Food in Meknes you can’t miss: A local’s eating guide
One of the things I love most about traveling in Morocco is how every city has its own flavor—literally. And Meknes is no exception. The food here feels more local, more personal. You won’t find as many flashy restaurants as in Marrakech, but what you do find is honest, soulful, and packed with taste. Whether it’s a slow-cooked tagine or a simple street sandwich, every bite carries the city’s rhythm. If you’re still mapping out your stay, this full Meknes travel guide has all the essentials you’ll need.
Start with the Medina: Food Where Life Happens
The best way to begin your food journey in Meknes is to head straight into the medina. Near Bab Mansour and Place El Hedim, you’ll find food stalls, small cafés, and family-run restaurants that have been around for decades.
I recommend trying the harira soup at a local stall in the early evening. It’s a spiced tomato-based soup with lentils and chickpeas, usually served with dates and bread. Locals break their fast with it during Ramadan, but it’s great anytime.
There’s also makouda fried potato balls sold by street vendors and tucked into crusty bread with harissa and onions. It’s cheap, fast, and surprisingly satisfying.
Must-Try Dishes Unique to Meknes
While many Moroccan dishes can be found across the country, some have a special twist in Meknes. One of those is the kefta tagine with egg. You’ll see this dish across Morocco, but in Meknes, it’s often cooked with a richer tomato base and served bubbling hot in small, family-run eateries.
Rfissa is another dish worth asking for especially if you’re lucky enough to be invited into a local home. It’s a savory dish made from shredded msemen bread soaked in spiced broth with chicken and lentils. It’s not common on restaurant menus, but if you find a place that makes it, don’t skip it.
Rooftop Dining: Views with a Side of Flavor
If you’re looking for atmosphere with your meal, Meknes has a few rooftop gems. My favorite is Riad Yacout’s rooftop restaurant, right near the medina. The view over the old city walls and green gardens is calm and timeless. The food here is a mix of Moroccan classics and more modern takes—perfect if you want a relaxed but memorable dinner.Riad Ritaj restaurant Another great spot is, where you can sit above the hustle of the souks and try a slow-cooked lamb tagine with prunes and almonds. It’s a classic dish, and the balance of sweet and savory is spot-on here.
Tea and Treats: A Slower Kind of Sweet
Don’t leave Meknes without making time for mint tea in a traditional café. My go-to spot is a little place called Café Opera, near the main square. It’s simple, nothing trendy, but the mint tea is perfect and the people-watching even better.
And for something sweet, try sellou a nutty, sesame-rich treat often served during Eid but found in traditional pastry shops year-round. Another must is chebakia, a sticky, sesame-coated pastry that pairs perfectly with tea.
Local Markets and Fresh Bites
If you want to cook for yourself or just see what’s fresh, head to Marché Central. It’s filled with spices, olives, fresh produce, and live chickens (yes, really). The olive stalls alone are a reason to go—dozens of varieties, all marinated differently.
You’ll also find fresh bread being sold right out of baskets. Some women still bake in public ovens and bring the bread to market. If you get the chance, grab a khobz still warm from the fire.
Eating on a Budget
Traveling on a budget in Meknes is simple—you can eat well without spending much. Street food meals rarely go above $2–$3. In the medina, sit-down places with tajines or couscous usually range from $5–$10. Even nicer restaurants won’t break the bank.
For breakfast, grab msemen or harcha with honey and a glass of fresh orange juice. It’s a perfect start to a long walking day.
Final Thoughts
Eating in Meknes is not about chasing trends it’s about slowing down, tasting tradition, and being open to simple joys. The meals are generous, the people are kind, and the flavors stick with you long after you’ve gone. If you ask me, food is one of the strongest reasons to include Meknes in any Moroccan trip.
Once you’ve eaten your fill, you’ll need a good place to rest. Have a look at this guide to the best hotels and riads in Meknes to find your perfect stay.
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