The Edward’s in Tivoli Plaza

The restaurant was founded as a homely homage to a father whose passion was great food and better company. The Edward’s is one of the best restaurants for families in Helipolis.

Dishes Sampled

It was early evening and the place was already bustling with people and good looking food. We were greeted with a jar of fresh mint lemonade before we started with a couple of hot and cold appetizers – the classic Hawawshy – 4 pieces of medium spicy meat-filled bread served with tahini sauce and pickled cucumbers. We cannot hide our personal preference for another classic we had to try, the Kebad Debs Roman – chicken liver in pomegranate sauce, served with sprinkled onion and parsley. The Salmon and Apple Napoleon was a very interesting mixture of layers of smoked salmon, cream cheese and slices of green apple tossed with capers, dill, lemon juice and topped with a balsamic dressing. Our starters were followed by the Japanese Crispy Salad – long thin strips of carrots and bell peppers, cabbage mix, golden crispy chicken tenders, topped with crispy tortilla, roasted almonds, balsamic dressing and tossed sesame seeds. The salad was light yet filling at the same time. It can easily be eaten as a meal on a hot summer day.

One of the highlights was Vivi’s Spaghetti – a handpicked family recipe – one of the many that are featured in the restaurant’s menu. Vivi’s creamy, Parmesan sauce, with roasted mushrooms was a delightful dish. The Moroccan Chicken deserves a special mention too, the aromatic cinnamon rice and chicken dish is prepared with golden raisins, roasted red onions, roasted lemon, green olives, in a creamy sauce base. You can order to share. To balance out on the meat intake, we tried out the Chimichurri Beef – grilled beef and special Chimichurri sauce – served with grilled eggplant, tomatoes and feta cheese. The meat came cooked to the point we ordered. It is another plate to be shared.

We finalized our meal with Foufa’s Fondant – melted center chocolate, topped with vanilla ice cream, drizzled with caramel sauce, charmingly served in a tea cup. The perfect end to an evening of savoring into well-kept family recipes. We were pleased to come to The Edwards for the second time, and try out a few of their family favorite dishes.

During the month of Ramadan, The Edward’s offers an open buffet for iftar and à-la-cârte menu for sohour, where it is also possible to order foul, cheese with tomato, eggs, yogurt, vine-leaves, mixed grill, and more.

Other Menu Options that Appealed

Amir’s Shrimp and Burger, named after one of the family members favorite burger recipes; the shrimp-burger fusion sounds like an adventurous dish. Beef burger, grilled shrimps, rocket leaves and Caesar dressing.

Décor

The Edward’s stays true to its concept of a homely place. Its elegant and cozy interior is filled with nice personal touches and objects belonging to the owner, giving it the warmth of a family lounge – with a certain shabby chic feeling. The Edwards is all about details, from the menu to the delivery boxes – every item has been conceptualized and customized to its brand image. The restaurant offers both indoors and outdoors seating areas.

Beverages: Hot and cold beverages

Clientele mix:  Groups of friends and families.

Price range: Very reasonably priced, value for money.

Contact Information

Opening hours during Ramadan: Every day from 3 pm to 3 am – regular hours are from 1 pm – 1 am.

Address: Tivoli Plaza, Omar Ibn el-Khattab, Heliopolis

Tel: 0120 044 8000 (for catering: 0120 544 0008)

Facebook Instagram: @theedwardseg

The History of Egypt & the World Cup

In 1934 Egypt became the first African team to play in the World Cup. With only one space reserved for a team from Africa and Asia, the deciding battle to see who would go to Italy was between Egypt, playing for Africa, and Palestine for Asia. As early as the first leg it was clear that Egypt would come out ahead. The first match in Cairo saw the team beat Palestine 7-1, the second match in Tel Aviv, although a closer win of 4-1, let Egypt qualify with an aggregate of 11-2.

The Egyptian team set sail for Italy the following month. The four-day journey was on a ship called the Helwan and was recorded as an enjoyable experience by Mustafa Kamel Mansour, the team’s goalkeeper. The pressure stepped up however when they hit Naples. Their first match there was against Hungary and it was tough from the outset. Hungary showed its strength and experience quickly, and after the first 31 minutes were 2-0 up. Egypt drew on the skills of Abdulrahman Fawzi, and rising to the challenge, he scored two goals in the space of four minutes, putting Egypt soundly back in the game. His third goal, which he scored by threading through the defense, was ruled offside by referee Rinaldo Barlassina; a decision that is still queried to this day.

Although Hungary went on to win the match by two points, Abdulrahman Fawzi had made his mark and stood as the only African goal scorer at FIFA World Cup finals for decades to come. Hungary lost to Austria, who in turn was defeated by host country Italy. Czechoslovakia had come out 3-1 over Germany and went on to play Italy for the Cup on the 10th of June. Italy came out as winner, with a close score of 2-1. Although Egypt was knocked out early in the game, it could come home with its head held high, thanks to the efforts of Abdulrahman Fawzi.

