Triana Cafe and Restaurant

After hiking up the short but powerful climb to the Spanish Mosque, (Hiking and Savoring the Sunset at Bouzafer Mosque – the Spanish Mosque – in Chefchaouen Morocco), I met up with the rest of the group for dinner. As Rachid led us through the winding streets of Chefchaouen, I was struck by how effortlessly beautiful the walk was. Others complained by how seemingly long the walk was. However, at that time – I was used to the Moroccan Time Estimate process: if Rachid said that something was 15 minutes away – it was actually 30 minutes. But, I knew it would be worth it.

Triana Cafe and Restaurant was that – and more.

Arriving, the group was seated with a sweeping view of Chefchaouen. As we collectively relaxed and some of the women ordered wine, the conversation flowed. I mostly tuned it out and minded myself with the business of what to order.

Previously, Rachid had mentioned that Chefchaouen was known for goat cheese. So, it was only natural that I would take our server’s advice and order it.

When the Hot goat cheese (hot cheese, tartlet with honey and walnuts) arrived, I wanted to take it with me and ship it back to California. It was that good.

Sharing it and passing it around the table, it was a pleasure that other’s felt the same way. Even later in the trip, the hot goat cheese dish from Triana Cafe and Restaurant stood out as one of the best dishes I enjoyed in all of Morocco.

My choice for dinner – the catch of the day of freshly caught sea bass with rice and fries – was outstanding.

I even tried Kim’s chicken pastia, which was also delicious.

Plus – as an added touch of hospitality – when I was cold, our kind server found me a cozy jacket to snuggle in.

After the bill was settled and we gathered to walk back to Casa Hassan, I was extremely satisfied.

The quiet path was filled alive with vibrant voices. Walking a bit ahead of everyone, I found myself in quiet reflection. I also noticed the floor, glittering with sparkles beneath our feet.

Lately, I’ve found myself avoiding group photos, becoming uncomfortably aware of how different I look in my 40s compared to the way I did in my 20s. For the first time, I truly understand my mother’s own private struggle with aging.

But on this trip, hiding wasn’t an option. These women keep pulling me in, insisting I stand with them, insisting I be seen in group photos. They remind me that I need to appear in the memories, too. To remind myself that I was actually there, not just the unseen person behind the camera.

Truly, Triana Cafe and Restaurant provided a delicious and lovely dinner and was an outstanding spot of rest during our group’s time in Chefchaouen, Morocco. And not only that – but the pathway back to the riad gave me a deeper reflection on what it means – to me – to not only write about my travels.

But, also to be seen in them.

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