best-places-to-eat-in-Cairo, Egypt
Street Food Heaven: The Best Places to Eat in Cairo, Egypt
Cairo, the bustling capital of Egypt, is a melting pot of flavors and cuisines. From traditional street food to upscale restaurants, the city offers a diverse range of dining options that cater to all tastes and budgets. Here are some of the best places to eat in Cairo, with a focus on popular street food:
1. Koshari Street
Located in the heart of Islamic Cairo, Koshari Street is a pedestrian-only street lined with stalls serving some of the city’s most delicious koshari dishes. This Egyptian staple consists of pasta, lentils, tomato sauce, and fried onions, all served steaming hot.
2. Ta’ameya
Ta’ameya are Egyptian falafel, made from fava beans instead of chickpeas like their Middle Eastern counterparts. These crispy, flavorful balls can be found on almost every street corner in Cairo. Try them at El-Horreyya Restaurant in the Khan el-Khalili market.
3. Shawarma
No trip to Cairo is complete without trying a juicy shawarma. This popular street food consists of thinly sliced meat (usually lamb or chicken) served in a pita bread with veggies and tahini sauce. Try it at El-Shawarma, located on the corner of Shariah Muhammad Ali and Shariah Ataba.
4. Mahalabia
Mahalabia are Egyptian-style doughnuts that can be found on many street corners and markets throughout Cairo. These sweet treats are typically drizzled with honey or sugar syrup and make for a delicious snack.
5. Ahwa (Tea House)
Ahwas are traditional tea houses where you can find a variety of snacks, including fresh fruit, sandwiches, and pastries. Try the Ahwa on Shariah El-Imam Hussein in Islamic Cairo for a relaxing cup of tea and some delicious bites.
6. Feteer Meshaltet
Feteer Meshaltet is an Egyptian dish that consists of layers of dough filled with cheese, herbs, and spices. This flaky pastry can be found at the Feteer Meshaltet restaurant on Shariah El-Imam Hussein in Islamic Cairo.
7. Kunafah
Kunafah is a popular Egyptian dessert consisting of shredded phyllo dough topped with cream and cheese. Try it at the famous Al-Halawani restaurant on Shariah Ataba.
Remember to always try local street food from reputable vendors, and don’t be afraid to haggle over prices!