Rick’s Cafe Casablanca

Rick’s Cafe Casablanca: The Ultimate Guide (Myth vs. Reality, Menu & Tips)

Are you planning a trip to Morocco and wondering if Rick’s Cafe Casablanca should be on your itinerary? As one of Casablanca’s most iconic establishments, this legendary venue immediately evokes images of Humphrey Bogart, Ingrid Bergman, and that unforgettable line: “Play it again, Sam.” But here’s what you need to know right away: Rick’s Cafe Casablanca is not the actual cafe from the movie—it’s a loving recreation that opened in 2004. Despite this reality check, this extraordinary venue offers a magical experience that transports visitors to the romantic world of the 1942 classic film.

Founded by former American diplomat Kathy Kriger, Rick’s Cafe Casablanca has become a must-visit destination that beautifully balances movie nostalgia with authentic Moroccan hospitality. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know before visiting Rick’s Cafe Morocco: its fascinating history, the truth behind the movie connection, the atmospheric interior, culinary offerings, live music, practical visitor information, and ultimately, whether it’s worth including in your Casablanca itinerary.

The Real Story: History & Genesis of Rick’s Cafe Casablanca

The story behind Rick’s Cafe is almost as fascinating as the film that inspired it. Kathy Kriger, an American diplomat who served at the U.S. Consulate in Casablanca, fell in love with both Morocco and the classic film “Casablanca.” After the 9/11 attacks in 2001, Kriger decided to stay in Morocco and create something positive that could bridge cultures—a real-life version of the fictional cafe portrayed in the movie.

Kriger’s journey wasn’t easy. She purchased a traditional Moroccan mansion (riad) dating back to the 1930s in Casablanca’s Old Medina. The building featured the trademark architectural elements that would make it perfect for recreating the film’s ambiance: curved arches, a central courtyard, and balconies overlooking the main space. However, transforming this traditional home into a functioning restaurant required extensive renovations while preserving its historical character.

After securing investments from friends and overcoming numerous bureaucratic obstacles, Kriger’s vision finally became reality when Rick’s Cafe Casablanca opened its doors in March 2004. Her mission wasn’t simply to create a tourist attraction but to establish a sophisticated dining destination that paid homage to the film while maintaining authenticity and quality.

Sadly, Kathy Kriger passed away in 2018, but her legacy lives on in the cafe that continues to operate with the same attention to detail and atmosphere she envisioned. As she wrote in her memoir “Rick’s Cafe: Bringing the Film Legend to Life in Casablanca,” the establishment was designed to make visitors feel “not that they are in the actual film set, but in the mood of the film.”

Deconstructing the Myth: Movie vs. Reality

Before planning your visit to Rick’s Cafe Casablanca, it’s essential to understand the relationship between the movie and this real-world establishment. This clear distinction helps manage expectations and enhances appreciation for what the cafe actually represents.

The Surprising Truth

The first revelation that surprises many visitors: the original film “Casablanca” was shot entirely on Warner Brothers’ soundstages in Hollywood, not in Morocco. In fact, Humphrey Bogart never set foot in the real Casablanca! The movie’s cafe, “Rick’s Café Américain,” was purely fictional and existed only as a set design.

What’s Similar

Despite being a recreation, Rick’s Cafe Casablanca captures the essence of the film remarkably well:

• Architectural Elements: The curved arches, wrought iron details, and balustrades mirror the movie’s North African colonial style.
• The Piano: Just like in the film, a grand piano takes center stage, with live music performances reminiscent of Sam’s iconic playing.
• Lighting & Ambiance: The subdued lighting from brass lamps creates the moody, atmospheric quality that defined the film’s interior scenes.
• Memorabilia: Subtle nods to the movie appear throughout the space, including framed photographs and posters.
• The Bar Area: The curved bar with high stools echoes the film’s layout, inviting patrons to order a “Champagne cocktail” just like Victor Laszlo.

