Fez, one of Morocco’s oldest and most vibrant cities, is not just a feast for the eyes with its historic medina and bustling streets—it’s also a gastronomic paradise. From traditional Moroccan dishes to sweet delicacies, the city offers an unforgettable culinary experience for travelers seeking to taste the essence of Moroccan culture.
Start with Traditional Starters
Fez cuisine begins with hearty and flavorful starters. Don’t miss:
- Harira: A rich tomato-based soup with lentils, chickpeas, and fragrant spices, often served during Ramadan.
- Briouats: Crispy pastry triangles filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables.
- Zaalouk: A smoky roasted eggplant salad with garlic, tomatoes, and olive oil.
- Moroccan Olives & Pickles: Perfect for awakening the palate.
Main Courses That Tell a Story
The city’s main dishes reflect centuries of Moroccan culinary tradition:
- Chicken or Lamb Tagine: Slow-cooked with almonds, dried fruits, and aromatic spices.
- Pastilla: A delicate pastry pie filled with spiced pigeon or chicken, dusted with cinnamon and sugar.
- Couscous: Steamed semolina served with tender meat and seasonal vegetables.
- Rfissa: A comforting dish of shredded bread, lentils, and chicken, flavored with fenugreek and saffron.
Irresistible Sides
Sides enhance every meal in Fez:
- Moroccan Salads: Tomato and cucumber, carrot with cumin, or roasted peppers.
- Breads: Freshly baked khobz or msemen (Moroccan flatbread).
- Rice with Almonds and Raisins: A sweet-savory complement to main dishes.
- Vegetable Tagines: Seasonal veggies slowly cooked with aromatic spices.
Sweet Endings
No Moroccan meal is complete without dessert:
- Chebakia: Honey-soaked sesame cookies.
- Almond Briouats: Sweet pastries filled with almond paste.
- Mint Tea & Sweets: Traditional Moroccan mint tea served with cookies or dates.
- Fekkas: Crunchy, flavored biscuits perfect for tea-time.
Local Drinks to Refresh Your Day
- Mint Tea: The iconic Moroccan beverage, sweet and refreshing.
- Fresh Juices: Orange, pomegranate, or watermelon.
- Sharbat Looz: Almond milk drink flavored with orange blossom.
- Homemade Lemonade with Mint: Perfect for warm Fez afternoons.
Fez Food Experiences
- Explore the medina markets where spices, olives, and street food create a sensory explosion.
- Enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner at a riad or guest house like Dar Nineta, where authentic flavors are prepared with care and passion.
- Participate in cooking classes to learn the secrets of tagine and pastilla preparation.
Why Fez is a Culinary Destination
Fez food reflects the city’s rich history, diverse cultures, and artisanal craftsmanship. Every dish tells a story, combining spices, fresh ingredients, and traditional techniques that have been perfected over centuries. Whether you’re wandering the bustling souks, dining in a riad, or tasting street delicacies, Fez offers a unique culinary adventure for every traveler.
