Essaouira boasts several iconic establishments that stand out for their quality, authenticity, and unique specialties. Here are the essential addresses for a memorable pastry experience during your stay in this Moroccan coastal city.
Pâtisserie Driss – The Century-Old Institution
Founded in 1928, Pâtisserie Driss remains the absolute reference in Essaouira with 1,290 positive reviews. Located at 10 rue El Hajjali on Moulay Hassan square, it offers a vast selection of gazelle horns, oriental pastries, and savory puff pastries in a shaded patio decorated with historic photographs. The tasting salon with terrace allows you to savor your purchases with mint tea or fresh orange juice at very affordable prices
Pâtisserie La Bienvenue – Moroccan Excellence
Voted best Moroccan pastry shop in Essaouira by travelers, La Bienvenue stands out for its refined cakes perfectly balanced in sweetness, without the honey overload characteristic of some tourist pastry shops. Located on Avenue Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah, it offers comfortable Moroccan salons, exceptional fruit juices, and perfectly balanced mint tea that ideally accompanies the pastries. Savory options are also available in a clean and calm setting.
Pumpkin – The Artisanal American Touch
For American travelers seeking revisited familiar flavors, Pumpkin offers artisanal pastries from around the world including sourdough bread, sweet-savory viennoiseries, and delicious sandwiches. This modern bakery combines American techniques and local Moroccan ingredients, creating a gastronomic fusion appreciated by expats and tourists
La Maison Gourmande – French Elegance
This French pastry shop in Essaouira excels in authentic viennoiseries (croissants, chocolate croissants) and classic pastries. With 98 positive reviews, it captivates with its consistent quality and European craftsmanship preserved in a Moroccan setting.
Chez Miloud – The Legendary Msemen
A local institution for Moroccan layered pancakes (msemen), Chez Miloud on Avenue Al Istiqlal draws crowds at all hours. Customers gather in front of the hot plates to enjoy these pancakes plain, with honey, or with butter, accompanied by mint tea or traditional soup. Unbeatable prices for an authentic street-food experience.
Patachou Boulangerie Pâtisserie – Discreet Charm
Specializing in quality French pastries, Patachou has 27 encouraging reviews despite sometimes improvable service. The establishment is worth the detour for its refined creations in a less touristy neighborhood of Essaouira.
L’Atelier – Café Boutique – The Creative Touch
With 175 positive reviews, this Georgian café-boutique offers creative homemade desserts that venture off the beaten path. Perfect for curious travelers seeking to diversify their pastry experience beyond Moroccan classics.
