Egypt’s capital city, Cairo, is renowned for its mouthwatering food, busy streets, and extensive history. Several restaurants in the city provide a distinctive eating experience, serving anything from foreign cuisine to traditional Egyptian meals. This article will discuss the top eateries in Cairo.
Everyone can find something to enjoy in Cairo, whether they are visitors or locals. From upscale restaurants to street food vendors, the city has a diverse gastronomic culture. This post will introduce readers to some of Cairo’s top dining establishments, including both upscale and affordable fine dining establishments.
1. Abou El Sid
Abou El Sid is a restaurant in Cairo, Egypt that offers authentic Egyptian cuisine in a traditional and ambient atmosphere. The restaurant has several locations, including Zamalek, Heliopolis, 6th of October, and New Cairo.
The restaurant and wall art create a nostalgic ambiance, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists. Abou El Sid is known for its classic Egyptian dishes, including kosher, molokhia, and stuffed pigeon.
The restaurant is a great choice for people searching for a substantial dinner because of its affordable prices and ample servings. The kind and welcoming staff provides great service to every customer at Abou El Sid.
2. Sequoia
In the center of Cairo’s Zamalek neighborhood stands the well-known Nile-side eatery Sequoia. The restaurant offers guests a distinctive dining experience in a laid-back setting with a breathtaking view of the Nile.
The distinctive Mediterranean cuisine offered on the Sequoia menu highlights fresh ingredients. Two of the restaurant’s specialty seafood dishes are grilled octopus and shrimp risotto. Vegetarian alternatives include quinoa salad and roasted veggie tarts.
Apart from its culinary offerings, Sequoia is renowned for its wide selection of cocktails, comprising both traditional and specialty drinks. The resort is ideal for sipping a drink and taking in the stunning Nile vista.
Sequoia is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a unique dining experience in Cairo. With its delicious food, extensive cocktail menu, and stunning view, it’s no wonder Sequoia has become one of the most popular restaurants in the city.
3. Zitouni
Zitouni is a highly-rated restaurant on the third floor of the Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at Nile Plaza. It offers a unique dining experience to its guests.
The restaurant specializes in authentic Egyptian cuisine, prepared using the freshest ingredients. The menu is diverse and features various dishes catering to different tastes and dietary requirements. Some of the signature dishes include Kushari, Molokhia, and Fattah.
Zitouni is a top-notch restaurant with delicious food, excellent service, and a beautiful ambiance. Whether you’re a local tourist or not, this restaurant is worth a visit if you’re looking for an authentic Egyptian dining experience in Cairo.
4. Taboula
The Lebanese eatery Tabula is situated in Cairo’s Garden City. It is renowned for its real Lebanese food, which combines flavors from the Middle East and the Mediterranean. With a TripAdvisor rating of 4.5, the restaurant is ranked #84 out of 1,416 restaurants in Cairo.
The restaurant serves many foods, such as fish, grilled meats, and hot and cold mezze. Hummus, baba ghanoush, mixed grill, and seafood platter are a few of the suggested items. The pricing is fair, and the portions are substantial.
Taboula’s am With soft lights and Arabic music blaring in the background, Taboula is warm and welcoming. The employees are attentive and kind, giving clients outstanding service.
Tabula is an excellent choice for anyone seeking authentic Lebanese cuisine in Cairo. With its delicious food, inviting atmosphere, and exceptional service, it is no wonder that it is a popular spot among locals and tourists alike.
5. Kazoku
Kazoku is a Japanese restaurant in Cairo, Egypt, that offers a unique dining experience with contemporary Japanese cuisine. The restaurant is known for its sophisticated menu, which award-winning Chef Reif Othman curates. Chef Reif takes guests on a journey of Japanese flavors, offering authentic and innovative dishes.
In addition to the food, Kazoku has a talented mixologist, Walid Merhi, who curates the drinks to complement the dining experience perfectly. Guests can enjoy a variety of cocktails and other beverages that are expertly crafted and pair well with the food.
The restaurant’s name, su, means “family” in “Japanese,” and the restaurant’s name reflects this sentiment. The warm and inviting restaurant ambiance makes guests feel like they are part of the family.
6. Sachi
Sachi is a renowned restaurant chain that is making waves in Egypt’s food industry. With three locations in Heliopolis, Almaza Bay, and Park St, Sachi was voted the best restaurant in Egypt by “The World’s 50 Best Restaurants” in 2022.
Sachi’s Menu Sachi’s interpretation of international and Mediterranean cooking emphasizes the use of locally and freshly sourced ingredients. The cuisine and dedication to providing outstanding hospitality enhance every dining experience at the restaurant chain.
Sachi Cairo, located in El-Montaza, Heliopolis, has also debuted on the MENA’s 50 Best Restaurants 2023 list. Food critics and enthusiasts have highly regarded the restaurant’s original guest-focused spot from Baky Hospitality.
Sachi is a must-visit for those seeking a unique and unforgettable dining experience in Egypt. With its exceptional food, service, and ambiance, Sachi has rightfully earned its place among the best restaurants in the country.
7. Osmanly
Osmanly is a Turkish restaurant in the luxurious Kempinski Nile Hotel in Garden City, Cairo. It is one of the most popular restaurants in the city and offers an exquisite dining experience for those who appreciate Turkish cuisine.
8. Birdcage
Birdcage is a popular restaurant in Cairo, Egypt. It is known for its Asian and Thai cuisine, which has received high praise from both locals and tourists alike. The restaurant is situated in the Corniche El Nil Semiramis InterContinental Cairo, a prime location for visitors to the city.