Going forward to 1990, Egypt scored a solitary goal at the World Cup, which took place once again in Italy. Midfielder Magdi Abdel-Ghani converted a penalty in a remarkable 1-1 draw with then European champions the Netherlands, with a power-house team that included players like Marco Van Basten, Ronald Koeman, Frank Rijkaard and Ruud Gullit.

Late and iconic coach Mahmoud El-Gohary was in charge of the Pharaohs in 1990. Since then, Egypt have had 19 coaches (8 foreigners and 11 Egyptians) in charge of their quest for another World Cup ticket until Argentinean tactician Hector Cuper got the job done.

 

The 3 Ps: Health Tips for a Great Summer Vacation

It’s summer vacation season. Whether you are heading for Sa7el, or are even lucky enough to go to Russia to support the national football team, planning for a safe and healthy trip is essential by following for the 3 P’s of safe and healthy travel. Some of these tips may only apply to international trips that include longer flights to certain destinations, seek the advice of your doctor.

BE PROACTIVE

Before traveling, it is recommended to visit a doctor familiar with travel medicine, especially if you have any special health needs (babies and small children, pregnant women, people with disabilities or weakened immune systems). You may want to arrange vaccinations or medications to protect against diseases such as hepatitis, typhoid or malaria. Some countries legally require travelers to take certain vaccinations, such as yellow fever. As vaccines need some time to work, it is best to see your doctor 4-8 weeks before you go.

Be sure to give your doctor all the information needed to make recommendations such as:

  • Where you are traveling within a country.
  • The length of your trip.
  • What types of activities you might do.
  • Other personal matters such as your age, medical and vaccine history, and current medical state.

BE PROTECTED

Pay attention to your health during your trip. Be careful with food and water. The most common travel-related illnesses are gastrointestinal diseases usually picked up from poorly prepared foods or untreated water. To avoid diarrhea, stomach pains, nausea and vomiting associated with these illnesses:

  • Use bottled water and avoid ice in drinks.
  • Eat thick-skinned fruit and vegetables that you can peel yourself, such as bananas, oranges and mandarins.
  • Don’t buy food from street vendors

Additionally, you should:

  • Use sunscreen and insect repellent as directed
  • Wear a seatbelt
  • Wear protective gear when engaging in adventure activities
  • Respect your host country and its people by following local laws and customs

Finally, pay attention to your health when you come back home. If you are not feeling well, you should see a doctor and mention that you have recently traveled.

Source: CDC Travelers’ Health Website

BE PREPARED

Use this list to help you think of things to pack in your travel health kit. Be sure to think about where you are going and whether you will have access to health items and supplies.

 

  • Prescription medicines you usually take
  • Over-the-counter medicines
    • Antidiarrheal medication
    • Antihistamine
    • Decongestant, alone or in combination with antihistamine
    • Anti-motion sickness medication
    • Medicine for pain or fever (such as acetaminophen, aspirin, or ibuprofen)
    • Mild laxative
    • Cough suppressant/expectorant
    • Antacid
    • Antifungal and antibacterial ointments or creams
    • 1% hydrocortisone cream
Other important items:
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Insect Repellant that contains at least 30% DEET
  • Sunscreen that protects against UVA & UVB
  • Basic first-aid items (gauze, elastic bandages, antiseptic, tweezers, scissors, cotton)
  • Digital thermometer

 

Plan ahead for illnesses or other medical issues. Airplane travel, especially flights longer than 8 hours may increase the risk for blood clots also known as Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT).

 

You are at increased risk for DVT if you:

  • Have had DVT in the past
  • Have had recent surgery
  • Are pregnant
  • Are a smoker
  • Are taking birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy
  • Have cancer, restricted movement, or a blood-clotting problem

If you have any of these conditions, seek your doctor’s advice before traveling on how to prevent DVT during the flight. People at higher risk for DVT may be prescribed medication during travel.

This article was brought to you by Tabibi 24/7, Cairo’s leading Family Medicine & Pediatrics group practice. Tabibi operates 24/7 and offers its services at the comfort of your own home or in one of its clinics.
 
For more information, call 16724 or visit  www.tabibi247.com

In the Stars: Your June Horoscopes

By Maeri Frances

After all of the recent curveballs that seem to have been coming out of the blue, although admittedly May should have been an easier ride than April, you should look for a more relaxed mood as June gets under way. Venus will enter Leo, encouraging us to strut our stuff and enjoy life to the max. Get creative, love being in love, show it with grand gestures. Ok, so there are still serious matters lurking in the background, but hey, it’s summer! Let’s play a bit.

P.S. Don’t forget, your rising sign plays a big role, so check that out as well if you know it.

