Join us on a culinary journey through Cairo, indulging in the diverse and mouthwatering local cuisine. Discover popular dishes, authentic restaurants, and street food stalls, as we share personal experiences of trying traditional Egyptian dishes.
Related: Top 10 Tasty Egyptian Dishes for a Delicious Cuisine Experience
Start your culinary adventure with a typical Egyptian breakfast at Felfela, a renowned restaurant in Downtown Cairo. Indulge in a plate of foul medames, a rich fava bean stew, served with warm Egyptian bread. Don’t miss the chance to try taameya (Egyptian falafel), which is made from fava beans and served with tahini sauce.
Head to Al-Azhar area and visit Naguib Mahfouz Café, named after the famous Egyptian writer. Enjoy a mezze-style lunch with dishes like koshari (a delicious mix of rice, lentils, pasta, and fried onions), molokhia (a savory green soup), and grilled kebabs.
For a memorable dinner experience, visit the historic Abou El Sid restaurant in Zamalek. Indulge in classic Egyptian dishes such as stuffed pigeon (called fatta), lamb kofta, and mahshi (stuffed vegetables). End your meal with a cup of traditional hibiscus tea.
Kickstart your day with a visit to the bustling Khan El Khalili Bazaar. Explore the maze-like alleys and discover street food gems like koshari carts, where you can savor this iconic dish in its true street food form. Don’t forget to try ful wa taameya (a combination of foul medames and taameya) from a local food stall.
Continue your street food adventure by visiting Mohamed Ahmed, a legendary street food vendor in Downtown Cairo. Try their famous liver sandwiches, which are seasoned to perfection and served with fresh bread and tangy pickles. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself coming back for more!
For a unique dining experience, head to Azhar Park’s Citadel View Restaurant. Relish a panoramic view of Cairo’s skyline while enjoying a mix of Egyptian and Middle Eastern delicacies. Savor dishes like stuffed vine leaves (called warak enab), grilled lamb chops, and traditional Egyptian desserts like umm ali (a bread pudding) or basbousa (a sweet semolina cake).
Visit Zooba in Zamalek for a modern twist on traditional Egyptian street food. Try their take on taameya sandwiches, made with various flavorful fillings like beetroot, cheese, or spicy sausage. Wash it down with a refreshing glass of freshly squeezed sugarcane juice.
Experience the fusion of Egyptian and Mediterranean flavors at Sequoia, a stunning restaurant located on the banks of the Nile River. Sample their seafood dishes like grilled fish, calamari, or shrimp tagine, all prepared with a touch of Egyptian spices and herbs.
End your food tour with a visit to Cairo Kitchen, a popular restaurant known for its contemporary take on Egyptian home-cooked meals. Savor traditional dishes like stuffed vine leaves, mulukhiyah stew, and chicken liver with molasses and pomegranate sauce.
Cairo offers a range of delectable dishes to try, including foul medames, koshari, taameya, stuffed pigeon, and molokhia.
Absolutely! Cairo’s food scene caters to various dietary preferences. You can find vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes like stuffed vine leaves, falafel, and vegetable tagines.
Yes, most of the recommended restaurants and street food stalls are located in central areas of Cairo and are easily accessible by taxi or public transportation.
Cairo is a cosmopolitan city, offering a wide range of international cuisines. You can find restaurants serving Italian, Lebanese, Indian, and many other international dishes.
Street food is an integral part of Cairo’s culinary culture. While it’s important to exercise caution and choose clean and reputable food vendors, trying street food is generally safe and offers an authentic experience.
Yes, Cairo is known for its abundance of halal food options. Most restaurants and street food stalls serve halal dishes, adhering to Islamic dietary guidelines.
The cost of food in Cairo can vary depending on where you dine. On average, budgeting around $15-25 per person per meal should be sufficient for a satisfying culinary experience.
Absolutely! This itinerary serves as a guide, but feel free to tailor it to your preferences. You can add or remove restaurants and stalls based on your personal taste and interests.
While it is possible to explore Cairo’s food scene independently, hiring a local guide can enhance your experience by providing insights into the culture, history, and hidden gems of the city’s culinary landscape.
Cairo’s culinary scene is a feast for the senses, offering a delightful blend of traditional flavors and innovative twists. From indulging in authentic Egyptian cuisine at Felfela and Abou El Sid to exploring the vibrant street food stalls and modern restaurants, this 3-day food tour will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the rich and diverse culinary heritage of Cairo. So, grab your appetite and get ready to embark on a memorable gastronomic adventure in the heart of Egypt’s capital city.
