Darija for Restaurants: Essential Moroccan Dining Phrases

Introduction

Eating out in Morocco is an experience full of flavors, smells, and culture. But if you don’t speak Darija, ordering at a restaurant or café can feel tricky.

In this guide, you’ll learn essential Moroccan Arabic (Darija) phrases to use in restaurants, cafés, and street food stalls — so you can order confidently and enjoy your meals like a local.

Basic Restaurant Phrases

Tip: Start your order with “bghit…” — it’s the polite and common way to say “I would like…” in Morocco.

Ordering Drinks

Cultural note: Moroccans often enjoy tea with every meal. Offering a guest tea is considered polite.

Ordering Food

Tip: Always ask about spice level if you’re not used to Moroccan food — many dishes are flavorful and spicy.

Asking Questions at the Restaurant

Pro tip: Moroccans appreciate when you try to speak Darija, even just a few words. They usually respond warmly!

Street Food & Casual Dining

If you’re eating in street stalls or local cafés, here are extra useful phrases:

Tip: Bargaining is expected at markets, but less common in formal restaurants.

Cultural Tips for Dining in Morocco

• Moroccans usually eat with their right hand, especially when sharing traditional dishes.

• Saying “bismillah” (in the name of God) before eating is polite.

• Always thank the host or server: shukran (thank you) is simple but appreciated.

• At traditional Moroccan meals, sharing dishes is common — it’s a sign of hospitality.

Learn More with Daily Darija

If you enjoyed these restaurant phrases, you’ll love learning more real-life Darija in the Daily Darija courses.

• Speak confidently in cafés, restaurants, and souks

• Learn everyday vocabulary and pronunciation

• Understand Moroccan culture while you learn

🎯 Start learning today: Join the Daily Darija Course