Happy birthday,

Gemini!

Your month starts on a bright note. The planets are smiling on you on the 1st, and if you use this to be positive and proactive the mood should last. A financial boost could come your way, or you could just get a kick out of blowing your entire salary on something that catches your eye. The end result is the same, instant gratification. The 6th calls for a clearheaded approach, don’t be swayed by whims or wishful thinking. Money matters are a strong theme for you in June, Gemini.

Pisces

You shouldn’t really have grounds for complaint these days. Love and life both seem to be perking up, even if friends can be a bit of wet blanket when it comes to your euphoria. Be warned, however. There is a slippery slope ahead when Neptune, your planetary ruler, goes into retrograde, in your own birth sign. It is time to have your wits about you, a time to be absolutely honest with yourself and others. Any urge to see life through rose-tinted spectacles will bring you down to earth with a bump, sooner or later.

Aries

Even though you feel as though you are being pulled in several directions at once, you should be in the frame of mind to cope and juggle things with a new-found skill. Domestic life looks as though it is on the up and up, so spend time with those you love. There is plenty of activity to keep you busy, but most of the running around and communication will be pleasant and positive. There is a sensitive period between the 7th and 9th, keep a cool head and don’t be pressured into rash moves.

Cancer

June ushers in a more embracing mood, you should feel that the emotional angst you have gone through has finally been recognized. Use this month to nurture yourself and communicate your feelings rather than curl up inside yourself to escape the harsh realities around you. Support and appreciation will be there once you reach out. There may be more cash available for little luxuries that you have been forgoing, so pamper yourself and those you care about.

Virgo

It’s time to get out there and make sure you are being recognized in professional circles. With the Sun highlighting your career sector it is not the time to hide your light under a bushel.  Social life and networking is important this June, especially as the month opens, while more personal romantic matters should be discreet and kept private. You can cover a lot of ground in personal matters around the 18th and 19th of the month, so long as you stay focused and clearheaded.

Scorpio

Jump on board the general good mood on the 1st and 2nd of June. Planets in Cancer are urging you to nourish yourself emotionally, in spite of duty-driven Capricorn energy still being a dominant force. Venus will soar into your solar 10th house this month, putting you in the spotlight, especially when it comes to career and outward achievements. Make sure you are looking your best, as a stylish appearance will garner extra points. The 18th and 19th could call on you to temper idealism with commonsense in a romantic situation.

Taurus! 

Let’s face it. The weather is getting a bit hot to handle, and you aren’t really in the mood for facing some of the issues that are coming your way. Your practical nature seems to be on hold while you neatly side step things that you need to deal with, now! That includes finances, meetings with friends and chores you have been procrastinating over. The period from the 10th to the 12th could be a wake-up call and shake you into action, and then you will be able to tackle things with your usual efficiency.

Leo

Take it easy during the first couple of weeks of June; you will need the energy for making the most of Venus cruising through your sign after mid-month. You will have that special glow that everyone finds so appealing. When Leo decides to turn on the charm, nobody can resist. The only proverbial cloud to mar your upbeat mood is a probable need to attend to a health issue. It may be a chronic condition that has become more of a problem. Deal with it; it is not likely to go away by itself.

Libra

Career matters should be satisfying as the month kicks off. This builds nicely throughout June, along with a boost to your social life and networking opportunities. Your popularity is gaining momentum, maybe because you are sending out a positive, welcoming vibe. Even though domestic and family issues are dragging down your mood at times, you seem to be learning to project yourself into the world at large and show more empathy with others. There could be news from a friend from afar around the 13th.

Sagittarius

The people closest in your life, for better or worse, can make or break your mood this month. It seems there’s not much you can do to improve your finances, so cut back where you can and explore your credit options while the climate is supportive. Try to keep your domestic life as structured as possible, Neptune will go into a retrograde phase mid-month in your Solar 4th house, making it easy to neglect family matters and sink into a careless state of mind. Keep your mood positive and upbeat, as things will get better soon, very soon.

Aquarius

You should have plenty of energy at your disposal, plus enough work and play to keep you fully occupied this month. Then from the 13th of June Venus will give a boost to your close relationships. It will be easier to mend broken ties, and forge new relationships as well. Those who have already tied the knot should get in now to book an idyllic getaway for Eid, romance is in the air. Your danger zone in the coming months will lie in letting finances get out of control. When you are having fun it is easy to ignore the cost!

Capricorn

The first day or two of June should be perfect for spending quality time with your nearest and dearest one. Forget about responsibilities, work and all that stuff. It can wait. You have had a pretty grueling few months and may have forgotten to nurture your inner child. Even when we are all grown up we need to remember that inside of us there is a need to feel loved and protected, as well as to love and protect. Tap into that energy this month.

