When something is already great, “Why change it”, we ask. But, then again, when the changes are as stellar as Giannini’s new menu items, why not? We popped in for an early mid-week dinner, and as always, found that a regular night out becomes something to celebrate at this favorite Italian restaurant in Cairo. Scroll down for more photos!
Type of cuisine: Traditional, regional Italian with a signature New York twist.
Signatures Dishes & Dishes Sampled
Signatures dishes include the Surf & Turf “Giannini’s”, Ravioli alla Genovese Napoletana, and Veal Ossobuco.
We love poring over menus; what dedicated foodie doesn’t? But, at Giovanni’s we know that the way to go is to simply sit back, relax and leave food decisions in the confident, capable hands of Chef Antonio Carrano. Both Chef Antonio and Cairo Sheraton’s Executive Chef, Jean-Francois Cailloux personally gave us an introduction to the dishes we would be served, with our own little master class on the regional roots of the dishes and the innovative food chemistry and interpretation that Giannini’s has introduced. Our curated dining experience was all we could have dreamed of…
From the beetroot-based and black olive dips with the accompanying basket of fresh assorted bread and focaccia that opened our gastronomic journey through to the delectable dessert assortment, every mouthful was sublime. Our first plate was Tuna Marinated Salad, a fresh, light arrangement of baby greens, with radish, slivers of zucchini and tiny cherry tomatoes, topped with delicate slices of marinated red tuna loin. The sprinkling of sesame seeds and oregano accented the delicate flavors perfectly.
This was followed by two distinctively different ravioli dishes, Ravioli alla Genovese Napoletana and Ravioli Caprese. The first offered ingredients we had not encountered before: Handmade ravioli stuffed with braised beef, caramelized onion, ricotta cheese, Pecorino Romano cheese and lemon zest. The rich, subtle flavors were highlighted with the zing of lemon, and of course, the pasta was spot on. The Caprese offered a more traditional take, but the use of both cooked tomato and fresh tomato in the dish drew on the balance of acidity and natural sweetness.
The star of the show was justifiably the Surf & Turf “Giannini’s”. The US Rib Eye steak was tender and cooked to perfection, the lobster succulent and sweet. Our other main dish was Filetto di Hamour Fritto, an inspired fried hamour fillet, teamed with apple, asparagus, mushroom and Hollandaise sauce. The unlikely combination of ingredients worked amazingly well together.
The dessert was also a triumph, with Tiramisu joining a selection from the pastry trolley. All in all, a flawless performance from a skilled and professional culinary and service team.
Other Menu Options that Appealed & Beverages Available
We are sure that everything on the menu would deliver the same mouth-watering experience, but nonetheless have put the Zuppa di Funghi and Spaghetti alla Piccata di Manzo high on our list.
Beverage options include a full bar, good wine list, great fresh juices and other soft options.
Décor & Ambience
Contemporary with a warm vibe, highlighted by photos of Italian American icons. And of course, panoramic Nile views.
You can’t help but feel cosseted and pampered by the outstanding service team. The mood is relaxed, but you can feel that everything is perfectly timed to create an outstanding dining experience.
Clientele mix: Hotel guests and many food-savvy regular customers from all parts of Cairo who keep coming back for more. Chic and cosmopolitan.
Price range: Rather high end, but totally worth it.
Contact Information
Opening hours: Open 7 days. 1 pm – 1 am.
Address: Sheraton Cairo Hotel & Casino, Galae Square, Giza
Tel: 02 3336 9700
Facebook / Instagram: @gianninisrestaurant
