Alma — Restaurant in Essaouira

We were looking for a spot with live music and good vibes in Essaouira, and The Circle came up as a popular suggestion. Overall, the experience had its highs and lows.

Unfortunately, the security staff at the entrance were unprofessional and disrespectful, which created a negative first impression. This is something that definitely needs improvement.

That said, the interior design was stylish and well-organized, making great use of the small space. The DJ did a great job building the atmosphere, and the music created an energetic, fun vibe throughout the evening.

The cocktails, however, were underwhelming and didn’t match expectations. I’d recommend sticking to classic or simple drinks if you visit.

Despite the entrance experience, I’d still recommend this place if you’re looking for a fun night out with friends, good music, and a lively DJ set. Just try to go early in the evening and avoid peak weekends or crowded nights, when the experience may drop in quality.

🎶 Best enjoyed with friends or a small group, ideally on a weekday evening.

📍 Best for: Friends, couples, possibly solo travelers 🕒 Recommended time: Early evening (avoid weekends) 🍸 Drink tip: Skip cocktails, stick with basic drinks 🎧 DJ Quality: Depends on the night — but can really...

My experience with Alma was extremely disappointing and, frankly, upsetting. On my visit, I was made to wait outside, even as I watched at least 20 other people being allowed in ahead of me. The only reason for this treatment, it seems, was that I am Moroccan and was with a local friend.

It’s shocking and disgusting to be treated this way in my own country. I stood there watching tourists and expats being welcomed inside without hesitation while I was effectively ignored and denied entry. The fact that my nationality and association with locals were seemingly used against me is absolutely unacceptable.

As someone who was born in England but proudly Moroccan, I came to Essaouira to enjoy its vibrant culture and support local businesses. Instead, I was met with unfairness and exclusion. This kind of behavior from a business that operates in Morocco is disgraceful and alienating.

My holiday was overshadowed by this experience, and it left me feeling unwelcome in a place that should embrace both locals and visitors alike. I strongly urge the management at Alma to reevaluate their discriminatory practices and foster a more inclusive environment for everyone. Until then, I cannot recommend this...

Ohh my god the food is so good and so are the drinks!!! We came here because half our group wanted to party & go to a crowded place and we just wanted some life music and food so we saw this place and came here while the others went somewhere else. Wow. I am sooo glad we came. We don’t smoke so we sat on the patio outside bc there’s smoking inside. The server was really friendly and she made our time fun. We also had the calamari and the fish of the day, aperol spritz, medallion wine, and a mixed drink. Everything was just absolute perfection. Then the live music started and it was easy to hear from the open windows outside. Love this place and will...