The best things to eat and drink in Egypt:  Culinary wonders of food and drink in Egypt, including street food

Embark on a gastronomic odyssey through Egypt as we unveil the intricacies of its culinary landscape. When planning your Egypt tours, the exploration of food and drink becomes an integral part of the journey. From the vibrant streets to the heart of Egyptian kitchens, our guide delves into the best things to eat and drink in Egypt.

Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Egyptian cuisine, where local flavors ingeniously combine elements of Lebanese, all modified to suit the unique conditions of the region.

Join us as we navigate the diverse offerings, including the enticing street food scene, ensuring that your exploration of Egypt extends beyond its historic wonders to the delightful realm of its culinary treasures.

Food and Drink in Egypt

Egyptian food combines elements of Lebanese, Greek, French, Turkish, and more, and is a culinary haven that beckons with a diverse array of flavors catering to all palates. In the vibrant tapestry of food and drink in Egypt, inclusivity reigns supreme. Traditional dishes, enriched with centuries of history, embrace a spectrum of dietary preferences, ensuring a feast for everyone.

For those with a penchant for plant-based delights, Egyptian cuisine welcomes vegans and vegetarians with open arms. From the iconic Ful Medames, a hearty fava bean stew, to the delectable Ta'meya, a vegan twist on falafel, the options are abundant. The ubiquitous Koshari, a comforting blend of lentils, rice, and pasta, stands as a testament to Egypt's mastery in crafting vegetarian delights.

For seafood enthusiasts, the coastal charm of Egypt unfolds a treasure trove of maritime delights. Grilled fish, seafood tagines, and shrimp biryani showcase the rich flavors of the Red Sea, offering a seafood symphony to tantalize the taste buds.

Inclusive and rich in variety, Egypt's culinary landscape ensures that every plate tells a story, accommodating diverse dietary choices and preferences. So, whether you savor the spices of meatless wonders or dive into the coastal indulgence of seafood, the food and drink in Egypt promises a gastronomic adventure for all.

Egyptian Delights: 6 Best Things to Eat in Egypt

Egyptian cuisine is a delightful fusion of flavors that reflects the country's rich history and diverse influences. From traditional dishes dating back centuries to modern culinary creations, Egypt offers a unique culinary experience. Here are six must-try Egyptian delights:

Kebabs and Kofta: Grilled Perfection

Kebabs and kofta, the epitome of grilled perfection, offer a sensory journey through the enticing world of Egyptian barbecue. These succulent skewers feature meticulously seasoned meats, expertly grilled to smoky tenderness. Whether it's the charred edges of kofta or the marinated goodness of kebabs, each bite is a celebration of smoky, savory delight.

Where to Try:

Cairo's Khan El Khalili Market: Dive into the cultural heart of Cairo at Khan El Khalili Market, where grill houses like Naguib Mahfouz Café serve up kebabs and kofta in a vibrant setting. Enjoy the lively atmosphere as you savor the grilled perfection of these culinary delights.

Luxor's Riverside Grills: Along the serene Nile in Luxor, riverside grills such as Sofra provide a picturesque backdrop for indulging in kebabs and kofta. Let the riverside ambiance enhance the flavors as you relish the char-grilled mastery of these delectable offerings.

Grilled Nile Perch: A Coastal Culinary Extravaganza

Grilled Nile Perch is a coastal delight that showcases the bounty of the Nile River. This freshwater fish, known for its tender and mild-flavored flesh, takes center stage in this dish. The Nile Perch is expertly seasoned and grilled to perfection, bringing out its natural flavors and creating a smoky, savory profile.

The preparation often involves a marinade of local herbs, spices, and a touch of citrus, enhancing the delicate taste of the fish. Grilled Nile Perch is typically served with a side of fragrant rice or couscous, creating a harmonious seafood experience that reflects the coastal influences of the region.

Where to Try:

Luxor's Riverside Restaurants: Indulge in the coastal flavors of Grilled Nile Perch at Luxor's riverside restaurants, such as Nile Valley Café. These establishments provide a picturesque setting along the Nile, allowing you to savor the fish while enjoying the serene ambiance of the historic city.

