If you’re wondering what food in Cairo you absolutely have to try, I can tell you now that eating is going to be a significant part of your trip. From enormous bowls of koshary topped with crispy onions to freshly fried ta’amiya and mahshi made by my friend Rami’s mum, some of my favourite memories from Cairo involve food.

I visited Cairo in 2024 and spent much of my time with my friends Rami and Khaled, who introduced me to the Egyptian foods they actually eat and took me to their favourite local spots. Rami even let me loose in the kitchen attempting to make ta’amiya. I wasn’t particularly good at it.

I’m still regularly in touch with them both, and they continue to update me on restaurants, dishes and places they insist they’re taking me when I return. I’ve also rechecked the practical details in this guide in August 2026, so you’re not relying on information from several years ago.

Below, you’ll find the Egyptian dishes I think are genuinely worth seeking out, where to eat them, my favourite restaurants and street food spots, plus recommendations straight from the people who live there. Because if there’s one thing I learned in Cairo, it’s that asking a local where they eat will almost always lead somewhere more interesting than asking where tourists should eat.

Disclaimer! All of my blogs may contain affiliate links. This means that if you click on the link and make a purchase I may receive a small amount of commission for the referral at no extra cost to you. This commission is what allows me to continue creating guides to help travellers plan their next trip!

Must try food in Cairo

Koshary

Koshary is perhaps the most iconic street food in Cairo, and it is also Egypt’s ultimate comfort food! It is a delicious and filling dish that’s unique to Egyptian cuisine. This hearty meal is a mix of rice, pasta, and lentils topped with tangy tomato sauce, chickpeas, and a crispy layer of fried onions. For extra flavour, it’s served with side condiments like garlic vinegar and a spicy chilli sauce, allowing you to adjust each bite to your taste.

Koshary is the perfect example of how Egyptian cuisine combines simple ingredients into something utterly satisfying and rich in flavour.

Where to try Koshary in Cairo: Abou Tarek

Abou Tarek is hailed as the best place for koshary in Cairo and having been there I can confirm it was delicious! Located near Downtown Cairo, this spot has been serving up generous, affordable portions of koshary for decades. The line can be long, but the wait is well worth it. I was taken here by Khaled, a local guide that focuses on showing people the non-touristy side of Cairo. You can read more about him here.

Address: ١٦ Marouf, Qasr El Nil, Cairo Governorate

Ful Medames

Ful medames, or simply “ful”, is a beloved Egyptian breakfast dish and one of the oldest recipes in Egyptian cuisine. Made from slow-cooked fava beans, ‘ful’ is typically mashed and flavoured with olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and cumin. It’s often garnished with toppings like fresh parsley, chopped tomatoes, onions, or even a hard-boiled egg, giving you a mix of textures and flavours in every bite. Served with warm pita bread, ‘ful’ is a filling, protein-rich meal that has kept locals fuelled for centuries.

Where to try Ful Medames in Cairo?

Located in Downtown Cairo, Felfela is a renowned restaurant that serves a beautifully prepared version of ‘ful medames’ in an iconic Egyptian setting. Known for its consistency and flavour, Felfela is a great choice for both locals and tourists.

Address: 15 Hoda Shaarawy, Bab Al Louq, Qasr El Nil

Sometimes chain restaurants can offer the most local experience, as is the case with Gad. Gad is a favourite among locals for classic Egyptian dishes, including ‘ful’. Gad is a solid option for a quick, tasty meal on the go.

Ta’amiya

Ta’amiya, Egypt’s answer to falafel, is a must try street food in Cairo that delights with its crispy texture and rich, savoury taste. Unlike traditional chickpea falafel, Egyptian ta’amiya is made from crushed fava beans, which gives it a vibrant green colour inside.

Mixed with herbs, spices, and often sesame seeds, then deep-fried to perfection, ta’amiya is crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside. It’s typically served with pita bread with salad, pickles, and a dash of tahini or hot sauce, making it an easy, delicious meal that captures the flavours of Egypt.

Where to try Ta’amiya in Cairo?

I enjoyed my ta’amiya at El Gahsh, a small local restaurant where Rami took me for breakfast. They even let me have a go at making ta’amiya, and promptly decided that was a bad idea! If you haven’t already read my “Cairo heroes” blog post, then you might not have a clue who Rami is! I suggest you go and check it out!

Another popular choice with locals is El Shabrawy. El Shabrawy offers fresh, delicious ta’amiya made to order. With several branches around Cairo, it’s a convenient place to try one of the city’s best loved street foods.

