Best Places to Drink Mint Tea in the Old Medina of Marrakech

Where tradition, tranquility, and taste meet in the heart of the Red City

 

Introduction: Mint Tea – The Soul of Moroccan Hospitality

In Marrakech, no welcome is complete without a glass of steaming Moroccan mint tea — sweet, fragrant, and served with heart. It’s more than a drink. It’s a symbol of generosity, connection, and tradition.

Locals call it “atay,” and its preparation is an art. Fresh spearmint, Chinese green tea, and a generous helping of sugar are combined and gracefully poured from a silver teapot — always from a height — into slender glasses that glisten like jewels in the sun.

In the Marrakech Medina, drinking mint tea is more than refreshment — it's a cultural ritual, a moment of pause amid the souk’s frenzy, a time to watch the world go by from a quiet rooftop or hidden courtyard.

But where should you go to drink the best mint tea in the old city?

Let’s take a deep dive into the most memorable, authentic, and beautiful tea spots in the Marrakech Medina — from panoramic terraces to centuries-old riads.

1. Café des Épices

Souk Laghzel, Medina

Nestled in the heart of the Spice Square, Café des Épices is a classic — beloved by locals and travelers alike. With its three-level rooftop, you can sip tea while watching the movement below: spice vendors, henna artists, and shoemakers.

Why it’s special:

Stunning panoramic views of the Medina rooftops

Great people-watching from above

Excellent for a mid-shopping break

Mint Tea Review:

Generously portioned

Served in a silver teapot with fresh mint bouquet

Sweetened but not overpowering

Tip: Visit around sunset for golden-hour light and cooler air.

 

2. Riad Yima Tea Room

Derb Tizougarine, near Dar el Bacha

Created by Moroccan pop artist Hassan Hajjaj, this tea room doubles as a funky art gallery. It’s off the beaten path and feels like stepping into a retro Moroccan dream — bold colors, recycled decor, and modern creativity.

Why it’s special:

Artistic and colorful setting

Hidden gem unknown to many tourists

Owned by a real Marrakech legend

Mint Tea Review:

Served artistically, with quirky glassware

Often accompanied by small pastries

Unique fusion of old and new

 Tip: Ask to see the back courtyard — a secret spot many miss.

 

3. Terrasse des Épices

 Souk Cherifia, off Rue Mouassine

A stylish rooftop escape from the chaos below, Terrasse des Épices offers peace, space, and elegance. It’s especially popular with couples and travelers looking for a more refined tea break.

Why it’s special:

Stylish shaded terrace with lounge seating

Birds-eye view of the Mouassine quarter

Attentive service

Mint Tea Review:

Balanced sweetness

Served with biscuits or dates

Presentation is elegant and modern

 Tip: After tea, explore the Souk Cherifia, which offers quality artisan goods without the hard sell.

 

4. Dar Cherifa

Derb Cherfa Lakbir, near Mouassine

One of the oldest houses in the Medina, Dar Cherifa is part art gallery, part literary café, and entirely magical. Stepping inside feels like walking into a time capsule, with restored 16th-century architecture and deep quiet.

Why it’s special:

Historical building with original carvings

Ideal for readers, writers, or artists

Literary events often hosted here

Mint Tea Review:

Subtle and delicately poured

Served in a traditional courtyard

Best enjoyed with almond pastries

 Tip: Come in the morning to enjoy complete tranquility and soft sunlight.

 

5. Nomad

 Rahba Kedima (Spice Square)

Sister to Café des Épices, Nomad is a more modern restaurant with a sleek terrace and international appeal. But their mint tea remains authentically Moroccan.

Why it’s special:

Instagram-famous terrace with mountain views

Perfect for mixing modern style with local flavor

Friendly staff who explain the tea ritual

Mint Tea Review:

Fresh, bold mint flavor

Modern glassware

Optional honey or lemon twist

Tip: Pair with a light lunch — their spiced carrot salad is a hit.

 

6. Café Kessabine

 Near Jemaa el-Fna Square

For those wanting to stay close to the action, this café overlooks the legendary Jemaa el-Fna — Marrakech’s main square. Sit upstairs and watch the transformation from market by day to theater by night.

