The crowded streets of Cairo, an innovative city where ancient and modern meet, offer almost everything, from afternoon coffee in one of the many cafes where you can enjoy the best Egyptian atmosphere with Arabic music, to dinner in one of the best restaurants in the country the Nile. Here is an updated version of our previous article on the 10 best cultural restaurants in Cairo.
1. Tabla Luna
The Tabla Luna is considered one of the best Latin American restaurants in the heart of Cairo and offers both modern and classic dishes such as the Aji de Gallina, the Ceviche de Camaron and the delicious Torta de Tres Leches. The dishes come from countries like Peru, Argentina, Mexico, Bolivia and Ecuador and use traditional organic ingredients. With its festive but informal atmosphere and Latin American flavors, this is the place to enjoy the variety of Latin American cuisine in Cairo.
2. Andrea Mariouteya
Andrea Mariouteya, where guests feel like they are in a dream, enchants his guests and keeps them coming back with his classic Spanish hacienda architecture and decoration, creating an exotic environment altogether. With its location on one of Egypt’s most popular beaches, it’s no wonder that it captures every visitor’s heart. Guests enjoy the flavors of Spanish dishes such as chicken marinades, tortilla espanola with an exquisite salad or the grilled squid salad prepared with the secret herbs by Andrea Mariouteya. Traditional Egyptian bread from the oven is served with the dishes. Andrea Mariouteya’s visit is a unique memory.
3. La Bodega
La Bodega is located in the prestigious Boehel building and is both a French and a Mediterranean aperitif and bistro spot. Look forward to an elegant ambience in the lounge or bar, which is surrounded by decor from the 1930s. When it comes to the menu, guests have a variety of options, with lunch dishes like the eggplant-haloumi combination; the duck filo in orange sauce; the classic club sandwich; and the beef burger or the evening menu, which consists of classic haute cuisine dishes such as beef carpaccio or spicy calamari. La Bodega also has its own delivery service that appeals to travelers who want to spend the night after a long day in the city.
4. Naguib Mahfouz
Named after the Egyptian writer and Nobel laureate Naguib Mahfouz, the Naguib Mahfouz Café is a lively place for guests looking for an authentic North African experience. With its traditional, magical Arabic decor, guests can enjoy a light meal, the best coffee or the best shisha served by the friendly staff in Egyptian vests with gold patterns and the classic fez hat. At Naguib Mahfouz, everything is presented on classic Arabic gold plates that reflect the elegance and richness of tradition in Egyptian culture.
5. Quay Lounge
The atmosphere in the Quay Lounge, which has established itself as one of the friendliest and highest quality addresses in the heart of Cairo, invites family and friends to relax and have creative meals with the best Egyptian coffee. Whether you sit on modern chairs and tables or on comfortable sofas, you can enjoy a menu that offers a mixed cuisine ranging from Middle Eastern to Italian dishes. On sunny days, you can also dine on the outdoor terrace overlooking the magical waters of the Nile.
6. Taboula
The Taboula offers a casual and homely atmosphere, traditional Arabian hospitality and the best of various delicacies from the Middle East. One of the most popular is taboula (Lebanese salad), along with other side dishes and side dishes. Another popular choice is the Egyptian mezzas, small, tapas-like snacks that go perfectly with a bottle from the wide range of wines worldwide. Afterwards you can end the evening with traditional desserts from the Middle East and classical Arabic melodies with songs by Umm Kulthum and Fairuz.
7. The Vegan Kitchen
The creative interior design made of natural plaster and recycled wood, as well as the philosophy and commitment to environmentally responsible behavior have made The Vegan Kitchen one of the hotspots for gourmets in Cairo. The Vegan Kitchen, run by an Egyptian couple, serves international and original vegetarian recipes. The restaurant offers a large selection of unusual dishes such as the spicy rainbow salad, raw tomato tarts or the quinoa tabbouleh, but also a selection of vegetarian pizzas and homemade desserts and ice cream. Vegan cuisine has made a name for itself on the streets of Cairo.
8. Tutti Matti
Tutti Matti brings the best of Italian cuisine to Cairo and maintains with a cozy interior and an outside terrace. At Tutti Matti you can enjoy the finest Italian cuisine and experience the friendly atmosphere of Cairo in the company of family and friends, either for breakfast or for brunch in the morning, accompanied by quality Italian coffee. Alternatively, visit the lunch buffet or the evening menu while you are entertained by live performances by local music bands.
9. Zooba
Zooba transforms popular Egyptian street dishes into delicious gourmet dishes using the freshest local ingredients. Whether you are a regular or a first-time visitor, you can expect a variety of delicious flavors. The offer includes Zooba’s own wholemeal koshari, the chicken liver hawashi or the Sakalans sandwiches with Zooba’s own freshly baked bread. With its multi-colored decor and casual atmosphere, as well as its commitment to healthy cuisine and a lively environment, Zooba is a jewel to be discovered in Cairo.
10. Le Pacha 1901
Le Pacha is considered one of the best restaurants in the area. Originally built as a paddle boat in 1901 on the edge of the Nile next to the island of Gezira, it is now a landmark for restaurants and entertainment options. In 1992 it became the home of Cairo’s best international restaurants, opening three famous restaurants – Italian Piccolo Mondo, French Le Steak and Johnny’s Pub. Le Pacha 1901 offers a variety of global dishes and has expanded its worldwide selection of on-site restaurants, including L’Asiatique, which specializes in authentic Asian cuisine, the Egyptian Le Tarbouche-Akl Zaman with its lavish red and gold decor, and the outdoor terrace from Carlos Café, where guests can enjoy shisha while feeling the Nile breeze. With its combination of international restaurants, Le Pacha is a unique headquarters that offers space for every palate.
