Local Take

Three Marrakesh insiders open their style files.

Maryam Montague

Human rights advocate, blogger, owner of Peacock Pavilions hotel

My work takes me all over the Middle East and Africa, but Marrakesh is my home. I bring visitors to Fadila El Gadi (by appointment only), which makes one-of-a-kind women’s and men’s clothing. Beldi Country Club is great for a casual poolside lunch. Pepe Nero opened last year in an old riad in the medina—the chef, Khalid Robazza Essafa, trained at Michelin-starred restaurants in Italy.

Fabrizio Bizzarri

Owner, Ministero del Gusto gallery

My partner, Alessandra Lippini, and I opened our gallery in Mouassine in 1998; we restore vintage furniture and host art installations. Back then, the expat community was small. Galerie 127, in Guéliz, is owned by a Frenchwoman; she represents international and Moroccan photographers. Another one to watch is Topolina (134 Dar El Bacha; 212-6/5134-5795). Designer Isabelle Lallemang buys djellabas and rugs and “upcycles” them with silk, lace, or tassels to make wraps, shoes, and bags.

Redha Moali

Founder, Dar al-Ma’mun, and owner, Fellah Hotel

I run an international center that promotes the cultural scene in town; we have lectures and performances throughout the year. A wonderful place for tea close to Djemaa el-Fna is Terrasse des Épices. The Bahia Palace is a real treasure that showcases Marrakshi-Andalusian architecture, popular in the late 19th century. In Guéliz, I go to Le Kechmara, owned by two Frenchmen, who often organize concerts. Locals gather there for lunch or cocktails.