Where to eat in Marrakesh

Marrakesh is a city full of history and color; think sun-drenched gardens, exotic spices and spectacular views of the desert and Atlas mountains. This is reflected in the food scene, where you'll find an chaotic mix of street food vendors, old colonial french brasseries, and traditional 'riad' houses serving mint tea. In recent years, the city has been evolving and the food scene is catching up, with more contemporary options available. These include cafes perched above bustling markets, modern fine dining establishments, and restaurants with live music and entertainment.

Here is the list of Marrakesh's best restaurants (the ones marked * are a my absolute favorites).

Lunch

* Le grand cafe de la poste - This French brasserie has kept its colonial design since it opened in 1925 as a post office.

Jnane Tamsna - Eat Mediterranean-Moroccan food, by the swimming pool, under the olive trees. Dishes are prepared with vegetables and herbs from their own garden.

Le Salama - Don't come here for the food or service but for the amazing rooftop views above the city.

* Nomad - A modern restaurant perched above the old spice market.

Dinner

* La Maison Arabe - Candlelit poolside dinner, perfect for special occasions. The restaurant serves excellent traditional Moroccan food and wine, with live local music and the best service in the city.

* Dar Cherifa - If you manage to find this traditional Moroccan home in the middle of the market, do yourself a favor and stop for some mint tea and local cakes.

Naranj - A Lebanese/Syrian restaurant, if you're sick of tajine and couscous.

Al Fassia - Authentic riad, famous for their traditional pastillas and lamb dishes.

Patron de la mer - Upscale seafood restaurant, they get fresh fish delivered daily.

Comptoir Darna - The traditional food is good but not the best you'll taste, the real reason you're here is the after dinner show featuring Moroccan belly dancers.

Azar - Glamorous local restaurant with a shisha bar and oriental dancers.