As a food lover, Fez, Morocco is a city that must be on your bucket list. Fez is a city that boasts a rich history and culture, which is evident in its food.
The city is a melting pot of different cuisines, and its cuisine is a perfect blend of Berber, Arab, Jewish, and Andalusian influences.
Here's a foodie's guide to Fez, Morocco, including some of the best places to get the most iconic Fez foods.
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This is my personal favorite. Fez-style barbecue, also known as "meshwi," is a beloved culinary tradition in Fez, and it's a must-try for anyone visiting the city. Unlike traditional barbecues, meshwi is slow-cooked over a charcoal grill, which gives the meat a unique and smoky flavor. One of the most popular meats for meshwi is lamb, which is marinated in a blend of spices such as cumin, paprika, and garlic, before being grilled to perfection.
Other popular meats for meshwi include beef, chicken, and even fish. The meat is typically served with a side of Moroccan bread, which is perfect for soaking up the delicious juices and spices.
One of the best places to try Fes-style barbecue in Fez is at Restaurant Debagh, a family-owned restaurant that has been serving traditional Moroccan cuisine for over 25 years. Their meshwi is succulent, flavorful, and it's a perfect representation of Fez's culinary heritage.
One of the most iconic dishes in Fez is the "Fassi" tagine. This dish is a slow-cooked stew that usually features tender meat, such as lamb or chicken, and an array of vegetables and spices. The dish is typically served with fluffy, crusty bread.
One of the best places to try this dish is at Restaurant Bless Mutanas. This restaurant is located in the heart of the Medina and has a charming traditional decor. Their Fassi tagine is a must-try, and it will leave you feeling satisfied and content.
Check out my article about the Tagine.
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Another iconic dish in Fez is "Bissara," which is a hearty bean soup that is perfect for a chilly day. I eat Bissara every day.
The soup is made with dried fava beans, olive oil, garlic, and cumin. Bissara is typically served with a side of bread, and you can find it in most local cafes and restaurants. One of the best places to try this dish is at Cafe Clock, a quirky cafe located in the heart of the Medina. Their Bissara is rich and flavorful, and it's a great option for vegetarians.
"Sellou" is the best, period. If you have a sweet tooth, then you must try Sellou. This sweet treat is a staple in Fez, and it's typically served during special occasions such as weddings and Eid celebrations. Sellou is made with a blend of roasted sesame seeds, almonds, and flour, and it's flavored with cinnamon and sugar.
One of the best places to try Sellou is at Patisserie Al Firdaous, a local pastry shop that has been around for over 30 years. Their Sellou is nutty, sweet, and crunchy, and it's perfect with a cup of mint tea.
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Another iconic dish that you must try in Fez is "B'stilla," which is a savory pastry that is filled with tender chicken, scrambled eggs, and a blend of spices such as cinnamon, saffron, and ginger. The pastry is then topped with powdered sugar and cinnamon, giving it a unique and delicious flavor.
B'stilla is typically served during special occasions, such as weddings and feasts, and it's a testament to the city's rich culinary heritage. One of the best places to try B'stilla in Fez is at Restaurant Dar Roumana, a charming restaurant located in a beautifully restored riad. Their B'stilla is flaky, flavorful, and it's a perfect representation of Fez's culinary traditions.
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Another must-try in Fez is "Zaalouk," which is a roasted eggplant and tomato salad that is typically served as a side dish. The dish is made with roasted eggplant, tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and a blend of spices such as cumin and paprika. Zaalouk is a flavorful and healthy dish, and it's perfect for vegetarians.
One of the best places to try Zaalouk is at Dar Hatim, a cozy restaurant located in the Medina. Their Zaalouk is smoky and flavorful.
Last but not least, you cannot leave Fez without trying "M'lawi." M'lawi is a square-shaped Moroccan flatbread that is typically served for breakfast or as a snack. The bread is made with a blend of flour, semolina, and butter, and it's usually served with honey and butter or cheese.
One of the best places to try M'lawi is at Cafe Nejjarine, a charming cafe located in a beautifully restored riad. Their M'lawi is buttery, flaky, and delicious, and it's perfect with a cup of coffee or tea.
Fez is a city that offers a wide variety of delicious and unique dishes. Whether you're a meat lover, vegetarian, or have a sweet tooth, there's something for everyone. From Fassi tagine to Sellou and everything in between, the city's food scene is not to be missed. So pack your stuff!
