The Rich History of Lescal Bar in Marrakech
Lescal Bar, nestled in the vibrant city of Marrakech, continues to narrate the stories of the city despite its changing locations. Originally, this establishment functioned as a modest hotel situated near the bustling Jamaa el Fna square, an area once brimming with bars and close to the iconic Mabruka cinema. During that era, Jamaa el Fna was not merely a square for storytellers and street performers; it was a melting pot where diverse faces and tales converged, accompanied by drinks of all kinds. However, in the early 1970s, around 1973 and 1974, everything began to shift. Authorities decided to relocate bars from the old city to prevent alcohol from being so openly available to the public, and Lescal was among those affected. It moved from the ancient city to the Gueliz neighborhood, finding a new address while retaining its loyal clientele.
A Unique Atmosphere and Culinary Delights
Upon entering Lescal, visitors are greeted by an ambiance reminiscent of a traditional Marrakech home. The entrance leads into a cozy lounge area featuring a bar counter, and the main space is adorned with sunlight streaming through a window, allowing even the rain to find its way inside on occasion. Adjacent to the kitchen, two beautifully tiled rooms add to the charm of this simple architecture, making it feel integrated into the spirit of the city rather than an incongruous bar that appeared overnight in Marrakech. Over the years, Lescal attracted a diverse crowd, from French expatriates who chose to stay in Marrakech to locals who became 'addicted to the glass,' as memories of that generation recall. The bar evolved into a gathering spot for tour guides, merchants, and artists, each bringing their own story to share.
Lescal is not only renowned for its drinks but also for its culinary offerings, particularly its grilled specialties. The bar became famous for dishes such as kebabs, sausages, and fried chicken marinated in herbs, olive oil, and grilled lemon. Diners would race to savor these delights. Although the grill is no longer on-site, the chef has opened a nearby establishment where loyal customers still flock to enjoy their meals before returning to Lescal for drinks. The bar's late owner, a French woman who passed away last year, was dedicated to maintaining the establishment’s reputation, even ensuring Lescal was featured in a globally recognized travel guide, "Le Routard." Among the notable patrons who visited was English footballer David Beckham, who reportedly enjoyed grilled kebabs and left feeling delighted, according to Youssef, an employee at the bar.
During the Marrakech International Film Festival, Lescal sees a significant influx of artists, directors, and producers, often accompanied by foreign guests. Today, the bar is managed by the owner's daughter, and Lescal remains a fixture in Gueliz, bridging the gap between an older generation familiar with its history and a younger crowd unaware that this bar holds a fragment of Marrakech's collective memory from Jamaa el Fna and the transformative 1970s. However, one notable drawback of Lescal is its policy of only serving Moroccan women who hold a foreign passport.
As reported by goud.ma.
