Le Cabestan

Le Cabestan has been part of Casablanca's dining scene since 1927, which makes it one of the oldest restaurant names in the city. It sits right on the rocks beside El Hank Lighthouse, at the eastern start of the Corniche, with the Atlantic filling the windows. A full renovation has given it a contemporary, designer look both inside and on the terrace facing the ocean, and it now presents itself as three elegant spaces under one roof, including a bar-lounge.

The cooking is international and upmarket. Highlights include matured meats, dishes built around truffle, and a refined tapas menu for sharing, alongside other dishes. The kitchen publishes its current food and drinks menus on its website, so you can check what is on offer before booking. This is a place for a long dinner with a view rather than a quick bite, and the drinks list makes it equally suitable for an aperitif at sunset.

The restaurant seats around 250 people and has a large car park, which is unusual on this busy stretch of coast. It is open for lunch and dinner. For a table by the window or on the terrace, especially at sunset, reserve well ahead; the restaurant can be contacted by phone or through the WhatsApp link on its website. Smart dress suits the setting in the evening.

Le Cabestan suits couples, special occasions and business dinners, and anyone who wants to combine good food with one of the best ocean views in Casablanca. It is at the top end of the city's price range, so it is less suited to budget travellers, though a drink and a few tapas in the bar-lounge is a more affordable way to enjoy the setting.

The restaurant is at 90 Boulevard de la Corniche, at the foot of El Hank Lighthouse, a short taxi ride west of the Hassan II Mosque and east of the main Ain Diab beaches. Plan an afternoon visit to the mosque, a walk along the coast past the lighthouse and dinner here as the sun goes down over the ocean, followed by drinks elsewhere on the Corniche if you want to continue the evening.