Quick answer
For an authentic, bustling, and exceptionally fresh seafood experience right by the fishing port, Restaurant du Port de Pêche (Chez Madame Ali) is an absolute must-visit.
- Best overall
- Restaurant du Port de Pêche (Chez Madame Ali)
- Best budget
- Snack Pescado
- Best experience
- Le Cabestan Ocean View
- Last verified
- 2026-03
How we picked these
Our selection of Casablanca's best seafood venues is based on extensive local research, diner reviews, culinary expert recommendations, and freshness of ingredients. We prioritized establishments known for their commitment to quality, authenticity, atmosphere, and a true taste of the Atlantic.
Restaurant du Port de Pêche (Chez Madame Ali)
An iconic, no-frills establishment located directly within the fishing port, Madame Ali is legendary for its incredibly fresh, simply prepared seafood. Diners choose their catch from an ice display, and it's grilled or fried to perfection. The atmosphere is bustling, authentic, and truly captures the spirit of Casablanca's fishing culture.
🍽️ What to order
Mixed grilled seafood platter (Choose your fish, shrimp, and calamari)
💡 Insider tip
Arrive before 1 PM for lunch or 7 PM for dinner to secure a table, especially on weekends. It gets incredibly busy, but the wait is always worth it for the freshness.
"You *have* to go to Restaurant du Port de Pêche. My taxi driver even recommended it. Best grilled octopus I've ever had, hands down. So simple, so good."— r/casablanca user
L'Ecailler
L'Ecailler is a Casablanca institution, celebrated for its exquisite seafood platters and elegant ambiance. This restaurant brings a touch of classic French seafood tradition to the Moroccan coast, offering a sophisticated dining experience with impeccably fresh oysters, shellfish, and expertly prepared fish dishes. It's perfect for a special occasion.
🍽️ What to order
Royal Seafood Platter with oysters, langoustines, crab, and shrimp
💡 Insider tip
Reserve a table in advance, especially for dinner. Their wine list is excellent and pairs beautifully with the seafood offerings.
"L'Ecailler felt like I was in Paris, but with Moroccan hospitality. The seafood was so fresh it practically swam onto my plate. A bit pricey but worth it for the quality."— r/food user
Le Cabestan Ocean View
Perched dramatically on the cliffs overlooking the Atlantic, Le Cabestan offers a breathtaking dining experience with panoramic ocean views. The menu features refined Mediterranean and international cuisine with a strong emphasis on fresh local seafood, presented with artistic flair. It's a prime spot for a romantic dinner or a celebratory meal.
🍽️ What to order
Grilled Sea Bass with seasonal vegetables, or their famous seafood pasta
💡 Insider tip
Request a table by the window or on the terrace for the best ocean views, especially around sunset. Dress smart casual to fit the elegant atmosphere.
"Le Cabestan has views that will blow your mind, seriously. The food is also top-notch, especially their grilled fish. A bit fancy, but unforgettable for a special night."— r/travel user
Ostrea
Ostrea is a modern seafood bar specializing in fresh oysters from Dakhla and other Moroccan coasts, alongside a diverse menu of seafood tapas and small plates. The ambiance is chic and contemporary, making it a great spot for a relaxed evening with friends, sharing small bites and enjoying perfectly paired drinks.
🍽️ What to order
A dozen Dakhla Oysters, Tuna Tartare, and Shrimp Ceviche
💡 Insider tip
They often have a 'happy hour' style special on oysters. Check their social media for current promotions. It's a lively spot, so be prepared for a vibrant atmosphere.
"If you love oysters, Ostrea is your spot. They were so fresh, and their tapas menu is surprisingly good too. Great place to chill and try different things."— r/food user
La Sqala
Set within the ancient ramparts of the 18th-century fort, La Sqala offers a unique dining experience in a beautiful garden courtyard. While known for its traditional Moroccan cuisine, their seafood options, especially the seafood tagines and grilled fish, are exceptionally well-prepared and highlight local flavors. It’s an oasis of calm and history.
