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

One of the most popular, convenient Asian dishes that many indulge in is probably ramen. Pronounced rah-men, It’s mostly known for being affordable, easy to make, and delicious! While there are tons of ways to prepare ramen, some take 10 minutes, with others taking over an hour. The dish is characterised by a few qualities that make it the distinctive dish that it is today. 

With its origins dating way back, ramen has a rich cultural history. Many confuse the origins of the dish and whether it belongs to the Japanese or Chinese cultures. While it is known as a Japanese dish, ramen comes from Chinese origins. However, today many ramen variations exist due to the intertwining of both cultures. The mesh between both countries started in the 19th century when merchants from all over the world would visit Japan. Around that same time, the Chinese noodle soup dish became popular, and Japan adapted the recipe into what we call ramen today. Ramen also translates into the Chinese word Lamian, which means pulled noodles. 

To break it down, ramen is a soup-based meal that starts with tare, a concentrated sauce that makes up about 80 per cent of the soup’s flavour. The broth, usually made from beef, chicken, fish, or vegetables, is then added. Finally, the noodles, which come in many forms and shapes but all are made of wheat flour, are added. Now that you know a thing or two about ramen, let us guide you to some of the ramen spots in Cairo! 

Reif Kushiyaki 

Known for its Japanese street food experience, Reif Kushiyaki serves a few mighty ramen dishes that are flavourful and slurp-worthy! From chicken-based to mushroom broth ramen, Reif Kushiyaki introduces street food culture to the fine dining experience. It makes sure it serves you its finest creations, right in front of you. Seriously, you can watch your dish being made in its open kitchen! Check out the restaurant’s Instagram page here. 

Don Eatery 

Recently introduced in Cairo, Don Eatery has Asian street food options, including to-die-for ramen dishes! You have the choice between beef miso or chicken shoyu ramen dishes, with both being concentrated in flavour and are topped with a colourful selection of vegetables and greens. Give these options a try and check out its Instagram page here. 

Pucca 

The encyclopaedia of ramen dishes, Pucca serves six different options of ramen that are as authentic as it gets! Its slogan says “ramen corner”, and it’s not wrong, as that’s the first place Cairenes usually go for their ramen…even though the restaurant has other noodle dishes on its menu! It’s located in Nasr City, and you can check it out on Instagram here. 

Silkroad 

Silkroad in Maadi is known for its hot-pot experience, which is a must-try if you end up going. However, it also has ramen that will give your tastebuds something to salivate over. Check it out on Instagram here. 

There are no rules to enjoy ramen; just slurp as loud as you can!