FX Excursions

FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.
GNTO

Rick’s Café, Casablanca

by Akhil Kalepu

Mar 25, 2015

© Petr Jilek | Dreamstime 18534926

Restaurant
Rick's Cafe, Casablanca, Morocco © Edward Mack

Rick’s Cafe, Casablanca, Morocco © Edward Mack

“Of all the gin joints in all the towns in all the world…”

 

It just wouldn’t feel right to start this review without a quote from Casablanca. Rick’s is, after all, an homage to the film. It isn’t the original café — which never existed — but it was built in 2004 as a loving reproduction based on the film.

 

From the outside, Rick’s could be any other restaurant in Morocco, but step inside and you’ll be swept back in time to the 1940s. The elegantly decorated riad and the gentle jazz piano invite you to pretend you belong to a different time, for one night at least.

 

If you go for dinner, you will need reservations, as Rick’s is one of Casablanca’s only higher-end restaurants. The menu features seafood and Moroccan staples in addition to international cuisine such as hamburgers.

 

I wasn’t lucky enough to get a table on the night I went to Rick’s, but instead sat at the bar, which may have been even more pleasant. The bartender crafted me a gin martini, taking care to ask my preference of gin, vermouth, garnish and how much of each. Like the location, the bartender was a throwback — engaging me in interesting conversation and introducing me to the other guests at the bar, so that by the end of the night everyone was friends.

 

Rick's Cafe, Casablanca, Morocco © SnippyHolloW | Flickr

© SnippyHolloW | Flickr

 

I was a little skeptical that Rick’s, being built post factum, would be a low-quality theme restaurant. This could not have been farther from the truth. Rick’s, before anything, is an elegant, classy location, and a tribute to the movie second. The only hint it was themed at all was the movie playing at the bar. When the check came, there was a bit of a negotiation over what I had and hadn’t ordered. As I had moved to a different seat and was being served by a waiter, this may have been an honest mistake or not; just be aware if you go.

 

And remember, if you go, it may be the beginning of a beautiful friendship.

 

Rick’s Cafe Casablanca

248 Rue Sour Jdid

Casablanca, Morocco

212 5222 74207

 

#TrazeeTravel

Insta Feed
LGBTQIA+
Nov 28, 2024

How to Book the Perfect Vacation with World’s Leading Operator of Luxury LGBTQIA+ Cruises and Land Tours

Looking for an LGBTQIA+-friendly vacation but not sure what’s right for you, or even where to start? Brand g Vacations has you covered. Since 2011, Brand g and its LGBTQIA+ travel experts have helped LGBTQIA+ travelers plan the perfect vacations around the world.

Discover Greece’s Tower Towns: A Journey Through History

Greece's tower towns offer a captivating blend of history, architecture and stunning landscapes that make them perfect for curious travelers. These towns, particularly found in the Mani region of the Peloponnese, are defined by stone towers built during the medieval period. Constructed for both defense and as symbols of family pride, the towers stand as a testament to the region's turbulent history and its residents’ resilience.

Hotel
Nov 28, 2024

StolenTime Saint Lucia Launches Zodiac-Themed Wellness Retreats

StolenTime in Saint Lucia recently announced a partnership with the AstroTwins to offer curated itineraries for each zodiac sign.

Destinations / North America
Nov 27, 2024

Celebrate 50 Years of Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio

This December, Cuyahoga Valley National Park — one of the more easily accessible national parks in the country, as it’s just a short drive from Cleveland — celebrates its 50th anniversary. Established as a National Recreation Area in 1974 and achieving national park status in 2000, this park offers more than 33,000 acres of forests and farmland, with activities including hiking, kayaking, scenic train rides and more.

Seoul: Your Favorite Worldwide City

Seoul is the place for your next bleisure destination.

Destinations / North America
Nov 27, 2024

Winter Happenings in Victoria, British Columbia

Visit Victoria, British Columbia, this winter. The capital city offers travelers seasonal activities and events guaranteed to warm your heart.