Hey there, fellow food lover! Feeling a bit overwhelmed about where to eat in Chefchaouen? Trust me, I’ve guided hundreds of visitors through our enchanting blue streets, and that puzzled look you have right now, I’ve seen it countless times before.
Let me share a little secret: the best restaurants in Chefchaouen aren’t where most tourists end up. While those flashy menus and persistent waiters along the main square might seem tempting, the real culinary gems are tucked away in the winding alleyways of our medina.
I still remember the look of pure joy on my guests’ faces when I first took them to a tiny tagine shop, hidden behind the Kasbah, where the aroma of saffron and preserved lemons fills the air.
From family-run restaurants serving generations-old recipes to rooftop cafes offering breathtaking Rif Mountain views alongside their mouthwatering pastilla, I’ve got the inside scoop on where you’ll find those unforgettable Moroccan meals.
Stick with me, and I’ll show you where to taste the most authentic flavors of Chefchaouen, far from the tourist crowds and overpriced set menus.
1. El Cielo
Let me tell you about one of my absolute favorite spots in Chefchaouen, El Cielo!
Trust me, if you’re looking for the best restaurants in Chefchaouen, this garden oasis is a must-visit.
You’ll walk through this magical entrance with bamboo and peaceful ponds before discovering all their culinary delights inside.
I absolutely love their Mezze platter, it’s only 110 Dirhams and comes loaded with goodies like falafel, perfectly seasoned carrots, hummus, and the most amazing lebneh you’ll ever taste!
It’s such a nice break from traditional Moroccan food, and the friendly staff will help you pick out the perfect dishes.
Here’s a pro tip: Make reservations! It’s the perfect date night spot, and tables fill up fast. You won’t regret spending an evening in this special place!
2. Restaurant Lala Mesouda
Tucked away on the upper edge of the Medina, Restaurant Lala Mesouda offers some of the most authentic home-style Moroccan cooking you’ll find in Chefchaouen.
As one of the best restaurants in Chefchaouen, it’s where I often take visitors who want to experience real traditional Moroccan flavors.
While their tagines and couscous are tasty, I’d recommend trying something different.
The Zalouk, a mouthwatering eggplant and tomato dish, is my personal favorite!
If you’re feeling adventurous, try the Sferjal, it’s a unique lamb tagine served with quinoa that’ll surprise your taste buds.
And for the truly daring? Well, there’s always the ox penis on the menu (though I’ll admit, I haven’t been brave enough to try that one myself!).
This hidden gem is perfect for experiencing authentic food in Chefchaouen.
3. Cafe Clock
Among all the restaurants I’ve visited in Chefchaouen’s medina, Cafe Clock stands out as my absolute favorite spot for both its amazing food and incredible atmosphere!
You’ll love exploring this three-story gem with its cheerful decor and modern Moroccan vibe.
The menu perfectly blends Western and Moroccan dishes, I always go for their delicious Berber omelet, while their camel burger (trust me, it’s better than it sounds!) is quite the adventure.
Don’t miss their spiced cappuccino for just 25 Dirhams, best enjoyed on the rooftop during their nightly live music performances.
What’s even better? The prices won’t break your bank, with most dishes between 50-100 Dirhams.
If you’re feeling inspired, sign up for their cooking classes to learn some authentic Moroccan recipes. It’s definitely one of Chefchaouen’s best restaurants!
4. Sofia
When it comes to unforgettable Moroccan food in Chefchaouen, I can’t recommend Sofia’s enough, this all-women-run restaurant absolutely blew me away with their vegetable tagine!
You’ll find this local gem just above the main square, and while it’s not fancy (think plastic tables and chairs), the food will knock your socks off.
Trust me, as someone who’s tried countless restaurants in the medina, Sofia’s serves some of the best food in Chefchaouen at super reasonable prices. Their vegan soup is incredible too!
Just skip the vegetable sandwich, it’s the only miss on their extensive menu. While there aren’t any scenic views to speak of, you’re here for the amazing food anyway.
