American Buffalo Play at AUC

They had a plan. It wasn’t worth a nickel.

American Buffalo originally opened on Broadway in 1977, and last month it was reconceived by newly formed professional theatre company Theatre X at The Gerhart Theatre, AUC New Cairo.

The crew of American Buffalo involved 13 AUC students and alumni, and the cast was made up of two graduates from the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama, Waleed Hammad (Teach) and Jason Will (Don); who is a visiting instructor at the Department of Arts, as well as one current AUC theatre student, Pola Kamel (Bob). A theatre director from the United States helped remotely in the production of the play.

Cairo West Magazine covered this play, which was performed on an open exposed stage, fully displaying the talents of the cast. On the technical side, lighting, costumes and stage sets showcased the talents of the crew members, rendering this production a true success.

American Buffalo is a play written by David Mamet, an American playwright who won a Pulitzer Prize and was nominated for a Tony Award multiple times for his trio of off-Broadway plays including American Buffalo.

American Buffalo tells the story of three greedy men who plan a heist during a long day in an old junk shop. American Buffalo, now considered an American classic, is brash and bold, with clever humor and high drama that renders it a highly successful show.

Art March 2017

AL MASAR GALLERY

AL MASAR GALLERY

Exhibition: Al Noor

Artist: TAREK MONTASSER

Address:  Baehler’s Mansion 157 b. 26 July St. Side Entrance on Isaac Jacob St., Ground Floor, Zamalek

When: 5 March – 29 March, 2017

Details: Al Masar Gallery has the pleasure to announce the opening of the Exhibition titled ‘The LIGHT ‘ by renowned artist Tarek Montasser (Born 1970), featuring the artist’s new collection of paintings.

Al Masar Gallery requests the honor of your presence to view this magnificent new body of work of the artist.

Alkahila

Alkahila

Exhibition: The Beauty of Life

Artist: Ibrahim El Tanbouli

Address:  15 El Batal Ahmed Abdel Aziz street – Mohandessin

When: 6 March – 16  March, 2017

ART NILE

Art Nile

Exhibition: Southern Spirit & Meanings

Artist: D. Mervat Shazly Helaly

Address: 14 Al Montazah Al Raesi, Sherif, As Sahel, Cairo.

When: 22 February – 9  March, 2017

GYPSUM

Gypsum

Exhibition: Light Fall

Artist: Daniele Genadry

Address: 5 Ibrahim Naguib, Kasr El Nil, Cairo

When: 22  February – 1 April, 2017

Details: This new body of work draws from images of the landscape photographed by Eadweard Muybridge and his contemporaries. It examines how the medium of photography developed and began to translate the ‘seeing experience’ as it dealt with the inherent problems of motion and perspective shifts in still images. Among its considerations is whether perception can be more fully grasped by including duration and distance in the process of image making, and how stereoscopes and repeated imagery can approximate an act of looking.

Best Workout Using Your Body Weight

Best Workout Using Your Body Weight

By Hesham Khalil Best Workout Using Your Body Weight

Bodyweight exercises increase self-awareness and improve body movement. They can be progressed and regressed to fit everyone. The best part about it is they can be done everywhere. You can use them for strength gain and muscle gain, and you can put them together to form a circuit for conditioning and fat burning. They translate well from the gym to real life, as you’ll increase your ‘relative strength’: how strong you are relative to your own body weight. x

Using your body weight to workout will guarantee benefits like increased strength, muscle, self-esteem, energy, athleticism and coordination.

These are some of the best exercises using your body weight for workout:

  1. Walkouts

Best Workout At HomeWalkouts build strength in your anterior core.

  1. Stand with your feet hip-width apart. Bend your knees slightly (or more if needed) and place both hands flat on the ground.
  2. Keeping your legs extended and your feet planted, walk your hands away from your body, as far past your shoulders as you can, until you are in a full plank position.
  3. Hold for one count at the furthest point, and then walk your hands back to your feet and slowly return to standing.

2. The Bodyweight Squat

This is a lower body strengthening exercise that can be performed virtually anywhere with no equipment and limited space. It’s a highly functional movement working all the major muscles of the legs.

  1. Keeping your entire foot pressed into the floor, push through the outside of each foot as you lower into your squat.
  2. When you have lowered down into the bodyweight squat, your kneecaps should hover over the tops of your feet. Your torso should lean forward slightly, creating a 30 to 45 degree angle with your thighs.
  3. When you start to rise from the bottom of your squat, actively push your knees out. Your thighs should stay in line with your feet.
  • Instead of just dropping down and standing back up, focus on feeling your glutes throughout the entire bodyweight squat. As you lower, feel them stretch. As you stand, forcefully contract them.

3. Plank with Arm Lift

  1. Start in a plank position.
  2. Carefully shift your weight to your right forearm.
  3. Extend your left arm straight out in front of you.
  4. Hold 3 seconds while keeping your core tight.
  5. Slowly bring your arm back to the starting position.
  6. Switch arms and repeat.

Do 2-3 sets of 10 reps

4. Bodyweight Walking Lunge

Walking lunges are great for lifting and shaping your backside. They are a great way for you to tone the butt and get that kind of shelf butt. Normally you can’t really spot reduce and it’s hard to really tone specific muscle groups, but this exercise works for just that.

