Cairo Restaurants

Egyptian cuisine is a blend of Arabic, Middle Eastern and African foods. There are many restaurants in Cairo serving local delicacies, but you will also find many international restaurants due to the high number of international visitors.

Local cuisine

Shish kebabs (lamb roasted on a skewer) are very popular with local people and tourists alike and they are always served with the traditional accompaniment of salad, tomatoes, tahini sauce and pita bread. The pita bread is always made from whole wheat and is coated with ground wheat. The infamous delicacy of grilled pigeon is a national dish, as is the Egyptian Marinade, which consists of seasoned chicken breasts, soaked overnight in buttermilk. Tamiya, or mashed chick peas, is a popular side dish, as is kushari, noodles mixed with onions and lentils in a tomato sauce. Egyptians eat very healthily. Meats are predominantly grilled or roasted, with chicken and lamb being favoured.

Where to eat

People looking for authentic Egyptian cuisine can find it at the numerous street stalls, which offer delicious food at exceptionally good prices. Cafs also offer excellent value for money, but do not offer as wide a selection of food as the citys restaurants. Street stalls, cafs and restaurants can all be found throughout the city, while many hotels also offer well prepared food.