15 of the best restaurants in Cairo

Brian Corvers

Brian has been part of the Le Petit Chef team since day 1. As Vice President Marketing, he always initiates new projects to further develop and enrich the show.

Last Update: March 12th, 2026

Cairo, the capital of Egypt, is home to ten million people. Located near the Nile Delta, the city is home to the Giza pyramid complex and a historic center that has been designated a World Heritage Site. Cairo is vast in many ways: historically, in terms of population, and especially in its food choices. The city offers incredible street food, innovative fusion cuisine, and many traditional restaurants. We have listed the must-visit restaurants in Cairo.

Tip #1: Abou Tarek

On the corner of Maarouf and Champollion Street you will find Abou Tarek. The place is a hotspot for Koshary, the national dish of Egypt. Their mix of pasta, fried rice, brown lentils and vermicelli topped with savory sauces, chickpeas and fried onion is a legendary bestseller.

It all started with a food cart at the very same street corner. Today it’s a buzzing restaurant that serves as a magnet for customers from all over the city. Many local companies even order lunch for their employees from Abou Tarek.

5 Reasons Why You Need to Visit Le Petit Chef

Continue reading to find out how Le Petit Chef will turn your next evening into an extraordinary experience you’ll be talking about for years to come.

Tip #2: Felfela

Felfela is a premier eatery for enjoying original Egyptian cuisine in a fine dining ambiance. The restaurant opened its doors in 1959 and has been family-owned and operated by the Zaghloul family ever since.

This highly awarded establishment, featuring a beautiful, authentic interior, is considered a landmark in Downtown Cairo and a must-visit during any trip. It caters to all kinds of dietary restrictions and is a family-friendly restaurant.

Tip #3: Granita

Granita is definitely a place to relax, cool down and enjoy refreshing drinks and delicious food. Named after the popular semi-frozen dessert it’s a frequent hangout that locals truly appreciate.

This colorful café on the grounds of All Saints Cathedral in Zamalek offers a blend of Egyptian and international eats.

All-day breakfasts, a good variety of sandwiches and regional plates are offered. In addition, fresh dessert options are displayed daily.

Tip #4: Lucille’s

Since 1995 Lucille’s has been the place where locals go when they crave something other than Egyptian food. Lucille’s serves international dishes, pasta, steaks and burgers, and they are also famous for their fluffy pancakes with maple syrup.

The restaurant has two locations – one in New Cairo and one in Sakanat. Don’t miss out on the burgers; Lucille’s has received numerous awards for its juicy beef burgers served on fluffy buns with premium condiments.

New Cairo: Daily: 11 am – 10 pm
Sakanat: Daily: 8 am – 12 am
New Cairo: Banks Center Street, New Cairo 1, Cairo Governorate 4730114
Sakanat: 54 Rd 9 Maadi, Cairo Governorate 4212011
+201 2248 24845 (New Cairo)
+201 0929 15000 (Sakanat)
contactus@lucillesrestaurants.com

Tip #5: Makino

Locals regard Makino as one of the best Japanese restaurants in Cairo. The interior of this Japanese eatery focuses on light neutral colors and wood while the Nile view from the restaurant and its riverside terrace is beautiful.

The same level of care goes into the plating at this eatery located at the Hilton Zamalek Residence. A professional Japanese chef prepares both raw sushi and grilled Japanese delicacies.

5 Reasons Why You Need to Visit Le Petit Chef

Continue reading to find out how Le Petit Chef will turn your next evening into an extraordinary experience you’ll be talking about for years to come.

Tip #6: Andrea Mariouteya

Andrea Mariouteya offers an essential Cairo restaurant experience. The eatery has been family-owned and operated since 1958.

Famous for its chicken and stunning location, it is hard to beat a dinner with a view of the pyramids. This is why the spot is usually busy and highly attractive to tourists.

But locals appreciate the food just as much. The restaurant is a premier BBQ spot famous for its grilled chicken and quail as well as its generous mezze variations.