  1. Stand straight with your feet shoulder-width apart and place your hands on your hips. This is the start position.
  2. Step forward with either leg in a long stride. Keep your other foot in place behind you.
  3. Bend your knees as you do this so your body is lowered towards the ground. Keep your back straight throughout the movement.
  4. Continue down until your front knee is just above the ground. (Your front leg should be bent 90 degrees at the knee)
  5. Hold for a count of one.
  6. Push down through your front heel and extend both knees to return to the start position.
  7. Pause then repeat with your other leg. When you have lunged with both legs that is one repetition.
  8. Repeat.

5. Bird Dog Abs Exercises

The bird dog is a great overall core exercise that, not only strengthens the abs and back, but also mainly involves back rotators/multifarious muscles and also engages the glutes, improves balance and stability.

    1. Begin on hands and knees with the back straight and the abs pulled in.
    2. Lift the right arm up until it is level with the body and parallel to the floor.
    3. At the same time, lift the left leg up and straighten it until it is also parallel to the floor.
    4. Hold for a moment, lower and repeat on the other side, this time lifting the left arm and right leg. Continue alternating sides for 1-3 sets of 10-16 reps.
    5. Keep the move slow and controlled and try to keep your body straight throughout the movement.

6. Bodyweight Triceps Exercise

Toning your triceps — the muscles that run on the backside of your upper arm, from your shoulder to your elbow — is one way to easily tone your arms. A basic body-weight exercise, triceps dips don’t require much equipment: if you don’t have a bench, you can always do them on the ground.

Here’s how to do this move:

  1. Position your hands shoulder-width apart on a secured bench or stable chair.
  2. Slide your butt off the front of the bench with your legs extended out in front of you.
  3. Straighten your arms, keeping a little bend in your elbows to keep tension on your triceps and off your elbow joints.
  4. Slowly bend your elbows to lower your body toward the floor until your elbows are at about a 90-degree angle. Be sure to keep your back close to the bench.
  5. Once you reach the bottom of the movement, press down into the bench to straighten your elbows, returning to the starting position. This completes one rep.
  6. Keep your shoulders down as you lower and raise your body. You can bend your legs to modify this exercise.

Do 15 to 20 reps per set and aim to do two to three sets

7. Bicycle Crunch

Best Workout Using Your Body WeightThe Bicycle Crunch is the best abs exercise according to research done to uncover the best exercises you can do to activate the rectus abdominus, the external oblique and internal oblique.

  1. Lie flat on the floor with your lower back pressed to the ground and contract your core muscles.
  2. With your hands gently holding your head, lift your knees to about a 45-degree angle.
  3. Slowly, at first, go through a bicycle pedal motion.
  4. Alternately touching your elbows to the opposite knees as you twist back and forth.
  5. Breathe evenly throughout the exercise.

8. Push-up

Best Workout Using Your Body WeightIntensifies work on the upper body and core.

  • Do a normal pushup, but with your feet elevated on a stable platform like a box or bench.
  • The higher the platform, the more you’ll work your shoulders, chest, core, and scapular stabilizers.
  • The muscles that connect: your neck, midback, and shoulders.

9. Mountain Climber

This is a full body work out and here are a few of the muscles that are worked: deltoids, biceps, triceps, pectorals major, obliques, rectus abdominals, lower trapezes, latissimus dorsi, quadriceps, hamstrings, hip adductors, and hip abductors.

  1. Get into a plank position. Get down on the floor on your hands and knees. Extend your legs out behind you
  2. Pull one knee up and in toward your midsection. Lift one foot and begin bending the knee as you pull it up between the front of your body and the floor. Bring the knee forward in one smooth, controlled motion. Don’t let either of your knees sag or come into contact with the floor. Once you’ve raised your knee as far as you can, contract and hold your abs briefly but forcefully.
  3. Repeat the action with your other knee. Relax your midsection and push your knee back toward your other foot slowly. Straighten your leg and set your foot back on the ground behind you. Then, bring the other knee forward, moving fluidly and squeezing your abs. . . Best Workout Using Your Body Weight

Dealing with Learning Difficulties

By Dr Amira Elbatrawy

Even the most experienced parents can have anxious moments during their child’s formative years. What is the benchmark, they wonder? Is my child developing skills and cognition at a normal rate? Let’s look at the important points and the most commonly voiced concerns.

At what age can you consider a child has a learning difficulty?

Not all kids develop learning skills at the same rate, but learning difficulty may appear as early as preschool years (e.g., difficulty learning  names  of  letters  or  counting  objects),  but  they can  only  be diagnosed  reliably  after  starting  formal  education.

What tests are carried out to ascertain what type of problem exists?

Learning disability is a clinical diagnosis, it can be identified by psychiatrists, school psychologists, clinical psychologists, and other learning disability specialists through a combination of intelligence testing, academic achievement testing and class performance monitoring. Other areas of assessment may include perception, cognition, memory, attention, and language abilities, through tests measuring the executive functions of the brain.

What are the main problems you encounter?

The main problems seen in our clinics are difficulties related to reading, writing and math, mostly reading. This is always associated with academic deterioration and poor performance in school, with frequent complaints from the teachers. Many children have behavioral problems as well.

What are the critical ages in children’s development when they most need assistance?

Preschool years, especially 3-5 years of age, are considered the main critical age of development that needs assistance otherwise the problem will be much more devastating as long as the child grows.

How do you tackle the various issues?

