Discovering the Best Restaurants in Cairo, Egypt: A Culinary Adventure

Nov 06, 2025 0

Cairo, a city as vibrant and diverse as its cuisine, is truly a food lover’s paradise. The Egyptian culinary scene blends influences from the Middle East, North Africa, and the Mediterranean, crafting a unique and unforgettable dining experience. Whether you're seeking traditional flavors or modern culinary innovations, Cairo's restaurants offer something for every palate.

Egyptian cuisine has a lot to offer, and Cairo is a massive place with thousands upon thousands of restaurants, cafes and food stalls.

Must-Try Food in Cairo

No visit to Cairo is complete without sampling these iconic dishes:

Koshary: Perhaps the most iconic street food in Cairo, Koshary is Egypt’s ultimate comfort food! It is a delicious and filling dish that’s unique to Egyptian cuisine. This hearty meal is a mix of rice, pasta, and lentils topped with tangy tomato sauce, chickpeas, and a crispy layer of fried onions.
Ful Medames: Ful medames, or simply “ful”, is a beloved Egyptian breakfast dish and one of the oldest recipes in Egyptian cuisine. Made from slow-cooked fava beans, ‘ful’ is typically mashed and flavoured with olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and cumin. It’s often garnished with toppings like fresh parsley, chopped tomatoes, onions, or even a hard-boiled egg, giving you a mix of textures and flavours in every bite.
Ta’amiya: Ta’amiya, Egypt’s answer to falafel, is a must try street food in Cairo that delights with its crispy texture and rich, savoury taste. Mixed with herbs, spices, and often sesame seeds, then deep-fried to perfection, ta’amiya is crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside.
Grilled Meats and Kebabs: Grilled meats and kebabs are stapes that capture the city’s love for rich, smokey flavours and tender textures. They are typically seasoned with aromatic spices like cumin, coriander, and garlic.
Molokhia: Molokhia, a beloved Egyptian staple, is a hearty green stew made from finely chopped molokhia leaves (often known as jute leaves). With a unique, slightly viscous texture and an earthy, garlicky flavour, this dish is traditionally served with rice or flatbread and often topped with tender pieces of chicken, rabbit, or lamb. Infused with garlic, coriander and sometimes a splash of lemon, molokhia offers a taste experience that’s both rustic and rich.
Shawarma: Shawarma is one the quintessential street foods in Cairo, offering a delicious mix of Middle Eastern flavours with an Egyptian twist. Thinly slived, marinated meat (typically lamb, chicken, or beef) is slow-roasted on a vertical rotisserie, then carved off in tender, juicy slices. Cairo’s streets are dotted with shawarma stands and eateries, each with its own style and unique blend of spices, which this dish an undeniable alure.
Mahshi: Mahshi is a beloved comfort food in Cairo, consisting of vegetables stuffed with a savoury mix of rice, herbs, and spices. The rice filling is usually flavoured with fresh dill, coriander, and parsley, and often has a hint of tomato and onion, creating a delicious, aromatic blend that highlights the essence of Egyptian home cooking.
Hawawshy: Hawawshy is another beloved street food in Cairo and is an absolute must try for meat lovers. This savoury dish is similar to an Egyptian meat pie, where seasoned ground beef - often mixed with onions, peppers, and a blend of aromatic spices - is stuffed inside a traditional baladi bread (Egyptian flatbread) and baked until crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. The result is a warm, flavour packed snack that’s perfect for enjoying on the go or with a side of tahini.

Best Restaurants in Cairo

Cairo offers a diverse range of dining experiences, from traditional Egyptian feasts to modern culinary creations. Here are some of the best restaurants in Cairo, categorized by location and dining experience:

Downtown Cairo

Downtown Cairo is where it's at - the hustle and bustle of Egypt's largest city combined with the historical charm.

