Restaurant Al Kasbah

Restaurant Al Kasbah is a Moroccan and Spanish restaurant on Plaza Uta el-Hammam, the main square of the Chefchaouen medina in the Rif mountains of northern Morocco. Its tables on the square sit beside the kasbah, one of the town's principal landmarks, which makes it among the most central places to eat in the old town. Typical spending is about 90-170 MAD (roughly $10-18) per person. The menu blends the two culinary influences of northern Morocco: fish tagine and couscous represent the Moroccan side, while paella reflects the strong Spanish connection in the region, where Spanish is widely spoken and Andalusian cooking influences are visible. Paella is the dish that distinguishes the restaurant from many neighbouring tagine houses, and it is often shared by two diners. Tagines come in the traditional clay pots with bread and salad, and couscous is the other staple. The setting is the main attraction. Seats on the square allow diners to watch the daily life of the plaza, with the kasbah walls and the mosque minaret in view, and the atmosphere is lively and open-air rather than intimate. Dress is casual, noise is moderate to high at peak times because of the square's foot traffic, and service is relaxed. The beverage list centres on mint tea, coffee, juices and soft drinks. The restaurant is open daily for lunch and dinner. Reservations are not needed, as tables turn over regularly, though square-front seats can fill at sunset in high season. Its location puts it steps from the Kasbah Museum and the gardens, making it a practical choice for a meal in the middle of a sightseeing day. Prices are slightly higher than back-lane restaurants, reflecting the prime location.