Best Places to Eat in Cairo

Street Food Heaven: The Best Places to Eat in Cairo

Cairo, a city that never sleeps, offers a diverse and vibrant culinary scene that caters to all tastes and budgets. While fancy restaurants are plenty, the true essence of Egyptian cuisine lies in its street food culture. Here’s a guide to some of the best places to eat in Cairo, where you can experience authentic flavors at affordable prices:

1. Koshari Abu Tarek

  • Address: Al-Azhar Park, Cairo
  • Price Range: EGP 20-50 (~ $1-$3 USD)
  • Must-Try: Koshari (a traditional Egyptian dish made with pasta, lentils, tomato sauce, and fried onions)

This humble street food stall has been serving some of the city’s best koshari for decades. Located in Al-Azhar Park, it’s a must-visit destination for anyone looking to taste authentic Egyptian cuisine.

2. El Tabei

  • Address: Sharia Aziz Abaza, Cairo
  • Price Range: EGP 20-50 (~ $1-$3 USD)
  • Must-Try: Ful Medames (stewed fava beans) and Ta’ameyya (Egyptian falafel)

This iconic street food shop has been around since the 1950s. Try their famous ful medames, a staple in Egyptian cuisine, or indulge in crispy ta’ameyya.

3. Ahwa El Tahrir

  • Address: Tahrir Square, Cairo
  • Price Range: EGP 50-100 (~ $3-$6 USD)
  • Must-Try: Shish Taouk (grilled chicken skewers) and Gahwa (Turkish coffee)

Perched on the banks of the Nile River, this cozy street food cafe offers breathtaking views of the city. Enjoy traditional Egyptian dishes like shish taouk, falafel, or try their delicious gahwa.

4. Koshari Abou El Seoud

  • Address: Sharia Al-Ghuri, Cairo
  • Price Range: EGP 20-50 (~ $1-$3 USD)
  • Must-Try: Koshari and Ta’ameyya

Another popular spot for koshari lovers, this humble street food vendor serves some of the city’s best versions. Try their delicious ta’ameyya or enjoy a plate of crispy falafel.

5. Abu El Abiad

  • Address: Sharia Aziz Abaza, Cairo
  • Price Range: EGP 20-50 (~ $1-$3 USD)
  • Must-Try: Ta’ameyya and Ful Medames

This unassuming street food shop is a hidden gem in the heart of Cairo. Try their mouth-watering ta’ameyya or savor their hearty ful medames.

Insider Tip: Visit these street food vendors during off-peak hours to avoid long lines, and be sure to try their signature drinks like ahwa (Egyptian coffee) or karkade (hibiscus tea).

Budget Breakdown:

  • EGP 20-50 (~ $1-$3 USD) for a hearty meal
  • EGP 10-20 (~ $0.60-$1.20 USD) for a snack
  • EGP 5-10 (~ $0.30-$0.60 USD) for a drink

**Enjoy Your Culinary Adventure in Cairo!