Ask any local, and they’ll point you straight to Sofia’s – it’s that well-known!
5. Assaada
Moving on from Sofia’s stellar dishes, I’ve got another local spot to tell you about, Assaada.
While it’s not my absolute favorite among the best restaurants in Chefchaouen, it’s definitely worth checking out if you’re looking for things to do in the Blue City.
Their upstairs dining room is super cute, and you’ll find some solid vegetarian options here.
I tried their couscous, which came packed with veggies, though I wish they’d been more generous with the sauce!
The best part? You can grab a quick meal here without breaking the bank. I paid just 40 Dirhams for my couscous and a drink, that’s a total steal!
Just keep in mind that if you’re a sauce lover like me, you might want to ask for extra on the side.
6. Lecheria Venezia
Although I stumbled upon Lecheria Venezia by accident, it turned out to be one of my favorite breakfast spots in all of Chefchaouen!
As one of the best restaurants in Chefchaouen for breakfast, this tiny place with just four chairs packs a mighty punch with its all-day breakfast menu.
You’ve got to try their Moroccan Breakfast for just 35 Dirhams, it’s an incredible deal!
They’ll serve you fresh harsha, msemen, amlou, honey, jam, cheese, orange juice, and mint tea.
The amlou is so delicious, you’ll wish they’d give you more!
And if you’re craving something more Western during your trip to Morocco, they even offer avocado toast.
Trust me, this cool cultural spot beats the overpriced tourist traps in the main square any day.
7. Bab Ssour
A hidden gem nestled in Chefchaouen’s Medina, Bab Ssour feels like you’re dining at your Moroccan grandmother’s house!
Trust me, it’s my favorite place to eat when I want good, traditional Moroccan food without breaking the bank.
You’ll love lounging on comfy couches while admiring the beautiful blue and white windows with green trim.
The generous portions will definitely fill you up, I always recommend trying their amazing Harira (Moroccan chickpea soup) for just 7 Dirhams!
Their chickpeas with bread are a steal at 20 Dirhams, and don’t miss the loubia (white beans). Everything comes with delicious bread and spicy harissa on the side.
Just remember, if you’re craving their tasty couscous, you’ll need to visit on a Friday!
8. Restaurant Jbaria
Right down the street from Bab Ssour, Restaurant Jbaria offers another cozy spot to experience traditional Moroccan cuisine!
You’ll love their beautiful terrace upstairs, where you can relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere away from the tourist crowds.
Trust me, the best things to try here are the bissara and lentils, they’re absolutely delicious! The portions are generous, and you’ll be amazed by their fresh, high-quality bread.
While the prices are slightly higher than other spots in the Medina (around 60 Dirhams per meal), it’s well worth it for the quality you’re getting.
I’ve found the service to be a bit laid-back, but honestly, that’s part of the charm!
Plus, if you’re like me, you’ll appreciate having this traditional Moroccan restaurant in Chefchaouen mostly to yourself.
9. Restaurant DarCom
Located in the heart of Chefchaouen’s medina, Restaurant DarCom will transport you into a stunning Moroccan wonderland!
You’ll fall in love with its beautiful riad-style architecture, featuring striking blue walls and enchanting brick archways that surround a central courtyard.
The twinkling Moroccan-style lanterns create such a magical ambiance, trust me, you’ll want to buy one to take home!
For my vegetarian friends, you’re in for a treat! Their unique vegetable couscous comes topped with sweet caramelized onions and crunchy peanuts, it’s a delightful twist on the traditional dish.
While I’d skip their Moroccan salad, don’t miss their orange dessert sprinkled with cinnamon and sugar.
The best part? Sipping refreshing mint tea on their rooftop terrace while taking in the medina views!
10. La Fuente Restaurant
Finding this hidden gem on the main square totally surprised me! If you’re craving authentic Moroccan food at reasonable prices, La Fuente Restaurant is your spot.