Shawarma: A Middle Eastern Culinary Classic

Shawarma is a quintessential Middle Eastern street food that has found its way into the hearts and palates of many. Typically made with seasoned and marinated slices of meat--commonly chicken, beef, or lamb--that are stacked on a vertical rotisserie. The meat is slow-cooked as it turns, resulting in succulent, flavorful layers. Served in a variety of ways, the most common presentation is in a flatbread wrap, accompanied by garlic sauce, tahini, vegetables, and sometimes pickles.

Where to Try:

Street Food Corners in Cairo: Dive into the lively streets of Cairo, where local street food corners showcase the art of Shawarma-making. Places like Shawarma El Reem offer a delicious and convenient way to savor this Middle Eastern classic.

Shawarma Restaurants in Alexandria: Explore the coastal city of Alexandria and its shawarma restaurants, such as Shawarma Mahrous. Enjoy the sea breeze as you indulge in a tasty shawarma wrap, appreciating the regional variations and flavors.

Hawawshi: A Flavorful Egyptian Meat Pie

Hawawshi is a beloved Egyptian street food that showcases the perfect marriage of seasoned minced meat and the comforting warmth of baladi bread. Typically made with minced beef or lamb, the meat is mixed with aromatic spices such as cumin, coriander, and sometimes garlic. The flavorful meat mixture is then stuffed inside a piece of Egyptian baladi bread, which is a traditional whole wheat flatbread.

The stuffed bread is then baked or grilled until it achieves a delightful balance of crispiness on the outside and a succulent, well-seasoned filling on the inside. The result is a handheld delight, a flavorful meat pie that captures the essence of Egyptian comfort food.

Where to Try:

Street Food Stalls in Cairo: Hawawshi is a staple in Cairo's street food scene. Local street food stalls and vendors, especially in bustling areas like Khan El Khalili or Tahrir Square, offer this savory treat for those seeking an authentic taste of Egyptian street cuisine.

Mahalabiya: A Sweet Elixir of Delight

Mahalabiya is a delectable Egyptian dessert that represents the epitome of simplicity and elegance. This chilled and creamy treat is crafted from basic ingredients: milk, sugar, and rice flour. Fragrant with the essence of rosewater or orange blossom water, Mahalabiya is delicately flavored to create a refreshing and aromatic dessert.

The preparation involves cooking the milk, sugar, and rice flour until the mixture thickens to a custard-like consistency. Once set, Mahalabiya is chilled until cool and firm. It is traditionally garnished with a sprinkle of ground pistachios or almonds, adding a delightful crunch to the smooth and silky texture of the dessert.

Where to Try:

Cairo's Dessert Cafés: Experience the delightful simplicity of Mahalabiya at Cairo's dessert cafés like Felfela. These establishments often showcase the finesse of traditional Egyptian desserts, providing a sweet retreat in the heart of the city.

Moussaka: Layers of Richness in Every Bite

Moussaka in the Egyptian culinary context is a layered casserole that combines the earthy flavors of eggplant, seasoned minced meat, tomatoes, and a luscious béchamel sauce. This hearty dish reflects a fusion of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern influences, creating a symphony of tastes and textures.

The preparation involves thinly sliced eggplants, which are often lightly fried or grilled, forming the base layer. On top of the eggplant, a seasoned mixture of minced meat, commonly lamb or beef, is spread. Layers of sliced tomatoes are added, and the entire dish is crowned with a velvety béchamel sauce.

Baked to perfection, moussaka emerges from the oven with a golden-brown top and a bubbling richness beneath. The result is a comforting and flavorful dish that captures the essence of Egyptian home cooking.

Where to Try:

Cairo's Traditional Eateries: Immerse yourself in the rich flavors of moussaka at traditional eateries in Cairo, such as Abu El Sid. These establishments often celebrate the art of Egyptian comfort food, offering a warm and welcoming environment to savor the layers of goodness in moussaka.

