Some places leave a lasting imprint, and Le Tobsil in Marrakesh is one of them. I never imagined dedicating an entire post to a single restaurant, but this experience deserves its own spotlight. If I could, I’d fly to Marrakesh just to dine here again—it’s not just the best restaurant in the city; it might be the best in Africa.
A Hidden restaurant in the heart of Marrakesh
Tucked away in the Medina, a stunning riad houses Le Tobsil, offering a traditional Moroccan restaurant experience. Because of its location, our taxi couldn’t take us directly there, so we asked our driver to drop us off at El Fenn. From there, we walked a few minutes through winding alleys that felt completely detached from the bustling world beyond.
Finding the restaurant felt like stepping into a story. As we wandered through quiet, shady-looking passages, unsure of where we were going, a local man dressed in a djellaba and fez appeared out of nowhere. Without hesitation, he asked if we were looking for Le Tobsil in Marrakesh and led us to a modest brown door guarded by a cat. There was no sign, no indication of what lay beyond—it was as if the restaurant didn’t want to be found. Without a personal recommendation, you would never stumble across it.
Stepping Into a Dream
As soon as we walked through the door of Le Tobsil , the atmosphere changed completely. We were transported into a magical Moroccan home.
The restaurant is arranged around an open courtyard, with tables spread across the ground and the upper floor of the riad. Every detail is breathtaking, including the pink-washed walls of Marrakesh, deep green wooden shutters, flickering candlelight, and the soft glow of lanterns beneath archways leading to private dining spaces. Thick white tablecloths adorned with fresh rose petals and candelabras set the scene, with traditional rugs covering the floors. The distant sound of prayer floated through the air, adding to the enchantment. It was, without question, the most romantic setting I had ever experienced.
A Moroccan Feast
Dining at Le Tobsil in Marrakesh is not just a meal—it’s a culinary experience. The set menu is a five-course Moroccan feast, beginning with olives and warm, freshly baked bread, paired with local house wine (included in the meal!). Then came an array of Moroccan salads, vibrant and flavourful—though the portion sizes were generous enough to serve as a meal on their own, so pacing yourself is key. Next was a chicken pastilla, a delicate pastry filled with slow-cooked chicken, rich broth, and warming spices.
For the main course, a lamb tagine with figs stole the show—tender, aromatic, and delicious. Dessert was a beautifully balanced honey-poached pear with ice cream, followed by a surprise additional dessert. To end the meal, traditional Moroccan mint tea was poured from an impressive height.
Music, Atmosphere & The Magic of the Night
Throughout the evening, Gnaoua musicians filled the space with vibrant Berber melodies, playing the Lotar and castanets and spinning the tassels on their fez hats in time with the rhythm. The music was the perfect finishing touch—a celebration of Moroccan culture that heightened the atmosphere.
As the night deepened, the candlelight flickered, the energy shifted, and the stars appeared overhead through the open-air riad, creating an amazing dining experience at Le Tobsil.
If you ever find yourself in Marrakesh, make a reservation at this captivating restaurant. Trust me, Le Tobsil will be the highlight of your trip. And if you’re looking for a place to stay, I’ve shared a guide to the most beautiful riads in Marrakesh—because experiences like this deserve the perfect setting.
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