A Food Lover’s Guide to Northern Morocco on a Budget: From Medina Markets to Mountain Meals

From the sizzling street stalls of Fez to the tranquil rooftop cafés of Chefchaouen, Northern Morocco is a feast for the senses—and it doesn’t have to cost a fortune. This region blends Arab, Berber, and Mediterranean influences into a culinary journey that’s as rich in flavour as it is kind to your wallet. Whether you’re sipping mint tea in a centuries-old kasbah or tearing into warm msemen straight off the griddle, Northern Morocco invites you to slow down and savour every bite—without breaking the bank.

This guide explores some of the most delicious, affordable food experiences across Rabat, Fez, and Chefchaouen. While it’s written with curious eaters and food-focused travellers in mind, it’s equally suitable for those accompanied by companions with simpler tastes—be that children or the less adventurous member of your group. From fragrant tagines to sweet Moroccan pastries, here’s where and what to eat in Morocco’s north, all on a budget.

A Food Lover’s Guide to Northern Morocco on a Budget

From Medina Markets to Mountain Meals

This guide explores some of the best budget food experiences in Rabat, Fez, and Chefchaouen. While written with food lovers in mind, it’s also suitable for travellers with children or those with simpler tastes. From fragrant tagines to sweet Moroccan pastries, here’s where and what to eat in Northern Morocco on a budget.

1. Street Food Staples: Flavourful Bites for Pennies

Moroccan street food is both affordable and delicious. Ideal for travellers on the go, it’s also a fantastic way to try traditional flavours without committing to a full sit-down meal.

What to Try:

Msemen – A flaky, buttery flatbread cooked on a griddle, served with honey, cheese, or jam. Found on nearly every corner and perfect for breakfast or a snack.
Brochettes – Grilled meat skewers (usually chicken or beef), served with fresh bread and spicy harissa sauce. Tasty, filling, and usually under 20 MAD (£1.50).
Sfenj – Traditional Moroccan doughnuts, deep-fried and chewy. Often sprinkled with sugar and best eaten hot.
Bissara – A creamy fava bean soup, particularly common in mountainous areas like Chefchaouen. Served with olive oil, cumin, and fresh bread.

Best Places for Street Food:

Fez Medina: Talaa Kebira is lined with small stalls selling hot msemen, brochettes, and fresh juice. This is the heart of Fez’s street food scene.
Chefchaouen: Around Plaza Uta el-Hammam, you’ll find vendors selling msemen and sweets in the morning.
Rabat Medina: Rue Souika is home to numerous snack stalls offering grilled meats and pastries.

Travel tip: Many street food stalls allow you to share or sample items, making them ideal for families or cautious eaters.

2. Budget-Friendly Restaurants: Sit Down Without Splurging

Looking for something more substantial than street food? Northern Morocco is full of simple, affordable restaurants serving traditional Moroccan dishes. These spots are great for resting your feet without spending a fortune.

Must-Try Budget Dishes:

Tagine (Chicken or Vegetable) – Slow-cooked and aromatic, usually served with bread. A full tagine meal can cost as little as 40–60 MAD (£3–£5).
Couscous – Traditionally eaten on Fridays, topped with vegetables, chickpeas, and sometimes sweet caramelised onions.
Harira – A hearty soup made with tomatoes, lentils, chickpeas, and herbs. Often served with dates and perfect for lunch.
Rotisserie Chicken and Chips – A no-fail option, especially popular with kids and available across the country.

Top Budget Restaurants:

Rabat – Dar Naji: Well-loved by locals, it offers affordable tagines and couscous with rooftop views of the city.
Fez – Snack Malak & Chez Rachid: These two restaurants near Bab Bou Jeloud are traveller favourites for their prices and fast service.
Chefchaouen – Restaurant Bab Ssour: Set in a beautiful old riad, it serves generous portions of tagine and couscous for under 60 MAD.

SEO Tip: These are also some of the best family-friendly restaurants in Chefchaouen and Fez, with accessible menus and no-fuss dining environments.

3. Local Markets: Fresh, Affordable & Full of Character

Moroccan food markets aren’t just great for photography—they’re brilliant for budget travel. From juicy fruits to soft bread and creamy goat cheese, markets are the best way to stock up for picnics, snacks, or travel days.

Budget-Friendly Market Finds:

Seasonal fruit: Oranges, bananas, dates, and pomegranates are fresh and cheap—often just a few dirhams per kilo.
Olives: You’ll find an incredible variety sold by weight. Ask to try a few before buying.
Khobz: Traditional round loaves of bread sold everywhere, perfect for sandwiches or as a side.
Jben (Goat’s Cheese): A mild, creamy cheese typical of the Rif Mountains. Often available in Chefchaouen.

Where to Go:

Rabat Medina Market: Clean, colourful, and full of fruit and fresh pastries—great for a stroll.
Fez R’cif Market: More chaotic but rich in local life and unbeatable for cheap produce and spices.
Chefchaouen’s Morning Market: Held near the main square, it’s small but stocked with fresh bread, cheese, and olives.

Pro tip: Bring cash and small change. Most vendors don’t accept cards, and prices are often negotiable.

Final Thoughts: A Budget Foodie’s Dream

If you’re planning a trip through Northern Morocco, eating well doesn’t require a big budget. From the medinas of Fez to the mountains of Chefchaouen, you’ll find authentic flavours, friendly faces, and unforgettable meals—many for less than the price of a coffee back home. Whether you’re a solo backpacker, a couple on a cultural adventure, or a family with children in tow, Northern Morocco offers affordable food options for everyone.

So go ahead—sip that mint tea, try that sizzling skewer, and wander those markets. Just don’t forget to pack an appetite.

A food lovers guide to Northern Morocco