In Tétouan, Moroccan, Andalusian, and Berber influences converge to create a rich culinary landscape. Here’s a guide to what you should try while exploring this flavorful city:

Tagines Tagines are a must-try in Tétouan, where the classic slow-cooked Moroccan stew takes on local flavors. Popular variations include lamb with prunes, apricots, or almonds, as well as chicken with preserved lemon and olives. The tagine’s unique cooking method locks in spices and juices, delivering deep flavors in each bite. Many restaurants offer their own signature takes on tagine, so don’t hesitate to try several versions.

Bissara Bissara is a traditional Moroccan soup made from split peas or fava beans, often enjoyed as a warming breakfast. Creamy and rich, it’s served with olive oil, cumin, and a sprinkle of paprika for extra flavor. Bissara is a favorite among locals, and you’ll find it in traditional cafes and street stalls alike.

Pastilla A unique blend of sweet and savory, **pastilla** (or **bastilla**) is a pastry traditionally filled with pigeon or chicken, layered with almonds, cinnamon, and sugar. It’s encased in flaky pastry and often dusted with powdered sugar and cinnamon on top. The contrast between the spiced filling and sweet topping is unforgettable, making pastilla a Moroccan classic you shouldn’t miss.

Seafood As a coastal city, Tétouan offers an abundance of fresh seafood. Grilled sardines, fried calamari, and shrimp tagines are local favorites. Many seaside restaurants specialize in the catch of the day, often prepared simply with herbs and olive oil to highlight the freshness of the fish. Try a seafood platter at one of the restaurants in Martil, a nearby coastal town known for its seafood dishes.

Harira This traditional soup is a Moroccan staple, especially during Ramadan. Made with tomatoes, chickpeas, lentils, and sometimes lamb, harira is a hearty and flavorful dish often enjoyed with dates or chebakia (a sesame cookie). It’s a comforting, filling dish perfect for a cool evening in Tétouan.

Kefta Mkaouara **Kefta Mkaouara** is a popular Moroccan dish made with spiced meatballs in a rich tomato sauce, often topped with eggs. The meatballs are seasoned with cumin, paprika, and fresh herbs, and the dish is usually served with warm Moroccan bread for dipping. This comfort food is widely loved and is a fantastic choice for a satisfying meal.

R’fissa **R’fissa** is a traditional Moroccan dish often served during special occasions. It consists of chicken, lentils, and fenugreek seeds cooked in a spiced broth, served over shredded msemen (Moroccan flatbread). This hearty dish is aromatic and flavorful, making it a beloved choice among locals in Tétouan.

Moroccan Sweets and Pastries Finish your meal with Moroccan sweets such as **chebakia**, **baklava**, or **sellou**. Chebakia, a deep-fried sesame cookie coated in honey, is especially popular. You’ll also find **kaab el ghazal** (gazelle horns), crescent-shaped pastries filled with almond paste and scented with orange blossom water. These treats pair perfectly with a cup of Moroccan mint tea.

Mint Tea No meal in Morocco is complete without a glass of mint tea, also known as "Moroccan whiskey." Served in beautiful silver teapots and poured from a height, this tea is sweet, refreshing, and infused with fresh mint. It’s a staple throughout the day in Tétouan, and you’ll find it in cafes, homes, and restaurants everywhere.

Conclusion Eating in Tétouan is a culinary journey where traditional Moroccan flavors meet Andalusian and Berber influences. From savory tagines and seafood to sweet pastries and mint tea, the local food scene reflects the city’s rich heritage and offers an unforgettable taste of northern Morocco.