🍽️ What to order
Seafood Tagine with preserved lemons and olives, or Grilled Royal Prawns
💡 Insider tip
Visit during the day to fully appreciate the stunning garden and architecture. It's also a great spot for breakfast or lunch, often less crowded than dinner.
"La Sqala is beautiful, like eating in a secret garden. Had their seafood tagine and it was so flavorful, cooked perfectly. Definitely get there early for a good table."— r/travel user
Basmane
Basmane offers a sophisticated take on Moroccan gastronomy in an opulent setting, complete with traditional music and decor. While their focus is broad Moroccan cuisine, their seafood selection is thoughtfully curated and exquisitely presented, offering a refined blend of local spices and fresh Atlantic catches. It's ideal for a luxurious taste of Morocco.
🍽️ What to order
Pastilla aux Fruits de Mer (Seafood Pastilla) or the Chef's special grilled fish
💡 Insider tip
Dress elegantly for dinner. The restaurant often features live traditional music, adding to the immersive cultural experience.
"Basmane is pricey but the atmosphere is incredible, like dining in a palace. Their seafood pastilla was unlike anything I've ever tasted, pure luxury."— r/casablanca user
Le Petit Rocher
A long-standing favorite in Casablanca, Le Petit Rocher boasts a prime oceanfront location and a reputation for classic French-Moroccan seafood dishes. With its relaxed yet elegant ambiance, it’s a wonderful spot to enjoy a meal with the sound of waves crashing nearby. Their seafood is consistently fresh and prepared with expertise.
🍽️ What to order
Sole Meunière or their grilled calamari
💡 Insider tip
Outdoor seating on the terrace offers fantastic views, but it can get windy. Bring a light jacket even on warm evenings.
"Le Petit Rocher is a solid choice for a good seafood meal with a view. Their sole was perfectly cooked, and the atmosphere is just what you want by the ocean."— r/travel user
Snack Pescado
Snack Pescado is a hidden gem favored by locals for its incredibly fresh and affordable seafood. It’s a simple, unpretentious eatery where the focus is solely on the quality of the catch. Expect generous portions of perfectly grilled or fried fish, shrimp, and calamari, served with typical Moroccan salads and bread.
🍽️ What to order
Assortment of grilled fish (usually sardine, mackerel, sea bream), with a side of zaalouk
💡 Insider tip
Don't expect fancy decor; come for the authentic flavors and incredible value. It's cash-only, so be prepared.
"If you're on a budget but want legit fresh seafood, Snack Pescado is the place. It's a bit out of the way, but every local I asked pointed me there. So good and cheap!"— r/casablanca user
La Brasserie du Boulevard (Sofitel Tour Blanche)
Located within the luxurious Sofitel Casablanca Tour Blanche, La Brasserie du Boulevard offers a sophisticated brasserie experience with a focus on French and international cuisine. Their seafood selection is meticulously sourced and prepared, ranging from classic platters to elegant fish mains, all served in a chic, contemporary setting.
🍽️ What to order
Seafood Risotto or Pan-Seared Scallops
💡 Insider tip
It's a great choice for a business lunch or a refined dinner. The service is impeccable, as expected from a high-end hotel.
"Stayed at the Sofitel and tried their brasserie. Their seafood options were surprisingly good and beautifully presented. Great for a more upscale, quiet meal."— r/travel user
Rick's Café
While not exclusively a seafood restaurant, the iconic Rick's Café, famous from the movie 'Casablanca,' offers a few well-executed seafood options on its international menu. The fresh fish of the day is always a solid choice, prepared simply to let the quality shine. It's primarily a must-visit for its unique ambiance and history.
🍽️ What to order
Catch of the Day (ask your server for the fresh fish)
💡 Insider tip
Make reservations far in advance, as it's incredibly popular. Go for the atmosphere and live piano music; the food is good, but the experience is the star.
