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Casablanca food guide
Signature dishes, best food neighborhoods, and the dining etiquette that actually matters — all specific to Casablanca.
Photo by Mayeur Pascal on Unsplash
What to eat in Casablanca
5 signature dishes, 4 food-forward neighborhoods, and the etiquette you actually need to know.
Must-try dishes
Pastilla au Pigeon
$12–$20
A savory-sweet pie made with flaky warqa pastry, stuffed with pigeon (or chicken), almonds, and spices, dusted with powdered sugar and cinnamon. It's a complex flavor explosion that is both celebratory and deeply traditional.
Where to try: Restaurant Al Mounia
Tanjia Marrakchia
$10–$18
While originating in Marrakech, Casablanca's versions are renowned. This slow-cooked stew of lamb or beef, preserved lemons, garlic, and saffron is cooked in a clay urn, traditionally in the embers of a hammam's furnace. The meat becomes incredibly tender and flavorful.
Where to try: Local eateries in the Habous Quarter
Harira
$2–$5
A hearty, traditional Moroccan soup made with tomatoes, lentils, chickpeas, herbs, and often a bit of lamb or beef. It's a staple, especially during Ramadan, offering comfort and sustenance.
Where to try: Street vendors and small cafes around the Central Market (Marché Central)
Zaalouk
$3–$7
A smoky, flavorful cooked salad made from eggplant, tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and various spices like cumin and paprika. It's often served as a mezze or side dish and is best enjoyed with fresh Moroccan bread.
Where to try: Various Moroccan restaurants in the Maarif district
Maakouda
$0.5–$1.5
These are Moroccan potato fritters, often spiced and deep-fried to a golden crisp. They are a popular street food snack, perfect for a quick bite, and sometimes served with a spicy harissa sauce.
Where to try: Street food stalls, particularly near the Corniche
Where locals eat — best neighborhoods
Habous Quarter (New Medina)
Charming, artisanal, traditional with a modern twist.
traditional Moroccanpastriessouvenir shoppingtanjia
Maarif
Bustling, modern, diverse culinary scene.
international cuisinelocal cafesshoppingmodern Moroccan
Corniche
Coastal, lively, seafood-focused, great for sunset views.
seafoodcasual diningsunset drinksstreet food
Central Market (Marché Central)
Energetic, authentic, a true sensory overload.
fresh producelocal snacksharirafish market
Dietary notes
Moroccan cuisine is rich and often features lamb, beef, and chicken. Vegetarian options are available, particularly in the form of tagines with vegetables, couscous, and various salads, but vegan options can be more challenging to find without specific requests. Gluten-free is generally difficult due to the prevalence of bread and couscous.
Local etiquette
- •It's customary to accept mint tea when offered; refusal can be seen as impolite.
- •Tipping is appreciated, typically around 10-15% in restaurants if service is not included.
- •While credit cards are accepted in larger establishments, always carry cash for markets and smaller cafes.
- •Eating with your right hand is the norm, especially when sharing communal dishes like tagines.
- •Reservations are not always necessary for casual eateries but recommended for popular upscale restaurants.
Plan the rest of your Casablanca trip
Food guides elsewhere