Address: ٤٤ شارع مارسينا السيده زينب, Abd El-Maguid El-Labban, Al Hanafi, El Sayeda Zeinab

If you fancy a modern twist to your falafel, then try Zooba. They serve up ta’amiya with a range of creative toppings in a hip, colourful setting.

Address: 16 26 July St, Al Gabalayah, Zamalek

Grilled Meats and Kebabs

Grilled meats and kebabs are staples that capture the city’s love for rich, smokey flavours and tender textures. They are typically seasoned with aromatic spices like cumin, coriander, and garlic. Egyptian kebabs and kofta (ground meat skewers) are usually made from lamb or beef.

The meat is marinated, skewered, and then grilled over an open flame to achieve that perfect charred taste that’s both juicy and packed with flavour.

Where to try grilled meats and kebabs in Cairo?

Abou El Sid is a classic choice for traditional Egyptian dishes and offers a refined take on grilled meats in a cosy, nostalgic setting. The lamb skewers are particularly popular here.

Address: 157 26th of July Corridor, Mohammed Mazhar, Zamalek

Molokhia

Molokhia, a beloved Egyptian staple, is a hearty green stew made from finely chopped molokhia leaves (often known as jute leaves). With a unique, slightly viscous texture and an earthy, garlicky flavour, this dish is traditionally served with rice or flatbread and often topped with tender pieces of chicken, rabbit, or lamb. In Egyptian households, molokhia is more than just a meal; it’s comfort food that brings family and friends together.

Infused with garlic, coriander and sometimes a splash of lemon, molokhia offers a taste experience that’s both rustic and rich. Each family has its way of making it, and it’s common to find regional variations in spices and accompaniments.

Where to try Molokhia in Cairo?

Known for its consistent quality, Tarboush offers molokhia with an authentic Egyptian flavour. They offer multiple meat options, and their molokhia is loved for its smooth texture and garlicky punch.

Shawarma

Shawarma is one of the quintessential street foods in Cairo, offering  a delicious mix of Middle Eastern flavours with an Egyptian twist. Thinly sliced, marinated meat (typically lamb, chicken, or beef) is slow-roasted on a vertical rotisserie, then carved off in tender, juicy slices. It’s usually wrapped in soft flatbread and topped with tahini, pickles, fresh tomatoes, and onions, making each bite a burst of flavour.

Cairo’s streets are dotted with shawarma stands and eateries, each with its own style and unique blend of spices, which gives this dish an undeniable allure. Shawarma is a staple food in Cairo and I did my best to try as many variants as possible! For you of course!

Where to try Shawarma in Cairo?

As well as being a good place to try ful, Gad is also known for its satisfying shawarma. Their juicy, well-seasoned meat and freshly baked bread make it a go to for everyone, including me!

Another good option is Felfela, which serves a delicious shawarma that comes packed with the classic accompaniments of tahini and pickles.

Address: 15 Hoda Shaarawy, Bab Al Louq, Qasr El Nil

Eastfeller, a Lebanese Urban Kitchen, also makes some of the most delicious Shawarma I tried. Their restaurant specializes in authentic Lebanese and Turkish cuisine, and offers delicious dishes such as Diet Döner, Lebanese Sujuc, Toshka, Kibbeh, and a rich assortment of Mazza. But the star of the show is the Chicken Shawarma! You can’t go wrong here! WARNING! Only click on their Instagram if you don’t mind instant food envy!

Address: Alkarma mall 4, Second Al Sheikh Zayed, Giza Governorate

The final location I tried shawarma in, was El Tahrir, located near Tahrir Square. It’s an unassuming spot that is famous for its flavoursome shawarma. They serve generous portions and use quality ingredients. This was my favourite of the three.

Address: 19 Abd El-Khalik Tharwat, Bab Al Louq, Abdeen

Mahshi

Mahshi is a beloved comfort food in Cairo, consisting of vegetables stuffed with a savoury mix of rice, herbs, and spices. Typical mahshi varieties include courgettes, bell peppers, aubergine, grape leaves (my favourite), and even cabbage leaves, each offering a unique texture and flavour.

The rice filling is usually flavoured with fresh dill, coriander, and parsley, and often has a hint of tomato and onion, creating a delicious, aromatic blend that highlights the essence of Egyptian home cooking. Sometimes, a touch of minced meat is added to the filling for extra richness.

