The Ruined Garden
The Ruined Garden things to do, attractions, restaurants, events info and trip planning
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It’s almost like entering a secret garden literally once you wind through the dim alleyways and split roads (and also scammers who try to lead you elsewhere - follow your maps and signs on the walls). The entrance opens up to an open courtyard of tables with some sheltered nooks and crannies that also has some seatings within them for privacy so you never feel you are packed with people. Overgrown plants and lush greenery covered the concrete walls, and cheerful staff greets you warmly. On cold nights, a huge campfire pot will light up in the middle. Complimentary bread will be served at the start (as with all Moroccan restaurants). You can try their tagines (typical Moroccan dish - stewed meat/veg in a earthenware pot) or go with more international options. Either way it’s quite good though we had a few options on the menu not being available when we were there. We had chicken and sardine and even though it was sweeter than what we would have liked, it’s still a decent introduction to Moroccan cuisine. Juices are fresh and teas were wonderful. We were quite tickled when the cats here are daring enough to feed themselves with leftovers in lightning speed before the servers cleared the table. They are also quite game to butter up to patrons for hope of some food. Best to have a reservation as it can get pretty packed. My friend stayed in their raid before and loved it too!
Crystal KohCrystal Koh
10
Food was good, my favourite part was the appetizers that you get before you order. They served us popcorn, olives, nuts, and then bread with olive oil and different spices. They had good vegetarian options for entrees but only one main course option the vegetable tanjine. The atmosphere was lovely, and unique. They had nice lightning, and plants all around with a fire in the middle of the terrace. A few cats passed by as we ate. Dinner was similar in cost to an inexpensive dinner in a western city. Edit: updated from 4/5 to 5/5 We went back for lunch and dinner the next day. I strongly recommend going for lunch. They have a variety of tapas, and some great main course options. The Seffra- couscous with raisins, apricots, and spices was my favourite. The staff are really friendly, and work hard to make sure everyone is having a nice time. They seem to offer cooking classes in the mornings. If you are interested you should talk to them because the sign advertising it isn't visible in the evening's darkness. It looks like you get to learn some cooking and then you get lunch. If we come back to Fes we will definitely be trying a cooking class here. The ice they use is from mineral water, so enjoying a cool glass of orange juice is no problem!
I WI W
00
If you want authentic Moroccan cuisine and ambience, this is NOT the place for you. The name of the restaurant is intriguing, indeed. The entrance is mysterious. The garden is pleasant enough especially in the evening but the dining area where we were ( no reservations) , the ceiling fan was out of order and it lacked lighting and ventilation. So how did we end up here? Well, we joined a free walking tour and our guide highly recommended it. Alas, we fell for it. We ordered lamb tagine with caramelized onions, prunes ( 2 pieces, with pits) and apricots ( there was only one piece). It lacked flavor and sauce. On the dry side. However, the meat was very tender. To go with it, we ordered " Moroccan Salad" - in fact, merely chopped tomatoes, onions, cucumbers and some parsley (?). What's " Moroccan" about that? Very bland. We also have that combination in the Philippines. We've been having bread at every meal so I asked for a portion of plain couscous to go with the tagine. I didn't bother asking for the price since , yeah, it's just like ordering a cup of rice. Worst decision ever. Lo and behold! That bowl of plain steamed couscous cost 80 dirhams ( approx 8 USD!) . We felt cheated. The lamb tagine ( meat and all) cost 150 dirhams and the couscous 80. That is abusive. THIS RESTAURANT IS OVERPRICED In terms of atmosphere, well it's a "garden " so the main dining area is outdoors amidst plants. The tablecloths were not ironed, napkins were of paper, our table was wobbly. It is walking distance from our riad. It was already dark but we were told it's relatively safe in the medina . We KNEW our way back, knew where to turn.. then a Moroccan guy told us not to go in the direction we were heading , shouting "there's nothing there!" Thank goodness I had read about this modus operandi online. Obviously, he was trying to mislead us. We paid him no heed . We went our way. Further down, another encounter with a man trying to mislead us again, saying " that's the wrong way! That's not going to the Medina!" We ignored him, walking at a faster pace , getting nervous. Finally, we arrived at our riad safe and sound, relieved. Oh the hazards of being a tourist.
