Top Street Food Spots & Best Restaurant in Casablanca
Best restaurant in Casablanca and street food adventures await every traveler with a craving for bold flavors and cultural richness. Casablanca, the beating heart of Morocco, offers an exquisite blend of modernity and tradition, where culinary experiences are as diverse as the city itself. From elegant seaside dining to bustling food stalls tucked away in the medina, Casablanca’s food scene is a vibrant tapestry of tastes and aromas. Whether you’re indulging in a fragrant tagine at a high-end eatery or grabbing a steaming bocadillo from a street vendor, this guide will lead you through the must-visit spots to satisfy every palate.
1. Marche Central
Nestled in the heart of the city, Marche Central is a paradise for food lovers seeking authentic Moroccan street food. Here, you’ll find:
-
Grilled Seafood: Freshly caught fish, shrimp, and calamari grilled to perfection. Pair it with a side of zesty chermoula sauce.
-
Moroccan Sandwiches: A popular option is the seafood sandwich packed with grilled fish, veggies, and a touch of spicy harissa.
2. Ain Diab Corniche
The coastal promenade of Ain Diab isn’t just a spot for breathtaking sunsets. It’s also a hub for mouthwatering snacks such as:
- Briouates: These crispy pastries stuffed with meat or cheese are a must-try.
- Harcha and Msemen: Traditional Moroccan flatbreads, often served with honey or soft cheese, are perfect for a quick bite.
3. Street Vendors in Derb Ghallef
This bustling neighborhood offers an array of street food stalls:
-
Makouda: Deep-fried potato fritters served with spicy tomato sauce.
-
Snail Soup (Bébouch): A warming and aromatic dish made with snails and flavorful broth.
Don’t Miss Casablanca’s Street Food Magic!
Follow the irresistible scent of grilled kebabs, sizzling msemen, and spicy harira through the city’s lively alleys. Dive into the heart of local flavor where every bite tells a story. From juicy brochettes to crispy sardine sandwiches, Casablanca’s street food isn’t just a snack, it’s an experience. Grab your appetite and hit the streets!
Must-Try Moroccan Dishes in Casablanca
1. Tagine
No visit to Casablanca is complete without savoring this quintessential Moroccan dish. Try different varieties, such as:
-
Lamb with Prunes: Sweet and savory, cooked with almonds and spices.
-
Chicken with Preserved Lemon and Olives: A zesty and aromatic favorite.
2. Couscous
Typically served on Fridays, this dish is a celebration in itself. Enjoy it with:
-
Seven Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables and tender meat or chicken.
-
Sweet Couscous: Made with caramelized onions and raisins.
3. Harira
A comforting soup made with lentils, tomatoes, and spices, often accompanied by chebakia (a honey-drenched pastry).
4. Pastilla
This flaky pastry combines sweet and savory flavors, typically stuffed with pigeon meat, almonds, and cinnamon. Seafood variations are also popular in coastal Casablanca.
Top Restaurants in Casablanca for Local Cuisine
1. Rick’s Café
Inspired by the classic film “Casablanca,” Rick’s Café offers a romantic ambiance and a menu rich in Moroccan and Mediterranean flavors. Signature dishes include:
-
Lamb tagine
-
Seared seafood platters
2. Dar Beida
Located in the Hyatt Regency, this restaurant is perfect for those seeking a luxurious dining experience. Highlights include:
-
Traditional couscous
-
Mezze platters
3. Al-Mounia
For a more authentic Moroccan atmosphere, Al-Mounia is a go-to. The courtyard seating and flavorful dishes like chicken tagine make it a favorite.
Top Luxury Restaurants in Casablanca
1. Rick’s Café
-
Why go: Inspired by the iconic movie Casablanca, Rick’s Café offers a romantic, old-Hollywood vibe with a Moroccan twist.
-
What to try: Seafood pastilla, lamb tagine, or a glass of Moroccan wine with live jazz in the background.
-
Vibe: Elegant, cinematic, and atmospheric.
2. La Sqala
-
Why go: A beautifully restored fortress-turned-restaurant near the port, serving authentic Moroccan cuisine in a lush garden setting.
-
What to try: Royal couscous, chicken with preserved lemon, and Moroccan pastries.
-
Vibe: Traditional luxury meets historical charm.
3. Le Cabestan – Ocean View
-
Why go: Overlooking the Atlantic, this sleek, modern restaurant is a go-to for high-end Mediterranean and seafood dishes.
-
What to try: Oysters, grilled lobster, and gourmet cocktails.
-
Vibe: Chic, contemporary, and perfect for sunset dinners.
4. La Table du Rétro
-
Why go: A refined setting with vintage décor, French-Moroccan fusion cuisine, and a curated wine list.
-
What to try: Duck confit with Moroccan spices or the filet mignon in argan oil sauce.
-
Vibe: Sophisticated and intimate.
5. Le Rouget de l’Isle
-
Why go: One of Casablanca’s finest for French haute cuisine, nestled in the city center with attentive, white-glove service.
-
What to try: Foie gras, lobster bisque, or their signature soufflé.
-
Vibe: Classic French elegance with Moroccan finesse.
Is Pork Available in Casablanca?
Pork is not commonly available in Casablanca or the rest of Morocco due to the country’s Islamic dietary laws, which prohibit its consumption. However, pork products can occasionally be found in certain international supermarkets or restaurants catering to non-Muslim expatriates and tourists. If you are looking for pork, it is best to check specialty stores or high-end establishments.
Conclusion
Casablanca’s food scene is as diverse and vibrant as the city itself. From savory street eats to exquisite traditional dishes, there’s something to satisfy every palate. Whether you’re wandering through the lively Marche Central or dining at an elegant restaurant, each bite will bring you closer to the heart of Moroccan culture. So pack your appetite and embark on a culinary journey you’ll never forget!
EN 
ES