Egypt · tool
Cairo food guide
Signature dishes, best food neighborhoods, and the dining etiquette that actually matters — all specific to Cairo.
Photo by joe boshra on Unsplash
What to eat in Cairo
6 signature dishes, 4 food-forward neighborhoods, and the etiquette you actually need to know.
Must-try dishes
Koshary
$1–$3
A hearty, layered dish of rice, macaroni, lentils, chickpeas, and a spicy tomato sauce, topped with fried onions. It's Egypt's beloved national street food, a carb-lover's dream.
Where to try: Abou Tarek, Downtown Cairo
Ful Medames
$0.75–$2.5
Slow-cooked fava beans stewed with garlic, lemon, cumin, and olive oil, often served for breakfast or as a light meal. It's a staple that fuels Egyptians daily.
Where to try: Any local 'ful' stand or small eatery, especially in the Gamaleya district
Molokhia
$5–$12
A vibrant green soup made from chopped jute leaves, often cooked with rabbit or chicken broth, garlic, and served with rice or bread. It has a unique, slightly slimy texture that's surprisingly delicious.
Where to try: Seagull Restaurant, Zamalek
Feteer Meshaltet
$3–$8
A flaky, multi-layered pastry, similar to a very rich, buttery phyllo dough, often served with honey, cheese, or cream. It's a decadent treat, perfect for sharing.
Where to try: Feteera, various locations (e.g., Nasr City)
Mahshi
$4–$10
Vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, bell peppers, or grape leaves stuffed with a mixture of rice, herbs, and sometimes minced meat. It's a comforting and flavorful home-style dish.
Where to try: Kazaz, Downtown Cairo
Shawarma
$1.5–$4
Thinly sliced marinated meat (lamb, beef, or chicken) cooked on a vertical rotisserie, shaved off and served in bread with tahini, pickles, and vegetables. A ubiquitous and satisfying street food.
Where to try: Gad Restaurants, various locations
Where locals eat — best neighborhoods
Downtown Cairo
Historic, bustling, a mix of old-world charm and modern life.
Street FoodClassic CafesBudget Eats
Zamalek
Upscale, leafy island district with elegant restaurants and international cuisine.
Fine DiningInternational CuisineRiverside Views
Khan el-Khalili / Gamaleya
Medieval souk atmosphere, vibrant, sensory overload with traditional eateries and tea houses.
Traditional EgyptianStreet FoodTea HousesSouvenir Shopping
Giza (near GEM)
Emerging tourist hub with modern facilities and views of the pyramids.
Museum CafesTourist-Friendly DiningPyramid Views
Dietary notes
Egyptian cuisine is traditionally meat-heavy, with lamb, beef, and chicken featuring prominently. However, many vegetarian dishes like Koshary, Ful Medames, and various Mahshi (stuffed vegetables) are readily available and delicious. Vegan options can be found by focusing on these vegetable-based dishes, but be mindful of dairy or animal fats used in preparation. Gluten-free options are limited outside of naturally GF dishes like grilled meats and salads.
Local etiquette
- •Tipping (Baksheesh) is customary for almost any service, including waiters, hotel staff, and even restroom attendants. Have small denominations of Egyptian pounds handy.
- •While credit cards are accepted in larger establishments, cash is king, especially for street food and smaller shops. Always carry some local currency.
- •It's polite to accept offers of tea or coffee when visiting someone's home or a shop.
- •Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or more traditional neighborhoods, to show respect for local customs.
Plan the rest of your Cairo trip
Food guides elsewhere