Refreshing Drinks: 5 Best Drinks in Egypt

Egypt offers a variety of refreshing drinks that cater to different tastes and occasions. Here are five popular and refreshing beverages to try in Egypt:

Hibiscus Tea (Karkade): A Vibrant Elixir

Hibiscus Tea, locally known as Karkade, is a captivating beverage that embodies the rich hues and flavors of Egypt. Brewed from dried hibiscus petals, this ruby-red elixir boasts a tangy and slightly floral taste. Served hot or cold, Karkade is not only a refreshing drink but also a source of vitamins and antioxidants, making it a popular choice to beat the Egyptian heat.

Where to Try:

Cairo's Tea Houses: Indulge in the vibrant world of Karkade at Cairo's traditional tea houses like El-Fishawy. These establishments offer a cozy atmosphere to sip on this vivid elixir and savor the cultural experience.

Luxor's Riverside Cafés: Enjoy a cup of Karkade while basking in the scenic views of the Nile at Luxor's riverside cafés. Places like the Nile Palace Luxor Hotel provide a tranquil setting to relish the vibrant flavors of this hibiscus tea.

Sahlab: Warming Comfort in a Cup

Sahlab, a beloved Egyptian beverage, is a soothing and creamy delight that embodies the essence of warmth and comfort. Made from the ground tuber of the orchid plant, this hot beverage is enriched with milk, sugar, and a hint of aromatic spices. Topped with a dusting of cinnamon or coconut, Sahlab is not just a drink; it's a comforting embrace on a chilly day, offering a delightful symphony of flavors and textures.

Where to Try:

Cairo's Historic Cafés: Immerse yourself in the historic charm of Cairo by visiting traditional cafés like Fishawi's. These establishments provide an authentic ambiance to savor Sahlab while surrounded by the cultural heritage of Egypt.

Luxor's Cozy Tea Houses: Explore the cozy tea houses along the streets of Luxor, where Sahlab is often served as a warm treat. Cafés such as Hathor's Coffee offer a welcoming setting to indulge in this comforting cup amidst the serene atmosphere of Luxor.

Qamar al-Din: Apricot Refreshment

Qamar al-Din, a delightful apricot beverage, captures the essence of sweetness and refreshment in every sip. Made from dried apricot paste, this cooling drink is a staple during the holy month of Ramadan. Known for its natural sweetness and fruity aroma, Qamar al-Din is often diluted with water and served chilled, providing a perfect respite in the warm Egyptian climate.

Where to Try:

Cairo's Ramadan Bazaars: Experience the true spirit of Qamar al-Din during Ramadan by exploring the vibrant bazaars in Cairo. Local vendors offer this apricot refreshment in abundance, allowing you to savor its unique flavor while immersing yourself in the festive atmosphere.

Luxor's Juice Stalls: Quench your thirst with a glass of Qamar al-Din at Luxor's juice stalls. These lively street-side vendors often serve this apricot delight, providing a delicious and rejuvenating experience amidst the historic charm of Luxor.

Tamarind Juice: Tangy and Tropical

Tamarind Juice, a tropical delight, showcases the perfect balance of tanginess and sweetness. Extracted from the pulp of the tamarind fruit, this refreshing beverage is known for its bold flavor profile. The natural tartness is often tempered with sugar and water, creating a drink that is both revitalizing and satisfying, making it a popular choice to beat the Egyptian heat.

Where to Try:

Cairo's Juice Bars: Explore the diverse flavors of Tamarind Juice at Cairo's vibrant juice bars. These establishments, such as Zooba and Le Caire Café, offer a cool and welcoming atmosphere to indulge in the tangy tropical goodness of this popular Egyptian drink.

Luxor's Street Vendors: Quench your thirst while exploring the streets of Luxor by sampling Tamarind Juice from local street vendors. The authenticity of the experience adds an extra layer of enjoyment to this tangy and tropical beverage.

Sugarcane Juice: Sweetness in a Sip

Sugarcane Juice, a quintessential Egyptian refreshment, embodies pure sweetness in every sip. Extracted from fresh sugarcane stalks, this natural elixir is a symphony of flavors--sweet, slightly earthy, and incredibly hydrating. Served chilled and often with a splash of lime or mint, Sugarcane Juice offers a delightful escape from the Egyptian heat.

