A popular lunch spot in the centre of town, the Samarkand serves the standard Moroccan roster — tagines, grilled kefta, harira, and fresh-baked bread — at prices locals actually pay. The food is not elaborate but it is honest and well-cooked. The chicken tagine with preserved lemon is a reliable choice; the lentil soup is good on cooler evenings.
The clientele is mostly local workers, kite instructors on their lunch break, and the occasional overlander. A good place to eat without pretension and to watch the commercial centre of Dakhla go about its day.