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

What could possibly be better than a night out in the capital enjoying authentic street food, be it Egyptian or international? Nothing beats parking in front of your favourite food truck and enjoying a warm meal in your car with Amr Diab blasting on the speakers. If you’re looking to indulge in an authentic street-style Thursday night out, these Editor’s Choice Award winners have got you perfectly covered.

Caizo

Merging Egyptian favourites with Kaiser bread, Caizo is a go-to for local delights breaded in the fluffy Austrian treat.

Shihlin Taiwan Street Snacks

Beyond having the biggest piece of fried chicken in the capital, Shihlin’s food comes from the heart of Taiwan to the streets of Cairo. With special Taiwanese spices and their signature sweet potato fries, Shihlin’s street food is truly an award-worthy must-try. 

Hola Tacos

Renowned for its authentic Mexican cuisine, Hola Tacos has made its mark with incredibly filling and flavorful burritos and iconic tacos. This vibrant eatery has become a fan-favourite destination for food enthusiasts seeking a hearty and delicious Mexican fare. The award highlights Hola Tacos’ commitment to delivering high-quality, flavourful dishes that transport diners straight to Mexico City.

Shocks

Shocks has earned its place in the culinary spotlight by offering some of the best burgers in town. Known for their juicy, perfectly cooked patties and innovative toppings, Shocks has redefined the classic burger experience. Shocks’ dedication to using premium ingredients and skill in crafting mouthwatering burgers that satisfy every palate has earned them this award.

Gracias

Gracias stands out with its vibrant Latin kitchen, celebrated for its rich and diverse flavours. The restaurant’s menu is a delightful journey through Latin American cuisine, featuring a range of dishes that burst with freshness and creativity. The ECA awards recognise Gracias for its ability to bring the bold and exciting flavours of Latin America to the local dining scene in Egypt, offering an unforgettable culinary adventure.

Holy Buns

Known for their perfectly cooked burger patties and holy shakes, Holy Buns is a food experience worth savouring. With burgers curated to delight just about everyone, Holy Buns is an experience worth trying.

Dippy’s

Known for their crispy fried chicken and in-house drinks that taste like summer, Dippy’s has everything fried chicken-related covered. Between perfectly marinated fried chicken pieces to tenders dipped in the sauce of your choice and a range of perfectly balanced sandwiches, Dippy’s is a standout fried chicken experience. Their attention to flavour and consistent quality have earned them this award. 

Flying Dogs

With burgers, hot dogs, and wings, Flying Dogs has curated something for everyone! Celebrating their diverse kitchen, Flying Dogs’ unwavering commitment to flavours is what’s made them so beloved. With crispy wings coated in their in-house sauces, juicy burgers engulfed in fluffy brioche buns, and elevated hot dog sandwiches with caramelised onions, bacon, and cheese, Flying Dogs will definitely have something to capture your heart.

Buttercrust

Revolutionising the pizza scene in Cairo, Buttercrust has crafted an experience that stands out in the crowded market. From classic Margherita to inventive gourmet toppings, every pizza at Buttercrust is a testament to their culinary expertise. The warm, inviting atmosphere makes it a favourite spot for both families and friends looking to enjoy a high-quality meal in a relaxed setting. Pairing delightful atmosphere and feel-good food, Buttercrust is a culinary experience worth celebrating. 

YABA

YABA has become a culinary landmark in Cairo, celebrated for its sophisticated take on traditional Egyptian cuisine. The restaurant offers a gourmet dining experience that elevates classic dishes with contemporary techniques and presentations. YABA’s menu features a diverse array of Egyptian staples.

KUFTA

Presenting authentic Egyptian Kufta elevated with their signature spice mixes, Kufta is a go-to for those seeking a stepped-up traditional Egyptian food experience. 

Señor Churro

Renowned for their delicious Churros, Señor Churro brings vibrant Latin flavours to the bustling streets of Cairo in perfect harmony. Señor Churro continues to spread joy with every treat, rightfully earning them a spot on this list.

BohoBun

With a menu that brings together groovy gourmet burgers and fluffy doughnuts, Boho Bun is your go-to for a fluffy, sweet and savoury experience. With delicious doughnuts filled to the brim with our favourite sauces – chocolate, custard, lotus, and many more – their homemade burger also comes with a festival of flavours with something curated to delight every palate. 

What The Truck

Known for their flavourful and budget-friendly delights, What The Truck is a go-to for filling treats. With a wide range of sauces available, a selection of appetisers, fluffy brioche buns, juicy burgers, and fried chicken pieces with the perfect crunch, What The Truck offers a world-class fast-food experience. 

Wawshy

Offering hawawshi with a dash of “wow-factor”, Wawshy is the go-to for everything hawawshi. Between traditional flavours and modern-day elevations, Wawshy is an ECA winner you don’t want to miss out on. 

BRGR

With restaurants in some locations and food trucks in others, if you’re looking to indulge in an incredible street food experience or looking forward to a meal at a diner-themed restaurant, BRGR is the place to go. With their cheesy patties, fluffy brioche, sweet mini pancakes, and signature sundae ice cream, BRGR offers a truly well-rounded street food experience. 

Just Smash

Between Nasr City, Sheikh Zayed, and Maadi, Just Smash has been spreading smashed burgers around the capital. Just Smash offers authentic, well-balanced flavours with premium quality meat, perfectly salted patties, and add-ons that come together in perfect harmony. 

Between The Buns

Between The Buns has earned recognition for its commitment to crafting exceptional burgers. Their dedication to high-quality ingredients and inventive flavours sets them apart in the competitive world of gourmet burgers. Each burger is a testament to their culinary expertise, combining perfectly seasoned patties with fresh toppings. Their innovative approach and consistent excellence have made them a favourite among burger aficionados, securing their spot as an ECA winner.

Burger Republic

Burger Republic stands out for its unwavering focus on delivering gourmet burgers with a unique twist. Known for its meticulously sourced ingredients and creative combinations, Burger Republic has become a standout spot for juicy burgers. Their dedication, consistent quality, and commitment to good taste have earned them this award.

Burdogz 

Burdogz has set itself apart by offering an irresistible combination of mouthwatering burgers and crispy wings. Their menu showcases a perfect blend of classic and contemporary flavours, ensuring there is something for everyone. The burgers are crafted with precision, using premium ingredients to deliver a satisfying and delicious experience.

Zontaya

Providing pizza with mouthwatering topics and a crunchy crust, Smart Village’s Zontaya is the go-to for pizza on a hectic workday.

Dodz Fried Chicken 

With a crispy exterior and tender on the inside, Dodz has all the secrets for the perfect crispy chicken.

Zooba

Titled one of the MENA’s top 50 restaurants by “The World’s 50 Best”, Zooba has elevated traditional Egyptian favourites and reintroduced us to them. Taking the taste of Egypt overseas, Zooba has expanded internationally to open outposts in Riyadh and New York, bringing Cairo to eager diners outside of Egypt.

Baladi

Known for its Levantine delights, Baladi brings a delectable symphony of Middle Eastern cuisine to a retro-chic aesthetic setting, pairing breathtaking views with feel-good food.