Cafe des Epices
A popular spice market cafe with a charming rooftop terrace overlooking the Rahba Kedima square. Perfect for a mint tea break, light lunch, or people-watching in the Medina.
Terrasse des Epices: Rooftop Dining Above the Spice Square
Moroccan-Mediterranean fusion cuisine with panoramic Medina views from one of Marrakech's most photogenic rooftop terraces.
About Terrasse des Epices
Terrasse des Epices is one of Marrakech's most celebrated rooftop restaurants, set above the Rahba Kedima spice square deep in the heart of the Medina. Opened as a sister venue to the popular Cafe des Epices on the square below, the restaurant quickly carved out its own identity with a menu that blends traditional Moroccan flavors with Mediterranean influences.
The multi-level terrace offers sweeping panoramic views across the Medina rooftops, with the Atlas Mountains visible on clear days and the Koutoubia minaret rising in the distance. The space is decorated with colourful textiles, potted plants, and shaded seating areas that make it equally suited to a leisurely lunch or a sunset dinner.
The menu features dishes like slow-cooked lamb tagine with caramelized pears, grilled sea bass with chermoula, and creative salads using seasonal Moroccan produce. Expect to spend 150-300 MAD (14-28 EUR) per person for a full meal with drinks. The kitchen also caters to vegetarian diners with several dedicated options.
Practical Tips for Visiting
When to visit: Lunchtime offers the best natural light for photographs of the Medina rooftops, while sunset brings a golden glow and cooler temperatures. The terrace fills quickly at both times, so arriving 15 minutes before noon or around 5 PM gives you the pick of seats.
Reservations: Booking in advance is recommended during high season (October to April) and on weekends year-round. You can reserve by phone or walk in during quieter weekday afternoons. Ask specifically for a terrace table when booking, as some indoor seating lacks the views.
Getting there: From Jemaa el-Fna, walk north into the souks toward the Rahba Kedima spice square. The entrance is through a narrow doorway on the square, marked with a small sign. It is about a 5-minute walk but easy to miss, so follow Google Maps or ask shopkeepers nearby for directions. Combine your visit with an afternoon of shopping in the souks.
What's Nearby
Terrasse des Epices sits directly above the Rahba Kedima, the historic spice and apothecary square where vendors sell everything from saffron and cumin to natural cosmetics and chameleons. After your meal, a stroll around this atmospheric square is a must.
The Souks of Marrakech surround you in every direction, with the leather, carpet, and metalwork quarters all within a few minutes' walk. Fellow rooftop restaurants Nomad and Cafe des Epices are practically next door, making this area ideal for a full day of exploring and eating.
The Musee de la Photographie is a 5-minute walk north through the souks and offers another excellent rooftop terrace with complimentary mint tea. From there, it is a short walk to the Ben Youssef Madrasa, one of Marrakech's most stunning historical monuments.
Frequently Asked Questions
From Jemaa el-Fna, walk north into the souks toward the Rahba Kedima spice square. The entrance is a narrow doorway on the square itself, marked with a small sign. It is about a 5-minute walk. Use Google Maps or ask nearby shopkeepers if you get lost in the alleyways.
Expect to spend 150-300 MAD (14-28 EUR) per person for a full meal including drinks. Starters and salads range from 50-90 MAD, main courses from 90-160 MAD, and fresh juices around 30-45 MAD.
They are sister venues owned by the same team, but they are separate restaurants. Cafe des Epices is on the Rahba Kedima square at street level and serves lighter cafe fare. Terrasse des Epices is above, accessed through a different entrance, with a fuller restaurant menu and more expansive rooftop views.
No, like most Medina restaurants Terrasse des Epices does not serve alcohol. They offer an excellent selection of fresh-squeezed juices, smoothies, Moroccan mint tea, and soft drinks.
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Nomad Restaurant
Modern Moroccan cuisine served on a stunning multi-level rooftop terrace overlooking the Medina. Known for its creative takes on traditional dishes and vibrant atmosphere.
Souks of Marrakech
Labyrinthine market alleys stretching north from Jemaa el-Fna, selling everything from hand-woven carpets and leather goods to aromatic spices and traditional lanterns.