Best Restaurants in Cairo 2025: Koshari, Falafel & Fine Dining

Almosafer
May 27
4 min read

Cairo isn’t just a city of pyramids and pharaohs, it’s a city that eats. Loudly, joyfully, and around the clock. From smoky street-side grills to rooftop sushi bars, the Egyptian capital offers a food scene as dynamic as its streets. Whether you're after a bowl of steaming Koshari or craving a refined fine-dining experience, Cairo delivers something unforgettable for every taste.

Must-Try Egyptian Dishes You Can’t Miss

If you want to understand Cairo, start with its food. These traditional dishes are more than meals, they're cultural experiences.

Koshari – Egypt’s iconic comfort food made with lentils, rice, pasta, chickpeas, crispy onions, and a spicy tomato sauce. Often served in layers, it's hearty, chaotic, and deeply satisfying. Try it at Koshary Abou Tarek or Koshari El Tahrir.
Falafel (Ta’ameya) – Egypt’s take on falafel uses fava beans instead of chickpeas, giving it a green, herb-packed interior. Crunchy outside, fluffy inside. Head to Zööba or Felfela for a modern or traditional twist.
Ful Medames – A slow-cooked fava bean dish often eaten for breakfast with olive oil, lemon, and cumin. Humble, filling, and beloved. Arabiata and Felfela serve some of the best versions.
Hawawshi – Spiced minced meat baked in baladi bread, a street-food staple that packs a juicy punch.
Molokhia – A garlicky, green leafy stew often served with rice and meat. You’ll either love it or… not, but it’s a must-try.

Top Local Eateries for Authentic Cairo Flavours

These beloved spots serve more than food, they serve stories, memories, and a taste of the real Cairo.

Sobhy Kaber (Shubra) – Grilled meats, molokhia, rice platters, and a bustling, no-frills vibe. Expect large portions and even larger crowds.
El Prince (Imbaba) – Famous for liver (kebda), spicy sausages, and the full Egyptian street feast. Locals line up for a reason.
Abou Shakra (Dokki) – Classic Egyptian mixed grills with a history dating back decades. Family-friendly and consistent.

Cairo Street Food Guide: Where Locals Love to Eat

Cairo’s street food isn’t just cheap, it’s bold, exciting, and full of heart. Follow your nose to these hot spots:

Koshary Abou Tarek – Quick, filling, and legendary. A fast-food icon of Egypt.
Zööba – Street food meets design chic. Think elevated falafel, ful, and hawawshi served with hipster flair.
3al Genena (Nasr City) – Budget-friendly and beloved by students. Great for a late-night snack run.

Tip: Most meals range between 30–90 EGP. Look for clusters of locals, always a good sign. Best areas: Downtown, Nasr City, Khan El Khalili.

Take a look: Historic Cairo: A Full Guide to Egypt's Capital | Almosafer

Fine Dining in Cairo: Elegant Experiences & Upscale Eats

While local food steals the spotlight, Cairo’s fine dining scene is world-class for those looking to elevate their meal.

Transition: If you’re exploring Cairo beyond its traditional dishes, these upscale restaurants offer a more refined, but no less flavorful experience.

Sachi (Heliopolis) – Japanese-Mediterranean fusion, dim lighting, beautiful plating, and a buzzing atmosphere.
Kazoku (New Cairo) – Sleek, sophisticated Asian cuisine with a premium sushi selection.
The Smokery (Katameya) – Seafood-focused, beautifully located. Ideal for sunset views and special occasions.
Birdcage (Garden City) – Possibly the best Thai restaurant in the city. Authentic and consistently rated high.
Le Pacha 1901 (Zamalek) – Floating restaurant with multiple cuisines under one roof. A romantic Zamalek classic.

Pro Tip: Skip the averages; prices vary widely. Check each venue’s online menu for the latest offerings. For upscale dining, Zamalek, Heliopolis, and New Cairo are top picks.

Know more about: Explore The 10 Best Restaurants in Cairo | Almosafer Blog

Final Thoughts: Best Food in Cairo for Every Taste & Budget

Cairo isn’t just a place to visit, it’s a place to eat your way through. From back-alley kebab shops to floating sushi palaces, every meal is a story. So whether you’re backpacking on a budget or booking a luxury getaway, the food will leave a lasting impression.

Stay close to the flavour: Consider booking your stay near Zamalek, Downtown Cairo, or Heliopolis to be near the city’s tastiest hotspots.