Proper history taking, not only from the parents but from the school teachers as well, is very important together with ongoing clinical and psychological assessment of the child.

Do you involve the parents in the remedial process, and to what extent?

Parents are considered one of the cornerstones of management of such problems and they should be a crucial part in the management plan all through.

Does nutrition play a role in helping some conditions such as ADHD?

There’s no clear scientific evidence that ADHD is caused by diet or nutritional problems or that eating  special  kinds of food may help in relieving some symptoms.

Do you make recommendations regarding lifestyle adjustments?

Yes, of course, scheduling and structured daily activities for those children are very important. Also involving the child in activities and sports that help increasing attention and concentration may help.

How do you differentiate between a slow learner and a child with a deep problem such as dyslexia?

A slow learner is a child of below average intelligence, whose thinking skills have developed significantly more slowly than the norm for his/her age. This child will go through the same basic developmental stages as other children, but will do so at a significantly slower rate. On the other hand, a child with specific learning disability is one of average or above average intelligence who has specific difficulties, which can make learning very difficult. In short, if there is a discrepancy between the child’s potential and actual achievement.

How can a parent tell a difference between hyperactivity and ADHD?

Hyperactivity could be a normal finding in children, but it is considered to be a problem when it affects their functions, mainly their academic performance and social development.

What are the signs that indicate that the child needs therapy?

Communication skill problems, language and speech problems, behavioral problems, as well as academic deterioration are all considered signs that necessitate immediate intervention.

Is dyslexia a big umbrella under which a lot of other learning difficulties fall?

A reading disorder is the most common learning disability. Of all students with specific learning disabilities, 70–80% have deficits in reading. The term ‘developmental dyslexia’ is often used as a synonym for reading disability; however, many researchers assert that there are different types of reading disabilities, of which dyslexia is one. It is a common word, frequently used to describe learning disability in general, but scientifically, this is not what is actually present.

Biography:

Professor Dr. Amira Nassieb Elbatrawy

Professor of Psychiatry-Faculty of Medicine-Ain Shams University

Head of Child Psychiatry Department-AlMashfa Hospital

Doctorate (MD) Degree in Psychiatry

Faculty of Medicine – Ain Shams University.

Diploma in Psychiatric Practice (DPP)

The Conjoint Board of King’s College – London University and Faculty of Medicine – Ain Shams University.

Master Degree in Neurology and Psychiatry

Faculty of Medicine – Ain Shams University.

MB BCh

Faculty of Medicine – Ain Shams University.

Hepatitis C

Getting the Facts from Dr. Hossam Ghoneim

Hepatitis C is often in the news, especially with the success of recent initiatives and treatments to eradicate this debilitating virus. There is still a surprising amount of confusion as to who is susceptible to contracting the virus and how it is transmitted. Cairo West Magazine sought out leading gastroenterologist and hepatologist Dr. Hossam Ghoneim to see the big picture.

CWM: Dr. Hossam, it seems that Hepatitis C is generally considered to be a virus prevalent in the lower income communities, and is linked to poor sanitation. Is this the case?

HG: The clear good answer is no. Hepatitis C does not particularly spare the upper class of the society. This is because its transmission is not directly linked to personal hygiene, as we will see when we come to talk about how can one get infected. However, having said that, it must be noted that because the greater majority of the Egyptian population is from the lower and middle classes we are under the false impression that this is a disease of that class.

What percentage of Egypt’s population is, or has been, affected?

Before the Egyptian government started to combat the virus through the National Committee of Hepatitis Viral Infection in 2008 it was estimated that one in six Egyptians had the virus. As we speak today, this number has steeply decreased thanks to the success story of this committee, which is now internationally renowned. We noticed this sharp decline especially with new oral medications that appeared nearly two years ago and are now looking for patients to treat by implementing screening programs.

Which are the most common methods of transmission, and how can we protect ourselves?

Transmission is by blood; either direct blood transfusion or via open wounds like when sharing razor blades, nail scissors or toothbrushes. There is no scientific evidence to support transmission via other body fluids like sweat, semen or saliva. It is important to ensure that any instrument being used for a manicure or pedicure, or dental procedure has been thoroughly sterilised before use.

Are there any health symptoms that we should look out for, and what tests are needed to identify the virus?

Symptoms only appear when one develops liver disease, not at the time of catching the virus. It is very common to be infected and for the virus to remain dormant for months, or even years before it starts causing the typical liver disease. That’s why screening for early detection is important, so we can identify the infection before the disease develops. When the appropriate treatment is given we see a success rate of 99%. All you need to do is a simple blood test. The treatment is a breakthrough in the history of science. An oral tablet, once a day for three to six months (depending on the stage of the infection) and that’s it.

 

 

Ways To Avoid Hepatitis C

  • Do not share personal care items that may have come in contact with another person’s blood, such as razors, nail clippers or toothbrushes.
  • Transmission of Hepatitis C is possible when poor infection-control practices are used during tattooing or piercing. Use only licensed practitioners.
  • Use beauty and nail spas that have stringent equipment sterilization procedures. If in doubt, take your own kit.
  • Avoid sharing needles, syringes, or other equipment to inject medications. Used syringes should be disposed of responsibly.

