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
Destinations / Europe
Nov 12, 2024

Planning to be in Lisbon this holiday season? Be sure you stop by these four can’t-miss holiday markets.

Planning to be in Lisbon this holiday season? Be sure you stop by these four can’t-miss holiday markets.

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 12, 2024

Exclusive Black Friday, Cyber Monday Travel Offers

Take advantage of Black Friday deals around the world!

Cruises
Nov 12, 2024

Holland America Line Unveils Exclusive Sparkling Wine

Holland America Line launched its first-ever, exclusive sparkling wine across its fleet of ships last month. In collaboration with Four Feathers Wine Services, the sparkling wine is made using the Methode Traditionnelle, which is the same technique used for producing Champagne.

Seoul: Your Favorite Worldwide City

Seoul is the place for your next bleisure destination.

Slideshow
Nov 12, 2024

6 Must-See Sites in Osaka, Japan

It’s time to start dreaming of your next trip. Here are six must-see sites in Osaka, Japan.