Riad Al Fassia Palace

We were honored to be the first cooking class in the new kitchen of this spectacular Riad! Riad Alfassia Palace is owned by a wonderful family. We shopped for ingredients in the market with Karima, who shared her cooking techniques, secrets and recipes with us. We cooked alongside Karima and her sisters-in-law, and we met her sons, nephews and nieces. In addition to learning how to cook couscous the Moroccan way (i.e., the only way!), we made a variety of Moroccan salads, lamb tagine and chicken tagine. We taught Karima about a different approach to one of the salads, but she taught us so much, from preserving lemons to how to properly use spices. I ended up buying a tagine and carrying it back home with me! We didn't stay in the Riad, but I have to say it is beyond spectacular and one of the most beautiful interiors we saw during our trip. The workmanship is stunning, from the mosaics to the woodwork to the plaster and painting. Everywhere you look is a treat for the eyes. Karina's husband developed most of the designs, and her brother-in-law, whom we met, is the master wood artisan. The Riad has room after room of beauty, and it would be a treat to stay there. We were also fortunate to see their restaurant, which is equally stunning. We have several reasons to go back to Fes! This family is wonderful, kind and extremely hospitable. We were so glad they joined us to eat, and a marvelous feast was had by all!

There are lots of riads in Fes. What makes Riad Alfassia Palace stand out? This isn't just a business with employees passing the time until they go home. This is a family house run by a family who welcomes you as though you're their relatives. The owner is a wonderful Moroccan native who truly treats you like family. He went far beyond expectations to make sure everything was perfect during our stay . . . even going so far as to take us to a restaurant on the other side of town when we mentioned we didn't know how to get there. And when we asked about buying copperware from Place Seffarine (the coppersmiths area), he offered to come along and help us pick out a quality piece! This riad offers a taste of true Moroccan hospitality. In addition to the owner, you'll likely meet his sweet and adorable twin boys who pitch in around the riad; his wonderful older son, and his lovely wife. The riad is located in Achabine quarter - an awesome location where you'll find the best street food in Fes (bessara soup, fried liver, vermicelli chicken...). For those with physical limitations, note that the alley leading to the riad is a pretty steep walk, and there are no elevators in the riad, so you'll be doing lots of climbing. We thought this was a great way to burn all the calories we ate in Fes! Also, be sure to check out the riad's sister restaurant, Dar Hatim, which is located just one street over.

We had a delicious authentic Moroccan dinner with our travel group. It is truly a family affair! Mom/Grandma cooked us a beautiful dinner of pastilla, delicious lentils, beans, eggplant… and home made ice cream! Her son told us about the house history and Dad helped served us.

During my visit to this Riad I think that it is one of the best places in the city of Fez through the excellent services available, good food, dealing with customers, and very reasonable expectations. I advise you about this excellent place.

I think this is the best Riad I've ever visited! I spent a whole week with my friends and all I can say is that I am very happy that I discovered this place, everything was perfect, Food / design / art / rooms, everything was soo good and heartwarming, the owners were very nice to us too, they did a great job representing the moroccan culture, known for its hospitality , all I can say is that trying this Riad was actually worth it, 5 stars for me!

Incredible, magical stay. This Riad is truly palatial. From the moment you walk in, you’re treated by stunning architecture. We were also greeted with fresh mint tea and Moroccan pastries. The room we stayed in was wonderful and quiet. The winter is chilly here but the room was heated and the shower had ample hot water. The bed was also very comfortable and we slept well. The terrace was amazing. We had an unobstructed view of the Medina and it was peaceful. Faoud picked us up from the airport when we landed and also arranged a tour for us with Khalid. Khalid showed us around Fez and planned an incredible walking tour. He is fluent in many languages and so knowledgeable about Fez and its history. We had an incredible tour with Khalid- he made our stay in Fez complete. Faoud, Kareema were wonderful hosts. Karim, who works at the Riad, was extremely helpful with our luggage and so kind. Their son also was friendly and kind. It felt like staying at a family home. Cant recommend more highly!