What’s Different

Understanding these differences helps set proper expectations for your visit:

• Age: While the building itself dates to the 1930s (contemporary with the film’s setting), the restaurant only opened in 2004.
• Location: The cafe is located in Casablanca’s Old Medina near the port, not at an airport as depicted in the film.
• Size: Rick’s Cafe Casablanca is actually larger and more elaborate than the movie set version, spanning multiple levels.
• Authenticity: It’s a tribute rather than a replica, blending Moroccan architectural elements with the film’s Art Deco aesthetic.

Inside Rick’s Cafe: Ambiance, Decor & Atmosphere

Stepping into Rick’s Cafe Casablanca is like walking onto a more luxurious version of the film set. The architecture and décor create an immersive experience that captures both the romance of the movie and the elegance of traditional Moroccan design.

The entrance leads into a central courtyard typical of Moroccan riads, with balconies on upper floors overlooking the main space. Intricate tilework known as zellij adorns the walls, while carved wooden screens (mashrabiyas) filter light in patterns across the floor. Brass lamps cast a warm glow throughout the space, creating intimate pools of light that enhance the romantic atmosphere.

The ground floor centers around the famous curved bar and piano area, where the house pianist regularly performs the iconic “As Time Goes By” along with other jazz standards from the 1940s. Comfortable seating areas feature plush banquettes and antique furniture, encouraging guests to linger over drinks or dinner.

Ascend the curving staircase to discover more intimate dining spaces on the upper floors. The second level features a wrap-around balcony with tables that offer views of the live music below. For those seeking privacy, curtained alcoves provide secluded dining areas perfect for special occasions.

Throughout the cafe, careful attention to period details enhances the ambiance. Vintage ceiling fans spin lazily overhead, potted palms add tropical greenery, and black-and-white photographs of Casablanca (both the city and the film) adorn the walls. The overall effect is transportive—not quite the movie set, but perhaps something even better: a romanticized vision of what Rick’s Cafe might have been if it had existed beyond the silver screen.

The Culinary Experience: Food & Drinks at Rick’s Cafe Morocco

While many visitors come to Rick’s Cafe primarily for the atmosphere and movie connection, the culinary offerings deserve attention in their own right. The menu strikes a thoughtful balance between international classics and Moroccan specialties, catering to both travelers seeking familiar comfort food and those eager to explore local flavors.

Menu Highlights

The restaurant offers a diverse selection that changes seasonally, but signature dishes typically include:

Starters:

• Traditional Moroccan salads (zaalouk, taktouka)
• Pastilla (savory-sweet pastry with seafood or pigeon)
• Goat cheese bruschetta with honey and thyme
• Fresh seafood appetizers featuring Atlantic catches

Main Courses:

• Lamb tagine with prunes and almonds
• Seafood bastilla (a coastal variation of the traditional pastry)
• Grilled Mediterranean sea bass
• Couscous royale (with lamb, chicken, and merguez sausage)
• Prime beef tenderloin with cognac-peppercorn sauce
• Vegetarian options including vegetable tagines and couscous dishes

Desserts:

• Orange blossom crème brûlée
• Traditional Moroccan pastries
• Dark chocolate fondant
• Fresh fruit with honey and mint

The Bar Experience

The bar at Rick’s Cafe deserves special mention, as it’s often where first-time visitors gravitate. The cocktail menu features classics from the 1940s as well as signature creations:

• “Here’s Looking At You Kid” (a champagne cocktail)
• “The Casablanca” (gin-based with local herbs)
• An extensive wine list featuring both Moroccan and international selections
• Premium spirits and liqueurs

Price Range

Rick’s Cafe Casablanca positions itself as a fine dining establishment, and the prices reflect this status. Expect to pay:

• Starters: 80-150 MAD (approximately $8-15 USD)
• Main courses: 180-350 MAD (approximately $18-35 USD)
• Desserts: 70-120 MAD (approximately $7-12 USD)
• Cocktails: 100-150 MAD (approximately $10-15 USD)

While these prices are higher than typical Moroccan restaurants, most visitors find the combination of quality cuisine and unique atmosphere provides good value for a special experience.

“Play It Again, Issam?”: The Music at Rick’s Cafe Casablanca

No visit to Rick’s Cafe would be complete without experiencing the live music that brings the setting to life. Just as Sam’s piano playing provided the emotional heartbeat of the original film, live performances at Rick’s Cafe create an authentic connection to the movie’s most memorable moments.