Important to Note:

  • Hepatitis C virus is not spread by sharing eating utensils, breastfeeding, hugging, kissing, holding hands, coughing, or sneezing. It is also not spread through food or water.
  • Any blood spills — including dried blood, which can still be infectious — should be cleaned using a dilution of one part household bleach to 10 parts water. Gloves should be worn when cleaning up blood spills.
  • The Hepatitis C virus can survive outside the body at room temperature, on environmental surfaces, for up to 3 weeks.

 

Bio: ( Picture has been provided)

Prof. Dr. Hossam Ghoneim

MBBCh, MSc, MD

Consultant Hepatology & Gastroenterology

Member of the American & European Societies of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy

Safa Clinics

Cairo, EGYPT

Restaurants March 2017

Be Good

Concept: Be. Good to You caters to the health conscious and conscientious.

Mantra: Be Healthy. Be Fit.

Be Happy The minds behind it: It all started with the concept created by Health Coach, Nadia Abu Taleb, who partnered up with Fitness Coach, Ali Mazhar, founder of BeFit Egypt and longtime friend and restaurant entrepreneur, Tarek Foda. Each of them brought their own expertise to the table.

Signature dishes: Sweet and Sour Beetroot Salad and Baked Falafel Salad

Menu overview: The menu covers all meals, from breakfast, to a quick bite (grab and go), lunch and dinner. The entire menu consists of healthy options, with everything relatively guilt-free. The dishes are labelled under gluten-free, dairy-free, vegetarian and/or sugar-free. The idea is to always have a vibrant and seasonal menu, making the best of what´s in season.

Dishes sampled: After a thorough look through the menu, we started by sharing the Funghi Coconut Toast, one of the appetizer options. It consists of toast (in-house baked bread) topped with roasted mushrooms cooked in a rich coconut cream, with thinly sliced red chili peppers served with crushed pine nuts on the top. The dish was slightly spicier than we expected but nonetheless delicious. We chose two salads for starters: Sweet and Sour Beetroot Salad – goat cheese, arugula, green apples and strawberries, crushed pistachio, tossed raw honey vinaigrette – which added a zing to salad and was definitely one of the highlights of our meal. The Baked Falafel Salad – two oven-baked falafels, served with red hummus, mixed greens, feta cheese topped with a cilantro dressing. It was an interesting approach with this baked version of an old fried classic. The Chicken Fereek Bowl – chunks of broccoli and carrots with fereek, served cold, mixed with kale pesto, citrus dressing, and lukewarm slices of chicken breast. The creative spiral zucchini noodles – Zoodles – were served with homemade cherry tomato sauce. Surprisingly tasty and juicy – we didn’t even think it wasn’t real pasta. As we never say no to desserts we indulged ourselves in a warm, aromatic Apple Almond Crumble – roasted chunks of green apple and raisins cooked with raw honey topped with a crumbly almond crust, offering the crisp contrast of the crunchy and the moistness of the soft fruit underneath, accompanied by a scoop of homemade ice cream (dairy free). To wrap up our meal, alongside our coffee (which was served with almond milk on the side) we were treated to a sugarfree chocolate cookie that melted in every single bite, guiltless. Dishes were overall very tasty, nutritious and filling, given proof that you can eat healthy in a flavorful manner. Be. Good to You – Eat Well, Live Well Katameya Heights Delights Restaurant What’s up Cairo East

Capital Grill

Capital Grill

A Hearty Breakfast in Rivulet, Twin Towers

This all-day dining venue has just extended its opening hours to offer breakfast. A great idea, we say, as there is a ready customer base in the many commercial offices in the surrounding area. We, however, wanted something to sustain us through a rather bleak and chilly day, and the breakfast did just that.

Signature dishes: Apart from the popular combination breakfasts, which included variations of fried eggs, mushrooms, hash brown potatoes, beef bacon and oriental sausage, Capital Grill offers some original breakfast options in the form of burritos and baguettes. Filling for the burritos include cheese, potatoes and beef bacon. The Belgian-style baguettes feature either smoked salmon or smoked beef, topped with poached eggs and a creamy cheese sauce.

Dishes sampled:

As we were looking for a quick breakfast to ward off hunger pangs through a long workday, we settled in with fresh orange juice and American coffee while we waited for our orders of Scrambled Eggs with Salmon and Scrambled Eggs with Chilli Beef to arrive. An ample quantity of freshly toasted bread arrived to sustain us in the interim.

The breakfast order arrived promptly, with a large iceberg lettuce and tomato salad as an accompaniment. The scrambled eggs were not cooked in the way we are familiar with, but nonetheless served as a good base for both the smoked salmon and caper version, as well as the minced beef chilli. The cubed garlic potatoes and the hash browns came in a generous serving, along with a mound of nicely cooked baby mushrooms. No need for lunch after that, we agreed.

Other menu options that appealed:

For those with a sweet tooth, Capital Grill has a wide selection of pancakes, waffles and crepes with mouth-watering toppings. Think along the lines of fresh fruit, chocolate, caramel and lashing of whipped cream and you get the picture. The Capital crêpes come with Nutella, banana, nuts and caramel sauce. Irresistible!

Décor

Low key, in shades of cream, beige and brown, with posters of international cities brightening up the walls, Capital Grill provides a suitable ambience for either a business breakfast, or a meet-up with family or friends. There is also plenty of outdoor seating overlooking the attractive water feature of Rivulet, perfect for summer months.

Beverages available: Plenty of fresh juices, smoothies and shakes as well as a good range of coffees, tea and hot chocolate.

Clientele mix:  Couples, groups of friends.