I will admit to having only eaten this at Pyramid Temple Guest House after Rami’s mum lovingly prepared them for me. However, you will find mahshi in most restaurants, but you really want to look out for smaller, family run eateries for a more authentic version.

Where to try Mahshi in Cairo?

The best bet, if I am honest, is to just book in to Rami’s family guest house at Pyramids Temple Guest House! His mum is guaranteed to make you some!

Hawawshy

Hawawshy is another beloved street food in Cairo and is an absolute must try for meat lovers. This savoury dish is similar to an Egyptian meat pie, where seasoned ground beef — often mixed with onions, peppers, and a blend of aromatic spices — is stuffed inside a traditional baladi bread (Egyptian flatbread) and baked until crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside.

The result is a warm, flavour packed snack that’s perfect for enjoying on the go or with a side of tahini.

Where to try Hawawshy in Cairo?

Hawawshy El Rifaee is a popular spot among locals, and one of Khaled’s favourites, which is why I am featuring it in this blog even though I haven’t been there. As the name suggests, they specialise in Hawawshy. It is always cooked fresh and served piping hot. It’s a great place to experience authentic Egyptian food.

Best Street Food Spots

When it comes to street food in Cairo, the city’s bustling streets are a paradise for food lovers. Cairo’s street food scene offers an array of authentic, flavourful bites that are not only delicious but also reflect Egypt’s rich culinary heritage. Sampling street food in Cairo is a must-do for any visitor looking to immerse themselves in local culture and experience Egyptian cuisine at its most vibrant.

Here are the best spots for street food in Cairo:

Talat Harb Street (Downtown Cairo)

Known for its lively atmosphere and a mix of traditional and modern eateries, Talat Harb is a fantastic spot to sample classic Egyptian street food like koshary and ta’amiya. You’ll also find plenty of coffee shops and juice stalls, making it a well rounded stop.

Al-Muizz Street (Islamic Cairo)

This historic street in the heart of Islamic Cairo is not only a UNESCO World Heritage Site but also a bustling hub for street food. Vendors here serve local delicacies like ful and kebabs, and the vibrant surroundings of centuries old mosques and souks add to the experience.

Zamalek Island Streets

The trendy neighbourhood of Zamalek is known for its unique blend of international and Egyptian cuisine. Wander through its quieter streets, where you’ll find modern takes on street food at places like Zooba, alongside traditional vendors selling snacks like shawarma and falafel.

Sharia Port Said (Garden City)

Located near the Nile in the upscale Garden City area, Sharia Port Said has a variety of food stalls and restaurants offering Egyptian favourites. The street is popular for its shawarma stands and casual eateries where you can taste delicious grilled meats and fresh bread.

El Hussein Square (Khan El Khalili Bazaar)

Close to Cairo’s famous Khan El Khalili Bazaar, El Hussein Square is packed with street food vendors offering Egyptian classics like ta’amiya, ful, and fresh-baked bread. The area is particularly lively in the evenings, with a vibrant atmosphere and plenty of tea shops nearby.

Abdel Khaleq Tharwat Street (Downtown Cairo)

Another popular street in Downtown, Abdel Khaleq Tharwat, is lined with street food options, especially koshary and grilled meats. This area attracts both locals and tourists who are drawn by the authentic taste and affordability of the food.

How to avoid a dodgy tummy when eating street food in Cairo

Eating street food in Cairo is one of the best ways to immerse yourself in local culture, but taking a few precautions can help you avoid any tummy troubles along the way. Here are some top tips for enjoying food in Cairo without the worries of what might come out the other end!

1. Choose busy vendors

Opt for street food stalls with a steady stream of locals. High turnover means the food is fresh, and vendors in high traffic areas are likely to be popular for a reason – quality and hygiene!

2. Stick to cooked foods

Foods that are cooked on the spot, like grilled meats or fried ta’amiya, are generally safer than raw or pre-prepared options. The heat from cooking can help kill any potential bacteria.

3. Look for clean worktops

Take a moment to observe how the food is prepared. Stalls where vendors wear gloves, have access to fresh water, and keep their areas clean are more likely to follow hygiene practices.

4. Beware of the water

Stick to bottled water, especially when washing down street food. Cairo’s tap water isn’t suitable for drinking, so it’s best to avoid it for drinking or rinsing fruits.

5. Beware of unwashed vegetables and salads

Street vendors might not always use bottled or filtered water to rinse vegetables. It’s safer to skip the raw salads in favour of fully cooked items when eating street food in Cairo.

