L’Artiste

L'Artiste is a stylish restaurant and lounge bar in the Gauthier district that takes its inspiration from the acclaimed silent film The Artist. The venue describes itself as a place that combines past and present, and it makes a good choice for an evening that moves from dinner to drinks without changing address.

The space is larger and more varied than most bars in the area. There are two lounge bars, where you can order tapas and house specialities with your drinks, and two dining areas serving an international menu. Varied artistic performances form part of the programme, adding to the sense of occasion and giving the evening a theatrical edge that fits the venue's cinematic theme.

L'Artiste opens from 17:00 to 02:00, according to the regional tourism council, so you can start with an early-evening aperitif and tapas, stay for dinner and finish late in the lounge. Weekends are naturally the liveliest nights. For dinner, especially in a group, book ahead, and check what kind of performance is planned if that matters to you. Smart casual dress suits the setting, and it is worth arriving before the late-evening rush if you want to choose where to sit.

The venue suits couples, groups of friends celebrating an occasion and anyone who enjoys a mix of good food, drinks and entertainment in a stylish setting. It is a more polished option than the city's sports bars and a more central alternative to the beach clubs of the Corniche. Prices are in the upper-middle range for the city. As with all bars in Morocco, carry ID, and be aware that bar opening may change during Ramadan.

Rue Jean Jaurès is in Gauthier, one of the liveliest districts of central Casablanca for eating and drinking, a short taxi ride from Mohammed V Square and Parc de la Ligue Arabe. Start the evening with a sunset drink at a rooftop bar in the centre, then come here for dinner and a late drink. Petits taxis are easy to find for the journey back to your hotel, but agree the fare or ask for the meter before setting off.