Inspired by owner Tamer Ayoub’s extensive time spent in Spain, Pinchos is built on the mission to provide Cairenes with delicious and authentic tapas and a selection of beverages. This spot fills the gap for a local watering hole in East Cairo, and we popped in for early dinner to sample the menu.
Dishes Sampled
Upon arrival, we were warmly greeted with a refreshing Pinchos signature cocktail comprising of vodka, lychee syrup, sweet and sour mix, lime, orange and basil undertones. While sipping on this zesty concoction, we selected a number of hot and cold tapas from Pincho’s extensive menu. For starters, the presentation of each dish is impeccable and the portion size is perfect for two. Stars of the roster are the boquerones fritos, traditional Spanish fried anchovies and the Bikini de Mozzarela y Pavo, a fried roll of mozzarella stuffed with turkey. The pairing in the bikini was excellent and well-deserving of a signature item.
Another excellent pairing is the alcachofas al ajillo con gambas, garlic drenched artichokes with shrimp. The Albondigas con Tomate presented tender and juicy meatballs in tomato sauce with rice, albeit the rice would have benefited from a little extra cooking time. The gambas al ajillo were tender and juicy, well seasoned and adorned with a mix of chopped herbs. The sea bream was tender and delicious, served on a bed of mashed red cabbage, dressed with crushed peanuts and arugula.
The octopus with potatoes and paprika needed a bit more kick, the pieces would have benefited from a thinner slice and the potatoes were a bit bland. The chorizo al vino tinto sounded delicious, but the sausage was more traditional Egyptian sausage than Spanish chorizo. The paella comprised of traditional Spanish style rice, chunks of chicken, shrimp and peas – simple and hearty fare. All the tapas were washed down with a jug of homemade sangria, red wine steeped in a selection of fresh fruits.
Finally, we sampled some of Pinchos signature desserts of which the churros con chocolate is the definite winner. Churros are traditional finger sized fried doughnuts sprinkled with brown sugar and offered with a chocolate dipping sauce – we would definitely recommend having two servings of these!
Other Menu Options that Appealed & Beverages Available
The main dishes are certainly worth a try – beef filet in red wine sauce, sea bass with mashed potatoes, and Pinchos cheese platter and Spanish olives.
Beverage options include cocktails, mocktails, wine, beer, soft drinks and hot beverages.
Décor & Ambience
Pinchos is divided into two separate dining areas and a lively bar area. The furnishings are a mixture of classic and modern décor, comfortable and chic. The super attentive and friendly service makes this spot one to return to again and again for after work drinks and a good nibble or two.
Worth knowing: Pinchos has live music nights on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 10 pm.
Clientele mix: Groups of friends, and those looking for a chill date night.
Price range: Moderate.
Contact information
Opening hours: 5 pm – 1:30 am
Address: 58 Beirut Street, Heliopolis
Tel: 0122 219 3134
Facebook: pinchos.cairo
Instagram: pinchos_cairo