Where to Try:

Cairo's Fresh Juice Stands: Immerse yourself in the bustling energy of Cairo's streets and visit the fresh juice stands scattered across the city. These vendors, like Daily Fresh Juice in Zamalek, offer the perfect opportunity to enjoy Sugarcane Juice as part of a vibrant urban experience.

Luxor's Riverside Cafés: Enjoy the serene ambiance along the Nile in Luxor, where riverside cafés such as Nile Flowers Café serve up refreshing Sugarcane Juice. Pair it with a view of the river for a tranquil and sweet escape in the historic city.

7 Best Vegetarian and Vegan Egyptian Meals

Egyptian cuisine offers a variety of delicious vegetarian and vegan options, showcasing the country's rich culinary heritage. Here are seven must-try vegetarian and vegan Egyptian meals:

Ta'meya (Egyptian Falafel): A Twist on the Classic

Ta'meya, the Egyptian twist on the classic falafel, is a culinary masterpiece that elevates the art of deep-fried goodness. Crafted from fava beans, herbs, and spices, these golden-brown delights boast a crispy exterior and a soft, flavorful interior. Served with a side of tahini sauce or stuffed into fresh bread, Ta'meya is a savory delight that captivates the taste buds with its unique blend of textures and tastes.

Where to Try:

Cairo's Street Food Corners: Venture into the lively streets of Cairo, where local street food corners offer a diverse array of Ta'meya. Savory and satisfying, these falafels are often served hot and fresh, providing an authentic taste of Egyptian street food.

Luxor's Local Cafés: Explore the local cafés in Luxor, where Ta'meya is celebrated as a popular snack. Cafés like Habiba's Kitchen provide a cozy setting to enjoy this twist on the classic falafel, offering a unique experience in the heart of historic surroundings.

Fuul Medames: A Breakfast Tradition

Fuul Medames, a cherished breakfast tradition in Egypt, presents a wholesome and hearty start to the day. Mashed fava beans are simmered to perfection, seasoned with garlic, cumin, and olive oil, creating a rich and flavorful dish. Typically garnished with fresh tomatoes, onions, and a drizzle of tahini, it's a nutritious and satisfying way to kickstart your morning.

Where to Try:

Cairo's El Tahrir Square: Immerse yourself in the heart of Cairo's culinary scene at El Tahrir Square, where local eateries such as Felfela offer a delectable serving of Ful Medames. Enjoy this breakfast delight amidst the lively ambiance of the city center.

Luxor's Riverside Cafes: For a scenic breakfast experience, head to the riverside cafes in Luxor, overlooking the Nile. Here, establishments like Al-Sahaby Lane provide a tranquil setting to relish Ful Medames while enjoying the picturesque views of the river.

Koshari: The Street Food Sensation

Koshari, Egypt's cherished national dish, is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures that dance on the palate. This vegan masterpiece features a harmonious blend of lentils, rice, and pasta, crowned with a savory tomato sauce. Topped with crispy fried onions and a side of zesty garlic vinegar, every bite is a symphony of comfort and richness.

Where to Try:

Cairo's Abou Tarek: For an authentic Koshari experience, venture to Abou Tarek in Cairo. Established in the early 20th century, this iconic eatery is renowned for serving up steaming plates of Koshari, providing a taste of tradition in the heart of the bustling city.

Street Food Stalls in Luxor: Wander through the vibrant streets of Luxor to discover local street food stalls offering their own take on Koshari. This casual setting allows you to enjoy the dish amidst the lively atmosphere of the city, adding a touch of spontaneity to your culinary exploration.

Eggplant Extravaganza: Baba Ghanoush, Stuffed Eggplant (Mahshi), and More

Baba Ghanoush: A smoky delight, Baba Ghanoush is a luscious dip made by roasting eggplant until charred, then blending it with tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. This vegan and vegetarian-friendly dish captivates with its creamy texture and rich flavor profile.

Stuffed Eggplant (Mahshi Betengan): Embrace the art of stuffing with Mahshi Betengan, where eggplants are filled with a delectable mixture of rice, herbs, and spices. Baked to perfection, this dish offers a satisfying blend of textures and tastes.

