Visiting Tangier during the summer is always a good idea. B&B’s, pastry shops, art space… Shoelifer has discovered five brand-new or soon-to-open spots that will make you see the Door of Africa with a new perspective.
Villa Mabrouka
Ever dreamt of staying at Yves Saint Laurent’s place? Well, starting from June 21, you can make that dream come true. The former residence of the YSL-Pierre Bergé couple will open its doors as a luxury guesthouse. Acquired in the 90s by this legendary duo, it was recently sold to British designer Jasper Conran. He has diligently renovated and decorated Villa Mabrouka, skillfully blending Moroccan craftsmanship with touches of contemporary design. Today, the Villa Mabrouka boasts 12 suites that combine comfort and refinement. If you’re not staying there, you can still have lunch at their restaurant or enjoy a drink on their rooftop, which offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean.
Le Kiosk
The Think Tanger agency, founded by cultural entrepreneurs Hicham Bouzid and Amina Mourid, has set up its new showcase (and offices) on Omar Bin Alhass Street. Does that ring a bell? It should, as it’s a well-known street in Tangier, home to the Les Insolites bookstore, artists’ workshops, and one of the most popular antique shops in the city. The Kiosk aims to become a vibrant space where anyone can learn about the city of Tangier (like a real kiosk) and participate in its hotbed of culture. The premises are still a work in progress, but don’t hesitate to stop by. Two events are already scheduled: the launch of the second issue of the Makan magazine on July 22, and a solidarity market on Sunday, August 6.
Maison Citron
In the heart of the Kasbah, in a former Portuguese colonial-style house, illustrator Myriam au Citron and her sister are opening a pastry shop and tea salon. The concept? A friendly place where you can indulge in homemade French pastries, artisanal ice cream, hot drinks, or fresh fruit juice. You can spend the whole day there, enjoying the colorful (yellow, pink, green) and ultra-graphic environment, which blends Myriam’s illustrations with the aesthetics of Wes Anderson’s films. The locations will be announced soon on the artist’s Instagram account. Stay tuned!
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Villa Augustine
Villa Augustine, an intimate 5-room guesthouse with a panoramic view of the city and the strait, truly makes us want to visit Tangier. We’re completely charmed by the decoration (orchestrated by self-taught interior decorator Willem Smith, also responsible for Riad Augustine in Marrakech), which prominently features works by contemporary Moroccan artists like Leila Alaoui or M’barek Bouhchichi, as well as designer furniture. Note that the restaurant is exclusively reserved for guests, so you’ll have to book a night (or more) if you want to enjoy the experience.
La Muralla
Little is known about this newly opened establishment in Tangier. All we know is that it’s located in the heart of the Kasbah and offers a superb view of Tangier’s rooftops through the cracks in the city’s walls. Recommended by insiders, we haven’t had the chance to visit yet. If you happen to go, please share your feedback with us. Here’s the address.