Dar Belhadj — Restaurant in Tunis

I recently had the pleasure of dining at this restaurant, and it was an experience worth sharing. From the moment I walked in, the authentic tunisian ambiance set the tone for an enjoyable meal. The decor with the 17th century tunisian prints, with warm touches that make you feel right at the Beys era.

Food: 4.5/5 The menu offers a tiny selection of dishes, and I was thoroughly impressed by the attention to detail in every plate. I ordered cooked lamb meat with vegetables, and it was cooked to perfection, melting tenderness. The flavors were fresh, and the portions were generous. My companion had the traditional fish (local Grouper fish) couscous , which was rich, full of fresh fish flavor. The couscous dish was accompanied by well-paired sauce (not hot) that enhanced the overall taste without overwhelming it.

Service: 4.5/5 The staff was attentive and courteous throughout our meal. They were knowledgeable about the menu and offered great recommendations. The team was friendly and professional, and gave us a tour in the place so we can take pictures.

Ambiance: 5/5 The lighting and tunisian traditional old music created a relaxed, upscale vibe, making it a great spot for a date night or a gathering with friends. I especially loved the large windows that brought in natural light during the day and created a cozy atmosphere in the evening. We learned from the waiter that starting from 9pm (local hour) there is tours every hour in the medina with the restaurant transport, and also they have artists that play music (I think basically the Qanûn instrument)

Value: 4/5 While on the pricier side, the quality of the food, ambiance, and service make it worth the splurge. It's not a place for a quick bite, but if you're looking for an experience to indulge into tunisian culture.

Overall, the place is a must-visit for anyone looking for a memorable dining experience with excellent food and a chic atmosphere. I will definitely...

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Stepping into Dar Bel Hadj feels like being transported back in time. Hidden in the heart of the Medina, this restaurant is set in a beautifully restored 17th-century palace with stunning architecture, colorful tiles, carved woodwork, and an atmosphere that perfectly captures the magic of old Tunis. The setting alone makes the visit unforgettable, but the food elevates the experience even further.

The menu offers authentic Tunisian cuisine prepared with care and attention to detail. We tried a variety of dishes, and every plate was exceptional — from the delicate brik starter, to the flavorful couscous with tender lamb, to the perfectly seasoned fish. The portions were generous, the flavors rich and balanced, and the presentation elegant without being pretentious. Even the side salads and olives stood out as some of the best I’ve had.

Service was equally impressive. The staff was warm, welcoming, and attentive throughout the evening. They took the time to explain the dishes, made sure we were comfortable, and even offered a short tour of the upstairs salons after dinner — a wonderful gesture that added to the charm of the night. The owner’s personal touch and the musicians playing traditional music made the whole experience feel intimate and special.

Prices are very fair considering the quality of the food, the attentive service, and the unique setting. It’s clear that this is not just a restaurant, but a cultural experience.

If you’re visiting Tunis and want an authentic, memorable evening that combines history, hospitality, and outstanding food, Dar Bel Hadj is an absolute must. A true gem in the Medina — I would give it 6...

"Do you need change?" — a certain way to miss out on tips, especially when the needed change amounts to 30 percent of the bill. And, it seems to be the only English phrase they know. While I don't mind that I don’t speak French, and they don’t speak English, but their service starts by initially accepting to serve me before 45 minutes to closing, then at the table informing me that the kitchen is closed, but then forced me to choose one of the most expensive couscous dishes on the menu. I declined, and finally I was able to order anything from the menu.

Nevertheless, the food is excellent. The chefs here really know what they're doing. The Ojja with its flavorful small meatballs seasoned with mint and other spices is exceptional. The Tagine is ok, despite I ordered with mushrooms, and got with the spinach, I don’t mind, it was ok. I found the pickles to be a bit too salty for my taste. Overall, the meal is delicious.

The qanun player performing here is fantastic, and while I regret not leaving a tip for him, I didn't want to inadvertently offend him. But he certainly deserves recognition for his talent and hardworking.

Smoking is allowed here. This is certainly not acceptable for restaurants nowadays, considering the health risks for the people who are around. I hope it will be resolved in the future in favor of...