A culinary journey through the Middle East
and North Africa
One of Andalucia’s prime eating destinations, the Jardín del Califa serves authentic Moroccan and Middle Eastern food in stone vaulted dining rooms with a lush palm-filled courtyard. Set in an emblematic 16th century building the Califa is open every day in the heart of Vejer’s old town
Immerse yourself with the trickle of the fountain, the scent of jasmine and the rustle of the palms. Enjoy amongst many other dishes traditional mezze, harira, tagines, couscous, succulent lamb kebabs and kofta from our barbecue or crispy pastelas of chicken and almonds. Our homemade desserts include baklava, Moroccan pastries, chocolate fondant with tahini and date cheesecake amongst other delicacies.
While here enjoy the views from our panoramic terrace at the Tetería del Califa ideal for an aperitif or a digestif. We serve teas, coffees, pastries and cocktails from midday to midnight.
One of Andalucia’s prime eating destinations, the Jardín del Califa serves authentic Moroccan and Middle Eastern food in stone vaulted dining rooms with a lush palm-filled courtyard. Set in an emblematic 16th century building the Califa is open every day in the heart of Vejer’s old town
Enjoy our food
Sit down, unwind and enjoy a glass of fine wine under the palms while perusing our menu, a faithful representation of some of the finest dishes from Morocco and the Middle East.
Using traditional recipes, with many ingredients from our own farm, we are proud of our commitment to tasty, wholesome and healthy eating.
Our chef
Meet Khadija Essaadi our Executive Chef and general manager. Born and raised in Souk el Arba in the Kenitra province of Morocco Khadija’s training is in the great tradition of generational cooking with recipes being handed down from her mother, grandmother and great grandmother.
Her travels in North Africa, Turkey and Lebanon have given her a knowledge of eastern mediterranean cooking which combined with her own gastronomic background has created the culinary journey that is a meal at the Califa.
La Tetería del Califa
A magical place to disconnect and enjoy the best views of Vejer. If you have a lunch or dinner reservation, we recommend our panoramic terrace for an aperitif or digestif. We also serve teas, coffees, pastries, and cocktails from noon until midnight.
Healthy eating
At the Jardín del Califa, we blend gastronomy and sustainability to offer you the finest healthy, organic, and locally sourced ingredients.
Most of our vegetables come from our own smallholding in La Muela just a couple of kilometres from Vejer.
We use mainly free-range chickens and organic beef and lamb. Our sugar, flour, legumes, grains, and eggs are also sourced from organic producers, ensuring authentic, responsible, and flavourful cuisine.
Not only does it taste better – you also have the assurance that you’re enjoying top-quality, sustainable ingredients. Delicious!
History & Art
The Jardín del Califa opened its doors in 2002, more than 500 years after the building was founded in 1527. Originally built by the Diocese of Cádiz as the main grain store and tax office of Vejer, it is now considered the most important historic private building in town.
For centuries, the ‘corral’ was a meeting point for farmers and traders bringing their goods to market. Today, dining at the Califa is more than a culinary experience: it’s a journey through history, culture, and art. While enjoying our dishes, you’ll also discover a curated collection of art and artefacts from Morocco and the Middle East, each with its own story that evokes a rich and vibrant past.
Group menus
Gift vouchers
Things to do
Enjoy a cocktail in an intimate setting
Immerse yourself in the cosy interior of our ‘Teteria’, adjacent to the restaurant, while you enjoy the art, sip a cocktail or sample handmade pastries.
Relax in the Hammam
Complete your culinary experience with a relaxing session at our Hammam just a few minutes walk from the Jardin del Califa.
Stay in a hotel with soul
Thinking about somewhere to stay? We offer a variety of options with history, a swimming pool, views, comfort, design, and style – enjoy the full Califa experience.
Enjoy a cocktail in an intimate setting
Immerse yourself in the cosy interior of our ‘Teteria’, adjacent to the restaurant, while you enjoy the art, sip a cocktail or sample handmade pastries.
Relax in the Hammam
Complete your culinary experience with a relaxing session at our Hammam just a few minutes walk from the Jardin del Califa.
Stay in a hotel with soul
Thinking about somewhere to stay? We offer a variety of options with history, a swimming pool, views, comfort, design, and style – enjoy the full Califa experience.