Our monthly horoscopes are brought to you by Maeri Frances, a consulting astrologer with over 30 years’ experience. Exclusive to our publications, we brings tips for each Sun sign on how to avoid the pitfalls and ride the highs of each month.

Saussiche at Rivulet in Twin Towers

Saussiche serves international cuisine in Sheikh Zayed, and in an ode to their name, the sausage is celebrated in many of the dishes on the menu.

Signature Dishes

Saussiche Nachos, Jalapeno Peppers (stuffed with cheese and wrapped in beef bacon), Halloumi Avocado Salad, Saussiche Salad (homemade nacho chips with lettuce, tomato, red pepper, onion and ranch dressing), Chicken Carbonara, Filet Mignon, Fried Steak with Country Gravy, Salmon Pizza, Garlic Shrimp Pasta, Dirty Rice, Molten Dulce de Leche, Tres Leches.

Dishes Sampled

Appetites primed for a new gastronomic experience, we decided to go with recommendations of the helpful serving team. The menu at present is for the soft opening period, but seems very comprehensive. Kicking off with the Halloumi Avocado Salad, we made short work of the fresh and crunchy mix of baby greens, iceberg lettuce, red grapes, halloumi cheese, avocado, pumpkin and chia seeds. The freshness was enhanced by a tangy dressing, and the portion was easily shared between the two of us.

Our friendly waiter had suggested we try the Saussiche Nachos, but we failed to ask about the portion size. Be warned, they come in a huge platter that could easily feed at least four hungry diners! The homemade nachos came smothered in sausage gravy, a very different take on the traditional accompaniments. We could barely make a dent in the pile, as we had to keep space for the main dishes, which followed quickly.

The Chicken Carbonara came with a choice of two sides, so we went with mashed potato and sautéed vegetables. The dish itself consisted of generous chunks of chicken breast and chopped beef bacon bathed in a creamy sauce, which was easily mopped up with the fluffy mashed potato. Definitely a comfort food experience. The fillet steak came as my dining companion requested, served on a wooden platter with a large baked potato with sour cream and a mix of sautéed vegetables. We had allowed ourselves to be talked into trying the Dirty Rice, which came with small chunks of smoked sausage, red and yellow peppers, and beef bacon. Tasty and well prepared, we would recommend it.

With scarcely room for another bite, we still wanted to try the desserts as they were too tempting to bypass. You need a sweet tooth, as there are quite a few delicious calories hidden in the Molten Dulce de Leche, a fondant type cake with a gooey caramel centre. Add your scoop of vanilla ice cream and silence will reign at the table for quite a while. The Tres Leches, a heavy sponge cake saturated in cream, condensed and evaporated milk was rich and filling, but again, a treat.

We had heard that the signature-blend coffee at Saussiche is well worth trying, but decided to leave that for our next visit. We had dined a little too well.

Other Menu Items that Appealed & Beverage Options

We liked the sound of the Beef Teriyaki and the Honey Garlic Sriracha Chicken.

Beverage options include juices, coffee, tea, hot chocolate, milkshakes and soft drinks, although the Frozen Hot Chocolate has us wondering?

Décor & Ambience

Natural wood, low lighting and a choice of indoor and outdoor seating. A huge world map mural decorates one wall inside, creating texture to the dark ambience. A bonus for diners, the outdoor area has a huge screen, meaning that World Cup matches and Ramadan series needn’t be missed.

Ambience is relaxed and low-key. There is pleasant background music that still allows for conversation. The serving staff was friendly and helpful, making us feel comfortable and welcome.

Clientele Mix & Price Range

Groups of friends, families and couples, it is a place for all ages. Price range is moderate upwards.

Thumbs up: Community initiatives are in the future plan.

Contact Information

Opening hours: 9 am – 2 am. Breakfast is served.

Ramadan Hours: 4 pm – 4 am. Takeaway is available.

Address: Rivulet at Twin Towers, Sheikh Zayed

Tel:  0114 080 8308

Facebook / Instagram: saussiche.official

Troufa in Zamalek

One week into its launch, it is indisputable; great things come in bijoux spaces and one of the best dessert places in Zamalek is Troufa. The steady flow of customers to this Aladdin’s cave of delights shows that good news spreads quickly.

Products Available and Signature Items

Products range from savory to sweet; breads, cakes, pastries, cookies and croissants to melt-in-the-mouth truffles, sandwiches and traditional Greek items like spanakopita and filo pastry cheese pie, it is all there. Great coffee-to-go as well.

In a nutshell, everything that Troufa creates has its personal stamp. All ingredients used are in their pure, original form, and the finished products should wow even the pickiest of palates. The bread selection is baked three to four times a day, so it really doesn’t get any fresher than that. In a world of diminishing croissant sizes, Troufa also bucks the trend by coming out with generous buttery ‘tear-into-me’ plain, chocolate or cheese versions that put others we have recently seen to shame. It should also be mentioned that Troufa items are packaged with a contemporary, elegant chic that reflects the quality of the goods inside. There are some special items available during Ramadan, spicy walnut karidopita being just one.

