Rabat — At the southern gate of Tangier’s medina lies Fendak Dar Dbagh, a historic gem that brings the 17th century to life. Today, it welcomes visitors as a cozy rooftop restaurant and a cooperative on the ground floor – but it wasn’t always this lively.
Originally, Fendak Dar Dbagh served as lodging for travelers and visitors to the medina (“fendak” literally means caravanserai or hotel); however, over time, it fell into decay, was damaged, and remained neglected for decades.
As part of the Tangier Medina Rehabilitation Program, the historical fendak was finally brought back to life.
No longer used as a lodging space, Fendak Dar Dbagh has been transformed into a cultural and social hub: a cooperative that showcases regional Moroccan products and supports women artisans, and a charming café-restaurant where visitors can enjoy local dishes with traditional Moroccan vibes.
This unique spot in the heart of the medina – although restored recently – has preserved its original architectural charm through the careful restoration of its stone floors, wooden ceilings, and traditional zellige tiles.
The cooperative
Since 2021, managed by the Natir Cooperative for the Production and Promotion of Regional Products, the cooperative side proudly showcases a rich variety of traditional Moroccan products, supporting local artisans and preserving Morocco’s centuries-old artisanal traditions.
Once stepping inside the building, visitors are greeted by the vibrant colors of handcrafted ceramics and textiles, and the traditional touches that can transport them to the heart of a bustling Moroccan medina.
Offering everything from cosmetics and handmade crafts to amlou and argan oil, Dar Dbagh creates a warm, authentic, and vibrant atmosphere where visitors can truly discover the heart of Moroccan heritage.
One cannot help but imagine the long and remarkable journey each of these products has taken to reach this place, and the effort and skill that local artisans have poured into each piece.
The café-restaurant
Located on the rooftop with a unique view, the restaurant specializes not only in Moroccan cuisine but also in providing an authentically Moroccan atmosphere.
With its arched wooden doors and traditional tables and chairs, the space sets the perfect mood for enjoying a leisurely meal, savoring local flavors, and soaking in the ambiance of Tangier’s medina.
What makes Dar Dbagh truly one-of-a-kind is the way each dish is crafted with natural, wholesome ingredients, ensuring meals that are healthy but irresistibly delicious.
The menu offers a wide variety of dishes, from couscous, tagines, soups, and Moroccan side dishes to the famous Moroccan pastries – both sweet and savory – such as “msemen,” “harcha,” and “briouat,” delighting both locals and visitors alike.
It is no wonder that Fendak Dar Dbagh boasts a perfect 5.0 on TripAdvisor, ranking #42 out of 514 restaurants in Tangier. A true must-visit for anyone seeking authentic Moroccan flavors.
