spots to relax and recharge in the heart of Marrakech.
Keep your cameras at the ready at any hour of the day, but particularly at sunset! Bookings are a must for this unforgettable experience.
Why not also check out my guide to the best food tours in Marrakech
THE BEST ROOFTOP RESTAURANTS AND BARS IN MARRAKECH
Dar Dar
Location: Nestled discreetly in the heart of the Medina, Dar Dar offers an easy escape from the bustling streets of Marrakech. It’s a hidden gem located just a short walk from the iconic Jemaa el-Fnaa Square. It’s panoramic view takes in the Koutoubia mosque
4 Rue Riad Zitoun el Kdim
12pm – 2am
Cuisine Type and Signature Dishes: Dar Dar specializes in contemporary Moroccan cuisine, with a focus on innovative twists on classic dishes. Signature dishes include a modern take on tagine, featuring slow-cooked meats and aromatic spices, and their seafood pastilla, a crispy pastry filled with the freshest catch.
Ambiance and Decor: The rooftop terrace at Dar Dar is a chic, stylish space with comfortable seating and subtle Moroccan touches that complement its modern design. The ambiance is cozy yet elegant, making it an ideal spot for both a romantic dinner and a relaxed evening with friends.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Dar Dar is during the late afternoon or early evening, just in time to catch the spectacular sunset over the Medina, which enhances the magical atmosphere of the place.
Special Features: Apart from its stunning views, Dar Dar often features live music nights, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to your dining experience. The service here is known for being attentive and personable, ensuring a memorable visit.
Website: Dar Dar
Nomad
Location: Located in the heart of the Medina, close to the Spice Square, Nomad offers four levels of terraces with amazing views of the surrounding old city and beyond.
1 Derb Aarjane
12pm – 10.30pm
Cuisine Type and Signature Dishes: Nomad serves up modern Moroccan cuisine with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients. Signature dishes include saffron scented tagine, lamb with aubergine, and a variety of spice-infused vegetarian options.
Ambiance and Decor: The decor is sleek and contemporary with a nod to Moroccan traditions. The rooftop terraces are arranged to create an atmosphere that is both vibrant and intimate, perfect for soaking in the sights and sounds of the city.
Best Time to Visit: The early evening is the best time to enjoy Nomad, as the setting sun casts a golden glow over the rooftops of Marrakech, creating a breathtaking dining backdrop. If you are dining during the heat of the day, as we did, they provide sun hats for all guests. There is also ample shade on their multiple terraces. Nomad is one of the most popular rooftop restaurants in Marrakech, so get your booking made plenty in advance, or be comfortable to eat at an off peak hour.
Special Features: Nomad is renowned for its innovative approach to Moroccan cuisine and its commitment to sustainability. Additionally, the restaurant occasionally hosts events featuring local artists and musicians, providing diners with a unique cultural experience.
Website: Nomad
View over the medina during the day from a rooftop restaurant
View over the medina during the day
Le Jardin
Location: Hidden away in a narrow alley of the Medina, Le Jardin is located in a restored 17th-century mansion and is easily identifiable by its striking green door.
32 Souk Jeld Sidi Abdelaziz
10am – 11pm
Cuisine Type and Signature Dishes: Le Jardin offers a menu that combines traditional Moroccan dishes with international flavors. Their signature dishes include the Moroccan pastilla, filled with pigeon and almonds, and a refreshing array of salads made with ingredients sourced from local farms.
Ambiance and Decor: As the name suggests, Le Jardin features a lush, verdant garden complete with tropical plants and vibrant tiles that create a tranquil oasis away from the hustle of the city. The seating is scattered throughout the garden and covered areas, providing a cool, shaded escape. We sat at the very top of the rooftop garden and I would thoroughly recommend.
Best Time to Visit: Le Jardin is best visited during the daytime for lunch to fully appreciate the beauty of its gardens and the natural light that filters through the foliage, though evenings are equally enchanting with subtle lighting enhancing the magical ambiance.
Special Features: The garden itself is a special feature, offering a serene dining experience. The restaurant also hosts occasional cultural events and has a boutique shop on-site selling local crafts and fashion.
Website: Le Jardin
Le Salama
Location: Situated just a stone’s throw from the bustling Jemaa el-Fnaa Square, Le Salama offers a central location that’s easy to find amidst the heart of Marrakech.