Items Sampled

How could we have said no to the freshly-baked penerli, the traditional cheese-laden bread that fortifies so many Greeks for the day ahead. Authentic, it provided a flashback to great times we have had in Athens and the Greek islands. Nostalgia overload…

The cornbread also totally blew us away, try it soft and fresh with a faint smear of butter, it elevates a simple pleasure to new heights. The sweet lovers in us delved head first into chocolate heaven with the London Tart. Its intense dark chocolate ganache was counterbalanced with a sharp raspberry layer, all nestled in a light tartlet base. Bliss. For a bit more chocolate indulgence we shared a Pavé, or rectangular pastry composed of layers and textures of chocolate, and a decadent Chocolate Pie. Both delivered chocolate at its best, rich but not too sweet.

Ah, and the truffles, bite-sized parcels of divinely rich ingredients in a range of flavors that are addictive in the extreme. They make a perfect gift, if you could bear to pass them along, and should cement friendships for life. In addition to truffles, Troufa has a gourmet range of handcrafted chocolates that are available by the kilo. Again, something to put on your list.

Other Items that Appealed

There would be no holding us back. Troufa’s range is so varied, with something for every whim or occasion. Your daily cob of bread, a few croissants for a weekend breakfast, moist freshly baked orange cake for afternoon tea? Indulgent gâteaux for a special get together? We would say yes to everything.

Ambience

From the eye-catching entrance with its green wall of plants enticing you to wander inside, to the showcases and shelves laden with delectable goodies, the feel is intimate, personal, and almost clubby as it is highly likely you will bump into friends who are on the same mission as you. It brings back the glory days of Zamalek, when a visit to your favorite pâtisserie was a highlight of the day.

Due to the limited space there is no seating available to sip coffee and chat, so it is all for taking away. Sigh…

Clientele Mix

On our visit we saw food-lovers of all ages and nationalities popping in. Troufa is so well located it will soon be a daily ‘must’ for most Zamalek residents in the know.

Price Range

Moderate upwards. Splurge on those truffles though, you will not regret it: excellent value considering the quality.

Contact Information

Opening hours: 7 am -11 pm. Delivery should be available in the near future.

Address: 16 Salah El Din Street, Zamalek, just next to Mohamed El Sagheer Hairdresser.

Tel:  02 2735 6805

Facebook: Troufa Bread & Chocolate Egypt

Instagram: TroufaEgypt

Hot tip: Catch next month’s edition of our magazines to find out where Troufa will be this summer in Sa7el!

The Tap: Who are Cheeseballs?

There are many great things in life and Cheeseballs is one of them, a musical phenomenon that hit the music scene and Cairo’s night-life hard! Who are they? They’re Jack & Anis aka Fatman & Robin.

In the beginning there was Jack (who is a brilliant bassist and a metal-head at heart) and he decided a year ago on Valentines to DJ love songs until you die, (so you can imagine the amount of cheese) and well, people loved it.

With different backgrounds, both Jack and Anis found their passion in Cheeseballs.

Anis who was a straight-A-student, started DJing at a young age and was inspired by international Trance DJs like Armen Van Buren and Aly & Fila. His main goal was to be on a stage, take control of the decks and make people lose themselves in his music.

On the other hand, Jack Avakian (who you might see a lot at The Tap wearing the coolest T-shirts) found his passion in rock music and fell in love with the bass guitar. He collects special edition bass guitars as he started playing at a young age; he has joined many bands with Egypt’s finest musicians.

Even though Fatman and Robin are different, they’re similar when it comes to those guilty pleasure hits and when on stage, you definitely feel their outstanding vibes.

Despacito is always on their list, and it gets even cheesier than this when they start playing those 80s and 90s guilty-pleasure songs. 

The idea of playing the cheesiest hits of all times became Cheeseballs and then Fatman needed someone to help with the amount of cheese and Anis came to the rescue. Anis is a mechanical engineer, which proves that being cheesy has nothing to do with anything else. The songs they play get stuck in your head and spread a mix of emotions that is nostalgic, happy and fun.

Cheeseballs are sometimes joined by some of the hottest DJs in town, the likes of Djunkie, Sebzz, Aguizi & Fahim, Safi, Kidmims among many others. (They can never resist the cheese-charm that is Jack and Anis).

So stay tuned to our social media channels to find out when they’ll be throwing them cheeseballs at you!

 

 

 

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35 Places to See & Things to Do in Russia

World Cup aside, there is a heap of reasons to visit this vast and spectacular country this summer. Here’s our list of places to visit to help make for a memorable stay!

