POPPY'S MARRAKECH GUIDE
In June, I had the pleasure of visiting Marrakech in Morocco for the first time. I was there at the end of the Eid celebrations, so some places I had planned to visit were closed for the holidays. Even though the city was a bit quieter (which, according to many locals, was actually a good thing), I instantly fell in love with Marrakech and knew I would have to return soon.
My recommendations are based on some of the favourite places we explored during our limited time there. A special shout-out to my dear friend Hassan Hajjaj, who was an amazing host throughout the week. Hassan is one of my favourite artists in the world, and I had the honour of collaborating with him on an eyewear collection in 2020, currently still available on our website.
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SEE:
Jardin Majorelle (YSL gardens), Berber Arts Museum & Musée Yves Saint Laurent. The art deco style home of designer Yves Saint Laurent and his partner Pierre Bergé - reimagined for the couple by famed interior designer Bill Willis.
Book tickets online for the garden, Berber Arts Museum inside the home & the YSL museum further down the road.Find tickets HERE.
EAT & DRINK:
Sahbi Sahbi - fully female run high end restaurant with interiors by one of my favourite design houses; Studio Ko
Comptoir Darna - I asked so many people of all walks of life that are familiar with Marrakech where would they recommend for essential Moroccan dining and everyone said Comptoir Darna. Try sit inside or upstairs for good vibes
Petanque Social Club - Super chic revitalised vintage petanque club tucked away in the French district
DaDa - Gathering space for art, food and music. So many incredibly designed spaces in this building to hang out. Food absolutely delicious as well.
Dar Yacout - A Marrakech institution and one of the oldest restaurants of it’s kind in the city.
Jajjah - Hassan Hajjaj’s conceptual restaurant, gallery and gift shop in the Industrial Zone. Recommend coming on Fridays for the cous cous lunch.
STAY:
El Fenn - Eclectic and luxe interiors. Even if you don’t stay here I recommend coming for a drink or dinner on their stunning rooftop or visiting the gift shop downstairs.
Riad Jardin Secret
Riad Malika - where we stayed, central, affordable, traditional style Riad with an enviable selection of mid century furniture and art scattered throughout the property. They also own Riad Chorfa, right in the heart of the Medina.
Riad Jaaneman
Jnane Tamsna
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SHOP:
Maison ArtC - haute couture level pieces (and prices, but rightly so)
Marrakshi Life - Sustainable fashion brand featuring pieces hand woven in house at their atelier in the Industrial Zone. You can make an appointment to see their showroom and how their pieces are made. A few pieces are available to purchase but most are made to measure, exactly to your size.
Funky Cool Medina - Vintage and freshly made pieces using unique vintage fabrics. One of my favourite stores in Marrakech, I picked up the most insane coat made out of an old tapestry.
Azrar Marrakech - beautiful jewelery, little more expensive so ask for prices first (he usually quotes in USD, not Dirhams)
Riad Yima - Hassan Hajjaj shop, gallery and cafe.
Moul L7anout by Nassah - Pop Up shop for Hassan Hajjaj / Andy Wahloo, if you cant make it to Jajjah go here for Hassan’s amazing selection of objects and wearable pieces.
El Abidi Nasser Eddine - Great costume jewellery and beads.
Cisse Art Africain - Repurposed African fabrics made into clothing like robes, caftans, jackets and pants.
El Fenn Boutqiue - Located inside the famous El Fenn hotel.
HOMEWARES:
La Port D’Orient
Mustapha Blaoui - All manner of items, ceramics, glassware, rugs etc. Very accommodating about organising shipping back to your home country.
Soufiane Zarib - chic homewares, has a second larger location in the Industrial Zone
Tamegroute Ceramics - chaotic green ceramics
I could lose myself inside the souks of the Medina of Marrakech, many places don’t exist on google maps so I’d recommend doing what I did and just wandering around and enjoying getting lost amongst all the amazing stalls.
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