"Rick's Café is touristy, yes, but totally worth it for the vibe. I actually had their daily fish special and it was surprisingly good, very fresh. A must-do just for the experience."— r/travel user
Restaurant Zerktouni (Marché Central)
Located within the lively Marché Central, Restaurant Zerktouni is one of several casual eateries where you can select your fresh fish from the market stalls and have it cooked on the spot. It's a vibrant, authentic experience, offering delicious, no-frills seafood cooked Moroccan style – usually grilled or fried with spices. Expect a lively, local crowd.
🍽️ What to order
Choose a variety of fish (sardines, dorado, squid) from the market and have them grill it for you.
💡 Insider tip
Haggle a bit with the fish vendors before bringing your selection to the restaurant for cooking. Go early to experience the market's full energy.
"Eating at the Marché Central is an experience everyone should have. Zerktouni grilled up my fish perfectly, right there. So fresh, so authentic, loved the chaos!"— r/food user
Bleu Casa (Four Seasons Hotel Casablanca)
Housed within the opulent Four Seasons Hotel, Bleu Casa offers a refined Mediterranean dining experience with stunning ocean views. The menu emphasizes fresh, seasonal ingredients, with a particular focus on impeccably prepared seafood. Expect innovative dishes, impeccable service, and a sophisticated atmosphere, perfect for a high-end culinary indulgence.
🍽️ What to order
Their signature Grilled Atlantic Langoustines or the Lobster Thermidor
💡 Insider tip
Book a table on the outdoor terrace for an unforgettable dining experience with panoramic ocean vistas. The cocktail menu is also excellent.
"If you want to splurge and feel like royalty, Bleu Casa at the Four Seasons is amazing. Everything was perfect, from the service to the absolutely delicious seafood. Worth every penny."— r/luxurytravel user
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of seafood is commonly found in Casablanca?
Casablanca, being on the Atlantic coast, offers a wide variety of fresh seafood. Common catches include sardines, mackerel, sea bream (dorado), sole, cod, hake, tuna, sea bass, squid (calamari), octopus, shrimp, prawns, and various shellfish like oysters from Dakhla. The daily catch ensures a diverse selection year-round.
Is it safe to eat street food or market seafood in Casablanca?
Generally, yes, especially at reputable market stalls or popular local eateries. Look for places with high turnover, where the seafood is displayed on ice and looks vibrant and fresh. Always ensure the food is cooked thoroughly and served hot. The Marché Central is a great spot for this authentic and typically safe experience.
What's the best way to order seafood in a traditional Moroccan restaurant?
In many traditional or casual seafood restaurants, especially near the port or markets, you often get to choose your fish directly from a display of fresh catches on ice. You can then specify how you'd like it cooked – typically grilled (à la plancha or charbon) or fried (frit). Don't hesitate to ask for recommendations or how it's usually prepared.
Are seafood restaurants in Casablanca expensive?
Casablanca offers a range of seafood dining options to suit all budgets. You can find incredibly fresh and affordable grilled fish at local portside eateries or market stalls for as little as 100-200 MAD per person. High-end restaurants with ocean views and gourmet preparations can easily cost 400-800+ MAD per person for a full meal.
What are some typical Moroccan seafood dishes I should try?
Beyond simple grilled fish, look for Seafood Tagine (slow-cooked in an earthenware pot with vegetables and spices), Seafood Pastilla (a savory pastry often made with vermicelli and mixed seafood), and Harira with seafood (a hearty lentil and chickpea soup with added fish or shrimp). Don't miss out on fresh calamari or shrimp fritters often served as starters.
Do I need reservations for seafood restaurants in Casablanca?
For upscale restaurants like Le Cabestan Ocean View, L'Ecailler, Basmane, or those in luxury hotels (Four Seasons, Sofitel), reservations are highly recommended, especially for dinner or on weekends. For more casual spots, particularly by the port or in markets, reservations are usually not needed, but be prepared for potential waits during peak hours.
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