Café l'Esprit review: our verdict
Two floors, two moods. Downstairs, large windows and books to read or discuss in shelter; up top, a terrace that basks in Essaouira's sun. Between the two, tasteful décor and a house-made menu: lemonades, yoghurt bowls, daily pastries, and especially this msemen topped with avocado, yoghurt, dates and almonds, which marries sweet and savoury.
The café is run by a young couple who take the time to chat over tea, and it changes everything: you come for a break, you stay for the conversation. Readers, couples and friends wandering the medina find their corner on rue Touahen. Those planning a late lunch will be disappointed: the kitchen closes around 2pm, even though the house keeps its doors open until 10pm.
The dish to order: the msemen with avocado, yoghurt, dates and almonds, with a house-made lemonade. The best slot: the morning on the rooftop, in the sun, before the kitchen closes. The best tip: don't leave without tasting a house-made pastry.