As a local guide, I can tell you this place serves some of the best vegetarian tajine and bissara in Chefchaouen. Trust me, I was skeptical at first, main square restaurants can be tourist traps!
But you’ll pay just 35 Dirhams for tajine and 15 Dirhams for bissara.
The well-seasoned fava bean soup comes with the perfect amount of olive oil, and they’ll whip up a veggie tajine even though it’s not on the menu.
My entire meal, including a drink, cost only 70 Dirhams! You seriously can’t beat that for quality local restaurant dining in Chefchaouen.
11. Chez Hicham
After exploring the winding streets of Chefchaouen, I always recommend Chez Hicham to my tour groups for its amazing rooftop views and reliable food options.
You’ll find this restaurant right in the main square, which means you can’t miss it!
While the prices are a bit higher than other spots (expect to pay 100-150 Dirhams per entree), the fast and friendly service makes up for it.
Trust me, you’ll want to head straight to their rooftop, though their patio is equally charming.
My groups absolutely love their chicken skewers, they’re a crowd favorite! It’s the perfect spot to relax after visiting the Moroccan hammam nearby.
While it’s not my absolute favorite restaurant in Chefchaouen, it’s definitely worth a visit for its delicious food and convenient location.
FAQs About Best Restaurants in Chefchaouen
What is the Best Restaurant in Chefchaouen?
When you’re searching for the absolute best dining spot in Chefchaouen’s charming blue streets, I can’t recommend Sofie’s enough!
As your local guide, I’ve taken countless visitors here, and it never disappoints. The atmosphere is incredibly warm, and you’ll feel right at home.
While Bab Ssour and Cafe Clock are also fantastic choices that I frequently recommend to my tour groups, Sofie’s consistently stands out as my favorite.
If you’re planning your time in Chefchaouen, make sure to reserve at least one evening for dinner at these iconic spots. Trust me, you won’t regret it!
Each restaurant offers its own unique take on traditional Moroccan cuisine, but there’s just something special about Sofie’s that keeps my guests coming back for more.
What Food Must You Try in Chefchaouen?
Now that you know the best spots to dine in Chefchaouen, I’ve got to tell you about my absolute favorite local delicacy, Jben!
As a local guide, I can’t count how many times I’ve watched visitors fall in love with this amazing goat cheese that’s unique to our beautiful blue city.
You’ll find this mild, white treasure all over the Medina, and trust me, it’s a must-try food that you won’t discover anywhere else in Morocco, not even in Marrakech!
I always tell my guests to grab some from the local restaurants or vendors while they’re here.
It’s one of those authentic tastes of Chefchaouen that you’ll be dreaming about long after your trip ends!
Where is the Blue City?
Located in the stunning Rif Mountains of northwest Morocco, Chefchaouen is truly a hidden gem that I love showing to my tour groups!
This enchanting city, known worldwide as the Morocco blue town, sits about four hours from Fes and just over two hours from Tangier, making it perfectly positioned for an unforgettable adventure.
Trust me, you’ll want to book a Chefchaouen hotel for at least one night, there’s way too much to explore in this blue city in Morocco to rush through in a day trip!
From wandering the vibrant streets to sampling the best restaurants, I always tell my guests to plan a foodie inspired itinerary that lets them soak in the atmosphere.
After leading tours here for years, I can tell you this magical spot in the Rif Mountains never fails to amaze visitors!
Final Words
Every foodie’s journey through Chefchaouen becomes simply unforgettable thanks to the city’s incredible dining scene!
Trust me, after guiding hundreds of visitors through the best restaurants in this magical blue city, I can tell you there’s something special about our culinary offerings.
You’ll find yourself falling in love with traditional flavors while dining at charming spots like Sofia’s and Bab Ssour.
The local specialties and warm hospitality you’ll experience here aren’t just about filling your belly – they’re about connecting with our culture!
Whether you’re sipping mint tea at Cafe Clock or savoring a tagine with mountain views, each meal becomes a cherished memory.
