Casa de Espana

Casa de Espana is a social-club restaurant on Avenue Chakib Arsalan, behind the Church of Our Lady of Victory in the Ensanche of Tetouan, northern Morocco. The Ensanche is the Spanish-era new town, and the club reflects the city's long Spanish connection. It serves Moroccan main dishes at typical prices of about 95-140 MAD (roughly $10-15) per person, and is notable as one of the few places in town serving beer and wine, which makes it a useful address for visitors wanting a drink with dinner. The menu follows the Moroccan repertoire. The tagine of the day is the usual recommendation, with the filling changing by day and season, grilled meat is a straightforward option for those who prefer simple cooking, and Moroccan salads serve as starters. The food is home-style rather than elaborate, and the appeal lies more in the setting and the licensed bar than in culinary innovation. The dining room has the character of a social club, with a slightly old-fashioned, sociable atmosphere, a mix of residents, long-term expatriates and visitors, and moderate noise. Dress is casual to smart-casual, and the pace of service is unhurried. The restaurant is open daily for lunch and dinner. Reservations are not needed, as the room rarely fills, although larger groups may wish to arrange seating in advance by calling or visiting earlier in the day. Its location behind the church puts it close to the Plaza Moulay el Mehdi and the medina gate, and it is easily reached on foot from most hotels in the Ensanche. It suits travellers who want an evening meal with a drink after a day in the medina, and it offers a quieter alternative to the busier restaurants near the main squares. Because it operates as a club-style venue, visitors should confirm entry arrangements on arrival.