Food can be hit or miss in Marrakech, and often the best meals you'll have are at your riad, where local chefs create dishes based on family recipes. But if you're looking for something other than the traditional Moroccan fare, a meal at Le Bis (6-7 Rue Sakia el Hamra; Semlalia, Gueliz; tel. 024/446-634; www.lebis-jardindesarts.com) is a nice break. The French restaurant is located in Gueliz, away from the hustle of the Medina and, seemingly, in another world. Behind enclosed walls is a spacious garden with spherical lighting hanging from trees, while white, black, and gray dominate the indoor dining room's palette. The space is stark and stylish, accented by an entire wall of ornamental plaster, seating comfortable enough to sink into, and a notably pretty toilet, covered in mosaic mirror tile. The French menu is surprisingly affordable and focuses on fresh ingredients and light fare, including crisp salads with apples, tomatoes, asparagus, or eggplant; a variety of fish and preparations, with creative accompaniments (risotto made from pumpkin rather than rice); and a selection of beef, duck, and lamb. Owner Laurent Bocca is happy to work with vegetarians, and the dishes are no less tasty sans meat.
photo: Anuja Madar
