Despite regular visits which were always pleasant, I had never verbally admitted that I loved Marrakech. It was only very recently that I realized that every opportunity I had to go there, I did so with a good heart. I probably hadn’t put my finger on what made the place special and what attached me to it. Hence the fact that I had never shown any love for the city. And yet… After several visits, I finally understood: there is a kind of sweetness of life which makes my stays ultra smooth and pleasant every time. It’s a je ne sais quoi that floats in the air, a mix between the gentle warmth of autumn and spring which also emanates from the ocher walls of the city, the smell of orange blossom as soon as we set foot on the tarmac at the airport, this warm welcome that Moroccans reserve for their guests… All this accompanied by mint tea and pastries that are way too sweet, but incredibly addictive.
Whether you have already been to Marrakech or this is your first visit, here are the places (beyond the classics Majorelle Gardens, Place Jemaa El Fna and zouks), which will definitely make you feel this sweetness to the fullest… And will definitely make you want to come back.
The Grand Café de la Poste
An emblem of Marrakech’s flourishing era, this true institution combines the charm of the 1920s with a modern touch. As soon as you enter, you find yourself immersed in vegetation which immediately brings a zen and fresh touch to the place which was once a café and a postal relay (hence the name). It was also a popular meeting place for high-class people, notably a certain Jacques Majorelle. Once past the patio, we discover a shaded interior with art deco style decor which ensures a chic, sophisticated atmosphere, without being snobbish either.
The menu, which skillfully combines the classics of French and Moroccan cuisine, offers itself as an invitation to travel without turbulence: the flavors are spicy without being confusing, revealing the quality of the products. You feel good there, perfectly welcomed and advised by high quality service.
The Grand Café de la Poste
Corner Boulevard El Mansour Eddahbi and Avenue Imam, Marrakesh 40000, Morocco
+212 5244-33038
Sahbi Sahbi
Want to try top-notch Moroccan food? Direction Sahbi Sahbi for an authentic journey to the heart of Moroccan cuisine. Here, it is the Dadas, mistresses of the stoves, who are in charge and reveal their know-how in an ultra-designed and modern setting. The centerpiece of the place, the wood-fired oven serves not only as a cooking tool, but also as a real link between tradition and modernity in Moroccan gastronomy.
We witness, before our eyes, the preparation of emblematic dishes such as tagine and pastilla, all in an ultra warm atmosphere, like at home. If you want to taste good traditional Moroccan dishes, it’s here. The couscous is delicious and the kofta skewers are incredible, by the way…
Sahbi Sahbi
37 Bd el Mansour Eddahbi, Marrakech 40000, Morocco
+212 662-682312
R’ Matt
If you were wondering where Marrakchis and expats spent their weekends, look no further: they are surely in R’ Matt. Located 27 km from Marrakech, R’ Matt is a kind of dream oasis for those who want to relax for a whole afternoon while enjoying dishes, each more delicious than the last. We ate one of the best gazpaccio of our lives and some crazy braised cauliflower. Normal, here the cuisine is prepared over a wood fire with ingredients picked from the vegetable garden, to enhance the flavors in perfect harmony.
This haven of peace, imagined by Pierre Pirajeanextends over 10 hectares of green nature. It brilliantly combines elegance and quality craftsmanship in a refined setting. Sumptuous swimming pools, including one heated, and superbly appointed spaces blend harmoniously into the surrounding decor. If you want to have lunch there, hang out around the pool, have a drink, it’s perfect. The place also offers corporate or family events. We can imagine having a wedding there, a birthday… And why not, let’s be crazy, a wedding anniversary!
R’ Matt
By reservation +212653538855
The Bô Zin
Put on your sequined dress (but not necessarily your heels), head to the Bo Zin to discover the coziest festive place in Marrakech. We love the chic, elegant, but slightly bohemian side of the place. The festive and sophisticated atmosphere is punctuated by little treasures like this pétanque court which allows you to take a break between two dishes or two choreographies. To treat yourself, we recommend the crying Gazelle of Bô Zina reinterpretation of the Asian dish the Crying Tiger. Yum!
Located outside the city, its particularity and charm are its gardens lit by candlelight which create a magical atmosphere, while the captivating music accompanies dishes with cosmopolitan flavors, subtly influenced by Moroccan culture. The soundscape increases as the evening progresses, punctuated by the arrival of dancers or drummers.
Bo Zin
H2F8+GH2, Km 3.5, Route de l’Ourika, Marrakech 40000, Morocco
+212 5243-88012
Stella Cadente: The Riad Boutique Hotel
Do you like color? Do you want to experience a stylish, refined and at the same time totally unique decor? This magical place will inevitably seduce you, a combination of modern design and Moroccan craftsmanship. All in the heart of the city, for an immersive experience without the complications of narrow streets. The seven rooms, inspired by the tales of the Arabian Nights, celebrate color and creativity.
On the roof terrace, decorated with bougainvillea, meals based on local products are served, and wellness treatments, including a signature massage, promise unforgettable moments of relaxation. The Riad also has a boutique where visitors can purchase elegant art and accessories, all made by local artisans. With this new peaceful space, Stella Cadente offers everyone a unique experience, where luxury meets magic.
Riad Stella Cadente Marrakech
N°29, RIAD LAAROUSSE, DERB EL GUERRABA, 29 Av. El Glaoui, Marrakech 40000, Morocco
marrakech.maison-stella-cadente.com
