Cairo is a city where history and tradition blend seamlessly, from ancient monuments to oldest restaurants and cafés. Some eateries have stood the test of time, offering a taste of Egyptian and international flavors for over a century. These iconic venues are dining spots and windows into Cairo’s past, where artists, writers, and intellectuals have gathered over the years. This article explores Cairo’s oldest and most cherished restaurants and cafés, each a historical landmark with a unique story, style, and setting.
Overview
Cairo’s oldest restaurants and cafés are symbols of the city’s vibrant past and cultural evolution. They reflect the different influences and tastes that have shaped Egypt’s culinary scene. Here, you’ll find beloved Egyptian institutions alongside European-inspired cafés, offering everything from authentic Egyptian dishes to pastries, Greek mezze, and Italian classics.
Beit Zeinab Khatoon
Location:
Near Al-Azhar Mosque, Cairo
Historical Background:
Beit Zeinab Khatoon is a historic Mamluk home. It was first constructed in 1486, with later Ottoman-era extensions. It bears the name of Zeinab Khatoon, the wife of Prince Al-Sharif Hamza Al-Kharboutly, its previous owner. However, she has been a significant individual in her own right since 1798, when she risked her home to host injured combatants in the Egyptian resistance to Napoleon’s French occupation.
Overview:
Today, Beit Zeinab Khatoon is a protected heritage site. Its open courtyard features a cafe named Tekiyt Khan Khatoon, where you may drink coffee and shisha or place an order while taking in the old architecture. Beit Zeinab Khatoon dates back to the Ottoman era and was originally a residence. It has since been converted into a cultural center and restaurant, preserving its historical charm. The restaurant is known for its traditional Egyptian cuisine, which is served in an authentic setting with original architecture. Guests can dine while admiring the historical décor, which includes ornate woodwork and Islamic design elements.
Nearby Attractions:
The restaurant is close to Al-Azhar Mosque and Khan El-Khalili, allowing visitors to explore Cairo’s historic district.
El Fishawy Café
Location:
Khan El-Khalili, Cairo
Historical Background:
Established in 1773, El Fishawy is Cairo’s oldest café and a gathering place for artists, poets, and locals. The café was a favorite haunt of Nobel laureate Naguib Mahfouz, who immortalized it in his writings.
Overview:
El Fishawy is famous for its traditional décor, vintage mirrors, and dim lighting, creating a timeless ambiance. Guests can enjoy a cup of mint tea or Turkish coffee while soaking in the rich atmosphere and watching the bustling life in Khan El-Khalili.
Nearby Attractions:
Located within Khan El-Khalili, El Fishawy is steps away from Al-Hussein Mosque, making it a convenient stop for tourists exploring the market and surrounding Islamic landmarks.
Groppi
Location:
Talaat Harb Square, Downtown Cairo
Historical Background:
Founded in 1891 by Swiss chocolatier Giacomo Groppi, this iconic café was once the centerpiece of Cairo’s social scene. It is known for its high-quality chocolates, pastries, and European delicacies.
Overview:
Groppi’s elegant, European-style interior and menu offer a nostalgic experience. Although it has seen many changes over the years, it still serves as a testament to Cairo’s early 20th-century cosmopolitan era.
Nearby Attractions:
Groppi is near Tahrir Square and the Egyptian Museum, allowing visitors to explore Cairo’s political and cultural landmarks.
Greek Club
Location:
Downtown Cairo, near the Greek Orthodox Church
Historical Background:
The Greek Club, dating back to the early 20th century, was founded by Greek immigrants who brought their cuisine and culture to Cairo. It served as a hub for the Greek community in Egypt.
Overview:
The restaurant offers a cozy, Mediterranean-inspired environment with Greek classics like moussaka, souvlaki, and mezze. Its relaxed, inviting ambiance makes it a favorite spot for those seeking a taste of Greece in Cairo.
Nearby Attractions:
Located in downtown Cairo, the Greek Club is close to the Egyptian Museum and Cairo’s vibrant Tahrir Square.
Café Riche
Location:
Talaat Harb Street, Downtown Cairo
Historical Background:
Founded in 1908, Café Riche has been a cultural and intellectual landmark in Cairo. Writers, politicians, and intellectuals frequented it and even played a role in the Egyptian revolution.
Overview:
Café Riche’s bohemian ambiance, antique furniture, and walls adorned with photos of Egyptian luminaries make it an ideal spot to soak in Cairo’s literary and political history while enjoying Egyptian and Mediterranean fare.
Nearby Attractions:
With its central location, Café Riche is close to the Egyptian Museum, Tahrir Square, and other historical downtown landmarks.
L’Amphitryon
Location:
Korba, Heliopolis, cairo
Historical Background:
Founded in 1922, L’Amphitryon is another vintage café in Cairo that has served generations of locals and visitors alike. It is known for its French-inspired ambiance and classic décor.
Overview:
The café offers a selection of pastries, coffee, and light meals, and its nostalgic charm makes it a popular spot for those seeking a quiet retreat in downtown Cairo.
Nearby Attractions:
Located near Korba, L’Amphitryon is close to other historic cafés and cultural spots in Heliopolis Cairo.
Maison Thomas
Location:
Zamalek, Cairo
Historical Background:
Maison Thomas, founded in 1922, is Cairo’s oldest pizzeria and a cherished destination for fans of Italian cuisine. It has maintained its reputation for authentic Italian food for decades.
Overview:
Known for its delicious pizzas and Italian-inspired menu, Maison Thomas boasts a cozy, old-fashioned interior that transports guests back to another era.