Koshary Abou Tarek: Koshary (also written as koshari) is the number one most filling food in Egypt, and Koshary Abou Tarek is the number one spot to try it! Even though the only food they serve at Abou Tarek is koshari, which is a naturally vegan food, you must visit this eclectic restaurant and experience Egypt's national dish. They only have one location, in downtown Cairo, and visiting this bustling koshary restaurant is a sightseeing activity in and of itself.
Felfela: Located in Downtown Cairo, Felfela is a renowned restaurant that serves a beautifully prepared version of ‘ful medames’ in an iconic Egyptian setting. Tucked away in historic districts, Cairo has charming courtyard cafes like Felfela, where you can enjoy traditional snacks and sweets in a beautiful, atmospheric setting.
Fasahet Somaya: Somaya is an Egyptian woman who got her start cooking for protestors during the Egyptian Revolution in 2011, and after the revolution was over, they begged her to open up her own restaurant in order to continue offering her delicious Egyptian food to the public! Somaya is now in a bigger location in downtown Cairo just off of Bab el Luq Square, and she only is open from 5-7pm. Somaya posts the daily menu on Instagram, and I recommend taking a look before you go, since some days she will cook things like bone marrow soup (koowar'aa) and stuffed intestines (mumbar), which are both delicious, but not for the average foodie!
El Sharouk or Abdullah Bashandy: Fuul (also written as foul or ful medames) is a staple food for all Egyptians made from fava beans, and it is usually served in fuul/falafel joints, which specialize in these two breakfast foods. Even though fuul and falafel (also called Ta'amiya) are typically eaten for the first meal of the day, just like "breakfast all day" joints in the USA, you'll find places serving foul and falafel from morning until late at night. Two of my favorite spots to get falafel and foul are El Sharouk, in downtown Cairo, and Abdullah Bashandy, just south of downtown.
El Hamra Shawarma: Shawarma isn't an Egyptian food, but this Lebanese sandwich has taken over the downtown Cairo street food scene, and after having a few bites of chicken or beef shawarma, you'll figure out why! Even though you'll see long lines at Karam el Sham or Kazaz, I actually prefer the shawarma at El Hamra.

Zamalek

Zamalek is a large island just across the Nile River from downtown Cairo, and if you cross over Zamalek, you'll end up in Giza.

Zööba: The folks behind Zööba decided to take traditional Cairene street food and elevate it, creating a sit-down atmosphere, easy-to-read-menus (in Arabic and English), and enough of a spin on the classic dishes to make everything interesting, even for a local. The result is an excellent restaurant that is the perfect place to sample all the staples like falafel, fuul, koshary, hawawshii, molokheya, and more, all while being in a hygienic restaurant setting.
Pier88: Pier88 is run by the same award-winning chef who started Khufu's at the Giza Plateau (more on that restaurant in the Giza section), and it boasts homemade pasta, some of the best cocktails in Cairo, and an enviable location on a stationary boat in the Nile River, giving great views while you enjoy your food. Note that Pier88 is best visited when you have made a reservation in advance.
Crimson Bar & Grill: Crimson is another great fine-dining spot in Zamalek, located almost on the northern end of the island. Just like PIer88, this fine-dining establishment is best visited with a reservation, be prepared for a vibrant atmosphere on Thursday and Friday nights (the workweek in Egypt is Sunday - Thursday, so Friday/Saturday are the days off), and dress to impress!
U Bistro & Bar: In order to find U Bistro, you'll enter a historic-looking but otherwise nondescript apartment building off of 26th of July Street (the main drag in Zamalek), and after going up a flight of stairs and taking the first door on the left, all of a sudden you'll be transported to a sleek lounge-like atmosphere that could be anywhere in New York City or LA. U Bistro's charm lies in its good selection of local Egyptian wines and cocktails, and the delicious small plates that you can easily combine to create a delicious feast.
Abou El Sid: Abou el Sid has been around for ages (they even have their own cookbook), and they specialize in classic Egyptian home-cooking. This is a great place to try pigeon (hammam in Arabic), which is considered a delicacy in Egypt. In addition to pigeon, there are dozens of great Egyptian dishes at Abou el Sid, just waiting for you to try them, and the charming Egyptian antique-y atmosphere, you'll be transported to another time and place as you enjoy your meal.

Giza

Giza is a gigantic area, going for miles all the way from the west side of the Nile River (just across the bridges from downtown Cairo/Zamalek) out to the Pyramids and beyond.

Khufu's at the Giza Plateau: Khufu's is an award-winning restaurant set in the backdrop of the Giza Pyramids, and you think the scenery would wow you, but the food will wow you even more!
The 9 Pyramids Lounge: The 9 Pyramids Lounge is the original restaurant in the Giza Plateau, and it is the only restaurant that has a view of all 9 Pyramids on the plateau at the same time. The specialty at the 9 Pyramids Lounge is their grilled meats, homemade dips, and house-baked local Egyptian bread.
Zeeyara Rooftop: This restaurant takes classic Egyptian dishes and adds something unique to each one, keeping true to the authentic flavors and styles, but making everything even more delicious. If you go here, you have to try the arugula salad, duck pie (crispy, flaky bread filled with deliciously cooked duck meat), and the Zeeyara pie for dessert.

