Bilmos

Bilmos is a Moroccan cafe-restaurant on Place Outa el Hammam, the main square of the medina in Chefchaouen, in the Tangier-Tetouan-Al Hoceima region of northern Morocco. The square sits beside the red-ochre kasbah and the Grand Mosque, and is the natural gathering point of the old town, ringed by cafes whose tables spill onto the cobblestones. Bilmos is known as a Moroccan cafe that caters to vegan visitors and that features live local musicians, which gives it a livelier and more cultural character than many of the quieter neighbouring restaurants. Signature dishes listed for the venue are a Moroccan soup and tagines. The soup is typically a warming bowl of the harira or vegetable type, popular for a light meal or as a starter on cool mountain evenings. The tagines follow the standard Moroccan pattern of slow-cooked meat or vegetables in a conical clay pot, with vegetable and plant-based versions available for those who avoid animal products. The dining space is informal, with seating that lets guests watch the activity on the square, and the mood is relaxed and sociable, rising in volume when musicians perform. There is no dress code beyond modest clothing. As Chefchaouen is largely alcohol-free, the beverage list centres on mint tea, coffee, juices and soft drinks, and visitors should not expect a wine programme. Prices are mid-range for the town, roughly 80-150 MAD (about $9-$16) per person, though the venue does not publish a full menu. Reservations are generally unnecessary and walk-in seating is usually possible, with the venue reachable by phone on +212 6 33 67 72 53 for groups or to ask about music nights. Because the square is the busiest spot in Chefchaouen, tables fill at midday and around sunset in the high season of spring and summer and during Moroccan holidays. Visitors staying in the medina can usually walk to the venue within minutes. The venue also maintains a website at bilmos.ma.