Marlene PoMarlene Po
10
We were searching for another restaurant but stumbled on this restaurant. Coming inside this beautiful ruined garden, exactly like the name says, gives a very special and calming feeling. Unfortunately, we arrived just after 5pm and lunch is only until 5pm. (Dinner starts at 6.30pm). Super friendly host told us to go to another restaurant. Few minutes later, probably after checking with kitchen he invites us back in and we could still have a lunch. We were so glad we were invited back in because this food was nothing like any other restaurant we tried in Morocco yet. We ordered tapas such as carmelized carrot, beans and aubergine along with a soup and a lentils stew. This was amazingly healthy prepared, fully vegetarian and so rich of taste! Along with all the tapas we got delicious bread and spices which were so good to just eat it like that. Overall it was an amazing experience and I would recommend anyone to go there to experience this. We only paid 160 Dirhams (16 euros) for this! The waiters were really friendly and speaking English very well. Go there! (If you can find it :))
StephenStephen
10
I went to this restaurant twice while staying in Fes in April 2022 with my friend but I wish I went more! The first time I had the vegetarian tangine it was lovely. The setting is amazing too as it is in a very nice garden between ruins. The second time we went for dinner we sat inside as we booked on the same day and the tables outside were already all reserved. Our table was in front of the big window so I did not mind the location at all, the views to the garden were amazing. I ordered a lamb tagine which I will never forget! it was delicious I have never had such a good lamb in my life, the meat was tender and super tasty, all flavours blended in my mouth it was heaven! I tried also the dairyfree dessert which was a dates and figs cakes, it was lovely too. Pricewise is very competitive too. I really recommend this place.
Roberta MassaboRoberta Massabo
00
The Ruined Garden in Fes Medina is a charming and tranquil oasis amidst the bustling streets. Its location is convenient and offers a peaceful retreat from the busy medina. The interior jardin is absolutely superb, providing a lovely ambiance for dining. The food at the Ruined Garden is generally good, although it may not be the absolute best compared to other dining options in Fes. However, the overall experience is still enjoyable, particularly if you appreciate the serene atmosphere. One potential downside is that during busy times, it can be challenging to secure a table without a reservation. It's advisable to make a reservation in advance to ensure a seamless dining experience. Despite this minor inconvenience, the Ruined Garden remains a worthwhile spot for its tranquil setting, great location, and decent food.
Food LoversFood Lovers
00
Nearby Attractions Of The Ruined Garden
Bab Boujloud
Bab Rcif
Al Attarine Madrasa
Marinid Tombs
Hotel Les Merinides
Mosque and University Kairaouine
Nejjarine Museum of Wooden Arts & Crafts
Hammam Mernissi & Spa
Fez Tannery Tour and Shopping
Borj Nord Museum
Bab Boujloud
4.4
(4.8K)Click for details
Bab Rcif
4.4
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Al Attarine Madrasa
4.5
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Marinid Tombs
4.4
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Nearby Restaurants Of The Ruined Garden
Cafe Clock
Le Tarbouche
Barbecue Alarbi Fes
Restaurant Palais Fes Yahya
Fondouk Bazaar
Chez Hakim
Culture Box
Chez Rachid
DAR HAMMAD
Sunshine restaurant coffee
Cafe Clock
4.4
(1.7K)Click for details
Le Tarbouche
4.6
(809)Click for details
Barbecue Alarbi Fes
4.9
(521)Click for details
Restaurant Palais Fes Yahya
4.8
(558)Click for details
Learn more insights from Wanderboat AIBasic Info
Address
15 Derb Idrissy Sidi Ahmed Chaoui Medina 30110, Siaj, Fes, Morocco
Map
Phone
+212 649-191410
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Website
ruinedgarden.com
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Reviews
Overview
4.3
(1K reviews)
Ratings & Description
attractions: Bab Boujloud, Bab Rcif, Al Attarine Madrasa, Marinid Tombs, Hotel Les Merinides, Mosque and University Kairaouine, Nejjarine Museum of Wooden Arts & Crafts, Hammam Mernissi & Spa, Fez Tannery Tour and Shopping, Borj Nord Museum, restaurants: Cafe Clock, Le Tarbouche, Barbecue Alarbi Fes, Restaurant Palais Fes Yahya, Fondouk Bazaar, Chez Hakim, Culture Box, Chez Rachid, DAR HAMMAD, Sunshine restaurant coffee
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