Le Filet du Pêcheur

“One of those rare restaurants where the service really stands out, our waiter greeted everyone with a big smile and called each of us “benti,” which made us feel more like guests in a family home than customers in a restaurant. And honestly, is there anything better than enjoying a plate of mixed seafood and fish chawaya while watching a beautiful scene, with pigeons flying around and filling the air with their soft cooing?”

“We sought this oceanside cluster of fish restaurants (referred to as "Sidi Bouzid") based on a recommendation from a waiter whom we met in Essaouira. We then chose Le Filet du Pêcheur Numéro 17 as the highest quality restaurant from among them. (The others are more downmarket, some even a bit dingy). This particular restaurant, Le filet du pêcheur numéro 17, is everything I wished it to be. The atmosphere is sunny and pleasant, just formal enough but not too much. This is one of the best seafood meals I have ever experienced—in all of my travels through Europe, America, and Japan. First I had an amazing crab salad. Then my friend and I each had a different kind of whole grilled fish. (And we tasted each other's.) Mine and his were both seasoned just right, flavorful but subtle, and cooked to perfection, in a way I’ve never seen fish cooked before (sliced into a half-dozen segments prior to cooking). The accompanying vegetables were also cooked just right (not too much) and slightly seasoned. It all went together well as an ensemble. For dessert I had an amazing nougat ice cream—out of this world. The waiters are very attentive, hard-working, efficient, and professional. I admire this place so much! I wish there was a restaurant like this where I live (in NYC), but there isn’t. I look forward to returning on my next trip to Morocco. Bravo Le Filet du Pêcheur Numéro 17 !!! You are great !!!