Ekaterinburg

A mere 1755 km hop from Moscow, the 4th largest city in Russia is tucked away at the foot of the Ural Mountains on the doorstep of Asia. Don’t be fooled by its grim facade; behind those somewhat drab walls you can find an edgy cultural and dining scene.

  • The Loft (Дом Печати) at 49 Lenin Ave. is the ‘go-to’ place to grab a meal and catch the best music, film festivals and live performances. Try to catch Sage Project, the duet’s live shows resemble ceremonies with shamanic music and dances combined with vocals in a traditional old-Russian style. And, of course, all World Cup matches will be streaming live!
  • Created by artist Anatoly Vyatkin, the Keyboard Monument on the Iset River embankment consists of around 100 stone blocks, each weighing up to 80 kg (176 pounds) each, positioned to look like an oversized QWERTY keyboard. Local lore has it that if you want to reboot your life, step on Ctrl, Alt, Del.
  • Find the latest trendy fashion from Russian designers at good prices at Sunday Up Market at RIO Shopping Mall on Leninsky Avenue.
  • If you’re after an authentic Russian dining experience, head for Pelmeni Club for sweet and savoury pelmeni,vareniki and draniki. Vegetarians are well catered for as well. Don’t miss the dessert of vareniki loaded with berries and sweet cheeses, a great way to finish a meal. There are two locations, 2 Krasnoarmeyskaya and 82 Lunacharsk.

Kaliningradg

Kaliningrad is the capital of the Russian province of the same name, sandwiched between Poland and Lithuania along the Baltic Coast.

  • If you ever wondered what it would feel like to be a sailor in a Russian submarine or a researcher on a sea expedition, or maybe an open-sea fisherman, pay a visit to the Museum of the World Ocean.
  • Feeling peckish? Head for Bakery Konigsbacker, a chain of bakeriesoperating in the entire Kaliningrad region. They serve traditional Russian sweet and savoury pies, croissants, soups and sandwiches. If you want a snack on the go, it won’t break your budget.
  • Due to its unique location on the shore of Baltic Sea, Kaliningrad is known as the amber capital of the country, as most of these semi-precious stones come from that city. What could make a prettier souvenir?

Kazan

Kazan, a city over a hundred years older than Moscow, is a mixture of both Tatar and Slavic cultures, which makes the capital of the Tatarstan Republic, a treasure to explore.

  • Bauman Street is the main pedestrian thoroughfare and is buzzing with activity day and night. Enjoy souvenir shops, cafés, shops and museums, along with street performers and buskers out to entertain. At night try the restaurants, clubs, and bars that the strip has to offer.
  • Kazan’s central market is a vibrant reminder of life in bygone times. A cornucopia of smells, tastes and sights, the central market is the place to soak up local atmosphere, buy souvenirs, or indulge in a tasty lunch.

Moscow

Moscow is the city of golden domes, impressive architecture and some of the best museums in Europe. There are some ‘must visit’ sights, including the historic and beautifully maintained Metro.

  • Cobblestoned Red Square is surrounded by beautiful architecture, and is now a key location in the city, surrounded by unforgettable sites such as the Kremlin, St. Basil’s Cathedral, Lenin’s Mausoleum and other celebrated attractions.
  • Russia’s main department store, GUM’s stunning interior houses a variety of high-end boutiques. Built between 1890 and 1893 the legendary store is now home to over 200 boutiques selling a variety of brands. A bonus, the glass-roofed arcade faces Red Square and offers a variety of classy eateries.
  • For a cup of what might be the best artisan coffee in Moscow to kick-start your day, pop into no-frills centrally located cafe, Chernyi Cooperative.
  • For those on a more limited budget, ditch window shopping at the exclusive GUM and pass by Izmailovsky, Russia’s best flea market. Hunt for bargains, check out the artisan crafts, admire the local handiwork, matryoshkadolls, fascinating Soviet memorabilia, and glittering hand-crafted jewellery.
  • Seafood fans! This is your chance to try Kamchatka crab, a delicacy well worth making a trip to Russia for. It is known to be pricey, but one place where you can feast on crab and shrimp without maxing your credit card is Boston Seafood & Bar, at 2/1 Letnikovskaya.

Nizhny Novgorod

History-packed Nizhny Novgorod, situated on the Volga river in western Russia was founded in 1221, making it one of the oldest cities in the country.

  • Bolshaya Pokrovskaya is the place for fans of Russian literature. It is one of the central streets of the city with long lines of well-preserved 19th-century buildings stretch along both sides and sculptures of 19th-century inhabitants of the town.
  • Get some thrills with a cable car ride over the river from Nizhny Novgorod to Bor, a town on the other side of the Volga River. It is often used by the inhabitants as a means of public transport and the views from it are breathtaking.
  • Dine like a 19th-century Nizhny Novgorod merchant, at Pyatkin restaurant on Rozhdestvenskaya Street. The interiors from the epoch match the mouth-watering traditional Russian menu. It offers an antique chic environment crammed with authentic pieces that make dining a unique experience.

