La Taverne du Dauphin

La Taverne du Dauphin is a long-running seafood restaurant at 115 Boulevard Félix Houphouët-Boigny in Casablanca, Morocco, in the port district close to the old medina and the harbour. It has operated since the mid-twentieth century and is regarded as one of the city's seafood institutions, with a loyal clientele of port workers, business people and families. The location near the fishing and commercial port means catches are sourced from nearby waters. The cuisine blends French brasserie traditions with Moroccan coastal produce. Signature dishes include grilled sole, a shellfish selection, fish soup, grilled sea bream or sea bass, calamari and fruits de mer platters. Meat dishes appear for diners who prefer them, and desserts are classic French-style, such as crème caramel and fruit tarts. Prices range roughly 200-380 MAD (about $22-41) per person, which is moderate for the quality of seafood in the city. The dining room has a nautical, old-school feel, with wood panelling, ship-themed decoration and white tablecloths. The mood is lively at lunchtime with a business crowd and quieter in the evening. Noise level is moderate, and dress is casual to smart casual. Service is traditional and attentive. The drinks list includes Moroccan and French wines that pair with fish, as well as beer and aperitifs, which is useful because many casual Moroccan restaurants do not serve alcohol. Lunch is usually walk-in friendly, while dinner reservations are advisable, particularly on Fridays and Saturdays, and booking a day ahead normally suffices. The restaurant's position next to the port and train station area means it is easy to reach by taxi or tram, and it fits neatly with a visit to the medina, the Sqala bastion and the Hassan II Mosque.