Look, I gotta tell ya - this isn't just another tourist trap in Casablanca. Rick's Café is pure magic, recreating that sultry atmosphere from the legendary 1942 film that had Bogart and Bergman making cinema history. Walking in here feels like stepping through a time portal back to the 1940s. The curved archways, traditional Moroccan design, and those dramatic shadows cast by the intimate lighting - it all just works.
Key Features
• That gorgeous mahogany piano taking center stage (and yes, they really do play "As Time Goes By")
• Moroccan-Mediterranean fusion menu that'll make your taste buds dance
• Art Deco styling with ornate details that'll have you reaching for your camera
• Live music most evenings that sets the perfect mood
• A killer cocktail menu that would make Bogart proud
• Those signature balconies overlooking the main dining room
• Authentic 1930s decor including vintage photographs
• Three distinct dining levels each with its own special vibe
Best Time to Visit
Trust me on this one - you'll wanna get here right around sunset. That's when the place really comes alive. The golden hour light filtering through those gorgeous windows, the piano music starting up, and the whole atmosphere just clicks into place. If you're after that peak romantic experience, book a table for around 7:30 PM when the evening entertainment kicks off. But heads up - weekends get pretty packed, especially during tourist season (October through April). I've found Tuesday and Wednesday evenings to be sweet spots for a more relaxed experience.
How to Get There
Getting to Rick's isn't too tricky if you know what you're doing. From the city center, any taxi driver worth their salt knows the place - just say "Rick's Café" and you're golden. If you're feeling adventurous, it's about a 15-minute walk from the medina, though I wouldn't recommend trying to find it on foot your first time. Pro tip: have your hotel call ahead for a reservation and arrange transport - they've got solid relationships with reliable drivers who won't take you on the scenic route.
Tips for Visiting
Listen, I learned these the hard way so you don't have to. First off, reservations are absolutely essential - especially if you want one of those coveted balcony tables. Dress up a bit; while there's no strict dress code, you'll feel out of place in shorts and flip-flops. The crowd here tends to go smart casual at minimum.
Request a table near the piano if you're into the music scene, but know these are the first to go. The menu prices are on the higher side for Casablanca, but you're paying for the experience as much as the food. Speaking of food - their seafood dishes are particularly impressive, but don't skip the appetizers. Those Moroccan-inspired starters are where the kitchen really shines.
Oh, and keep your camera ready but be discrete - nothing kills the vintage vibe faster than a sea of smartphones. If you're a film buff, brush up on your Casablanca quotes before visiting - the staff love it when you know your stuff, and it adds to the whole experience.
Timing matters too - the kitchen can get backed up during peak hours, so if you're strictly about the food, come early. But honestly? Half the fun is soaking in the atmosphere, sipping a perfectly crafted cocktail, and pretending you're part of that classic film yourself. And yes, the piano player takes requests - but maybe give "As Time Goes By" a rest; they've heard it a few times before.
