Beloved by locals and tourists alike, Al Fassia is no doubt one of the must-try restaurants in Marrakech. This women-run restaurant offers a wide variety of traditional Moroccan dishes, such as pastillas, tagines, and salads, and is particularly well-known for its signature lamb shoulder, which we pre-ordered in our booking ahead of the trip. We visited their Gueliz branch, which is located just outside the Marrakech medina, and is not too far away from the popular Jardin Majorelle.
A doorman greeted us at the gate as we arrived and led us into the restaurant, followed by a lovely team of ladies at the reception who were ready to host us. The beautiful perfumy smell instantly hit us as we stepped inside the restaurant, offering the perfect escape from the hustle & bustle of the medina. Each table has a delicate little vase with roses on it, alongside crisp white tablecloths, setting a simple but elegant tone to the place.
Al Fassia: The Women of Fez
The name “Al Fassia” translates to the women of Fez, and the restaurant is run entirely by women. The restaurant was founded in 1985 by a sister duo, Myra and Saida Chab, specialising in traditional Moroccan cuisine from Fez. Over the years, it has become more than just a restaurant, but it has also become a training centre for women in the Moroccan hospitality industry!
Discover More About Marrakech
Where to Eat in Marrakech
3-Day Marrakech Travel Guide
The Food at Al Fassia (what we ordered)
Date of visit: December 2018
Pigeon Pastilla (130Dhs)
Pigeon pastilla is a Moroccan speciality, and don’t knock it till you try it! Pastilla is a filled pastry dish that’s sweet on the outside, but savoury on the inside. Chicken and pigeon are the most common fillings, but you can find seafood and vegetarian options as well. I personally enjoyed pastilla so much, I would consider it as much of a Moroccan national staple as tagine!
Al Fassia’s pigeon pastilla has been widely regarded as one of the best in Marrakech, and it certainly didn’t disappoint. The pastry was extremely crispy, with a loud, clear crunch as you cut through the pastilla. The filling was delicious, but I found it slightly sweet instead of a distinct savoury contrast like the one I previously had in Paris at La Maison de Charly. It was good and enjoyable, nonetheless.
Seafood Pastilla (160Dhs)
We also tried the seafood pastilla, which is stuffed with prawns, calamari, fish, and vermicelli. The flavour profile of this seafood pastilla was completely different to that of the poultry one. This one had a tangy flavour, which caught us by surprise. It’s certainly a delight, and I particularly liked the use of vermicelli here too.
Roasted Lamb Shoulder (for 2 persons) (520Dhs)
Then came the showstopping signature Roasted Lamb Shoulder, which requires pre-ordering at least 24 hours in advance. Slow-cooked with caramelised onions and candied raisins, the overall flavour of the lamb lay on the sweeter side. It was some of the most tender meat we’ve had as it fell off the bone effortlessly. It was juicy and saucy, which was perfect to go with the couscous and vegetables that came along with the dish.
Personally, we would’ve liked more spice to the lamb to give it a more savoury oomph. It was a delightful dish, but not outrageously good as some people claim.
Al Fassia Restaurant Review Summary
We were so incredibly stuffed by the end of the meal and had no room for dessert. After we finished our food, we were given fresh hot towels, served in a massive urn, to refresh ourselves. It had been a lovely dining experience at Al Fassia. Not only was the food nice, but the atmosphere and service were impeccable as well. If you are planning a visit to Marrakech, a meal at Al Fassia is a must.
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