40 Rue des Banques
12pm – 2am
Cuisine Type and Signature Dishes: Le Salama serves a fusion of French and Moroccan cuisine, with signature dishes like duck confit tagine and Moroccan lamb couscous that perfectly marry the bold flavors of both culinary traditions.
Ambiance and Decor: The decor at Le Salama is a glamorous mix of 1940s French style and Moroccan opulence. The interior is adorned with intricate lanterns, rich fabrics, and dark wood, creating an atmosphere that’s both sophisticated and inviting.
Best Time to Visit: Evening is the prime time at Le Salama, as the rooftop lights up with ambient lighting and live music, offering a vibrant dining experience that captures the essence of Marrakech nightlife.
Special Features: Le Salama is known for its live belly dancing performances and traditional Moroccan music, providing an engaging cultural experience while you dine.
Website: Le Salama
Café des Épices
Location: Overlooking the vibrant Rahba Kedima spice square, Café des Épices is easily accessible and a well-known landmark within the Medina.
75 Derb Rahba Lakdima
9am – 11pm
Cuisine Type and Signature Dishes: This café offers a selection of light meals and snacks. Ideal for a quick bite or a leisurely lunch. Signature dishes include a variety of Moroccan salads, kefta (meatballs), and tajines, along with freshly brewed Moroccan mint tea.
Ambiance and Decor: Café des Épices features simple, rustic decor with pops of red that echo the colorful spice market it overlooks. Its relaxed, laid-back atmosphere makes it a great spot for people-watching and enjoying the slow pace of local life.
Best Time to Visit: Mid-morning to late afternoon is ideal to visit Café des Épices. Allowing you to enjoy the lively market atmosphere during the day.
Special Features: The café is particularly noted for its roof terrace. Offering stunning views over the spice square and is a perfect place for photography enthusiasts and casual diners alike.
Website: Café des Épices
Le Trou au Mur
Location: Hidden away in the quieter alleys of the Medina, Le Trou au Mur brings a sense of discovery to those who find it. Located halfway between the Jemaa el-Fnaa and the Majorelle Garden.
39 Derb el Farnatchi
12pm – 4pm then 6.30pm – 12am
Cuisine Type and Signature Dishes: Le Trou au Mur is celebrated for reviving forgotten Moroccan recipes and giving them a contemporary twist. The menu features unique dishes like mechoui (slow-roasted lamb) and a variety of traditional Moroccan stews.
Ambiance and Decor: The interior combines Moroccan authenticity with modern design elements. Creating a space that feels both traditional and contemporary. It’s cozy and inviting, with an emphasis on warm lighting and comfortable seating.
Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon or early evening offers the perfect lighting for enjoying the soothing ambiance and perhaps capturing some beautiful photos of the setting.
Special Features: Le Trou au Mur is praised for its innovative approach to Moroccan cuisine. It also offers a selection of Moroccan wines, which are perfect for pairing with the meal for an enriched dining experience.
Website: Le Trou au Mur
Kabana
Location: Dubbed “The Highest Drinking Hotspot in the Marrakech Medina”. Kabana is perched atop one of the tallest buildings in the Medina. It offers a unique vantage point over the historic heart of Marrakech, providing some of the most spectacular views across the city.
KISSARIAT BEN KHALED R’MILA, 1 Rue Fatima Zahra
11am – 2am
Cuisine Type and Signature Dishes: While primarily celebrated for its drink offerings as a true Marrakech rooftop bar. Kabana also serves a selection of international snacks and small plates that pair perfectly with their creative cocktails and extensive wine list.
Ambiance and Decor: Kabana boasts a modern, chic design with minimalist decor that emphasizes comfort and style. The open-air setting is perfect for enjoying the cool Moroccan evenings and the glittering skyline.
Best Time to Visit: Sunset is the ideal time to visit Kabana. The sky turns a brilliant shade of orange and pink, offering a breathtaking backdrop for an evening out.
Special Features: Known for its impeccable service and stylish atmosphere. Kabana is a great place to relax with a refreshing cocktail after a day of exploring Marrakech.
Website: Kabana
Koutoubia Mosque in Marrakech during golden hour
Koutoubia Mosque in Marrakech during golden hour
Le Grand Balcon du Café Glacier
Location: Right in the hustle and bustle of Jemaa el-Fnaa. Balcon du Café Glacier offers a front-row seat to the lively square that never sleeps. Perfect for those who want to dive into the heart of Marrakech’s vibrant nightlife.
