Marrakesh is a destination that has long been lusted after by the jetset, including the likes of Talitha Getty, Winston Churchill and co, as well as now a smorgasbord of Insta-famous models and bloggers. Nonetheless, Marrakesh holds appeal for the west thanks to its sensory souks, spice markets, zellige and (not to be forgotten) food. And while the city is host to a vast array of Arabic foods found at many a market stall, there are five eateries in particular that every visitor to the desert city can’t afford to miss. With spice, flavour, and style in ample supply.

El Fenn is considered one of the best hotels in Morocco and has an impressive array of awards to prove its worth. The boutique riad is owned by Richard Branson’s sister and is a colourful enclave of hidden rooms, private pools, and jaw-dropping terraces (you need only look to its gallery for proof). Sitting on top of the hotel with views overlooking Marrakesh is its restaurant – a haven of cocktails and traditional dishes, as well as a handful of European favourites thrown in for good measure. Derb Moulay Abdullah Ben Hezzian, 2, Marrakesh, el-fenn.com.

Amidst the bustling streets of Marrakesh’s famed medina sits hidden oasis Le Jardin. The 16th century building houses walls and floors of green tiles and foliage, making the venue a cool oasis away from the overwhelming sights and sounds of the bustling labyrinth outside. Traditional dishes are the specialty – guests shouldn’t go past the assortment of Moroccan salads, pastilla and tagine on offer. 32 Souk Jeld Sidi Abdelaziz, Marrakesh, lejardinmarrakech.com

Luxe resort Beldi Country Club is not only home to a particularly lavish (and Instagram-friendly) garden, but a spa, and (of course) an impressive restaurant. Not only is the menu at El Badia delicious but interchanging dependant on the day and season. It’s also roaming – during spring, summer and autumn, the restaurant sits next to a large swimming pool and is surrounded by olives trees. During the winter, the restaurant is reborn as, El Messraf and moved within the riad, in front of the rose garden, with a beautiful view on the Atlas Mountains. KM6 route du Barrage, BP 210, Marrakech, beldicountryclub.com

Moroccans know how to utilise a rooftop and Nomad Restaurant is no exception. With a view that overlooks Rahba Lakdima spice square (places des épices), Nomad is four levels of contemporary Moroccan cuisine. The venue is a haven for tourists thanks to its location, as well as its focus on local produce and flavours. 1 Derb Aarjan, Rahba Lakdima, Marrakesh, nomadmarrakech.com

Café des Épices is considered a go-to when it comes to Marrakesh’s best food offerings. Sitting right in the centre of the medina, the quiet cafe is a space to regain your cool after hours spent trawling the surrounding stalls. The eatery is a snack haven, abundant in mint tea (a Moroccan specialty), pastries, salads, sandwiches and petite tajines. 75 Derb Rahba Lakdima, Marrakesh Medina, cafedesepices.net