Cairo bursts with vibrant street food, where every corner hides a gem. We wanted to do a food tour in Caio for a while, and the perfect place to do that would be none other than Downtown. The district is known for its rich history and bustling atmosphere, making it the ideal spot to dive into Cairo’s diverse tastes. We opted to try different things and discover new interesting places in this Cairo food tour.
Our journey begins with El Kahlawi…
We started the food tour with El Kahlawi, a tiny cart tucked in a busy street corner. You might walk past without a second glance, but locals know its significance. The menu keeps it simple: you can get either liver or sausage sandwiches. We tried both, savoring the savory sausage and enjoying the spicy kick of the liver. The unexpected burst of flavor left us craving more. This pure street food is quick, tasty, and authentic, embodying the spirit of Cairo’s food culture.
Hamam Shalabi
We kept walking on the street and a few minutes later we saw Hamam Shalabi. It is a small, unassuming spot that’s been family-run for nearly a century. Specializing in stuffed pigeon, this dish stands as an Egyptian tradition enjoyed for generations. We decided to give it a try. The warm, comforting aroma of slow-cooked pigeon filled the air the moment we walked in. Tender and perfectly seasoned, the pigeon came with rich soup and fresh salads. Each bite reminded us why this tradition continues to thrive—deep flavors, comforting textures, and nostalgia that warmed our hearts.
Sameh
Feeling satisfied after our pigeon feast, we visited Sameh, a sandwich shop with a twist. Around for nearly 50 years, Sameh isn’t your average sandwich spot. Creativity rules here. You can choose from unique sandwiches, each named after its creator, or make your own. Their menu items are all names of people, some of them famous and recognized by locals!
We chose the “Karim Allam,” sanwich which was made of cheese, turkey, fried chicken, and a medley of sauces. Not too adventurous, as we were already full. It exceeded our expectation though, and we’re looking forward to trying other combos! The experience added a layer of fun with the possibility of immortalizing our creation. Sameh may not serve traditional Egyptian food, but its innovative spirit keeps it on the map. We all agreed this was a hidden gem and the most exciting part of our food tour!
Koshary Abou Tarek
Next, we headed to Abou Tarek, where koshary reigns supreme. Often called Egypt’s national dish, koshary combines rice, pasta, lentils, and chickpeas with tangy tomato sauce and crispy onions. Watching the cooks swiftly assemble bowls felt like a show, and the first bite revealed why koshary is the ultimate comfort food—hearty, filling, and packed with layers of flavor. Abou Tarek takes this humble dish to new heights, making it a must-visit for anyone looking to experience true Egyptian cuisine. Definitely a must try if you’re in Cairo!
El Abd Patisserie
Finally, we arrived at El Abd, Cairo’s beloved bakery known for sweet indulgence. Walking in felt like stepping into a wonderland of pastries and desserts. The shelves overflowed with treats, from golden baklava to syrup-soaked basbousa. We couldn’t resist the konafa, with its delicate layers of crispy phyllo dough wrapped around a creamy filling. The basbousa, tender and syrupy, provided equal delight. We finished with their iconic ice cream, with out favorite being the mango flavor. Ending our journey here felt perfect. El Abd has held its place in the city for years, and its quality and variety make it essential for anyone with a sweet tooth.
Final Thoughts About Our Cairo Food Tour
Our food tour through downtown Cairo brought more than just a taste of the city—it unfolded a journey through its history, culture, and people. Every stop, from Hamam Shalabi’s stuffed pigeon to Sameh’s innovative sandwiches, revealed a slice of Cairo’s culinary heritage. The city’s food scene reflects its rich history and diverse influences. Wandering from one legendary eatery to the next connected us to Cairo’s vibrant culture and past. For those wanting to explore Cairo through its food, this tour promises flavors, stories, and memories that linger long after the last bite.
