Fes is a city in Morocco with a rich history and culture, and it’s also known for its amazing food. With so many restaurants to choose from, it can be hard to know which ones are the best. Here’s a guide to the top restaurants in Fes – so you don’t miss out on any of the deliciousness!
This list covers all price ranges, from budget-friendly options to luxurious splurges. Whether you’re looking for seafood or Moroccan classics like tagine, these are some of the best places to eat in this vibrant city. Read on for our picks of Fes’ finest restaurants! Fes desert tours
Traditional Moroccan Fare
Fes is a Moroccan city with an abundance of traditional restaurants serving some of the tastiest dishes in the country. From couscous to tagine, visitors to Fes can sample authentic local cuisine with the freshest ingredients. Local specialties include Tajine Malsouka, a lamb and vegetable dish cooked in a terra cotta pot and served with yellow rice; and B’stilla, a pastry filled with pigeon, onion, almonds, eggs and cinnamon. Other traditional favorites include pastilla (a flaky pastry stuffed with pigeon or chicken) and fresh seafood cooked in a spicy tomato sauce. Whatever you order at these restaurants will be sure to tantalize your taste buds!
No visit to Fes would be complete without trying some of its famous street food. Chabakia is a crunchy honey-drenched fried doughnut that pairs perfectly with mint tea. If you’re looking for something savory, try msemen – flatbread made from wheat flour and served as an accompaniment to soups or stews. You might also like brik – deep-fried phyllo dough filled with vegetables or meat – or sfenj – deep-fried donuts made from yeast dough. With so many delicious options on offer, it’s hard not to find something to satisfy your appetite!
Seafood Specialties
Fes is home to a variety of seafood specialties that are sure to delight any palate. From the city’s traditional fish tajines, to its freshly caught seafood platters, there’s something for everyone. At Les Terrasses de Fes, you can sample local favorites like sardines and calamari lightly cooked in olive oil and spices. For a true feast, try the Royal Seafood Platter served with rice or couscous. It includes lobster, shrimp, clams, mussels and squid cooked in a savory tomato-based sauce.
At La Maison du Poisson in the old medina, you’ll find classic grilled fish served with lemon wedges on a bed of sautéed vegetables. On weekends they offer an extensive selection of sushi rolls and sashimi prepared with fresh ingredients from the morning market. They also serve delicious grilled prawns marinated in garlic and herbs – perfect for sharing over drinks!
Upscale Mediterranean Cuisine
Fes has a variety of upscale Mediterranean cuisine restaurants that offer a unique culinary experience. One of the most popular is La Maison Bleue, which is known for its modern take on traditional Moroccan dishes. The menu features a selection of small plates, salads and main courses, all prepared with fresh ingredients. The restaurant also offers an extensive selection of wines and spirits to pair with your meal.
For a more intimate dining experience, head to Dar El Jeld, located in the heart of the old city. This restaurant serves up classic French-Moroccan cuisine in an elegant setting with views of the Old Medina. Their menu highlights traditional favorites like couscous and tagines as well as some surprises like seafood paella and beef tajine with olives and dates. The wine list offers a wide range of Mediterranean wines to complete your meal. Enjoy your dinner in their cozy outdoor patio or inside their inviting dining room. Viajes a Marruecos
Affordable Street Food
Beyond Fes’s elegant restaurants, the city offers an exciting street food scene for travelers who prefer casual and budget-friendly dining. The narrow streets and lively squares overflow with flavorful snacks, from sandwiches and kebabs to couscous and falafel, all at affordable prices.
For a truly local experience, visit the Medina near Bou Inania Madrasa and try the famous Fassi sfenj. Vendors fry this light, airy doughnut fresh and serve it with honey or a dusting of white sugar. Savory food lovers should sample bissara, a hearty fava bean soup topped with olive oil, cumin, and garlic. For a more filling option, try msemen, a flaky flatbread that you can enjoy plain or stuffed with meat and vegetables. Every bite reflects the rich culinary traditions of Fes.
Authentic Local Dishes
Fes stands as one of Morocco’s culinary capitals, and the city proudly showcases its traditional dishes. Pastilla ranks among the most iconic specialties, combining layers of crisp pastry with chicken or pigeon, almonds, eggs, and cinnamon. Many restaurants serve this dish as a flavorful appetizer.
Couscous remains a staple of local cuisine, featuring wheat semolina topped with vegetables simmered in a fragrant broth. Tajines also appear on nearly every menu, offering slow-cooked combinations of meat, poultry, or fish with vegetables such as zucchini, eggplant, and carrots. To finish the meal, diners often enjoy sweet-and-sour orange slices or pastries filled with almonds and honey. Every dish highlights the depth and elegance of Fes’s culinary heritage.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Price Range Of The Restaurants In Fes?
The price range of restaurants in Fes can vary drastically. You’ll find places with low-cost, budget-friendly options and high-end establishments that are more expensive. Depending on your budget and preferences, there’s something for everyone in Fes. Some popular restaurants offer traditional Moroccan dishes at very reasonable prices, while others might be a bit pricier but provide a unique experience.
Are Reservations Required?
When it comes to making reservations at restaurants, it largely depends on the individual restaurant’s policy. Some restaurants may require reservations while others do not. It’s best to check with the restaurant if you’re unsure of their reservation requirements.
Is There A Dress Code?
When dining at restaurants, it’s important to know if there is a dress code. Generally speaking, most restaurants in Fes do not have a strict dress code and casual attire is usually accepted. However, it’s always best to double-check with the restaurant beforehand to make sure that you’re well-suited for the environment.
Are There Vegetarian Options Available?
Yes, there are vegetarian options available in most restaurants in Fes. Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes as part of their regular menu, while others may also have some special vegetarian dishes available on request. Vegetarian dishes often include couscous, salads and vegetable tajines. It’s also worth noting that many traditional Moroccan dishes can be made vegan or vegetarian by omitting the meat or dairy elements.
Are There Any Outdoor Dining Options?
Yes, there are plenty of outdoor dining options available! From cozy cafe patios to terraces with stunning views, you can find a spot in Fes that suits your needs. Many restaurants offer al fresco dining with blankets and heaters for cooler nights, so you can enjoy the sights and sounds of the city even during winter months.
Conclusion
No matter what your budget is, there’s a restaurant in Fes that will fit it. You don’t have to worry about making reservations or dressing up if you don’t want to. There are plenty of vegetarian options, and some restaurants even offer outdoor seating. All in all, Fes has an abundance of amazing restaurants and no matter what you’re looking for, you can find it here.
No matter what kind of experience you’re looking for, there’s something for everyone when it comes to dining out in Fes. Whether you’re looking for a romantic night out or a casual lunch with friends, you’ll be sure to find something that suits your needs. So go ahead and explore all the amazing restaurants Fes has to offer!