Price range: Large portions, so good value for money.

 

Address: Rivulet, Twin Towers, 26th of July Corridor, Giza Governorate

Giza, Egypt

01128880500

 

Opening hours: 10 am to 12 am

Tel:  16265 / 01128880500

Facebook page: www.facebook.com/pg/CapitalGrillCairo

Instagram: Capital Grill

Chef Andrew

Make the Most of Local Produce

Chef Andrew Mitchell Shares His Tips

When our cupboards are bare and supermarket shelves don’t always have the usual range of imported goodies to help indulge our taste for exotic meals, what can we do? Cairo West Magazine met up with celebrated chef and TV personality Andrew Mitchell to get his advice on creating healthy, tasty meals by making the most of locally grown items.

CWM: Chef Andrew, how has home cooking in Egypt evolved in recent years?

AM: I think that exposure to different cuisines from around the world and the constant and inevitable exchange of cultures has transformed home cooking in Egypt; techniques have changed, ingredients have been added and dishes have evolved.

 

Why do you think so many people, both men and women, have taken up experimenting with recipes from all over the world?

I think the Internet has played a huge role in introducing new dishes and concepts to our table. The restaurant craze we’ve witnessed in the past five years in Egypt has also helped audiences develop different palates and appreciation to what could have been a taboo cuisine (cupcakes, sushi, etc).

Now that imported ingredients are either difficult to find, or extremely expensive, how can we find substitutes locally?

I am a huge advocate of local produce. Believe it or not, many of the ingredients I use in my gourmet dishes are grown in Egypt and are an impeccable alternative to many of our more common imported items. Frankly, I think the awareness of what actually does grow in Egypt, and what is locally produced is what we should be concerned with, rather than worrying about a scarcity of imported ingredients.

 

Do you find similarities between dishes and ingredients from other regions and traditional Egyptian meals?

Of course! There’s a clear influence and similarity of technique, spices and ingredients across the entire Middle East and North Africa. Some areas rely more on spices than others, but overall you could probably use the same pantry to develop dishes for any country across the region. This however, doesn’t make them less unique; Moroccan dishes aren’t necessarily the same as Syrian or Lebanese, let alone Egyptian. But you’ll find that techniques, preference for certain spices, and the diversity of menu in most countries across the region are not that far apart.

 

Can you provide us with a short list of key items that are hard to find, and what can be used to replace them?

The list could go on forever and ever. Most people see recipes from abroad which use semi finished items like tandoori paste, or tempura batter mix. These items are hard to come by and expensive. What most people don’t realize is that these spice mixes and flour mixes can be prepared at home at a fraction of the cost. Searching the recipes for these items and doing it your self is usually a fraction of the cost and 100 times better!

Do you see an increasing awareness of the importance of nutrition, and is this reflected in new adaptations of traditional recipes?

There’s a general wave of fitness and health routines that has really been a protagonist the past couple of years in our cultures. With the increase, luckily, of health awareness and a strong desire to stay fit, requests for healthy and  nutritious ingredients and dishes have been recurrent. As for the adaptations, our cuisine has always used highly nutritious ingredients from the very beginning; the only change I hope is happening and being implemented is the technique of cooking these traditional dishes. For example, I feel many homes have stopped using ghee and have started incorporating more olive oil or low calorie substitutes.

 

With imports being restricted, is there a movement towards growing new crops of herbs, fruit and vegetables for the local market as well as export?

I believe the movement has always been there, as Egypt is one of the strongest countries agriculturally. I for one, have been a loyal customer of Hydrofarms Egypt, which have done nothing but impress me with a wide variety of vegetables, and other ingredients which I use both at my restaurants and you can find in my fridge. Egypt has an impressive agricultural repertoire, but very little marketing is being done to promote local growth. Which is why I take every opportunity to introduce local ingredients into my dishes.

What new types of produce do you see the potential for growing in terms of the local climate and market requirements?

Recent customs increases have been placed on non-essential items that are suitable to grow in Egypt, such as avocado, which would be a good start. Some items such as apples, that we import tons of, unfortunately don’t grow well in Egypt due to the climate. By taking a look at the new duties on fruits and vegetables it’s easy to see which items they are encouraging local farms to produce.

The Lemon Tree Katameya

Dining with Flair

The Lemon Tree Katameya

Concept:  Upscale Casual Dining Signature dishes: Tea Smoked Salmon and South African Veal Tenderloin

Menu overview: The menu is concise. Brief, but comprehensive. Over the course of the past three years, The Lemon Tree has had 21 menus, showing how versatile the chef is and illustrating the seasonality of dishes. “The main aim, we learned, is to have total control over the production line – adopting a farm-to-table model and encouraging local producers,” explained Mirette Osama, Chef and Co-Founder.

