Scam in MoroccoFood and drink
Complimentary food added to the bill in Morocco
How it works
Staff bring small plates of fries, salad or other food as though they are complimentary. Each plate later appears on the bill.
Warning signs
- Food arrives that you did not order.
- Staff describe extras as complimentary without clearly confirming they are free.
How to avoid it
- Decline extras you did not order.
- Confirm all prices before eating.
- Pay when your ordered meal arrives.
If it happens to you
Point out the items you did not order. If pressure continues, seek help from the tourist police patrolling the square.
- Get to a safe, busy place. Do not chase a thief or physically resist a robbery.
- If you are hurt or suspect drugging, seek medical help immediately.
- Freeze missing cards and contact your card issuer about unauthorised payments. Lock a stolen phone remotely if possible.
- Save receipts, booking messages and payment records. Write down what happened, where and when.
- Report theft, threats or fraud to police. Ask for a report or reference number for your insurer.
- Contact your insurer, booking provider or embassy as needed. Use the evidence you saved when requesting help or a refund.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
Questions
What is the complimentary food added to the bill scam in Morocco?
Staff bring small plates of fries, salad or other food as though they are complimentary. Each plate later appears on the bill.
How can I spot it early?
Food arrives that you did not order. Staff describe extras as complimentary without clearly confirming they are free.
How do I avoid complimentary food added to the bill in Morocco?
Decline extras you did not order. Confirm all prices before eating. Pay when your ordered meal arrives.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Point out the items you did not order. If pressure continues, seek help from the tourist police patrolling the square.
Where in Morocco does this happen?
Djemaa El-Fna food stalls, especially at night It has been reported in Marrakech.
How much can it cost me?
5 dirham for each small extra plate.
How common is this scam in Morocco?
Occasional. Morocco is generally safe, but tourists often face persistent touts, false guides and inflated prices. Marrakech needs extra care, while Fez has elaborate guide and tour scams; pickpocketing and taxi overcharging also occur in several cities.
Are there similar scams in Morocco?
Yes: food-stall blocking and false friendship, orange juice price switch, watered-down juice.
Who can I report it to?
Police: report theft, robbery, threats or fraud. Give the location, time and any receipts or messages. Ask for a report or reference number. Tourist police at Djemaa El-Fna, Marrakech: approach a patrol for help with harassment, intimidation or a disputed food-stall bill. Airport security at Marrakech-Menara Airport: ask for help if an airport ATM retains your card. Bank or card issuer: use its official app or verified contact number to freeze a card, report unauthorised payments or question undisclosed ATM fees. Accommodation, booking provider or tour business: report the problem through the official reception desk or booking channel. Provide the agreed price and evidence of what was delivered. Travel insurer: use the claims or assistance contact in your policy. Keep police reports, receipts and medical records. Your embassy or consulate: use its official contact details if your passport is stolen or you need consular help.
What number do I call in an emergency in Morocco?
Police — listed for Marrakech: 19, Ambulance / Fire — listed for Marrakech: 15.
Reviewed by @snuck