Why it’s special:

Front-row view of snake charmers and storytellers

Casual, affordable, and central

Good stop between souk visits

Mint Tea Review:

Simple, sweet, and strong

Great value for the view

Best enjoyed at night under lantern light

Tip: Go up to the second floor for a better view and breeze.

 

7. Herboriste du Paradis

Near Souk el Bahja

More than a café, this is a herbalist’s shop that offers traditional natural remedies — and yes, tea too. They make medicinal mint teas infused with verbena, thyme, or other healing plants.

Why it’s special:

Learn about Moroccan healing traditions

Buy real herbal blends

Taste unique variations of mint tea

Mint Tea Review:

Light and health-focused

Often customized to your needs

Less sugary than tourist versions

 Tip: Ask for “zhar” (orange blossom) in your tea for extra fragrance.

 

8. Le Jardin Secret Café

 Rue Mouassine

This hidden palace garden is a green oasis in the middle of the Medina. The attached café serves light meals and, of course, exceptional mint tea in a serene atmosphere surrounded by fountains, cacti, and orange trees.

Why it’s special:

Botanical surroundings and peaceful vibes

Historical setting with Islamic garden design

Ideal for a slow afternoon

Mint Tea Review:

Served in the garden with high-quality tea leaves

Delicate balance of sugar and mint

Accompanied by Moroccan pastries

 Tip: Entry ticket to the garden is required — but worth every dirham.

 

9. Your Riad’s Rooftop

One of the most overlooked places to enjoy mint tea is your own riad — especially after a long day in the souks.

Most riads:

Offer complimentary tea upon arrival

Serve it on the rooftop or central courtyard

Prepare it with personal care, often by the owners themselves

The tea may not come from a “famous café,” but it’s often the most heartfelt.

 Perfect for: Morning reflections, sunset views, or late-night chats under the stars.

How to Tell Good Mint Tea From Tourist Tea

Not all mint tea is created equal. Here's how to spot the real thing:

Feature Authentic Mint Tea Tourist Trap Tea

Teapot Silver or stainless Sometimes omitted

Mint Fresh spearmint sprigs Artificial flavoring or dried

Sugar Added during brewing Over-sweetened afterward

Pouring High pour (aerated) Low or none

Taste Balanced, fragrant Syrupy, flat, or weak

 

The Ritual: How Mint Tea Is Made (The Real Way)

Want to understand the full experience? Here’s how traditional Moroccan mint tea is brewed:

1. Rinse the green tea leaves (gunpowder variety) to remove bitterness.

2. Boil water, then steep the tea with sugar.

3. Add fresh spearmint, usually “nana” mint.

4. Pour from a height into a glass, then return it to the pot. Repeat 2–3 times to mix flavors

5. Serve in small glasses, often on a decorated tray.

The result? A warm, sweet, refreshing drink that cleanses the body and calms the spirit.

 

Mint Tea Etiquette Tips for Travelers

Accept the tea when offered by locals — it's a sign of hospitality.

If you don’t want sugar, say “bla skkar” (without sugar).

Don’t rush — tea is to be sipped slowly and socially.

Avoid drinking it while walking — it’s best enjoyed seated, with intention.

When Is the Best Time to Enjoy Tea in the Medina?

Time Experience

Morning Peaceful start to the day, good light for photos

Afternoon Rest from the heat, great rooftop breezes

Sunset Romantic views and golden light

Night Cool air, lanterns, and storytelling mood

Book a Tea & Culture Walking Tour

Want to taste the best mint tea and understand the traditions behind it? Join a Marrakech Medina walking tour with a local expert who will:

Take you to hidden tea spots

Teach you about tea etiquette

Introduce you to real artisans

Share stories and legends over a glass of atay

 Book Your Marrakech Medina Tea & Culture Tour now.

Let the flavor of Morocco guide your steps.

Final Words: A Cup of Tea, A Window to the Soul

In Morocco, tea isn’t just a drink — it’s a language of love, a bridge between strangers, a way to slow time.

In the old Medina of Marrakech, you’ll find mint tea on every corner — but the most special moments happen in places touched by history, beauty, and heart.

So take a seat. Breathe. Sip slowly. Watch the world pass by. And taste Morocco in every drop

Book Now