Best Places to Eat in Cairo
Discovering the Flavors of Cairo: A Guide to Street Food and More
Cairo, the vibrant capital of Egypt, is a city that will tantalize your taste buds with its rich culinary heritage. From traditional Egyptian dishes to mouth-watering street food, Cairo has something to offer for every kind of foodie. Here’s a guide to the best places to eat in Cairo, with a focus on popular street food options:
Street Food Heaven
1. Koshari
- Where: Almost every street corner in Cairo
- What: A flavorful mix of pasta, lentils, tomato sauce, vinegar, and fried onions, topped with chickpeas and crispy falafel.
- Price: EGP 5-10 (approximately $0.30-$0.60 USD)
2. Ful Medames
- Where: Street vendors near Tahrir Square
- What: A traditional Egyptian dish made from fava beans, garlic, and lemon juice, often served with pita bread.
- Price: EGP 10-20 (approximately $0.60-$1.20 USD)
3. Ta’ameyya
- Where: Street food stalls in Islamic Cairo
- What: Egyptian falafel, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, often served with pita bread and veggies.
- Price: EGP 5-10 (approximately $0.30-$0.60 USD)
4. Shawarma
- Where: Street food stalls in Downtown Cairo
- What: Juicy meat (usually lamb or chicken) wrapped in a warm pita with veggies and tahini sauce.
- Price: EGP 20-30 (approximately $1.20-$2.00 USD)
Mid-Range Options
1. Abu Tarek
- Where: Downtown Cairo
- What: A popular restaurant serving traditional Egyptian dishes like koshari, falafel, and shawarma.
- Price: EGP 50-100 (approximately $3.00-$6.00 USD)
2. Felfela
- Where: Zamalek
- What: A cozy spot offering a variety of Egyptian dishes, including fava beans, falafel, and shawarma.
- Price: EGP 50-100 (approximately $3.00-$6.00 USD)
Upscale Options
1. Zamalek’s Osmanly
- Where: Zamalek
- What: An upscale restaurant serving modern Egyptian cuisine with a focus on local ingredients.
- Price: EGP 200-300 (approximately $12.00-$18.00 USD)
2. Kempinski Nile Hotel’s Osman
- Where: Garden City
- What: A luxurious restaurant offering traditional Egyptian dishes with a modern twist, overlooking the Nile River.
- Price: EGP 300-500 (approximately $18.00-$30.00 USD)
Tips and Insights
- Be sure to try the local drinks, like karkade (hibiscus tea) or ahwa (Turkish coffee).
- Eat at local eateries or street food stalls for an authentic experience.
- Don’t be afraid to haggle prices, especially at markets or from street vendors.
- Try to avoid eating during peak hours (12 pm - 2 pm) when restaurants and cafes are usually crowded.
Get Ready to Indulge
Cairo’s culinary scene is a melting pot of flavors, textures, and aromas. From the humblest street food stall to the fanciest upscale restaurant, every bite will leave you wanting more. So, come hungry, and get ready to discover the best places to eat in Cairo!