Dishes sampled: We were kindly guided through the menu by the Chef. As suggestions are always welcome, we started with a set of appetizers. The Goat´s Cheese Truffles – cheese balls served with dried strawberries, so light, but at the same time rich in flavor, they were served with crushed nuts, golden honey and a drizzle of balsamic reduction. The Puff Sausage Rolls – crispy dough bags filled with Armenian sausage with a hint of sweet chili were perfect for a bite or two. We also sampled the Vietnamese Shrimp Popsicles – shrimp dough with a hint of sesame oil served on sugar cane sticks – a chef´s adapted recipe from a classic Asian dish. They say you eat with your eyes first and the presentation of the food certainly enforced this saying. For a first course we decided to share the Prawn and Asparagus Risotto cooked in creamy rosemary and carrot broth, which was very well executed and we were wowed with it. As for main dishes, we opted for one meat and one fish. The Honey Orange Ginger Sole with ginger orange sauce on a bed of mashed potatoes and one of the house signature dishes, the South African Veal Tenderloin – succulent beef cooked medium rare garnished with grilled bell peppers accompanied by a mix of potato and sweet potato wedges. To round off our delightful dinner, we ended up sharing a very interesting dessert: White Chocomosa – little bites of pastry filled with white chocolate and nuts on a bed of gooseberry sauce.  The Lemon Tree Katameya is about a passion for food and music.

Other menu options that appealed: The Cocoa Coffee Fillet and the Tea Smoked Salmon (house-smoked in a blend of tea leaves)

Décor: The restaurant atmosphere is relaxed, welcoming and warm. High white wood ceilings, rattan fixtures, a lot of wood and a sandy palette brought an unpretentious yet elegant feel. The seating arrangements are divided between high tables, tables for larger groups and two bars – one of them with an eating counter. The large windows give an exquisite view of the Katameya Club House pool. The fairy-lights adorn the branches that are hanging from the ceiling over the bar give a mystical ambience and extra charm to the place. The music is understated and complements the atmosphere and the dimmed lights make it rather inviting

Beverages: Full bar with Signature Drinks.

Clientele mix: Mixed age groups, trendy crowd. 25 is the minimum age.Price range: High-end

Opening hours: Weekdays from 7pm to 1am; weekends 7 pm to 2 am

Address:  Katameya Heights Club House – New Cairo

Tel:  02 2759 2599 ext. 1298 (reservations are highly recommended)

Facebook / Instagram:

@thelemontreecairo &

@thelemontreeandco

Marny

Everything Waffle and More

 Marny´s – In the Heart of Degla

Concept:  Café bistro and Bakery

Signature dishes: Marny´s serves waffles and crepes in a creative way.

Menu overview: Marny´s has an authentic and eclectic menu with a wide variety of dishes, from sweet and savory waffles and crêpes to salads, soups, pasta and beef dishes. The menu covers meals from breakfast to dinner – suitable for coffee, snacks or complete meals.

Dishes sampled: There were many tempting dishes we were curious to try, but our host made sure we made the most out of our experience by suggesting some of the house specialties. We started by sharing the Chicken Cone – a waffle cone topped off with crushed nuts and filled with golden, fried chicken bites, crunchy outside and tender and moist inside, accompanied by a mango sauce on the side. The chicken tenderness and its extreme flavorful is the result of a 24-hour marinade.  For our main dishes, we had the Waffle Burger and the Potato Kebab. The Classic Burger Waffle is already one of a kind. A thick meat patty served with the regular burger toppings of cheese, tomato, lettuce, onion and pickled cucumber but in a waffle bread bun. We opted for potato wedges as a side. The Potato Kebab was a great hit as a vegetarian option. The kebab was made of shredded potato waffle cut into quarters and served in a skewer with grilled mushrooms, bell peppers, eggplant and zucchini, with sour cream on the side. There is also a spinach and fetta version of the same dish. While we were having our meal, a Croissant Bread Loaf was being sampled at Marny´s and we could not resist but try it. It was just plain good. For dessert we were especially surprised with the Churros and the Filled Date Waffle. The Churros pastry was light, crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. The same we can say for the Date Filled Waffle. A Belgium waffle machine makes these filled waffles. The Date option is served with mascarpone cream and caramel sauce. Nonetheless the Apple Cinnamon Crêpe was as delicious. Served with vanilla ice cream and sprinkles with gold raisins and caramel sauce. Their positive impression left us spreading the word around and we look forward to going back soon. Marny´s have mastered the art of waffles and crêpes.

Other menu options that appealed: Hot dog filled lollipop wafer and the beef crepe are our next picks.

Beverages:  Coffees, smoothies, juices

Décor: Marny´s is set up in a cozy and elegant two-leveled shop. The Bakery is located downstairs and the Restaurant upstairs. The décor is simple, fresh with lots of wood paneling with floral accents.

Clientele mix: Groups of moms, friends, CACians and families.

Price range:  Reasonably priced

Opening hours: Daily from 7:00 am to 11:00 pm

Address: 32, Road 213 (Corner Road 231) Degla, Maadi

Tel: + 2 010 202 55 555 or 02 252 10 679

Facebook / Instagram: @Marnysbites

Mastaba

Shakshuka

 

Ingredients (enough for 1 person):

  • 3 eggs
  • 30 g tomatoes
  • 30 g bell pepper
  • 30 g onions
  • 3 g parsley
  • 4 g salt
  • 1 g black pepper
  • 1 g cumin
  • 30 g tomato paste
  • 20 g corn oil

 

Preparation:

Wash all ingredients well, and leave oil on stove to heat. Clean and chop onions and bell peppers and add them to the pan, sauté until cooked. Add tomato paste to the chopped tomatoes and cook for a minute in a fresh pan. Then place in an oven casserole or pot, add previous mixture, add the eggs to it, and sprinkle with parsley. Place in the oven and bake until cooked.