6. Pack a digestive aid

Imodium is my friend! Having a digestive aid or probiotics on hand can help if your stomach isn’t used to certain spices or food preparations. This is a small step that can go a long way in keeping you comfortable.

7. Wash your hands

Carrying hand sanitiser or hand wipes can be useful in a busy city. Clean hands are one of the simplest ways to reduce the risk of foodborne illness.

Dining in Cairo: Experiences Worth Booking.

From fine dining to rooftop eateries with stunning views, Cairo has a wealth of memorable places for you to enjoy your food in Cairo beyond just street fare.

Nile River Dinner Cruises

Dining on the Nile is a popular and romantic way to experience Cairo. Many cruises include traditional Egyptian music and belly dancing shows, adding an entertaining cultural element to your meal. Expect to sample Egyptian classics as well as a range of international dishes.

Traditional Egyptian Feasts

Some restaurants in Cairo, like Abou El Sid, offer traditional Egyptian dishes served in an authentic setting with classic décor and a warm ambience. This is a great place to try dishes like molokhia, tagine, or roasted pigeon as part of a shared feast.

Rooftop dining with Pyramid views

For an unforgettable experience, head to one of Cairo’s rooftop restaurants with views of the Pyramids of Giza. Restaurants like 9 Pyramids Lounge and the rooftop at Marriott Mena House offer food in Cairo with an incredible backdrop, especially at sunset.

Alternatively, stay at Pyramid Temple Guest House and enjoy the views while tucking into a traditional Bedouin feast!

Hidden courtyard cafes

Tucked away in historic districts, Cairo has charming courtyard cafes like Felfela and El Fishawy in Khan El Khalili Bazaar, where you can enjoy traditional snacks and sweets in a beautiful, atmospheric setting. These spots are perfect for a relaxing meal or a quiet moment over mint tea.

Modern Egyptian cuisine

Places like Zooba offer a more contemporary twist on traditional food in Cairo, presenting street food classics in creative new ways. With funky décor and a vibrant menu, these restaurants cater to those looking for a modern, accessible take on Egyptian flavours.

Vegetarian and Vegan-Friendly Options

The great news is that Cairo is very vegetarian and vegan-friendly, with many national dishes catering to a meat-free diet. In addition to koshary, ta’amiya and mahshi, vegetarians and vegans will also enjoy baba ganoush.

Baba ganoush and tahini are classic Middle Eastern dips that are widely available and pair well with bread and fresh veggies.

Best Restaurants in Cairo: Hidden Gems and Local Favourites

Beyond the individual dishes above, there are a few Cairo restaurants worth having on your radar. Some are famous local institutions, while others are smaller places offering something a little different. Here are a few I’d consider when deciding where to eat in Cairo:

Sobhy Kaber

Tucked away in the neighbourhood of Shubra, Sobhy Kaber is a local favourite for grilled meats and traditional Egyptian dishes. Known for its lively, no-frills atmosphere, this spot is where locals go for hearty meals of kebabs, kofta, and tagines.

Address: 151 Ebeid, As Sahel, Rod El Farag

Eish & Malh

This downtown gem combines Italian and Egyptian flavours with a casual vibe. Their breakfast and brunch options are especially popular, with a focus on fresh ingredients and unique Egyptian twists on classic dishes. The atmosphere is cosy and artsy, ideal for a relaxed meal while taking in the local scene.

Address: 20 Adly, Al Fawalah, Abdeen

Kazaz

A well kept secret in the heart of Cairo, Kazaz is a tiny but beloved spot for Egyptian fast food. Specialising in sandwiches and wraps filled with classic Egyptian fillings like liver, sausages, and ta’amiya, it’s a great place to grab a quick, flavourful bite. And while I am not a fan of fast food back in the UK, I do enjoy experiencing the fast-paced side of food in Cairo.

Address: 7 Al Bostan Al Seidi, Bab Al Louq, Abdeen

Fasahet Somaya

If you’re in the mood for a home cooked Egyptian meal, Fasahet Somaya is a hidden gem tucked in downtown Cairo. This tiny spot only serves a few dishes each day, depending on what’s fresh, making each visit unique. Its intimate atmosphere and homestyle flavours offer a truly local experience of food in Cairo.

