While Nomad is by far the most popular spot on this list, don’t
let that put you off. Take in views that skim the medina and lead
your eye out to the Atlas Mountains – best enjoyed
with a glass of fresh mint tea in hand and the sounds of the nearby
mosque’s call to prayer. While the views are the primary allure,
the restaurant’s notable food secures it a spot on our hotlist. A
small menu offers tagine and brochettes; the cumin calamari and
cauliflower with fennel salads are standout plates. Postprandial,
check out the small boutique, Chabi Chic, in the adjoining building
for pottery worth hauling home.

After making waves in Fez, a sister Café Clock opened in Morocco. Like its counterpart, it quickly established itself as the capital’s cultural hub – a place to share stories and exchange anecdotes over delicious food. The space’s two rooftops overlooking the trendy Kasbah district are decked out with bric-a-brac furniture, stacks of books and graffiti murals, courtesy of local artists. It’s your classic artsy hangout, but unlike your standard hipster spot, Café Clock prides itself on providing access to authentic Moroccan culture through music, art and cuisine. Your evening’s agenda: jam sessions, live storytelling, calligraphy classes and patisserie lessons. Delve deeper by booking their Moroccan Culture 101 class where a local Marrakeshi or Fassi staff member will teach you all the essentials – think phrases, gestures, mealtime etiquette and religious customs.

When you think of a Moroccan rooftop, chances are what you’re imagining looks something like Café de Paris’ top-floor terrace. As quintessentially Moroccan in its colour palette as it is in its decor, stone walls, tiled tables, stained-glass Moradabad lanterns and zelige pillars in rich shades of terracotta, auburn and brown create a convivial atmosphere. Its wicker ceiling lets only a little light through, but after a day spent bargaining your way through the souks, the shade will be a welcome respite from the beating sun.

When harira, couscous and tagine get a bit samey, grab yourself a burger at Kechmara. With a vibe that’s more LA than Morocco, the decor and food may be more international but the crowd remains largely Moroccan. Pass through stylish, modern interiors and head upstairs to the rooftop terrace (call ahead to check it’s open) for palm-tree-fringed scenes. As the sun sets and the music gets louder, watch as Morocco’s cool kids spill out onto the terrace as Kechmara really comes into its own.