Birdcage is renowned not only for its food but also for its chic and refined ambiance. The restaurant’s stylish contemporary decor is ideal for a night out with friends or a romantic supper. The friendly and helpful personnel guarantee a great eating experience for customers.
9. Maison Thomas
Maison Thomas is a well-known restaurant in Cairo, Egypt that has been serving Italian cuisine for over 100 years. The restaurant is located in the Zamalek neighborhood and is easily accessible by car or public transportation. Thomas’s unique aspect is that they make their own homemade grandma salsa recipe with fresh tomatoes daily, adding authentic flavor to their dishes.
Maison Thomas’s warm and welcoming ambiance makes it the ideal spot for a romantic supper or a night out with friends. The eatery serves a selection of Italian fare, such as pasta, pizza, and shellfish. The portions are substantial, and the pricing is fair.
10. Koshary Abou Tarek
Koshary Abou Tarek is a must-visit restaurant for those seeking an authentic Egyptian experience. It is located in the heart of Cairo and is one of the most popular restaurants in the city. The restaurant is known for its signature dish, Koshary, a staple food in Egypt.
After serving this dish for more than 60 years, Koshary Abou Tarek has established himself as a Cairo institution. The service is prompt and effective, and the restaurant has a laid-back, basic vibe.
The main ingredients of the dish are rice, lentils, chickpeas, and macaroni. It is garnished with crispy fried onions and hot tomato sauce. It is a tasty and substantial lunch or dinner option. In addition, the restaurant serves salads, grilled chicken, and falafel.
Koshary Abou Tarek is a great place to experience authentic Egyptian cuisine. The restaurant has a rich history and is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Cairo.
Dining Culture in Cairo
Cairo is well-known for its thriving culinary scene, which blends contemporary dining styles with traditional Egyptian fare. WWCairo examines Cairo’s dining scene in this part, showcasing both traditional Egyptian fare and contemporary dining options that are becoming increasingly popular in the city.
Traditional Egyptian Cuisine
Egyptian food is renowned for its flavorful and distinctive ingredient combinations. Traditional food is part of Egyptian culture, which has been shaped by the many civilizations that have ruled the land throughout the ages, including the Pharaonic, Roman, Turkish, and British.
Egyptian cuisine is also known for its street food, which is popular among locals and visitors. Some famous street foods are Ta’ameyancalTa’ameyaeya, alTa’ameya, falafel made from ground fava beans and spices, and Kofta, a grilled meatball.
Modern Dining Trends
In recent years, Cairo has seen a rise in modern dining trends, with many restaurants offering international cuisine and fusion dishes. The city has diverse restaurants catering to different tastes and preferences.
One of the popular modern dining trends in Cairo is the farm-to-table movement, which emphasizes using locally sourced and organic ingredients. Many restaurants in the city are now sourcing their ingredients from local farms and markets, incorporating them into their menus.
Another trend gaining popularity in Cairo is the concept of food halls, which are large indoor markets that offer a variety of food options from different vendors. These food halls are great places to sample other cuisines and flavors in a casual and relaxed setting.
Popular Dining Districts
Cairo has several dining districts that are popular among locals and tourists. One of the most famous districts is Khan El Khalili, known for its street food and traditional cafes. Visitors can try local delicacies such as kosher, falafel, and shawarma from street vendors or dine in one of the many historic cafes.
Another famous district is Zamalek, which is known for its upscale restaurants and cafes. Visitors can find a range of international cuisines, such as Italian, French, and Japanese. The district also has several rooftop restaurants that offer stunning views of the Nile River.
Local Etiquette and Tips
Visitors should know local etiquette and tips when dining in Cairo to ensure a pleasant dining experience. Egyptians are known for their hospitality, and visitors can expect to be greeted warmly by restaurant staff.
Tipping restaurant staff in Cairo is customary, with a standard tip of 10% of the total bill. Visitors should also dress modestly when dining in traditional cafes or restaurants. Women should cover their shoulders and avoid wearing shorts or short skirts.
Visitors should also be aware of the local dining customs. It is expected to share dishes in Cairo, and visitors should not be surprised if their dining companions take food from their plates. It is also customary to eat with your hands, mainly when eating traditional dishes such as kosher or foul.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-rated luxury dining experiences in Cairo?
Cairo has an abundance of high-end dining options for those seeking an opulent dining experience. Top-rated upscale eateries in Cairo include Sequoia, Zitouni, and Abou El Sid. These eateries combine contemporary cooking methods with traditional Egyptian fare, gorgeous décor, and faultless service.
Which Cairo restaurants offer the best Nile views?
Several restaurants in Cairo fit the bill for those looking to enjoy a meal with a breathtaking view of the Nile. Sequoia is famous for offering a stunning view of the Nile and the Cairo skyline. Zitouni is another excellent option, with a beautiful outdoor terrace overlooking the Nile.
What are the must-visit restaurants in New Cairo?
New Cairo is home to several great restaurants that are worth a visit. Some of the must-visit restaurants in the area include Kazoku, which offers a unique blend of Japanese and Egyptian cuisine, and Tabula, known for its delicious Lebanese dishes.
What dining options are popular in Maadi for food enthusiasts?
Maadi is a popular neighborhood in Cairo known for its diverse dining scene. For food enthusiasts, some popular dining options in Maadi include Abou El Sid, which offers traditional Egyptian cuisine, and Sequoia, known for its Mediterranean-inspired dishes.
Where can I find the best culinary experiences in Heliopolis?
Heliopolis is another neighborhood in Cairo known for its excellent dining options. For the best culinary experiences in the area, check out Zitouni, which offers a unique blend of traditional Egyptian and Moroccan cuisine, and Abou El Sid, known for its delicious Egyptian dishes.