Rostov-On-Don

Rostov-On-Don lies to the southeast of the East European Plain, on the Don River around 1,070 kilometres south of Moscow.

  • Step back into history at Onegin Dacha, a typical Russian venue named after Eugene Onegin, the main character of Pushkin’s novel. The restaurant’s chef de cuisine Anton Kochura creates impeccable culinary dishes with French and Russian accents alongside many traditional Russian dishes. It is located at 45 B
  • Pushkin Street is full of cafés, restaurants and historical statues, along with beautiful flowers and trees; it’s an ideal place to spend a relaxing hour or two.
  • When you get a craving for a good old-fashioned burger, track down one of the mini-chain Burger & Smoke outlets in the heart of Rostov-On-Don for an affordable lunch or dinner. They offer a large selection of classic American burgers, a good cocktail menu, and tasty desserts. All of the ingredients are delivered daily from local farms near Rostov-On-Don, so you know you are getting high-quality meat and vegetables.

Samara

Industrial Samara is the gateway to the Volga region and a bustling hive of activity, a far cry from its early days as a military outpost. The spectacular Volga River is a life-force for the locals in terms of trade, business and leisure.

  • Take a trip out to Shiryaevo Village, tucked away in the beauty of the Zhiguli Mountains, yet easily accessible by boat. Here, you can soak up the village life atmosphere, or check out the Repin Museum with its Volga-inspired art. There are also naturally formed limestone caves for exploring.
  • Alternatively, take a boat tour around the Samara Bend, where, according to local legend, Volga River pirates used to hide out in the nooks and crannies of the mountains.

Saransk

In between Moscow and St. Petersburg, Saransk, although small, has some hidden gems to offer its visitors. It is crammed with statues commemorating great events and figures, but if that is not your thing there is plenty else on offer.

  • Actor Gerard Depardieu chose Saransk to be his city of residence when he took Russian citizenship. He renovated a cinema here and established a cultural center named after himself. Watch a film in Gerard Depardieu’s own cinema.
  • Otmennaya Pelmennaya is a traditional restaurant at 31 Sovetskaya specialising in pelmeni, small Russian dumplings filled with different kinds of meat.

Sochi

A seaside city in the Russian Southern Federal District, Sochi came to fame with Winter Olympics. Blessed with amazing scenery, and an enjoyable summer climate, it has a lot to offer.

  • Breathtaking Ritsa Lake is surrounded by green hills and beautiful plants. You can pass through small waterfalls and walk along the banks to enjoy the scenic views. The lake is located around 950 metres above sea level and is an unbeatable spot for memorable Instagram shots.
  • Matsesta (meaning: ‘fire and water’) is a micro-district in Sochi located on the Black Sea coast, surrounded by hot springs. The water from the hot springs used at the spas contains more than 27 types of minerals. Your perfect place for spa relaxation and treatments.
  • Serving affordable dishes made from local ingredients that are delivered daily from local farms, popular Che? Harcho! resto-bar and terrace also has regular live music and sport events on the huge wide screen.

St. Petersburg

Stylish, historic and a visual delight, this fashion-loving city is also the birthplace of Putin. Just saying…

  • Dine like Russian royalty at Tsar in Sodovaya Street. Named after the title given to rulers in the Russian empire, the interior and menu are stylised to resemble a 19th-century dining hall.
  • Museum on Moika Embankment is a great place to get to know some local designers as well as international ones. The showroom was inspired by the artistic spirit of St. Petersburg, and the clothing display resembles a work of art. Go there for some inspirational shopping.
  • Attention fashionistas! Gate31has six different stores in St. Petersburg and keeps growing. It is known for a unique collection of brands and designers both from Asia and Russia, as well as convenient separation of clothes by color in the store.
  • The best way to enjoy the view of Saint Petersburg is from the water. Cruises along the Neva River encompass most of the major landmarks of the city in just under an hour.
  • Voyage! Voyage! at 17 Kamennoostrovsky Avenueis another stylish outlet. The designer dresses you can find here combine country-style floral patterns with leather belts and heavy boots, an effective combo. Keep an eye out for Chereshnya dresses. Yes, on the pricey side, but most of them are one-of-a-kind and a worthy investment for any fashion junkie.
  • Vegan alert! Ukrop at 14 Malaya Konyushennaya Street has become a favorite even for those who usually eat meat. The trick is in the fresh ingredients used in every meal, with alternatives for almost every dietary requirement. Their desserts are also great alternatives to guilty pleasures. They have new outlets popping up around town, keep a look out.

Volgograd

Volgograd, located in the heart of Russia, is brimming with grand statues, and its downtown boasts a garden promenade along the Volga River and a lot of lovely parks.

