Zeitoun Café — Restaurant in Marrakesh Prefecture

A Disappointing Experience with Unequal Treatment

I recently visited this place for the second time, and while the food was as delightful as I remembered, I couldn't help but feel deeply upset by the way they treated Moroccan citizens, especially in comparison to foreigners.

Upon my arrival at around 12:10, I hadn't even settled into my seat when one of the servers loudly announced to his friends, "We don't serve breakfast anymore." It was evident that this statement was directed at me to dissuade me from ordering breakfast. Meanwhile, another server was happily serving the table next to me their breakfast. This stark difference in treatment left me feeling disheartened, as I believe the situation could have been handled more tactfully.

Despite this disappointing incident, I decided to give the cafe a chance and ordered a tajine and a juice instead. I must admit that the tajine was absolutely perfect. The flavors were rich, the ingredients were fresh, and it truly showcased the culinary expertise of the chef. It was clear that the kitchen staff knew what they were doing, and the delicious tajine almost made up for the negative experience with the service.

However, the unequal treatment I witnessed towards Moroccan citizens, including myself, cannot be ignored. While I understand that every establishment has its own policies and limitations, it is disheartening to see such disparities in customer service based on nationality or ethnicity. This is not the first time I have noticed this issue, and it leaves me hesitant to visit again in the future.

Additionally, I would like to mention that during my visit, I overheard some of the staff engaging in a conversation where they were speaking negatively about the clients and making comments about their financial status. This conversation was not only unprofessional but also disruptive to the peaceful atmosphere I seek when I visit a cafe. I went there to forget my own problems, enjoy the pleasant view, and have a good meal. It is disheartening to be exposed to such negativity and complaints about financial matters, as it detracts from the overall experience and ambiance of the establishment.

Furthermore, I would like to share an incident from my very first visit with my boyfriend, where we were hoping to have a romantic dinner. Unfortunately, our experience was marred by the behavior of one particular server who displayed a lack of friendliness and professionalism. To our dismay, we observed the staff openly complaining and speaking ill of customers who had chosen to enjoy a simple juice on the terrace. This not only made us feel uncomfortable but also created a negative atmosphere that was far from the romantic setting we had envisioned. It is disheartening to witness such behavior, as it not only tarnishes the reputation of the cafe but also affects the overall experience for customers seeking a pleasant and memorable evening.

the unequal treatment and lack of respect towards Moroccan citizens, while foreigners receive preferential treatment, is a significant drawback. It is my hope that the management of this place addresses these concerns and strives to create an environment where all customers, regardless of their background, are treated with equal respect and...

UPDATE: in my last visit to Marrakesh (April 2025) I came back to this restaurant and again I had such a great experience. The breakfast is still very good, and this time I also tried the baghrir, harcha and amlou, and I love them!!! I am obsessed with amlou (almond and argan oil spread butter). On this trip, I really enjoyed their chicken pastilla, such a delicacy full of flavours and textures: chicken mixed with grounded almonds, the spices and cinnamon, and the flaky and crunchy filo pastry. If you would like another recommendation I would give their salad Zeitoun a go: grilled vegetables well marinated and spiced, olives and fresh Atlas goat cheese on grilled Moroccan bread with honey and walnuts. Delicious!!! Lastly, the chicken tajine with confit lemons was very comforting, I love the citrus taste in it. The ice cream still is one of the best, and trust me when I tell you you must try the almond one. Devine! I would like to give a special mention to Ahmed who was very friendly and super nice towards my husband and myself 🙏🏻 Shukran. He made us feel very welcome and it was nice to see him every night we came for dinner. Thanks for your hospitality. We love your beautiful country 💕

Lovely restaurant right at Djemaa El Fna Square. It is perfect to enjoy traditional moroccan dishes such as the tagines. I tried the breakfast and had an omelette with herbs, and it was lovely. It came with mint tea/coffee, bread, spices, olive oil, and orange juice. A perfect perk you up to kick off the day. I have been there at night time for drinks, and it has really nice vibes. It is a good spot to enjoy the hussle and bustle of Jemaa El Fna and see how the square becomes quieter as the evening goes on. I love the twist of Moroccan mint tea with ice, and their ice creams are devine! While there, I had a look at other tables, and I swear the sweet crepes look unreal, and the fresh fruit salad...

Misbehaving staff can ruin your evening

One of us asked for an extra plate saying “could you please give us one more small plate?” And the response from him was “Small plate!!! You want small plate!!? (Took the half eaten bread from her plate, threw it to Tanjin’s bowl then pointing his finger at the green empty plate rudely said) This is small plate! Here’s your small plate. (Turned and left creating quite a scene such that everyone else on the terrace was looking at our table).” We could totally feel from the beginning either he was in bad mood or just rude to us for not having white pretty faces.

After being nicely welcomed at the downstairs entrance, we were told no table on the deck is available but if we wait for few minutes maximum 5-10 mins we can get one. Soon enough, we were forgotten to offer a table for next 15 minutes whereas other same size and bigger groups coming afterwards got table before us. When reminded that we came first we were finally provided with a no view table on the terrace. The staff offering tables atleast kept a smiling face and apologetically accepted the waiting issue and we ignored it as well. But then we had to face the rude behaviour of the serving stuff. We ordered couple of chicken Tajin and chicken with lentil and crepe. The food was okay but not good enough given the gravy had almost dried and Chucky chicken pieces were quite tasteless from inside. If you just want to visit for the view from the terrace then best of luck for that as only side tables have view and they are not many. Overall would not recommend this restaurant to anyone, specially to anyone from...