Address: 59 Al Falki, Bab Al Louq, Abdeen

Where to Eat Near the Egyptian Museum

First, a slightly important clarification: which Egyptian Museum? Cairo now has two major museums that visitors commonly mean when they say “the Egyptian Museum”, and they are nowhere near each other. The original Egyptian Museum is on Tahrir Square in Downtown Cairo, while the enormous new Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) is over in Giza, close to the Pyramids. So please don’t choose your lunch spot before establishing which collection of ancient Egyptians you’re actually visiting.

Where to eat at the Grand Egyptian Museum: Zooba

The Grand Egyptian Museum has several restaurants and cafés within the complex, so you don’t actually need to leave the museum to find lunch. If you want to stick with Egyptian food, the one I’d choose is Zooba. I haven’t eaten at this particular branch yet, but both Rami and Khaled recommend it, which carries considerably more weight with me than a random list of “best restaurants near the GEM” on the internet.

Zooba takes Egyptian street-food classics and gives them a slightly more contemporary treatment. The GEM branch has its own menu, but you’ll still find recognisable favourites including koshary, ful, ta’amiya, hawawshi, molokhia and feteer. It’s inevitably more polished (and more expensive) than eating the same dishes from a tiny local restaurant elsewhere in Cairo, but for a convenient introduction to Egyptian food during a day at the museum, this is where Rami and Khaled tell me to go.

Where to eat near the Egyptian Museum in Tahrir: Koshary Abou Tarek

If you’re visiting the Egyptian Museum on Tahrir Square, my first choice is much easier: Abou Tarek. I’ve eaten here myself, Khaled took me, and I’d happily go back tomorrow.

This is the place to come for koshary, Egypt’s gloriously carb-heavy combination of rice, pasta and lentils topped with chickpeas, tomato sauce and crispy fried onions. It sounds like someone emptied three different cupboards into a bowl and hoped for the best. Somehow, it works brilliantly. Koshary Abou Tarek is something of a Cairo institution, and despite its fame, it still feels like somewhere you come primarily to eat rather than somewhere designed as a tourist attraction.

I’ve covered Abou Tarek in more detail in the koshary section above, but if you’re trying to combine sightseeing around Downtown Cairo with genuinely good Egyptian food, this is the option I’d personally choose.

Oldish: for a slower lunch near Tahrir Square

If you want somewhere to actually sit down and linger after the Egyptian Museum, Oldish is another option close to Tahrir Square. It’s tucked away on Mohammed Mahmoud Street, with a leafy courtyard that provides a rather welcome escape from the noise and general sensory overload of Downtown Cairo.

I haven’t eaten here personally, so I can’t pretend to give you a Bea-tested verdict, but it continues to receive excellent feedback and is a useful alternative if you want more choice than a bowl of koshary. The menu mixes Egyptian favourites such as molokhia, moussaka and hawawshi with more international dishes, and recent visitors consistently mention the relaxed courtyard, generous portions and reasonable prices.

How Much Does Food Cost in Cairo?

One of the joys of eating in Cairo is that you really don’t need to spend much to eat extremely well. Prices vary enormously depending on whether you’re grabbing koshary from a local favourite, sitting down for grilled meats or eating somewhere aimed primarily at visitors, but good Egyptian food can still be remarkably affordable.

As a rough guide, these are the prices you can expect (updated August 2026):

• Street food and simple local meals: around EGP 40–100 per person
• Casual restaurants: around EGP 100–250 per person
• A larger meal or more polished restaurant: around EGP 250–500 per person
• Higher-end and tourist-focused restaurants: EGP 500+ per person

To put that into context, a bowl of koshary at Abou Tarek currently starts at around EGP 45, while dishes at sit-down restaurants can easily run into several hundred Egyptian pounds. Restaurants inside major attractions can also be considerably more expensive; don’t expect the prices at the Grand Egyptian Museum to match those at your neighbourhood ta’amiya shop.

Perhaps more importantly, price isn’t a particularly good indication of how memorable your meal will be. Some of my favourite food in Cairo came from the least glamorous places Rami and Khaled took me.

A note on prices: Egypt has experienced significant price changes in recent years, so I’ve deliberately given broad ranges rather than listing the exact price of every dish. These prices were checked in August 2026 and are intended as a budgeting guide rather than a promise of what you’ll pay.

Tips for Eating Out in Cairo

Eating out in Cairo is an adventure all on its own, and with the diverse range of food in Cairo, there are a few tips to help you make the most of it.

1. Embrace local spots

While there are excellent international options, the best way to experience food in Cairo is through local eateries. Don’t shy away from places that might look simple; they often serve some of the most authentic dishes.