  • Miles restaurant and bar, at 2A Elshanskaya Street is considered to be one of the best places in the city to view the Volga with its huge terrace. Its menu line-up consists of contemporary Russian cuisine with European influences. Locals say that Miles is the best option for anyone in the mood for a romantic evening.

·         Need sustenance but funds running low? Head for Blin Club on Sovetskaya Street. Named for the typical Russian pancake, it is an ideal coffee spot with a combination of tasty local food, a cosy atmosphere and impeccable service, and it absolutely won’t put a dent in your wallet.

For all the practical info needed for a trip to World Cup 2018 go to: welcome2018.com

Mo Bistro in Capital Promenade

Much excitement had been built up ahead of the visit to Mo Bistro in Sheikh Zayed, and expectations were running high. The restaurant was already buzzing with the chatter of a bustling crowd when we arrived, opting to sit indoors, we made ourselves comfortable and put our faith in the hands of the operations manager who promised to delight us with new and classic Mo Bistro dishes.

Signature Dishes

Flank Steak, Glazed Beef Short Ribs, Fettuccine Spinach and Caramelized Onion, Almond Soup, Roasted Bone Marrow, Shrimp Pattaya.

Dishes Sampled

We began our foray into what promised to be a thrilling culinary journey that evening with Chicken Liver Mousse; a trio of mini circular toasted breads topped with wild berry sauce and neatly formed liver mousse rounds, topped with fried Parmesan cheese. The wild berry sauce offered a tangy respite from the rich mousse as it cut through the velvety bite, this dish definitely surpassed expectation and would impress the most refined paté connoisseurs.

Accompanying the mousse was what proved to be a star dish that evening, the Glazed Drumsticks, a set of six mini-sized drumsticks, slow-cooked and then glazed with a divine sticky sauce and topped with sesame seeds elegantly placed in a row over smears of sour cream. It was a bite that delivered on texture and taste at every stage, from the tender meat, to the crunch of sesame seeds, and finished off with finger-licking fun!

We waited in anticipation for our surprise mains as we had left all the ordering decisions in the hands of the operations manager, and as dish upon dish descended upon us, we were happy to have been surprised! First came the Spaghetti Carbonara in a luscious creamy egg-based Parmesan sauce topped with sausage meatballs, beef bacon, lemon zest and parsley. The Carbonara sauce was exquisite to the core, and if it weren’t for all the other dishes waiting to dazzle our palate, we would’ve licked the plate clean!

The Stuffed Chicken was another star dish that evening, rolls of boneless chicken stuffed with liver, sundried tomato, and oregano, served on a bed of rice with mushrooms, accompanied by caramelized yams and a subtle gravy sauce. The tender and succulent chicken on its own was a winner, but the perfectly crisped chicken skin elevated the bite even further, a must-try! The highly recommended Crispy Skin Fillet of Seabass also left us astounded, how the chef was able to create a super crunchy outer layer and still maintain a moist and delicate fish beneath remains a mystery we are not eager to solve but are happy to continue enjoying. The fish comes with a lemon butter sauce on a bed of thick potato chips and asparagus.

The last main we over-indulged in was the Lamb Shank; a slow-cooked lamb chunk served with gravy, mashed potato, carrots and Brussel sprouts, definitely one to share. The meat fell off the bone so easily, one of the perks of slow-cooking, and packed a punch delivering smoky and roasted flavors.

With little room left to breathe, resisting dessert was a test of wills… one that we lost, miserably. For dessert we were presented with Halawa Crunch, small pastries, some drenched in halawa, others in chocolate, rolled in broken wafers, and the Chocolate Fondant, a sensual chocolate dessert served with mesteka ice cream on a bed of crumbled cookies. A perfect finale to a perfect evening!

Other Menu Items that Appealed & Beverage Options

Emincee De Veau, Oyster Sea Bass, Philly Cheese Steak Sandwich, Barbecue Chicken and Pineapple Pizza and the comprehensive breakfast menu.

Beverage options include house-made Ice Teas in multiple flavors, not-so-basic smoothies, cocktails, fresh juices, coffee, tea, soft drinks, etc.

Décor & Ambience

Cosmopolitan, fresh; the black wood chairs against the white marble-top tables offer a cool urban contrast, signature Mo Bistro decorative tiles on the floor, and signature grey sofa at the bottom of the stairs.

Ambience is inviting, buzzing, exciting, think happening city scene meets chill-out spot.

Clientele mix & Price Range

Everyone! From families to groups of friends, young and old! Price range offer great value for money; portions are big. Prices are moderate upwards.  

Contact Information

Address:  Capital Promenade, Sheikh Zayed.

Opening hours: 10 am – 1 am

Ramadan Hours: 4 pm – 4 am

Tel: 0120 222 7773. Takeaway is available, delivery will be available after Ramadan.

Facebook: Mo Bistro Egypt

Instagram: mobistroegypt

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