Le Grand Balcon du Café Glacier is a café beside Jemaa el-Fnaa, with a terrace looking down over the square and towards the Koutoubia Mosque. Come for a drink and a high-up view of the market, street performers and evening crowds, not for a meal: food is not consistently available. Mint tea is a popular order, and coffee and soft drinks are also served. The terrace fills around sunset, so arrive early if you want to choose a seat facing the square.
A terrace above Jemaa el-Fnaa
The café sits beside Jemaa el-Fnaa, with terrace seating that looks over the square. From above, you can watch people cross the market, street performers draw a crowd and the evening stalls come to life. The Koutoubia Mosque is also visible from the balcony.
The view is the main reason to stop here. A drink gives you time to watch the activity below, but this is not a dependable choice for food. Reports about the menu differ, so plan your meal elsewhere.
Choosing a time and a seat
Sunset is a popular time to visit, and the terrace can become crowded then. Seats facing the square are often taken first, so arriving before the light fades gives you more chance to find one. If you come later, the view still takes in the square and its evening activity.
There is also seating downstairs, where you can have coffee and look towards Jemaa el-Fnaa. For the balcony, expect to pay a charge that includes a drink. Payment arrangements and prices are not consistently described, so check before ordering and carry Moroccan dirhams.
What to order
Mint tea is the familiar choice for a pause above the square. Coffee is another option, with cortado listed on the menu; mojitos are also available. The selection of drinks may be limited, and food availability is unclear, so come for a refreshment and the view rather than a full meal.
FAQ
Does the terrace have an entry fee?
A charge to enter the terrace is reported, with a drink included. Check the terms before going upstairs.
What can you see from the terrace?
The balcony overlooks Jemaa el-Fnaa, with views towards the Koutoubia Mosque.
Does Le Grand Balcon du Café Glacier serve food?
Food availability is unclear, and some accounts say it is not served. Plan to eat elsewhere.
When is the terrace busiest?
It can get crowded around sunset. Arrive earlier if you want a better chance of choosing a seat facing the square.