The Piano & Musicians

The cafe features a beautiful grand piano positioned prominently in the main room. While the house pianist isn’t named Sam (often it’s Issam, in a nod to the film), the musical selections deliberately evoke the film’s era and atmosphere. Professional pianists perform nightly, typically beginning around 9:00 PM, though afternoon sessions sometimes occur during peak tourist seasons.

Musical Repertoire

The musical program focuses on jazz standards from the 1940s and 1950s, with special emphasis on songs featured in or reminiscent of the film. Visitors can expect to hear:

• “As Time Goes By” (performed multiple times throughout the evening)
• American jazz standards by composers like Cole Porter and George Gershwin
• Occasionally, Moroccan interpretations of classic jazz pieces

The music volume is carefully balanced to allow for conversation while still creating an immersive atmosphere. During busy periods, especially weekend evenings, the piano is sometimes accompanied by additional musicians on bass or percussion.

For many visitors, the moment when the pianist plays the first notes of “As Time Goes By” creates the single most powerful connection to the film, often eliciting spontaneous applause or sing-alongs from delighted guests.

Planning Your Visit: Essential Practical Information

To ensure the best experience at Rick’s Cafe Casablanca, here’s everything you need to know before your visit:

Location & Getting There

Address: 248 Boulevard Sour Jdid, Casablanca 20250, Morocco
Landmark: Near the Old Medina and port area, approximately 5 minutes from Place des Nations Unies
Transportation Options:

• Taxi is the most convenient option (ensure the driver uses the meter or agree on a price beforehand)
• Within walking distance from major downtown hotels
• Limited parking is available nearby for those with rental cars

Hours of Operation

• Lunch: 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM daily
• Dinner: 6:30 PM – 1:00 AM daily
• Bar: Open continuously from noon until closing

Reservations

Reservations are strongly recommended, especially for dinner and weekend visits. The cafe is extremely popular, and walk-ins are often turned away.

How to Reserve:

• Phone: +212 5224-27900
• Email: [email protected]
• Website: www.rickscafe.ma
• Through your hotel concierge (often the easiest option for tourists)

Request your preferred seating area (bar, main floor, or balcony) when making reservations.

Dress Code

Rick’s Cafe maintains a smart casual dress code, particularly for evening dining:

• No shorts, flip-flops, or beachwear
• For men: Collared shirts preferred; jackets not required but common in the evening
• For women: Smart casual attire; many visitors dress up for the experience

Photography Policy

Photography for personal use is permitted and encouraged. However, the management requests:

• No flash photography during musical performances
• Respect other diners’ privacy
• Professional photography requires advance permission

Best Times to Visit

• For atmosphere with fewer crowds: Weekday lunches
• For the full experience with music: Dinner any night (music typically starts around 9:00 PM)
• For special occasions: Request an upstairs table for more privacy

The Verdict: Is Rick’s Cafe Worth Visiting?

After exploring every aspect of Rick’s Cafe Casablanca, the question remains: should you include it in your Moroccan itinerary? The answer depends on your travel priorities, budget, and personal connection to the film.

Pros

• Extraordinary atmosphere that successfully evokes the romance of the film
• High-quality food and service in a memorable setting
• Live music that creates an authentic connection to the movie
• Knowledgeable staff who often share interesting stories about the cafe’s history
• A unique experience that blends film nostalgia with genuine Moroccan elements

Cons

• Higher prices than typical local restaurants
• Can feel touristy during peak hours
• Requires advance planning and reservations
• Not an authentic, traditional Moroccan dining experience
• May disappoint film purists expecting an exact recreation of the movie set

Who Should Visit Rick’s Cafe

• Film enthusiasts with appreciation for “Casablanca”
• Travelers seeking a special, memorable dining experience
• Romantic couples celebrating special occasions
• Those interested in unique cultural fusion experiences
• Visitors who appreciate themed environments with attention to detail

Who Might Want to Skip

• Budget travelers focused on authentic local eateries
• Those with no interest in or knowledge of the film
• Visitors seeking traditional Moroccan cuisine in an authentic setting
• Travelers with very limited time in Casablanca

Our Recommendation

For most visitors to Casablanca, Rick’s Cafe offers a worthwhile experience that combines cinematic nostalgia with genuine quality. While it’s certainly a constructed experience rather than an authentic slice of local life, it delivers exactly what it promises: a romantic tribute to a beloved film in a beautiful setting with good food and music.