Jemaa El Fna Square
Hours are variable
Cuisine Type and Signature Dishes: The café primarily offers drinks and casual dining options like sandwiches, salads, and Moroccan pastries. Ideal for tourists on the go. My recommendation would be to skip the food, head to the roof terrace and enjoy a mint tea whilst overlooking the square
Ambiance and Decor: The decor is simple and unpretentious. The main draw being the expansive views of Jemaa el-Fnaa Square from the balcony. It’s a fantastic spot for people-watching and soaking in the local culture.
Best Time to Visit: Evening is the best time to visit. The square becomes alive with street performers, vendors, and musicians, providing an authentic Moroccan experience.
Special Features: Its location and view are the café’s standout features. Offering guests a panoramic view of the bustling square below.
They do not have their own website.
La Famille
Location: This is a wildcard entry from me. It doesn’t strictly classify as one of the rooftop restaurants in Marrakech. Tucked away in a quieter part of the Medina, La Famille is not a rooftop but a beautiful garden restaurant that offers a peaceful retreat from the busy streets of Marrakech.
34 Derb Jdid
12pm – 4pm (then some evenings 7.30pm – 10pm please check on your day)
Cuisine Type and Signature Dishes: La Famille specializes in vegetarian and vegan dishes, using organic and locally sourced ingredients. Their signature dishes include vegetarian tagines, fresh pasta, and a variety of inventive salads. I want to add that I am not vegetarian and this was one of my favourite meals in Marrakech. The staff were incredibly friendly, the bill was very reasonable. The setting was exactly what I needed having had a busy morning/afternoon in the hustle and bustle of the Medina.
Ambiance and Decor: The restaurant is set in a charming garden filled with olive trees and aromatic herbs. Featuring rustic wooden furniture and handcrafted decor that create a serene and homely atmosphere.
Best Time to Visit: Lunchtime is perfect to enjoy the beautiful garden setting under the shade of olive trees. Though the cool evenings are equally pleasant.
Special Features: The peaceful garden setting makes La Famille a unique spot in Marrakech for those seeking tranquillity and a healthy meal. It’s also a great place for those interested in sustainable eating.
Website: La Famille
If you have the opportunity to explore beyond Marrakech why not read my guide to the best desert tour from Marrakech to Fes here
DINING TIPS FOR MARRAKECH ROOFTOP RESTAURANTS AND BARS
Making Reservations:
Marrakech is a bustling tourist hub, and its best dining spots can get quite busy, especially during peak tourist seasons (spring and autumn). To secure a spot at one of these coveted rooftop restaurants or bars, it’s wise to make a reservation well in advance. For places like Nomad or Le Salama, which are particularly popular, booking a few weeks ahead might be necessary. Also, consider the timing of your meal. Sunset times are especially popular for their stunning views. So aim to book for either slightly earlier or later if you’re looking for a quieter experience.
What to Wear:
When it comes to dressing for a meal out in Marrakech, it’s important to balance comfort with cultural sensitivity. Opt for attire that is both stylish and modest. For men, trousers are the safest bet, although smart shorts are acceptable in places. Women might consider a maxi dress or a tunic paired with leggings. Many upscale restaurants, especially in the evening, appreciate a smart-casual dress code. Always remember that Morocco is a Muslim country, so dressing conservatively is respectful. Avoid very short skirts, sleeveless tops, and short shorts!
Why not also check out my guide to the best food tours in Marrakech and the ultimate tours and excursions you should consider in Marrakech. If you are here with your family, or you are feeling the need to cool off, take a look at my guide to the best water parks in Morocco here
CONCLUSION
Embarking on a rooftop dining experience in Marrakech not only allows you to enjoy delicious food and spectacular views but also offers an oasis of calm above the lively chaos of the city streets. Each restaurant and bar presents its own unique flavour of Moroccan hospitality. Making it an essential part of experiencing the city’s cultural tapestry. Whether you’re sipping a cocktail as the sun sets over the Medina or enjoying a traditional Moroccan meal under the stars. These rooftops promise moments of joy and relaxation that you’ll remember long after your trip ends. So, make your reservations and prepare for an unforgettable journey above the rooftops of Marrakech! The best rooftop bars and restaurants in Marrakech will not disappoint
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