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Egyptian Restaurants Guide from Street to Chic

Egyptian Restaurants Guide from Street to Chic

When it comes to experiencing Egypt, food is not just a necessity — it’s an adventure. Whether you’re craving smoky kofta grilled over charcoal, a delicate seafood platter by the sea, or a five-star gourmet meal with a Nile view, Egypt’s food scene is bursting with flavor and culture. In this blog, we’ll take you on a curated culinary journey through three key categories of restaurants in Egypt:

-Authentic Local Eateries

-Mid-Range Casual Restaurants

-Luxury Fine Dining Spots

Each section features 5–6 of the most well-known and beloved restaurants in its category. We’ll explore where they’re located, what dishes to try, what makes each place special, how to get there, and what to expect — plus bonus insights and handy links to images for each spot.

 

Authentic Local Eateries (Budget-Friendly Gems)

These restaurants are where you’ll find real Egyptian flavors — often crowded, lively, and incredibly satisfying.

1. Koshary Abou Tarek (Cairo)

Abou Tarek

  • Location: Downtown Cairo
  • Google Maps: Abou Tarek
  • What to Try: The legendary koshary, a mix of lentils, pasta, rice, chickpeas, fried onions, and tomato sauce.
  • Why Go: Abou Tarek is a Cairo icon — cheap, fast, and full of flavor.
  • Vibe: Quick-service, busy, and always buzzing.

 

2. El Prince (Cairo)

El Prince

  • Location: Imbaba, Cairo
  • Google Maps: El Prince
  • Specialty: Molokhia, liver, kofta, and lamb fatta
  • Why It’s Famous: A favorite for locals and celebrities. Huge portions, intense flavors, and long lines.
  • What Stands Out: Their molokhia is among the most flavorful in Egypt.

 

3. Sobhy Kaber (Shubra)

Sobhy Kaber

  • Location: Shubra, Cairo
  • Google Maps: Sobhy Kaber
  • Known For: Grilled meats, fattah, hawawshi, and oven-roasted dishes.
  • Experience: Family-friendly and loud; the kind of place where you dig in with your hands.
  • What Makes It Special: Authentic Egyptian grill with huge variety.

 

4. Felfela (Downtown Cairo)

Felfela

  • Founded: 1959
  • Google Maps: Felfela
  • Atmosphere: Traditional decor, old Cairo charm
  • Must-Try: Taameya (Egyptian falafel), foul sandwiches, and mixed grills
  • Bonus: Good for vegetarians

 

5. Abo Haidar (El Korba)

Abo Haidar

  • Specialty: One of the best shawarma sandwiches in town
  • Google Maps: Abo Haidar
  • Why Locals Love It: It’s small, chaotic, and full of flavor
  • Opening Hours: Usually from early evening till midnight

 

Mid-Range Casual Restaurants (Great Value & Vibe)

Perfect for travelers who want clean, tasty meals in relaxed atmospheres — without breaking the bank.

Zooba

1. Zooba (Multiple Locations)

  • Type: Modern Egyptian street food
  • Top Picks: Taameya sliders, foul bowls, spicy fries
  • Decor: Artistic, Instagrammable, hip
  • Why Visit: A modern twist on Egyptian classics
  • Link: Zooba Official Site

 

2. Kazoku (New Cairo)

Kazoku

  • Cuisine: Japanese fusion
  • Google Maps: Kazoku
  • Crowd: Trendy professionals and young foodies
  • Known For: Sushi, ramen, teriyaki steak
  • Ambiance: Minimalist chic with outdoor seating

 

3. Tamara Lebanese Bistro (City Stars, Cairo Festival City)

Tamara

  • Style: Elegant Lebanese casual dining
  • Must Try: Mezze platters, grilled halloumi, kebabs
  • Vibe: Cozy yet upscal
  • Link: Tamara Lebanese Bistro 

 

4. Sequoia (Zamalek, Cairo)

Sequoia

  • Cuisine: Mediterranean & Egyptian
  • Google Maps: Sequoia
  • View: Nile-side terrace
  • What Makes It Popular: Sunset dining with shisha and mixed platters
  • Reservation Needed: Yes

 

5. Crave (Multiple Branches)

Crave

  • Cuisine: International & Fusion
  • Popular Dish: Chicken rolls, mushroom risotto
  • Why Go: Reliable, flavorful food with a casual tone
  • Link: Crave

 

Fine Dining & Luxury Experiences

These upscale restaurants offer gourmet meals, unique atmospheres, and unforgettable service.

1. Pier 88 (Zamalek, El Gouna, Hurghada)

Pier 88

  • Cuisine: Italian-Mediterranean
  • Ambiance: High-end, on-the-water vibe
  • Best For: Romantic nights, elite dinners
  • Must Try: Truffle pasta, seafood risotto
  • Link: Pier 88

 

2. Sachi (Heliopolis / Sheikh Zayed)

Sachi

  • Type: Mediterranean-Japanese fusion
  • Awards: Voted one of Africa’s 50 Best Restaurants (2023)
  • Highlights: Wagyu beef sliders, signature cocktails
  • Vibe: Sophisticated, dim lighting, elegant
  • Link: Sachi Egypt

 

3. Le Deck by Laurent Peugeot (Cairo by Sofitel)

Le Deck

  • Chef: Michelin-starred Laurent Peugeot
  • View: Floating deck on the Nile
  • Menu: French-Japanese fusion tasting menu
  • Dress Code: Smart casual/formal
  • Link: Le Deck

 

4. Birdcage (Semiramis InterContinental, Cairo)

Birdcage (Semiramis InterContinental, Cairo)

  • Type: Fine Thai dining
  • Known For: Aromatic curries, fresh seafood, elegant interior
  • Best Dish: Green curry and tom yum soup
  • Link: Birdcage

 

Comparison Table

Feature Local Eateries Mid-Range Restaurants Fine Dining
Price Range $–$$ $$–$$$ $$$–$$$$
Ambiance Casual & lively Relaxed & stylish Elegant & exclusive
Reservation Needed Rarely Sometimes Always recommended
Typical Dishes Koshary, grills Fusion, mezze, sushi Gourmet international
Dress Code Casual Casual-smart Smart/formal
Tourist-Friendly Very Very Very

 

Final Thoughts

Egypt’s food scene reflects its rich culture, layered history, and modern vibrance. Whether you’re sitting cross-legged on a sidewalk enjoying koshary, or sipping wine under the stars at a fine dining rooftop, the country offers something for every taste and budget. This guide gives you a curated list to start with — and the rest is up to your sense of taste and adventure.

How can we help?

Find out our latest news, promotions, and professional tips. Know before you book your next Egypt tours

Absolutely — just look for busy spots (that means high turnover and fresh food) and avoid raw vegetables or tap water in lower-end places.

 

Yes, especially at places like Pier 88, Sachi, and Le Deck

Tipping (baksheesh) is customary in Egypt. Leave 10–15% at restaurants unless already included

Yes, especially at places like Zooba, Felfela, Tamara, and Sachi

Most are easily reachable by Uber/Careem in major cities. Fine dining spots often offer valet parking

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