Greater Cairo

Cairo is one of the largest cities in the world.

Hakeem’s Restaurant: A tiny sidewalk kitchen run by a very friendly Egyptian guy, Hakeem, who makes homemade Egyptian dishes every day (except Fridays and major holidays). Hakeem speaks English very well and he is always changing the menu, since he visits the market each morning and creatively crafts his vision for the day based on what is fresh and available in the moment.
Abo Ammar el Soury: While El Hamra is my favorite shawarma in downtown Cairo, Abo Ammar el Soury is my favorite shawarma of all time! They have two locations, one in Mohandeseen, technically in Giza, and pretty close to downtown, but I love taking folks to the location in Heliopolis.
Zeeyara Rooftop El Moez: Just like the Zeeyara Pyramids Elite, this rooftop in the UNESCO World Heritage district of El Moez Street has amazingly elevated Egyptian cuisine, and the exact same menu.
Farahat: Remember when I said you need to get over any apprehension and try eating stuffed pigeon in Cairo? Well, Farahat is the ultimate place to devour this Egyptian delicacy. Farahat is street food at its best, where you literally sit at a table in a crowded alleyway and are served up steaming hot stuffed pigeons.

Best Street Food Spots

When it comes to street food in Cairo, the city’s bustling streets are a paradise for food lovers. Cairo’s street food scene offers an array of authentic, flavourful bites that are not only delicious but also reflect Egypt’s rich culinary heritage.

Talat Harb Street (Downtown Cairo): Known for its lively atmosphere and a mix of traditional and modern eateries, Talat Harb is a fantastic spot to sample classic Egyptian street food like koshary and ta’amiya.
Al-Muizz Street (Islamic Cairo): This historic street in the heart of Islamic Cairo is not only a UNESCO World Heritage Site but also a bustling hub for street food.
Zamalek Island Streets: The trendy neighbourhood of Zamalek is known for its unique blend of international and Egyptian cuisine.
Sharia Port Said (Garden City): Located near the Nile in the upscale Garden City area, Sharia Port Said has a variety of food stalls and restaurants offering Egyptian favourites.
El Hussein Square (Khan El Khalili Bazaar): Close to Cairo’s famous Khan El Khalili Bazaar, El Hussein Square is packed with street food vendors offering Egyptian classics like ta’amiya, ful, and fresh-baked bread.
Abdel Khaleq Tharwat Street (Downtown Cairo): Another popular street in Downtown, Abdel Khaleq Tharwat, is lined with street food options, especially khosary and grilled meats.

Tips for Eating Out in Cairo

To make the most of your culinary experiences in Cairo, keep these tips in mind:

Embrace Local Spots: While there are excellent international options, the best way to experience food in Cairo is through local eateries.
Ask for Recommendations: Cairo locals love their food, and most are happy to point you to the best spots in town.
Be Open to Street Food: Some of the best food in Cairo is served from small stalls on the street. Don’t miss out on dishes like koshary, ta’amiya, and ful medames from street vendors.
Order a Variety to Share: Egyptian meals are often enjoyed family-style, and many restaurants encourage sharing.
Keep Cash Handy: Many local eateries don’t accept cards, so it’s always a good idea to have some cash for dining in Cairo.
Try Egyptian Drinks: Egyptian drinks like hibiscus tea (karkadeh) and fresh surgarcane juice are worth trying and add to the experience of food in Cairo. My favourite though? Minty fresh lemon juice.

How to Make KOSHARI | Egyptian Koshari Street Food Recipe | Koshari Recipe by Varun | Kushari

How to Avoid a Dodgy Tummy When Eating Street Food in Cairo

Eating street food in Cairo is one of the best ways to immerse yourself in local culture, but taking a few precautions can help you avoid any tummy troubles along the way.

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Choose busy vendors: Opt for street food stalls with a steady stream of locals.
Stick to cooked foods: Foods that are cooked on the spot, like grilled meats or fried ta’amiya, are generally safer than raw or pre-prepared options.
Look for clean worktops: Take a moment to observe how the food is prepared.
Beware of the water: Stick to bottled water, especially when washing down street food.
Beware of unwashed vegetables and salads: Street vendors might not always use bottled or filtered water to rinse vegetables.
Pack a digestive aid: Imodium is my friend! Having a digestive aid or probiotics on hand can help if your stomach isn’t used to certain spices or food preparations.
Wash your hands: Carrying hand sanitiser or hand wipes can be useful in a busy city.

