Lonely Planet Review
A dual-purpose restaurant and riad (town house), Bab Firdaus is unique among the smaller riads in being able to offer food at any time of the day without making a reservation first. The restaurant also makes for a busy, sociable atmosphere in what can sometimes be the too-quiet atmosphere of a riad.
Although it's not exactly the gateway to heaven as the name implies, the riad has a stylish, modern Moorish feel. Four rooms and three suites make up the accommodation around the house, but given the restaurant on the ground floor it is best to opt for a room around the gallery. The decoration is classically Arabian, blending moucharabieh (latticework grills), dark wood furnishings and blood-red drapes with some very comfortable mod cons. In winter it's warm and cosy, although in the hotter months the decor can feel heavy. Suites No 2 & 3 are best due to the extra space you get, whilst rooms No 4 & 5 are a little cramped for the price. It is worth noting that the chef used to work at the Palais Royal in Rabat, so you can be sure of some good food, both Moroccan and Provençal in style.
Review by author
Paula Hardy