Pier 88

PIER 88

“Floribus Mane”

For the Loveliest Weekend Zamalek Brunches

Type of Cuisine: Italian, Mediterranean and Modern Cuisine

The new brunch series by Pier 88 has come to be one of the brightest ideas. Since it’s dazzling opening last February, Pier 88’s brunch “Floribus Mane” brings people together to enjoy the weekend in a sleek-and-chic atmosphere. We’ve tried a couple of the delightful plates on the menu and we’re definitely going back to try more!

Dishes Sampled:

Looking through the menu, a lot of plates appealed to us, we reached for help from our dear host Giovanni for his special picks, he suggested we try the Prime-Rib Burger and the Steak Ciabatta Sandwich, both of which were truly superb! The burger was juicy and came topped with caramelized onions, mushrooms, cheese, with a side of fresh salad, just perfect.

The Steak Ciabatta Sandwich served up some very tender beef accompanied by sundried tomatoes and Parmesan cheese, all in fresh Italian bread. Beautiful. Both sandwiches came with baked fries and salad and some kind of great sauce.

Other menu options that appealed: The menu has a large variety, from simple omelets to more complicated plates; it depends on the time you get there. Must-tries on our next visit are the Salad Del Re, the Crespelle and the Pancakes. We will definitely leave some space for dessert, as it has quite a reputation there!

Décor:

A chic dining setting taking advantage of the sunlight and the Nile view. Mirrors, brass, black leather, and a huge bar in the center of the indoor area lend an air of sophistication. In addition to a more laid back outdoor setting with uninterrupted views of the Nile.

Ambience: Buzzy, charming and classy.

Beverages Available: The drinks menu has lots of options, from alcoholic beverages, to milkshakes, smoothies and juices. As well as coffee and tea available throughout the brunch time.

Top Tip: Try the Ultimate Green Juice for a healthy all-good-things-packed drink.

Clientele Mix: Couples, families and groups of friends. Classy crowd.

Price Range: Value for money.

Address: Imperial Boat, Saray El Gezirah Street, Zamalek, Cairo.

Opening hours: Brunch on weekends 12  pm to 5 pm

Nights all week 6 pm to 3 am

Tel: 0120 811 1140

Facebook: www.facebook.com/Pier88Egypt/

Instagram: www.instagram.com/pier88egypt/

Pomme de Pain

Pomme de Pain

  A Zamalek ‘Must Visit’

 

Type of cuisine:

French

  

Signature dishes:

The Bakery – all bread and pastry are freshly baked, as well as Le Villageois – grilled chicken strips in a freshly baked baguette. Pomme de Pain is famous for its fresh gourmet desserts with multiple flavors of éclairs.

 

Dishes sampled:

The menu had a huge variety of French items, from soups, to salads, sandwiches, pastas, desserts and coffee. After much contemplation we decided to go for Le Villageois, a delicious freshly baked baguette with grilled chicken cut into strips, paired with mustard mayonnaise, lettuce and pickles.

 

We were later treated with Pomme de Pain’s signature soft éclairs that came in a variety of flavors, from Chocolate Chip, to Chocolate Banana, Strawberry Sugar, Banana Caramel, Nougatine, Blueberry and more. Our choices were the Banana Caramel and the Strawberry Sugar, both of which were indulgent and satisfying.

 

Other menu options that appealed:

On our next visit we would like to sample the croissant with special filling or the Le Grilladin sandwich straight out of the oven. The salad with special French dressing also appealed.

 

Décor

Their interior is simple, light and elegant. The freshly baked goodies in the window display lures you into a light an airy space that combines the colors white and purple and gives a warm welcoming French vibe.

 

 Ambience:

Casual, friendly, and easy-going.

 

Beverages available:

Pomme de Pain offers a wide range of beverages, from coffees, to fresh juices and sodas.

 

 

Eat in/ Take-away/ Catering/Home delivery:

Take away

 

Top Tip:

The bakery is a must try! Go with empty bellies!

 

Clientele mix:

Since the location is in the heart of Zamalek, Pomme de Pain appeals to the urban young and hip to the older well-traveled customer.

 

Price range:

Moderate

 

Address:

4 El Brazil St. El Zamalek

 

Opening hours:

 24 hours

 

Tel:  01004999193

 

Facebook page:

pomme de pain egypte

 

Instagram:

Pommedepainegypte

 

 

Recipe

 

 

Le Villageois

 

Grilled chicken strips paired with mustard mayo, lettuce, and pickles in a freshly baked baguette

 

Ingredients:

Dijon mustard

Fresh rosemary

Fresh thyme

Vinegar (white).

Freshly baked baguette

Lettuce

Tomato

Chicken cooked on the grill

 

Preparation:

 

Cut grilled chicken into strips. Mix the Dijon mustard, fresh rosemary, fresh thyme, and vinegar. Open baguette, spread some sauce and lay strips of chicken on top, and add fresh lettuce and tomato.

Happy “Working” Mother’s Day

We all know that being a mother is a full time job. Let alone being a mother with a full time job, with working hours, deadlines, targets and all. Working mothers are juggling between their career and their children but always forget themselves. To all working mothers out there, take care of your health for neither your career nor your children can make it without you.

You are what you eat

In order to maintain your stamina to keep up with both your career and your children you need to include a number of items in your daily food intake.

The rule says that home cooked food is always healthier and cheaper since you control the ingredients. While you are at the supermarket, buy a medium sized lunchbox, preferably a divided one and make sure it doesn’t leak.