2. Ask for recommendations

Cairo locals love their food, and most are happy to point you to the best spots in town. Whether it’s the taxi driver, hotel staff, or your tour guide, asking locals is a great way to discover hidden gems.

3. Even better, eat out with a local

There is nothing I love more than hanging out with locals, and in Cairo it is very easy to do that! You can hire a friend! I met Khaled on a Facebook group and he offers a non-tour of local Cairo. He loves learning about other cultures and he loves sharing his, which makes for fantastic conversation. Hanging out with Khaled was one of the best things I did in Cairo, and I wouldn’t be writing this blog post if it wasn’t for him! You can find out more about him in my “Best Guides in Cairo” blog post.

4. Be open to street food

I know I’ve said it already, but some of the best food in Cairo is served from small stalls on the street. Don’t miss out on dishes like koshary, ta’amiya, and ful medames from street vendors. However, as mentioned above, choose stalls with high turnover to ensure freshness and follow common sense with hygiene.

5. Order a variety to share

Egyptian meals are often enjoyed family-style, and many restaurants encourage sharing. Ordering multiple dishes to share will let you sample more of the flavours and textures that define food in Cairo.

6. Keep cash handy

Many local eateries don’t accept cards, so it’s always a good idea to have some cash for dining in Cairo. This is especially true for smaller spots and street vendors.

7. Don’t skip the drinks

Egyptian drinks like hibiscus tea (karkadeh) and fresh sugarcane juice are worth trying and add to the experience of food in Cairo. My favourite though? Minty fresh lemon juice. It’s a particularly refreshing option after a day of sightseeing.

Go for a Cooking Class

A cooking class is one of the most immersive ways to experience food in Cairo, allowing you to go beyond simply tasting dishes to actually learning how they’re made. Through hands-on classes, you’ll dive into Egyptian culinary traditions, understand the local ingredients, and even pick up a few techniques to recreate these flavours back home.

Why you should try it

Cooking classes provide a unique way to connect with Egypt’s culture through its food. But it is also a great way to understand more about the local culture!

By taking a class, you not only learn recipes but also gain an insight into the role that food plays in Egyptian daily life, celebrations, and traditions.

What to expect

Most cooking classes in Cairo are set up to be interactive, with a mix of demonstration and hands-on practice. You’ll often start with a market visit, where instructors introduce you to the local spices, vegetables, and staples that make Egyptian cuisine distinctive.

After shopping, you’ll head back to the kitchen to prepare dishes like koshary, molokhia, or ta’amiya, following the guidance of an expert. I hope you are better than me at following guidance because my attempt at ta’amiya was disastrous!

Classes generally end with a shared meal, allowing you to enjoy the fruits of your labour and chat with other food enthusiasts and travellers.

What to look for

When choosing a cooking class in Cairo, look for one that prioritises an authentic experience. Opt for classes with local chefs, who specialise in Egyptian cuisine, and who offer cultural insights alongside cooking tips.

It is also worth checking if the class includes a market visit, as this adds an invaluable layer of understanding about food in Cairo.

Lastly, smaller classes usually provide a more intimate, personalised experience.

Admittedly, I did not have time to do a cooking class while there, but I did spot one I really wanted to do, so I thought I’d share it with you. It involves learning to cook within a family setting, the idea of which I love. It all takes place in their family home giving you an extra glimpse into local life.

You can find more details on the experience here.

Final Thoughts on Cairo’s Food Scene

Cairo is a city that reveals itself in layers, especially through its incredible food scene. To truly savour its rich flavours, unique dining spots, and local experiences, you need more than just a day to explore. From bustling street vendors to hidden gems and immersive cooking classes, each bite tells a story of the city’s culture and history.

For those looking to dive deeper, consider staying longer and following my 6-day Cairo itinerary to experience all the culinary and cultural treasures that Cairo has to offer. And if you are wondering how you can possibly get to all these places, you might want to check out how to get around Cairo for first timers!

What Was Your Favourite Food in Cairo?

I’ve eaten my way through a fairly impressive amount of Cairo in the name of research, but I’m under no illusion that I’ve found everything. In a city this enormous, I’m pretty sure that’s a challenge I could spend several lifetimes working on.

So, if you’ve been to Cairo, tell me: what was the best thing you ate, and where did you find it? Leave me a comment below. I’m always looking for an excuse to return, and “a stranger on the internet told me I had to try a sandwich” is honestly good enough for me.