KIMBERLY WALKER'S RECOMMENDATIONS: WHERE TO SHOP, DINE, AND STAY IN MARRAKECH
I was recently asked for some recommendations on where to go in Marrakech by a friend heading to there for her first time. I created this short list of my favorites for her and thought I’d share them on the Decologue, in case there are other design enthusiasts who want to visit one of the most magical cities in the world.
Marrakech is design feast. The colors, patterns, textures, ceramics, lighting, and layering is all so inspiring. Enjoy and immerse in the magic of Marrakech.
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WHERE TO SHOP IN MARRAKECH
Shopping is everywhere and it’s consuming. Below are a few of my ritual stops but my advice is to just get lost in the Medina. Don’t worry about the time or directions, just dive in.
Know before you go: ‘LLAA’ means ‘no’ in Arabic. If one of the sellers/brokers gets too pushy just say ‘LLAA’ and he’ll back off. They mean no harm. They’re just working and most likely want to guide you (for a fee) or sell you something. It’s so very safe throughout Marrakech and the people are just amazing, caring, and take care of strangers.
Google maps works throughout the area so you can always rely on that to find your way out if you need a break.
NORYA AYRON
Go here on day 1 and buy a dress. You’ll wear it the entire time you’re there. It’s located in a very cute café for tea as well.
MUSTAPHA BLAOUI
Big warehouse of vintage goods and rugs at the edge of the Medina. They can ship to the US. If you head there, ask for Khadija. Blaoui also has a concept shop in the new part of Marrakech that is very chic! You’ll need to taxi there.
LES NOMADES DE MARRAKECH
Huge selection of quality rugs. There’s a lot of lower-end rugs throughout the Medina that look great in the shops but they deteriorate quickly. His rugs are high quality. Both vintage and new. He and his family are fabulous and they ship to the States.
LRNCE
Ceramic mecca. They also have a new hotel that looks stunning, Rosemary.
V. BARKOWSKI STORE
Minimalist shop next to Blaoui. Some housewares, linens, and bags.
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WHERE TO DINE IN MARRAKECH
Know before you go: Most cafes in Morocco don’t serve alcohol. Mint tea and other libations are a fine replacement.
SAHBI SAHBI
A women-run restaurant outside of the Medina. Very new chic modern design. Delicious food.
AL FASSIA
All women run restaurant. An institution in Marrakech.
NOMAD
Awesome rooftop restaurant with views of Medina. Love having lunch here.
TERRASSE DES ÈPICES
Great for tea and people-watching in the Medina.
LA MAMOUNIA
If you really need a martini at the end of a long day, head to La Mamounia — one of the ‘best hotels in the world’. This huge compound was designed by Jacques Garcia and recently upgraded by Jouin Manku. People go to Marrakech, stay here, and never really leave the hotel. I don’t recommend staying here for that reason. BUT I do recommend going to The Churchill Bar for a martini and caviar.
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WHERE TO STAY IN MARRAKECH
Know before you go: a riad is a traditional Moroccan house or palace with an indoor garden and courtyard. The word comes from the Arabic word “ryad,” which means “garden.”
EL FENN
Larger Riad with a full bar, rooftop pool, spa, incredible shop, and very inspired design. It’s definitely an Expat haunt but it’s a great starting point for a first night in a strange new land. Its location at the edge of the Medina also makes it easy to come and go from. The staff is uber-friendly and accommodating. The General Manager, Karim, is fabulous. He’s a great resource for what’s happening in and around town.
RIAD JARDINE SECRET
An intimate riad in the medina. Fabulous photography and art throughout. Its very serene and one can spend hours on the rooftop looking out into the horizon.
RIAD YASMINE
Another more traditional Riad and hard to get into, but is supposed to be amazing. I’ve never been able to secure a reservation.
JNANE TAMSA
Stunning property in Palmerie owned by a very eccentric and engaging woman, Meryanne Loum-Martin. She is worth meeting while you’re there. She and her husband are a force in Marrakech and they are just fascinating people. She’s written a couple books and has many stories to share over wine.
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WHAT TO DO IN MARRAKECH
YVES SAINT LAURENT MUSEUM & GARDENS
A must-visit. Filled with inspiration and beauty. The area surrounding the museum is also loaded with shops and cafes.
HAMMAM
A Hammam is a traditional public bathhouse or spa where one can take part in a cleansing ritual that uses hot steam and exfoliating scrubs. You should experience Hammam while in Morocco. Most riads have a version, although the more Western hotels are less severe (which I prefer because having your nipples sandpapered off hurts).