In the lunchbox put the following in each side:

  1. A handful of nuts (any kind but preferably almonds) or an energy granola bar
  2. Any kind of fruit (an apple, an orange, some strawberries or berries)
  3. Greens (a salad or a raw cucumber, tomato, carrot)
  4. A slice of protein or a light sandwich with grainy bread (brown bread)

*You can mix the last two options in one by making a salad that also has chicken or fish in the ingredients

Here’s a very quick chicken salad recipe that can be prepared in 5 minutes

Ingredients:

  • ½ cup sweet corn
  • ½ cup black or red beans (according to your preference)
  • ½ cup diced or cherry tomatoes
  • ¼ cup diced red onions (according to your preference)
  • 1 chopped avocado
  • ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • Romaine lettuce
  • 1 cup of shredded grilled chicken

Dressing:

  • ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • ½ cup olive oil
  • 1 lemon
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon fresh minced oregano or 2 tablespoons dried oregano

 

Preparation:

Mix all ingredients in a bowl without adding the dressing and cover it. Serve some in the bigger side of the lunchbox, shake dressing well and add according to your preference.

You can serve yourself someone the next day until both the dressing and the salad are finished. You can also wrap some of the salad in a whole-wheat wrap and eat it as a sandwich.

2017 Spring Floral Fragrances

“A perfume is like a piece of clothing, a message, a way of presenting oneself … a costume … that differs according to the woman who wears it.” — Paloma Picasso

And what other way to embrace the season of freshness and new beginnings than to dress in the floral scents that has been crafted for one’s pleasure. Check out our season’s favorite fragrances, the ones we can’t get enough of!

CAROLINA HERRERA – GOOD GIRL

Reveal your good side through the luminous facets of Tuberose and Jasmine Sambac. Indulge your bad side through the addictive notes of roasted Tonka beans and Cocoa. GOOD GIRL’s fragrance is inspired by Carolina Herrera’s unique vision of the modern woman: audacious, sexy, elegant and enigmatic. Forever pushing and crossing the limits.

MIU MIU – L’EAU BLEUE

Awaken the sunny sparkle of Spring with Miu Miu L’Eau Bleue. Cast off the grey boredom of winter and invite luminous colour and lighthearted joy into your day with an undeniably positive fragrance.

ELIE SAAB – LE PARFUM ROSE COUTURE

A dazzling expression of Elie Saab’s aesthetics, Rose Couture explores flowers. Magnified and showcased in the new eau de toilette, the rose asserts itself more majestically. With a blend of fresh Peony into an exquisite Rose Nectar, enhanced with fruity facets and softened with a dash of Vanilla. This addictive accord is carried by a breath of Jasmine as sheer as silk chiffon. A sumptuous woody base bolsters the airy composition. And the dark velvet of Patchouli which, by contrast, exalts the freshness of these radiant floral material.

 

EX NIHILO – DEVIL TENDER

A subtly spicy start with a hint of Grapefruit. A Bulgarian Rose heart which sensual delicacy is illuminated by a breath of Rose water. A sensual textured background that contrasts with notes of elegant and soft suede.

GUCCI – BAMBOO LIMITED EDITION

Alessandro Michele recasts the Gucci Bamboo fragrance with a limited edition design and jewel tone tint. Soft yet intense, the scent blooms with notes of exotic Casablanca lily and Tahitian vanilla, balanced with sandalwood and grey amber.

CHLOÉ – LOVE STORY EAU SENSUELLE

A floral love story, the Maison’s fresh and sensual Eau de Parfum opens the heart with stephanotis jasmine — the flower of happiness — and seduces with luminous orange blossom notes. The unforgettable essence of seduction and freedom is finished with a padlock design to symbolize love and romance. A delicate ribbon knotted casually on the side complements the femininity of the pleated glass.

AMOUAGE – FATE WOMAN

Fate for Woman is a chypre oriental with a rich floral heart intensified by a dark and destructive accord, resonating the tumult of the unknown, Fate for woman opens with spicy accords to set a mysterious mood of the unexpected. The base features a rich and forceful blend of Frankincense, Oakmoss and Leather.

Fate Woman Category: Chypre Oriental Top Notes: Bergamot, Cinnamon, Chilli, Pepper Heart Notes: Rose, Narcissus, Jasmine, Frankincense, Labdanum Base Notes: Vanilla, Frankincense, Benzoin, Castoreum, Patchouli, Oakmoss, Leather

Available Exclusively at Le Nez Fragrance bar

The First Mall shop 120

Spring 2017

Prepare your wardrobes for a good tweaking, Spring 2017 is bringing with it a dash of bold colors and prints. A comeback for beach stripes, cutout shoulders, and floral motifs made their statements on runway fashions. This season’s trends are a sophisticated balance between classic and modern, with an intensifying of feminine accents. Here are some of the trends to look out for in 2017!

Spring 2017 fashions are conveying confidence with daring colors like blush and fuchsia, and extraordinary fabrics like tulle and spandex. Also making an appearance on the runways were eighties’ oversized shoulders, bralettes, modern ruffles, robes, metallic finishes and corset tops.

Pink - ZARA

Floral - TED BAKER

One Shoulder - CHLOE

Stripes - ZARA

Trench Coats - MANGO

Kitten Heels - ZARA

Mini Bags - VICTORIA BECKHAM

Bright Colors - BALMAIN

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