Dining Experiences in Cairo

Cairo offers a variety of unique dining experiences to enhance your culinary journey:

Nile River Dinner Cruises: Dining on the Nile is a popular and romantic way to experience Cairo. Many cruises include traditional Egyptian music and belly dancing shows, adding an entertaining cultural element to your meal.
Traditional Egyptian Feasts: Some restaurants in Cairo, like Abou El Sid, offer traditional Egyptian dishes served in an authentic setting with classic décor and a warm ambience.
Rooftop dining with Pyramid views: For an unforgettable experience, head to one of Cairo’s rooftop restaurants with views of the Pyramids of Giza.
Hidden courtyard cafes: Tucked away in historic districts, Cairo has charming courtyard cafes like Felfela and El Fishawy in Khan El Khalili Bazaar, where you can enjoy traditional snacks and sweets in a beautiful, atmospheric setting.
Modern Egyptian cuisine: Places like Zooba offer a more contemporary twist on traditional food in Cairo, presenting street food classics in creative new ways.

Vegetarian and Vegan-Friendly Options

The great news is that Cairo is very vegetarian and vegan-friendly, with many national dishes catering to a meat-free diet. Fattah is a dish made with rice, crispy bread, and a tangy garlic-tomato sauce, often without meat.

Hidden Gems and Local Restaurants

Cairo is full of hidden gem restaurants that offer an authentic and often surprising experience for those exploring food in Cairo. These lesser known spots provide a local touch and often serve up delicious dishes in charming, off the beaten path areas of town.

Shoby Kaber: Tucked away in the neighbourhood of Shubra, Shoby Kaber is a local favourite for grilled meats and traditional Egyptian dishes.
Eish & Malh: This downtown gem combines Italian and Egyptian flavours with a casual vibe. Their breakfast and brunch options are especially popular, with a focus on fresh ingredients and unique Egyptian twists on classic dishes.
Kazaz: A well kept secret in the heart of Cairo, Kazaz is a tiny but beloved spot for Egyptian fast food. Specialising in sandwiches and wraps filled with classing Egyptian fillings like liver, sausages, and ta’amiya, it’s a great place to grab a quick, flavourful bite.
Fasahet Somaya: If you’re in the mood for a home cooked Egyptian meal, Fasahet Somaya is a hidden gem tucked in downtown Cairo. This tiny spot only serves a few fishes each day, depending on what’s fresh, making each visit unique.

Frequently Asked Questions About Egyptian Food

Here are some of the most common questions about Egyptian food:

Question	Answer
What is the most popular food in Cairo?	For tourists, usually the most popular food in Cairo is falafel, koshary, or grilled meats. For Egyptians, these three foods are very popular too, but Egyptians also love fast-food chains, like McDonald's, KFC, and Hardee's - who knew?
What food is Egypt known for?	Falafel is definitely the most commonly recognized food that Egypt is known for. Other Egyptian foods, like molokheya, koshary, mahahshi, bessara, etc. are almost unheard of outside the Middle East/North Africa.
What not to eat in Egypt?	If you are trying to avoid getting sick, I recommend sticking to sit-down restaurants, and avoiding fresh vegetables and fruit that doesn't have a peel. Other than that, everything is fair game! Despite the risk, I've always eaten whatever I wanted in Egypt, street food and all, and the few times I've been sick over the past 12+ years have totally been worth it.
Is food safe in Egypt?	Food from any of the restaurants I listed above is totally safe, however, I've had tourists on my trips who "do everything right" (no fresh veggies or fruit without a peel, lots of hand washing, avoiding street food), and still have a day or two with an upset stomach. So I always tell my guests that even though food is safe, they can still expect to have a day or two of adjustment to the new foods, spices, and ingredients.
What is the first thing you should eat when you visit Egypt?	For meat lovers, trying any type of grilled meats is the first thing you should eat in Egypt, and for vegetarian/vegan folks, definitely try falafel!
What's the most delicious food you have tried in Cairo?	For me, fiteer, with soft white cheese, dipped in molasses and tahini, is hands down the most delicious food I've ever had in Cairo, and potentially anywhere! I can never get enough fiteer when I am in Egypt.

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