Egypt, a country rich in history and culture, is a treasure trove for food lovers. From the bustling streets of Cairo to the serene banks of the Nile, Egyptian food offers a unique blend of flavors and textures that reflect the country’s diverse heritage. If you’re planning a trip to Egypt or just curious about traditional Egyptian food, this food guide will introduce you to the must-try dishes and where to find them. Exploring Egyptian local dishes is not just about eating; it’s about experiencing the soul of the country.
1. Koshari (كشري)
What It Is
Koshari is Egypt’s national dish and a true comfort food. It’s a hearty mix of rice, lentils, pasta, and chickpeas, all topped with tangy tomato sauce, crispy fried onions, and a drizzle of garlic vinegar. Not only is this traditional Egyptian food vegetarian, but it’s also filling and affordable, making it a favorite among both locals and tourists.
Where to Find It
- Koshari Abou Tarek in Cairo is a must-visit for some of the best koshari in the city.
- Koshari El Tahrir, located near Tahrir Square, serves hearty koshari with the same authentic flavor, popular among both locals and tourists alike.
- Tom and Basal offers a great alternative for koshari lovers, featuring a modern twist on the traditional dish.
2. Ful Medames (فول مدمس)
What It Is
Ful is a classic Egyptian food dish made from fava beans. It’s a staple breakfast across the country, and its simple yet rich flavors make it one of the most popular Egyptian local dishes. Typically served with pita bread, fresh vegetables, and sometimes eggs, ful is a must-try for anyone exploring Egyptian food.
Where to Find It
- You can find ful at almost any street corner, but for a special experience, visit Tabali. This restaurant is a local favorite.
- Bashandi, a family-run gem, offers some of the best ful in Cairo, made from a secret recipe passed down through generations.
- Felfela serves ful with a range of accompaniments. Known for its charming ambiance, it’s a fantastic spot for an authentic Egyptian breakfast. A favorite for tourists.
3. Taamiya (طعمية)
What It Is
Taamiya, the Egyptian version of falafel, uses fava beans instead of chickpeas. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, taamiya is a beloved street food and a key part of Egyptian food culture. Whether you’re grabbing a quick snack or enjoying it as part of a larger meal, taamiya is an essential traditional Egyptian food.
Where to Find It
- For some of the best taamiya in Egypt, head to Gad, a popular chain with branches across Cairo and other major cities. Their freshly made taamiya is a highlight of Egyptian local dishes.
- Al Raie is a small, local eatery famous for its crispy, flavorful taamiya, prepared fresh every morning. It’s ideal for those seeking an authentic, no-frills Egyptian food experience.
- Alternatively, Shabrawy, a well-known spot for Egyptian fast food, offers taamiya sandwiches and platters with a variety of sides, perfect for locals on the go.
You will typically find Ful and Taamiya served in these restaunts together, and these recommendations are great for both options.
4. Kebda Eskandrani (كبدة إسكندراني)
What It Is
Kebda Eskandrani, or Alexandrian liver, is a spicy and flavorful dish made from beef liver, garlic, and hot peppers. This dish highlights the bold, vibrant side of Egyptian food, and is especially popular in Alexandria, where it originated. Often served in sandwiches, kebda is a street food favorite and a must-try for anyone exploring traditional Egyptian food.
Where to Find It
- Fallah, situated in Alexandria, is a staple for kebda lovers and is a must-visit for anyone following an Egypt food guide.
- Ezz el Menoufi offers rich, spicy Alexandrian liver sandwiches that locals love. Their secret spice blend gives the liver an unforgettable kick.
- Additionally, Kamba, a humble street vendor in Alexandria, has been a favorite for those craving quick and flavorful kebda sandwiches.
5. Molokhia (ملوخية)
What It Is
Molokhia, a green leafy vegetable (commonly known as jute mallow), is finely chopped and cooked into a thick, garlicky stew. This traditional Egyptian food is typically served with rice and accompanied by chicken, rabbit, or beef. Its unique texture and savory flavor make it stand out among Egyptian local dishes. A must try!
Where to Find It
- Sobhy Kaber is famous for its hearty Egyptian meals, and their molokhia is particularly loved for its rich, garlicky flavor.
- Hagouga, a hidden gem in Cairo, specializes in traditional dishes and is known for its molokhia made with high-quality ingredients.
- Similarly, Kasr el Kababgi, renowned for its grilled meats and traditional stews, offers an excellent version of molokhia served with perfectly seasoned meats.
6. Fattah (فتة)
What It Is
Fattah is a celebratory dish often prepared for occasions like weddings and religious festivals. Layers of rice, crispy bread, and tender meat are topped with a garlic and vinegar tomato sauce, making this dish a flavorful and satisfying part of Egyptian food culture.
Where to Find It
- Hagouga, a small, family-owned eatery, is well-known for serving some of the best fattah in Cairo, offering perfectly balanced flavors and tender meats.
- Bibo, a local favorite for grilled meats, also serves excellent fattah, making it a must-try for anyone in the area.
