Julie C.

Voices of Morocco is a storytelling series that highlights the creatives shaping Morocco today. From designers and curators to artists and makers, each feature offers a personal lens into life, place, and process. Through their words, we explore what inspires their work, how they navigate Morocco, and the spaces, rituals, and ideas that continue to influence their craft, both within and beyond their daily practice.

Born and raised in Marrakech, Julie has spent years shaping experiences rooted in celebration, hospitality, and connection. After nearly a decade working in the events industry, producing weddings and private events, she shifted her focus to Bloom House, a cozy restaurant, coffee spot, and yoga and pilates studio. An epicurean at heart, she loves good food, never says no to a drink, and finds joy in sharing the magic of her city with anyone who visits.


In conversation, she shares her personal map of Marrakech, the rhythms of daily life, and the spaces that continue to inspire how she lives and hosts.

What’s the first thing you tell someone to do when they arrive in Marrakech?

Slow down and feel the energy of the city. Marrakech has this warm, magnetic pulse. You meet the kindest people, wander through breathtaking places, and eat such good food.

What part of the city captures its true spirit for you?

Marrakech is a city with many faces. There’s the ancient Medina, where tradition, craftsmanship, and daily life blend in the most vibrant way. Then there’s Guéliz, the modern side of the city, full of great places to eat, drink, shop, and explore. And just outside Marrakech, the magic continues, the mountains and desert are only an hour away and offer wild nature, calm, and beauty that often feels unreal.



If someone only had 24 hours here, how would you spend the day with them?

Twenty-four hours is definitely not enough, you would miss so much. But for a first-time visit, the Medina is non-negotiable. We would dive straight into its atmosphere, explore the colors, the sounds, the crafts, and feel the heartbeat of the old city. We’d stop for a traditional tajine, simple, authentic, and delicious.

Sunsets in Marrakech are not to miss. The perfect spot is a rooftop in the Medina, watching the sky turn gold and pink. Kabana is a great one, right in front of the Koutoubia Mosque. After that, we’d head back into the city for a drink. Marrakech at night has a special energy. And of course, we’d end with a fun dinner, good music, and probably stay out far too late, but that’s the Marrakech way.

Where do you go to eat like a local?

The Marrakech food scene has so much to offer, and you can eat incredibly well without spending much. I love stopping at street stands for a generous Moroccan breakfast, or heading to Les Négociants to sit on the sunny terrace with a delicious mint tea. It is one of the oldest cafés in Guéliz and a true local staple. I also love going to a petrol station for grilled meat and the best Tafernoute bread. Al Baraka, on Route de Fès, is a classic.


There are also so many amazing restaurants. Mizaan is great for sharing-style food. Have a drink at the bar and, if you’re in the mood, end the night in their speakeasy, a private club hidden in the kitchen that gives it such a fun vibe. Comptoir Darna is a must, the show, the atmosphere, and the DJs on weekends are always incredible. +61, Mouton Noir, and Petit Cornichon are all great canteen-style spots with consistently good food and inspiring people behind them. Bagatelle is also a favorite, a classic French style brasserie open since 1942 where the food is always simple and good. And for a truly traditional Moroccan experience, Dar Yacout remains one of the best, both the food and the setting are unforgettable.

Is there a café or restaurant that feels like a ritual stop for you?

Bloom House is my second home since I manage it, but it’s also a place where people come to recharge with good coffee, good food, and a peaceful vibe when Marrakech feels a bit too hectic. I also love the places in my neighborhood. My Saturday routine is heading to the organic market at Pétanque Social Club, then stopping for a coffee and a chat with my friend Laura at her coffee and flower shop, The Bloom Room. I usually end my morning with lunch at Café de La Poste, an iconic spot in Guéliz.


What’s a dish or drink everyone should try at least once?

Without hesitation, chicken couscous. It’s my forever favorite. You should also try a traditional tajine, full of spices and comforting flavors. For drinks, mint tea is essential, we drink it all day long. 1112 in the Medina is a beautiful tea house where you can taste teas from different regions of Morocco. And if you’re into gin and tonics like I am, Palmaràe is a unique Marrakech-inspired gin with botanical notes you won’t find elsewhere.


Are there any artisans, designers, or local makers visitors shouldn’t miss

Marrakech is incredibly inspiring for fashion and homeware, it’s hard to narrow it down. LRNCE is an amazing fashion and homeware brand, and their Riad Rosemary is also worth visiting. Topolina is a super cool fashion boutique run by a mother–son duo. Lalla makes beautiful carpet bags, I get stopped in the street every time I wear mine. Côté Bougie is perfect for candles, their scents and designs are just beautiful. And for home décor, the Medina, Essaouira Road, and Ourika Road are full of incredible artisans making lamps, ceramics, furniture, and more.

Do you have a favorite spot to escape the buzz of the city?

On Sundays, I love taking the car and escaping just outside of Marrakech. My go-to is Farasha Farmhouse, run by Fred and Rosena. It’s perfect for a farm-to-table lunch and a relaxing pool day, and sometimes they even have DJs, which makes for the best parties in the most beautiful setting. The Atlas Mountains and Ourika Valley are also perfect for a nature escape.


What makes Marrakech feel like home to you?

Marrakech has a special smell and energy that instantly feels like home. I feel deeply connected to its people, and even after all these years, I’m still amazed by the culture, the inspiring people I meet every day, and the slow, joyful, balanced life I’m lucky to live here.

How would you describe the city in a few words?

Vibrant, timeless, warm, inspiration, culture, tradition.

What do you hope visitors feel beyond the postcards?

The warmth of the people, the little surprises around every corner, and the layers of culture, craft, and history. I want them to feel the city’s rhythm, experience both the quiet moments and the vibrant chaos, and leave feeling connected, inspired, and in love with Marrakech.



We’re so grateful to Julie for sharing her love for Marrakech and the places that shape her daily life. Follow Bloom House at to keep up with the latest. 

Photography by Alami Photography and Justine Ronsin.

Photography courtesy of Pétanque Social Club, Riad Rosemary, and Farasha Farmhouse.