Tip #7: Pier 88 Nile River

Cairo loves Pier 88 Nile River for its exquisite Italian cuisine, pastries and sophisticated ambiance. Executive chefs Mostafa Seif, Artem Vasilevich and Ahmed Agha – all of them award-winning food experts – create classic dishes with a modern twist.

This high-end eatery with a panoramic Nile River view requires a reservation and promises an unforgettable dining experience.

Tip #8: Fasahet Somaya

Egyptian cuisine without the fuss – this is the best way to describe Fasahet Somaya. This cozy eatery in Downtown Cairo is a place where guests can feel comfortable, almost as if they were in their own home.

Somaya Al-Asyoty runs this home-style eatery without a fixed menu. The chef goes to the markets daily and cooks whatever she can find.

Every day Al-Asyoty writes a new menu on the board featuring fresh ingredients and culinary surprises. Note that the restaurant only opens for two hours each evening.

Tip #9: What The Crust

What The Crust is a small, family-owned restaurant and – as the name suggests – it’s all about the perfect pizza crust!

Owners Dareen and Helmy are pizza enthusiasts who popularized Neapolitan pizza in the Arab world. They have won several awards for their efforts and dedication.

Today What The Crust pizza is served in three different locations. Fresh and locally sourced ingredients are central to the company and every pizza type has its own story.

Tip #10: Birdcage

Birdcage presents the spirit and flavors of Thailand in an award-winning, authentic setting. Surrounded by exotic water features and luxury table settings the restaurant is definitely worth a visit.

Located on the second floor of the Semiramis InterContinental Hotel Cairo this Thai eatery offers a feast not only for the taste buds but also for the eyes.

The authentic Thai food is beautifully plated and prepared by chef Naron Butsriphoom and his team.

Tip #11: Sachi Heliopolis

Sachi specializes in fusion cuisine with Mediterranean and Asian flavors. Elegant presentation, a twist on traditions and premium ingredients define the menu of this eatery in the center of Cairo. Chef Ashour Desouki prepares a wide variety of flavors.

Established in 2014, the restaurant now operates three locations, one of them in Cairo. It even won the award for the Best Restaurant in Egypt at the World’s 50 Best Restaurants awards.

Tip #12: Osmanly Restaurant

If you’re looking for traditional Turkish cuisine in Cairo, Osmanly Restaurant is the perfect place to eat! Dine like a sultan in an unforgettable fine dining experience.

Try their signature dish Hünkar Beğendi – a mouthwatering braised beef tenderloin served on a bed of creamy roasted eggplant purée – and discover even more exotic flavors.

Tip #13: Bab El Sharq

Gazing at the Egyptian Museum during your meal is exactly what you can do at Bab El-Sharq. This outdoor restaurant offers traditional cuisine in a unique atmosphere every day.

Meat, fish and vegetarian dishes are all on the menu. The venue also offers flavored shisha, live entertainment and broadcasts of major sporting events. The oriental setting truly transports you into a fairy tale from The Thousand and One Nights.

Tip #14: Le Pacha 1901

The name Le Pacha 1901 reveals an important detail: it is a steamboat from the year 1901 which now houses nine different restaurants.

A unique culinary experience is combined with a breathtaking view of the Nile. French, Asian, Italian and traditional Egyptian dishes are all offered.

You can dine inside the ship or on the open terrace. With first-class dishes, service and ambiance you will experience an unforgettable evening here.

Tip #15: Crimson Bar & Grill

Crimson will definitely surprise you: located directly on the Nile the restaurant offers a breathtaking view. Thanks to its open seating areas and cozy interior, it invites you to relax and linger.

The chefs are inspired by Mediterranean and international flavors and their dishes will definitely enchant you. The cocktails are also highly inviting and the setting is especially idyllic at sunset. Our tip is to reserve a table for the evening and let the day end in a relaxed way.

Our selection of restaurants is based, among other things, on the editorial team’s individual preferences and on reviews on the internet. Please contact the respective provider directly for information on reservations and prices. The pictures come from the restaurants listed. All Information is provided without guarantee!