Cafe Hafa

Cafe Hafa is a century-old terraced cafe on the Marshan cliffs of Tangier, northern Morocco, open since 1921 and perched above the Strait of Gibraltar. It is one of the city's best-known meeting places, a spot where mint tea is served on stepped terraces that fall toward the sea, with views across to the Spanish coast on clear days. The cafe has long attracted writers, musicians and artists, and its reputation as a bohemian haunt is part of the draw. The menu is simple and inexpensive, with typical spending of about 20-60 MAD (roughly $2-6) per person. The emblematic order is Moroccan mint tea, poured from metal teapots, and many visitors pair it with fresh orange juice and msemen, the square, flaky Moroccan flatbread. This is a place for lingering rather than a full meal, and snacks rather than substantial dishes are the norm. The atmosphere is relaxed and unhurried: shaded and open-air terraces, plain tables and chairs, and a mix of local regulars, families and travellers. Noise is generally low apart from conversation and occasional music, and there is no dress code. Alcohol is not part of the offering. Reservations are not accepted, so seating is on a first-come basis. Arriving before sunset is the best way to secure a terrace seat with an unobstructed view, and the lowest terraces closest to the sea are the most sought after. The cafe is open daily from morning until late evening, and weekends and summer evenings are the busiest. Cafe Hafa sits in the Marshan district, a short taxi ride from the medina, and is easily combined with a visit to the nearby Cape Spartel road or the old town. For a low-cost, atmospheric introduction to Tangier, a tea on these terraces is a classic experience.