Where to Try:

Cairo's Mezze Cafés: Immerse yourself in the variety of eggplant delights at Cairo's mezze cafés, such as Qahwa at the Cairo Opera House. Enjoy the creamy Baba Ghanoush and the savory Stuffed Eggplant, surrounded by the cultural ambiance of the city.

Cairo's Authentic Mezze Restaurants: Delight your taste buds in Cairo's authentic mezze restaurants, such as Fasahet Somaya, where Baba Ganoush takes center stage. Pair it with freshly baked bread for an authentic taste of this smoky delight.

Luxor's Riverside Cafés: Experience Baba Ganoush with a view at Luxor's riverside cafés like Nile Valley Café. Enjoy the serene ambiance as you savor the velvety texture and smoky aroma of this Middle Eastern delight amidst the historical charm of Luxor.

Dips Delight: Bessara, Hummus, Tahina Trio

Bessara: A rustic dip, Bessara features blended fava beans seasoned with garlic, cumin, and olive oil. This vegan and vegetarian-friendly dish boasts a velvety texture and a robust, earthy flavor, making it a staple in Egyptian cuisine.

Hummus: A classic favorite, Hummus is a creamy blend of chickpeas, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. This versatile vegan and vegetarian-friendly dip offers a delightful combination of flavors, perfect for dipping or spreading.

Tahina: A simple yet delightful dip, Tahina is made from sesame paste, garlic, lemon juice, and water. This vegan and vegetarian-friendly sauce adds a nutty and tangy element to various dishes, enhancing the overall culinary experience.

Where to Try:

Cairo's Mezze Lounges: Embark on a dip journey at Cairo's mezze lounges like Felfela. These establishments showcase the rich variety of Egyptian dips, allowing you to savor the unique flavors of Bessara, Hummus, and Tahina in a vibrant setting.

Salad Symphony: Tabbouleh, Fattoush, Oriental Ensemble

Tabbouleh: A vibrant and refreshing salad, Tabbouleh features a medley of finely chopped parsley, tomatoes, mint, onion, and soaked bulgur. Dressed with olive oil and lemon juice, this vegan and vegetarian-friendly dish bursts with zesty flavors and wholesome goodness.

Fattoush: A colorful delight, Fattoush combines crisp lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, radishes, and crispy pieces of toasted bread. Tossed with a tangy dressing made of olive oil and sumac, this vegan and vegetarian-friendly salad offers a delightful mix of textures.

Oriental Salad: This versatile salad typically includes a combination of mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and bell peppers, adorned with olives and feta cheese. Dressed with a light olive oil vinaigrette, this vegan and vegetarian-friendly salad captures the essence of Mediterranean freshness.

Where to Try:

Cairo's Salad Cafés: Revel in the salad offerings at Cairo's salad cafés like Zooba. These establishments showcase the artistry of Tabbouleh, Fattoush, and Oriental Salad, allowing you to relish the vibrant flavors of these refreshing dishes in a contemporary setting.

Fiteer: Egypt's Flaky Pastry Delight

Fiteer, an Egyptian culinary gem, is a flaky and versatile pastry that marries layers of thin dough, butter, and sometimes cheese or other fillings. Whether sweet or savory, this crispy delight offers a symphony of textures and flavors in every bite, making it a favorite for breakfast, lunch, or dessert.

Where to Try:

Cairo's Historical Bakeries: Explore the historic bakeries in Cairo, such as the renowned Al Darb Fiteer, to experience the authenticity of this flaky pastry. From traditional plain versions to those filled with cheese or honey, these bakeries offer a delightful Fiteer experience.

Street Vendors in Alexandria: Wander through the streets of Alexandria, where local street vendors often showcase their Fiteer-making skills. Grab a freshly baked slice and savor the crispy layers of this Egyptian pastry while soaking in the coastal atmosphere.

Savoring the Tapestry of Egyptian Flavors

Egyptian cuisine, with its diverse offerings, beckons both locals and travelers to immerse themselves in a culinary adventure. Whether you find yourself in the bustling markets of Cairo or the historical streets of Luxor, each dish tells a story, inviting you to taste the richness of Egypt's cultural and gastronomic heritage. So, let your taste buds be your guide as you navigate the savory landscapes and sweet indulgences that define the culinary marvels of Egypt.