Moroccan gastronomy is among the world's richest and most diverse. It boasts numerous delicious dishes that will surely delight your palate. Moroccan cuisine extends far beyond couscous and tagines, the most widespread dishes in the country—there are also other specialties that are absolutely worth tasting.

Breads, soups, fish, meats… are also part of Morocco's typical dishes. Pastries are equally well-developed in the country. One must not overlook the various beverages that also contribute to Morocco's fame. Tea has even become a true institution here, a ceremony one cannot escape.

A Few Must-Try Dishes and Beverages in Morocco

When discussing Moroccan cuisine, one never forgets to mention couscous and tagine. Couscous is the famous semolina dish that is widely known and enjoyed throughout Morocco. Tagine, whether with fish or meat, is a typical dish prepared in earthenware pots. The dishes vary by region. In the interior, tagine is often made with lamb. However, in coastal regions, it features anchovies, sardines, or shrimp.

If you visit the livestock-raising regions of the interior and the Atlas Mountains, do not miss Mechoui. It is the famous roasted lamb, typical of certain Moroccan regions.

Anywhere in Morocco, you can taste Harira with tomatoes and Bissara with beans. These are typical soups served in most restaurants. The celebrated Harira is especially to be savored during Ramadan, as people enjoy it to break their daily fast.

Throughout the country, you can find various kinds of pastries: briouates are the most famous. These are small fritters made with pastilla pastry leaves and filled with ground meat, brains, fish, sausages, and much more.

Mint tea is Morocco's emblem. This is to be enjoyed in all restaurants and cafés across Moroccan cities. Wherever we are, in a hotel or a private home, tea is always offered by hosts. It even forms part of the country's tradition.

Besides mint tea, there are also other beverages, alcoholic or non-alcoholic, sold in restaurants, supermarkets, or specialized shops… Soft drinks and fruit juices are widely available throughout the territory, even in the desert.

If you purchase an alcoholic beverage in a shop or supermarket, the bottle will always be wrapped in paper and placed in a black plastic bag. During religious holidays, the alcohol aisles in large supermarkets are reserved for foreign visitors with passports. Avoid purchasing alcohol for a young Moroccan, as this may result in legal proceedings.

Where to Eat and Drink in Morocco

Visitors will be spoilt for choice among establishments offering typical Moroccan dishes and beverages. Moroccan cities host numerous dining establishments where you can order the dishes you wish to taste during your stay.

· Fast casual dining : Known for their excellent value for money and quick service, these restaurants are highly popular with Moroccans and foreigners alike. They all offer typical Moroccan dishes and beverages, but also specialize in dishes from other countries to attract more customers. These spots are ideal for travelers exploring the city. You can refresh yourself before continuing your visit.

In the evening, the Jemaa El Fnaa square in Marrakech hosts many food and beverage stalls serving typical Moroccan fare. This plaza is indeed one of the red city's premier tourist attractions.

· Local restaurants : Frequented primarily by Moroccans, these restaurants are perfect for soaking in the local atmosphere and connecting with residents. The most common menu items are fried or grilled fish or seafood platters, especially in coastal areas.

In the interior, local restaurants often feature meat skewers… or lamb tagines… Harira and bissara soups are always available. For dessert, you can order fresh fruit juice, dates, or mint tea.

· Upscale restaurants : These establishments primarily cater to tourists, both domestic and international. Prices are higher, but their premises are beautifully decorated and well-appointed, with highly satisfactory service. They are often found in luxury hotels or in tourist zones. Upscale restaurants offer all types of cuisine: Moroccan or Western. You can even find Asian restaurants in major Moroccan tourist destinations. Most of these upscale establishments feature a bar lounge area, a place where you can refresh and unwind with your favorite beverages.

· Cafés : These are small establishments where you can enjoy coffee or tea accompanied by light savory snacks, such as sandwiches, briouates, and pastilla… Moroccans are passionate about cafés, so it's no surprise to find one on nearly every street corner. You can also visit them before starting your day of exploration.