Nearby Attractions:
Maison Thomas is in Zamalek, a vibrant neighborhood filled with galleries, boutiques, and the iconic Cairo Opera House.
Cheristo
Location:
Across the Marriott Mena House.
Historical Background:
Opened in the mid-20th century, Cheristo is a seafood restaurant that has become a go-to destination for fresh and flavorful seafood dishes.
Overview:
The restaurant’s nautical-inspired décor and fresh offerings have earned it a reputation as one of Cairo’s top seafood spots. Christo offers a relaxed atmosphere and a variety of fish and shellfish dishes.
Nearby Attractions:
Giza is a historical suburb with ancient monuments, Such as the pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx.
El Horreya Café
Location:
Downtown Cairo, Bab El Louk
Historical Background:
Established in 1936, El Horreya Café is a famous gathering spot known for its bohemian and artistic clientele, including artists, writers, and intellectuals.
Overview:
This café has a lively, casual ambiance and serves traditional Egyptian drinks. It’s a unique spot for people-watching and mingling with Cairo’s creative community.
Nearby Attractions:
Located in downtown Cairo, it’s near many art galleries, bookstores, and cultural centers.
Le Grillon
Location:
Garden City, Cairo
Historical Background:
Opened in the early 20th century, Le Grillon is an upscale restaurant known for its French and European cuisine.
Overview:
Le Grillon, once a restaurant and beer garden, was well-known as a place where Cairo’s wealthy would congregate for dinner and beverages before and after Umm Kalthoum’s concerts at the neighboring Qasr el Nil Theatre.
All the significant personalities in Egyptian cinema, like Roshdy Abaza, Sabah, Amina Rizk, Samia Gamal, Nadia Lotfy, and others, were fans of Le Grillon in the 1950s. This historic eatery has even seen some iconic moments unrelated to the films, such as when Fareed el Atrash suffered a heart attack there, and the servers had to take him to the hospital. Le Grillon’s elegant setting and well-crafted menu make it a top choice for fine dining. Its relaxed ambiance and historical charm have made it a favorite for decades.
Nearby Attractions:
Le Grillon is near the Nile Corniche and the Garden City neighborhood, perfect for a post-meal stroll along the river.
Abou Shakra
Location:
Multiple locations, Cairo
Historical Background:
Established in 1947, Abou Shakra is a well-known Egyptian chain famous for its grilled meats and traditional Egyptian dishes.
Overview:
Abou Shakra’s traditional flavors and high-quality ingredients make it a go-to for classic Egyptian cuisine, including kebabs, kofta, and molokhia.
Nearby Attractions:
With locations around Cairo, Abou Shakra is accessible from various tourist areas, including the Pyramids of Giza.
Andrea Mariouteya
Location:
Mariouteya, Cairo
Historical Background:
Opened in the 1950s, Andrea Mariouteya is known for its rural-style setting and delicious grilled chicken.
Overview:
Andrea Mariouteya’s outdoor seating and rustic atmosphere create a relaxed dining experience. The menu includes grilled chicken, mezze, and Egyptian bread, all cooked traditionally.
Nearby Attractions:
Located near the Pyramids of Giza, it’s a convenient stop after exploring Cairo’s most famous monuments.
Felfela
Location:
Downtown Cairo
Historical Background:
Founded in 1959, Felfela offers a casual dining experience focusing on Egyptian street food classics.
Overview:
The restaurant’s cozy atmosphere and diverse menu, including falafel, shawarma, and koshari, have made it a popular spot among locals and tourists.
Nearby Attractions:
Felfela is within walking distance of Tahrir Square and the Egyptian Museum.
Estoril
Location:
Talaat Harb Street, Downtown Cairo
Historical Background:
Founded in the mid-20th century, Estoril is a beloved bar and restaurant that has long attracted Cairo’s intellectuals and artists.
Overview:
Estoril offers a blend of Egyptian and Mediterranean dishes, and its warm ambiance is ideal for casual dining or a night out with friends.
Nearby Attractions:
Located near Tahrir Square, Estoril is close to the Egyptian Museum and other downtown attractions.
Abou Haidar
Location:
Heliopolis, Cairo
Historical Background:
A slight local favorite established in the 1950s, Abou Haidar, is famous for its shawarma sandwiches.
Overview:
Despite its humble size, Abou Haidar’s shawarma is highly praised for its rich flavor and quality. This tiny eatery has a big reputation for one of Cairo’s best shawarma.
Nearby Attractions:
Located in the Heliopolis district, the Baron Empain Palace and other historic sites are open to visitors.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to visit these restaurants and cafés?
Most of these establishments are open year-round, but cooler months (October to April) offer a more comfortable experience.
Is there a dress code?
While there is no strict dress code, smart casual attire is recommended for some more upscale restaurants.
Are these restaurants and cafés family-friendly?
Yes, most of these venues are family-friendly, but some, like Estoril, may be more suitable for adults.
Is it necessary to make reservations?
Reservations are recommended for popular spots like Maison Thomas and Le Grillon, especially during peak dining hours.
Can I find vegetarian options in these restaurants?
Many of these restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, especially those specializing in Egyptian cuisine.
Cairo’s oldest restaurants and cafés are a delightful combination of history, culture, and cuisine. Each venue tells a unique story, reflecting the rich traditions and diversity that define Cairo’s culinary scene. Whether you’re drawn to the elegance of Café Riche or the flavors of Abou Shakra, Cairo’s eateries offer a taste of history in every bite.
