What makes a restaurant a perennial hit? Is it the cuisine, the welcoming ambience and decor, the vibe, or a combination of everything? Cairo West Magazine has visited 149 restaurants over the past ten years, all with their own charm, but put to the test, we have to say these ten rate high for their consistency and flawless cuisine.
1. Birdcage
Authentic Thai Food in the Heart of Cairo
Thai dining at InterContinental Cairo Semiramis has always been a draw for us. Birdcage has never failed to deliver on flavor and impeccable service, and with a new menu packed with exciting dishes, we keep coming back for more.
2. Crimson
International Char-Grill in Zamalek
Located on a rooftop with a panoramic view of the Nile, mixing the elements of nature with elegance, Crimson creates an exotic yet relaxing vibe. Trendy and urbane, it is a perfect place to have a few drinks and a bite with a group of friends. Crimson offers exceptional food with great cocktails and some chilled out background music.
3. Giannini’s
Italy Meets New York at Cairo Sheraton
Celebrating the traditions of regional Italian cuisine lovingly preserved by “la mammas” as they set out to establish new lives in America, Giannini’s brings us dishes that have stood the test of time. Everything is impeccably prepared to the highest culinary standards by Chef Antonio Carrano.
4. Izakaya
The High Life at Palm Hills
Izakaya came back to offering impeccable fine dining in Cairo with a brand-new swanky location in Palm Hills. The Izakaya team has always been committed to offering unique Japanese-Peruvian fusion dishes and a second-to-none atmosphere, and had never failed to hit the mark. This just has to be short-listed as a romantic venue for Valentine’s Day.
5. JW’s Steakhouse
Superb Steaks at Cairo Marriott Hotel & Omar Khayyam Casino in Zamalek
It’s good to know that some things stay consistently reliable – such as a quality meal at the JW Steakhouse at the Cairo Marriott Hotel & Omar Khayyam Casino, where the ambience is pure class, the staff remember your name, and the food never lets you down! The menu is a connoisseur carnivore’s dream and they also mix a great pre-dinner cocktail.
6. Kazuko
Cutting Edge Japanese Cuisine in New Cairo
Raising the bar high for sushi places in New Cairo, with high-end contemporary Japanese, Kazuko in Swan Lake Compound of New Cairo is the ‘go to’ spot for trendy diners looking for a relaxing night out. With edgy décor and innovative cocktails, backed up by good food, it is a dependable choice.
7. Lexie’s
An Imaginative Take on Traditional Italian Cuisine
We love Lexie’s! So much so that we happily trek across town to Dusit LakeView just to indulge in memorable food in a stunning locale, with great music and courteous service. A night at Lexie’s always feels so self-indulgent, and the new menu has won us over. This is another hot pick for Valentine’s Day.
8. Pier 88
Three Exciting Venues to Choose From
From its early days in El Gouna, to a Nile-side experience, and on to a Pyramids view from Giza, Pier88 knows how to roll out excellent food in an upbeat atmosphere. Expect creative food pairings and contemporary twists to traditional elements. It fits seamlessly with your mood, be it a spot of fine-dining, drinks and nibbles with friends, or a late night supper with your special someone. Reservations are definitely recommended.
9. The Smokery
Katameya Heights, Heliopolis, El Gouna, Marassi – North Coast, and Palm Hills
Walking into the new branch of the already reputed The Smokery, we couldn’t help but be dazzled by the beautifully large terrace overlooking the Palm Hills golf course during a gorgeous sunset. This led on to an evening of culinary gems served by a courteous team in a scintillating atmosphere. At any of its five venues, we have never failed to be impressed, so pop this on your short list.
10. U Bistro and U Palm
Sister Venues to Stir Your Taste Buds
U Bistro, the original Zamalek venue, still excites us with its relaxed and innovative take on international cuisine. The menu focuses is on deep flavors, unique preparation, and enticing presentation. It offers the delicious Mediterranean and French cuisine as well as an extensive wine selection, perfectly mixed cocktails. Sitting above Fresh Food Market at Palm Hills, U Palm by U Bistro is edgy and sophisticated. With design forged in the mind of gifted architectural designer Karim Mekhtigian of Alchemy Design Studio, U Palm proves to be a thrilling excursion not only for palates, but for all the senses.
