Fodor's Expert Review La Trattoria

Due partly to the pizzazz of its late owner, Giancarlo, La Trattoria has long held a place among Marrakesh's top restaurants and, unlike others, has kept up a consistently high standard. Tables are tightly packed around the pool area and advance reservations are recommended to try the hallmark Italian homemade ravioli and seafood pasta variations. The current owner, Mohammed Anaflouss, took over in 2000, and with neo-Moorish renovations overseen by Bill Willis, this ornate restaurant still draws a loyal and select clientele. Tapas and predinner drinks can be enjoyed in the lush terrace bar, with jungle foliage in danger of dipping into your aperitif to the background music of a resident pianist. Alcohol is served. Ask you waiter for a recommendation of which pastas are homemade and which seafood is fresh that day.