The key to enjoying Rick’s Cafe is managing expectations. Go for the atmosphere, stay for the food, and embrace the fantasy. After all, as Rick himself might say, “We’ll always have Casablanca.”

Tips for the Best Experience at Rick’s Cafe Morocco

To make the most of your visit to Rick’s Cafe Casablanca, consider these insider tips:

• Book well in advance – Reservations are essential, especially during tourist high season (spring and fall).
• Request specific seating – Tables near the piano offer the best music experience, while balcony tables provide a great overview of the entire space.
• Arrive early for dinner – Coming 30 minutes before your reservation allows time to enjoy a drink at the bar and soak in the atmosphere.
• Visit twice if possible – Experience both lunch (quieter, more relaxed) and dinner (livelier, with music) for different perspectives.
• Order at least one Moroccan dish – While international options are excellent, the local specialties often showcase the kitchen’s best work.
• Stay for the music – Even if you dine early, consider lingering for a nightcap when the piano music begins.
• Dress for the occasion – Slightly dressier attire enhances the experience and fits the sophisticated ambiance.
• Bring cash and credit cards – While cards are accepted, having some cash for tips is advisable.
• Watch the film before your visit – Revisiting “Casablanca” before dining at Rick’s enriches the experience by highlighting the thoughtful references.
• Check for special events – The cafe occasionally hosts jazz nights and special performances worth planning around.

Beyond Rick’s: Context within Casablanca

Rick’s Cafe makes an excellent anchor point for exploring other attractions in Casablanca. Consider these nearby highlights to round out your experience:

Hassan II Mosque – Just a short drive from the cafe, this architectural masterpiece is Morocco’s largest mosque and one of the few open to non-Muslim visitors. Its seaside location and extraordinary craftsmanship make it Casablanca’s must-see attraction.

Old Medina – Rick’s is located near the edge of Casablanca’s historic district. While smaller and less maze-like than medinas in Fes or Marrakech, it offers authentic local color and shopping opportunities before or after your meal.

Place Mohamed V – This central square showcases impressive French colonial architecture and serves as the heart of downtown Casablanca, perfect for an evening stroll.

Corniche – Casablanca’s beachfront promenade offers refreshing sea breezes and excellent people-watching opportunities, particularly pleasant before an evening at Rick’s.

Many visitors incorporate Rick’s Cafe into a single day exploration of Casablanca before continuing to other Moroccan destinations like Marrakech, Fes, or the Sahara Desert.

Conclusion: Your Casablanca Beginning

“I think this is the beginning of a beautiful friendship” – and your visit to Rick’s Cafe Casablanca might just be the beginning of a beautiful journey through Morocco. This thoughtfully created establishment offers something rare in tourism: a place inspired by fiction that succeeds in creating its own authentic experience.

While not the actual film location, Rick’s Cafe offers something perhaps more valuable – a living tribute that captures the essence of the movie’s romance while providing excellent cuisine and service. By understanding what Rick’s truly is – and isn’t – visitors can fully appreciate the unique experience it offers.

Whether you’re raising a glass of champagne at the bar, enjoying Moroccan specialties while piano music fills the air, or simply absorbing the atmosphere of a place where reality and cinema fantasy beautifully merge, Rick’s Cafe Casablanca creates memories that, like the film itself, will stand the test of time.

Have you visited Rick’s Cafe Casablanca? We’d love to hear about your experience in the comments below! And for more inspiration for your Moroccan adventure, explore our guides to Marrakech, the Atlas Mountains, and unforgettable Sahara Desert experiences.

This comprehensive guide to Rick’s Cafe Casablanca was created by Morocco Travel 4×4, offering customized, exclusive journeys across Morocco’s most iconic destinations. Contact us to plan your perfect Moroccan adventure with expert guides, premium transportation, and authentic accommodations.