The Definitive Guide to Living in the Capital , Cairo , Egypt

Traditional  restaurants and cafés in Cairo often undertake radical make-overs in order to compete with more contemporary eateries. In a classic villa on Maadi’s famous Road 9, the new branch of Harris Café brings a more modern touch to the franchise. With both an outdoor seating area and contemporary interior decor, the deep leather chairs create cosy seating, whilst the soft background music adds to the relaxed atmosphere.

We were welcomed with a smile and a unique, refreshing welcome drink; a taste of the blueberry smoothie which has been recently added to their drinks menu (19 LE). The tangy, bitter-sweet berries and slushy ice won us over, and had us ordering another.

Harris gives the perfect start to the morning with variety of continental and traditional breakfast options (24LE-31LE) along with delicious fresh juice or a cup of their good coffee. We highly recommend the orange juice (11LE), the sweet caramel macchiato (21 LE) and milky caffe latte (18 LE). The ‘Wake Up’ omelette (26LE) is also a dependable choice; served on a large slice of tasty brown bread, topped with crispy, flavourful beef bacon alongside soft baked potatoes and sautéed fresh mushrooms. The Meditteranean omelette (27LE), meanwhile, is served with labneh, feta, fresh tomatoes and grilled halloumi. A silky olive oil and oregano dip was served alongside pitta bread, and was perfect for dipping.

For a bigger bite, the menu offers up burgers, Paninis, pastas and a selection of chicken, beef or fish main courses. As a general rule, the portions are generous and combine perfectly cooked, fresh ingredients. The Butcher Block sandwich (33LE) is surprisingly light, sporting thin slices of roast beef and crispy onion rings. The side of French fries were both crispy on the outside but tender on the inside, served with a light mustard and gravy sauce.

As for dessert, Harris is famous for its delightful sweet crepes and freshly baked desserts. The sticky Nutella crepe (26LE) is a must-try, as is the chocolate fondant (27LE); a heavenly fresh sponge filled with rich melted chocolate and topped with vanilla ice-cream. We left ours a little too long, and without a fuss, it was dutifully reheated and returned with a new scoop of ice-cream and lashings of chocolate sauce. For all chocoholics, the Chocolate Lovers’ Corner of the menu offers up diabetes-inducing hot chocolate drinks, with the After 8 hot chocolate (19LE) being an interesting, minty concoction.

Throughout our meal the service was both friendly and efficient, with staff members lingering nearby without being intrusive or pushy.

As thenewest edition to the franchise, Harris Café in Maadi is a good place to hang out day or night, with or without a companion; the first visit will never be the last.