Must-try Dishes
Khlii - Spiced Preserved Meat - Tender, slow-cooked beef or lamb, seasoned with cumin and saffron, preserved in its own fat. Locals often enjoy it for breakfast, served with crusty bread, ideally shared around the table.
Brochette - Grilled Skewers - Juicy skewers of marinated meat, typically lamb or chicken, grilled over an open flame. Street vendors are popular spots for a quick lunch, with many locals snacking on it after work.
Tagine - Slow-Cooked Stew - A rich dish made with either chicken or lamb, combined with vegetables, chickpeas, and spices, slow-cooked in a clay pot. Family gatherings often center around tagine, where everyone digs in together, showcasing the shared dining culture.
Pastilla - Savory Pie - Flaky pastry filled with spiced pigeon (or chicken), almonds, and cinnamon, dusted with powdered sugar. You’ll find it served during special occasions and weddings, representing a true Fez specialty.
Harira - Spiced Soup - A hearty soup made with lentils, chickpeas, and aromatic spices, often enjoyed during Ramadan for iftar. Many locals love it with fresh bread, starting their evening meal with this nourishing bowl.
Mechoui - Whole Roasted Lamb - Entire lamb marinated and roasted, served with a mix of spices, creating crispy skin and succulent meat. Commonly enjoyed during celebrations, it’s a dish that brings families and friends together, enhancing the communal experience.
Zaalouk - Eggplant Salad - Smoky, cooked eggplant mixed with tomatoes and spices, served warm. A typical side served at lunch, many locals prefer it with bread, highlighting the regional love for grilled and vegetable preparations.
Briwat - Pastry Triangles - Savory pastries filled with spiced meat or vegetables, deep-fried until crispy. Commonly found at celebrations, they're often eaten hot, showcasing a delightful crunchy outside with a tender filling.
Desserts & Drinks
Mint Tea - Thé à la Menthe (refreshing herbal drink) - Sweet green tea infused with fresh mint leaves, often served with plenty of sugar. Locals sip it throughout the day, particularly during social gatherings, where the serving style involves a high pour to create a frothy top.
Orange Juice - Jus d'Orange (fresh citrus drink) - Freshly squeezed oranges mixed with a hint of lemon for extra zest, served chilled in tall glasses. It's especially popular on hot afternoons during the summer months, and you can find vendors rolling their carts through the streets.
Mahia - ماء الحياة (anise-flavored spirit) - A strong, homemade liquor distilled from figs or dates and flavored with anise, enjoyed as a digestive after meals. Commonly sipped during family gatherings and celebrations, it’s best to enjoy it in moderation due to its potency.
Baklava - باكلوا (sweet pastry dessert) - Layered pastry filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with honey or syrup, offering a delightful crunch and chewiness. It’s often served during special occasions like Eid, paired nicely with tea for an indulgent treat.
Rzgala - زغال (shredded ice dessert) - A refreshing combination of ice, flavored syrups, and a sprinkle of nuts, enjoyed particularly in the heat. Perfect for cooling down after a day of exploring the city, it brings a playful mix of textures and colors.