- Mega, known for its generous portions of fattah, features crispy bread, juicy lamb, and a tangy tomato sauce rich in flavor.
7. Hamam Mahshi (حمام محشي)
What It Is
Hamam Mahshi, or stuffed pigeon, is a delicacy in Egyptian food. The pigeon is stuffed with a mixture of rice and spices, then roasted or grilled to perfection. This dish is essential for adventurous eaters.
Where to Find It
- Farahat specializes in stuffed pigeon and is highly praised for its delicious hamam mahshi.
- Shalaby offers succulent, well-seasoned hamam, and remains a local favorite for those wanting to try this unique Egyptian dish.
- Kasr el Hamam is known for its extensive pigeon dishes and serves one of the best versions of hamam mahshi in Cairo.
8. Mahshi (محشي)
What It Is
Mahshi, Egypt’s version of stuffed vegetables, includes zucchinis, peppers, and grape leaves filled with a mixture of rice, herbs, and spices, slowly cooked in a tomato-based sauce. This traditional Egyptian food is a staple at family gatherings.
Where to Find It
- Hagouga specializes in homemade-style Egyptian dishes and offers some of the best mahshi in Cairo. The perfectly cooked vegetables and fragrant rice filling make it a must-try.
- Sobhy Kaber, famous for its grilled meats, serves a standout version of mahshi, often paired with succulent grilled chicken or lamb.
- Kasr el Kababgi, known for its wide variety of traditional Egyptian dishes, serves customer-favorite mahshi filled with a perfectly spiced rice mixture.
9. Fiteer (فطير)
What It Is
Fiteer, often referred to as Egyptian pizza or layered pastry, is a versatile dish that can be sweet or savory. This flaky, buttery pastry is a popular item in Egyptian food and is enjoyed at any time of day. Can be eaten either savory or sweet. For breakfast, fiteer meshaltet is served, with sides of cheese, honey, and other dips.
Where to Find It
- Fatatry el Hussein, a long-standing establishment in the heart of Islamic Cairo, is famous for its light, crispy fiteer.
- Wael, a well-known fiteer spot, offers a variety of fillings, including savory options like cheese and meat, or sweet fillings like honey and cream.
- Samiha, located in downtown Cairo, serves both savory and sweet fiteer, offering a delicious twist on this traditional pastry.
10. Kofta (كفتة)
What It Is
Kofta, made from minced meat (usually beef or lamb), is mixed with spices, onions, and parsley before being grilled to perfection. The smoky, spiced meat is a favorite among Egyptian local dishes.
Where to Find It
- Kufta, a small vendor in Cairo, is renowned for its juicy, flavorful kofta served fresh off the grill in small sandwiches.
- Sobhy Kaber, known for its grills, serves perfectly spiced and grilled kofta with a delicious smoky flavor.
- Mashweyat Mimi is a local gem that offers a wide selection of grilled meats, with kofta being one of the most popular items on the menu.
11. Seafood
What It Is
Being a Mediterranean country, Egypt offers some of the freshest seafood, especially in coastal cities like Alexandria and Ismailiya. Seafood plays a significant role in Egyptian food culture, with dishes featuring fish, shrimp, and calamari. We also have Feseekh and Ringa, which are popular during Easter.
Where to Find It
- Salla 3al Nabi, located in Ismailiya, is a lesser-known spot for fresh seafood, offering casual yet delicious dishes.
- Hoda Dongol, a local favorite in Alexandria, serves seafood prepared with traditional recipes that emphasize freshness and flavor.
- Asmak, known for its large portions and variety of seafood, is a must-visit for seafood lovers seeking an authentic dining experience in Cairo.
12. Basbousa (بسبوسة)
What It Is
No Egyptian food experience is complete without a sweet treat, and basbousa is one of the country’s most beloved desserts. This semolina cake, soaked in syrup, is a staple in traditional Egyptian food.
Where to Find It
- El Abd Patisserie is a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth. Their basbousa is a highlight of any Egypt food guide.
- Koueider, a well-known patisserie in Cairo, serves a rich, moist version of basbousa that’s bursting with sweet syrup.
- El Helmeya, famous for its traditional Egyptian desserts, is the go-to spot for locals craving basbousa and other sweets.
13. Umm Ali (أم علي)
What It Is
Umm Ali, a traditional Egyptian dessert resembling bread pudding, is made with puff pastry soaked in sweet milk and topped with nuts and raisins. It’s the perfect warm, comforting way to end a meal.
Where to Find It
- Khalifa in Maadi offers a delicious, modern version of Umm Ali, perfect for dessert lovers.
- El Baron serves traditional Egyptian desserts, including Umm Ali, in a family-friendly setting with a charming atmosphere.
- El Sheikh Wafik in Heliopolis is known for its creamy, perfectly balanced version of Umm Ali, making it a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth.
Check out our Cairo food tour, if you’re visiting and have limited time to try delicious Egyptian flavors!