Cairo

Fasahet Somaya is a tiny, home-style eatery near the Egyptian Museum, where chef Somaya Al-Asyoty cooks whatever she finds fresh at the market that morning. There’s no fixed menu—just a short list that changes daily, with dishes like molokhiya, stuffed pigeon, or sometimes slow-cooked lamb with unexpected twists. The space is cosy and a little bohemian, with blue-and-white walls, a handful of tables, and an open kitchen where Somaya chats with guests while cooking. It truly feels more like eating in someone’s home than a restaurant. Fasahet Somaya only runs for two hours a night—doors open at 5 pm, and she’s usually sold out by 7 pm, so get there early.

Koshary Abou Tarek is, perhaps, the most famous place for koshary, Egypt’s national dish. If you haven’t tried it before, koshary is a mix of rice, lentils and chickpeas, with macaroni and vermicelli noodles added in, all drenched in a tangy tomato sauce seasoned with lemon, vinegar, and chilli. The story goes back to the 1950s, when Abou Tarek started selling it from a humble street cart in downtown Cairo. These days, it’s loud, fast and a bit chaotic—but that’s part of the charm. Treat yourself to big, flavour-packed bowls in a no-frills, cafeteria-style space. A local staple and a bit of a tourist rite of passage, it’s ideal if you want something cheap, filling, and full of local character.

Located at the Four Seasons Hotel, Zitouni serves up traditional Egyptian dishes in a sophisticated dining room overlooking the Nile, with a bit of Persian flair in the décor. The menu hits the staples — lentil soup, stuffed pigeon, lamb with okra, and molokhiya, a thick stew made from jute leaves. Save room for dessert — the selection is massive, and the kanafa is worth it. It’s definitely on the pricier side, but the food and views make it a solid choice if you want a proper Egyptian meal without roughing it.

Bab El‑Sharq is an elegant restaurant inside the Nile Ritz‑Carlton offering classic Middle Eastern dishes in a dimly lit, wood-accented setting that opens out onto garden views of the Egyptian Museum. Indulge in mezze, charcoal-grilled meats, and richer plates like shrimp‑stuffed pigeon, with desserts like knafeh or mastic ice cream to finish. Evenings fill out with live music, belly dancing, and shisha, making it more of a night out than just dinner.

Inside the luxurious Semiramis InterContinental, Birdcage offers some of the best Thai food in Cairo, with dishes like Tom Yum (hot and sour shrimp soup), Pad Thai, Gaeng Keow Wan (chicken in green curry), among other Thai staples — all in an opulent setting, with an open kitchen and attentive service.

A quiet spot inside the Kempinski Hotel, Osmanly does Ottoman-style cooking—dishes like Hünkar Beğendi (eggplant with braised meat), slow-cooked lamb shank, and a full spread of hot and cold mezzes. The setting’s low-lit and warm, with terracotta walls and a calm, unhurried feel.