Le Chalet de la Plage
Bd. Mohammed V
Cuisines: Seafood
About
This beachfront institution has some of the best seafood in town. Built entirely of wood in 1893, the restaurant is in its fourth family of proprietors, the Jeannots, and the dark, maritime-theme interior is adorned with pictures and mementos of a past guest list that includes a French president and Hollywood movie stars. The favored tables (and they squeeze a fair few in) are under a weathered blue-and-beige pergola that looks directly onto the beach and around to the port. While smooth jazz and swing plays in the background, diners feast on items from a French-language menu that offers Oualidia oysters, shrimp, calamari, lobster, and a wide selection of line fish. There's also a small choice of other meats, soups and salads, three-course set menus, and Chez Jeannot's suggestions du jour. A well-stocked bar is complimented by a select wine list, chosen by local vintner Charles Melia. It's not cheap (there's a minimum charge of 100dh/$13/£6.25 per person) and can at times be frightfully chi-chi, but the cuisine and views are worth the indulgence.
