13 Egyptian Dishes and Drinks You Can't Miss

Egyptian cuisine has long been overlooked in global food discussions.

While not typically celebrated alongside Mediterranean or Middle Eastern food legends, the flavors along the Nile rival and sometimes surpass those of Lebanon, Turkey, or Greece.

Egypt’s culinary history stretches back over 5,000 years, originating in the era of the pharaohs.

Over the centuries, Egypt's cuisine has absorbed influences from various cultures including the Greeks, Romans, Arabs, Ottomans, French, and British.

“Egyptian cuisine has many parallels with other Middle Eastern foods,” says Dyna Eldaief, author of “The Taste of Egypt: Home Cooking” and the upcoming “Egyptian Flavors: 50 Recipes.”

What distinguishes Egyptian food is its use of unique ingredients and flavors, giving familiar dishes a new twist.

One famous example is falafel, which is now enjoyed worldwide, often made with chickpeas. In Egypt, however, falafel is traditionally made from dried broad beans. This version is moister with a rich green interior thanks to fresh parsley, spring onions, and leeks.

It’s still possible to taste dishes that have been served since ancient times.

“Molokhiya soup is one of Egypt's iconic dishes,” says Eldaief. “It’s believed to be depicted in tomb paintings as a royal dish fit only for Pharaoh. Over time, it’s become a beloved meal throughout Egypt, appearing in homes and traditional restaurants alike.”

For years, Egyptians have felt that their cuisine doesn’t receive the recognition it deserves compared to other Middle Eastern foods.

Given the success of her books, culinary demos, and cruise ship tastings, Eldaief believes Egyptian cuisine is finally gaining recognition.

“While Egyptian food hasn’t received the same level of attention as other cuisines, I do believe its moment is coming as it becomes more widely accessible,” says Eldaief.

Keep reading to discover some of Egypt’s incredible dishes and the best restaurants where you can try them when you visit.

Shakshouka

In Alexandria, this delicious breakfast dish is a local favorite—poached eggs in a flavorful tomato sauce with peppers and garlic, best enjoyed at a charming seaside café or hotel balcony with views of the Mediterranean.

Where to dine: Balady Gourmet, 33 Albert El Awal Street, Semouha, Alexandria.

Molokhiya

This vibrant green soup gets its signature color from finely chopped mallow leaves simmered in a rich meat or seafood broth, seasoned with spices like coriander and garlic. Often paired with rice for a satisfying meal.

Where to dine: Fasahet Somaya, 10 Hoda Shaarawy, Bab Al Louq, Abdeen, Cairo.

Fattah

A beloved dish in Nubia, fattah is often served during family celebrations and both Muslim and Christian holidays. It’s a hearty stew made with rice, beef, eggs, and fried bread, and is now found on restaurant menus throughout Upper Egypt.

Where to dine: Solaih Nubian Restaurant, Bigeh Island, Aswan.

Kebda

In Egypt, grilled liver (either chicken or beef) is prepared in a variety of ways. It can be served as the star of a sandwich or as a standalone dish. The Alexandrian style (kebda eskandarani) is often seasoned with an array of spices and served with tahini or hummus, balady bread, fried or grilled cheese, and pickles.

Where to dine: Studio Misr outdoor cafes on Zamalek Island or Al Azhar Park, Cairo.

Mahshi

Eggplant, bell peppers, zucchini, cabbage, tomatoes, or grape leaves are stuffed with minced meat and rice, flavored with a variety of spices, and often cooked in a rich lamb, beef, or chicken broth with a splash of lemon juice. Dyna Eldaief says stuffed cabbage (mahshi wara enab) is one of her favorite Egyptian dishes.

Where to dine: Al Khal Restaurant at the InterContinental CityStars Cairo, Omar Ibn El Khattab Street.

Ta’ameya (Falafel)

While falafel can be found throughout the eastern Mediterranean and Middle East, many food enthusiasts agree that Egypt offers the finest version. Known as ta’ameya in Egypt, these deep-fried patties are typically made with broad beans, unlike the chickpea versions found elsewhere in the region. It’s believed that falafel has its origins in ancient Egypt.

Where to dine: Felfela Restaurant in downtown Cairo (since 1959) or Sofra Restaurant in Luxor.

Koshary

One of Egypt's most beloved dishes, koshary is a filling mix of macaroni, rice, and beans, all seasoned with tomatoes, onions, garlic, and a variety of other ingredients depending on the chef's preference. Topped with a zesty sauce, it’s a dish that’s both vegetarian and vegan when prepared with vegetable oil.

Where to dine: Saraya Restaurant at the Old Cataract Hotel in Aswan or at one of the 10 locations of Koshary Sayed Hanafi in Cairo.

Baba Ghanouj

This classic dip is made by mashing grilled eggplant, then seasoning it with parsley, cumin, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper.

Where to dine: Abou el Sid restaurants in Alexandria or Cairo.

Samak

Samak is the Arabic word for 'fish.' With Egypt situated between the Mediterranean and Red Seas, seafood is a staple in the country's coastal towns, prepared in a variety of ways. One of the most popular fish served in restaurants is denise (sea bream).

Where to dine: Samakmak in Alexandria, El Halaka in Hurghada, and Fares Seafood in Sharm el Sheikh.

Gebna

One of the most delightful aspects of Egyptian cuisine is its rich variety of cheeses, a tradition dating back to pharaonic times. One of the nation’s most beloved summer treats is gebna we bateekh, a refreshing combination of white cheese and juicy watermelon.

Where to dine: Many Egyptian restaurants serve cheese as part of their meze (small dish) platters or as starters.

Konafa

Egypt boasts a wide variety of desserts and sweet treats, but konafa is arguably the most beloved. This dish features delicate, noodle-like pastry drenched in syrup, filled with creamy cheese, and often garnished with nuts.

Where to dine: The historic Abdel-Rahim Koueider confectionery store (opened in 1928) or at various branches of Mandarine Koueider in Cairo.

Shai (Tea)

From tearooms and truck stops to souvenir shops, felucca sailboats, and corporate boardrooms, Egypt’s national drink can be found just about anywhere. Served with generous amounts of sugar, there are two main types – golden koshary tea in the north (often paired with mint) and dark saiidi tea in the south – along with a variety of herbal teas.

Where to drink: Naguib Mahfouz Cafe in the Khan el Khalili, Cairo.

Juices

Given Egypt's location on the edge of the Sahara, staying cool and hydrated has always been essential. Over the centuries, Egypt has created an array of fruit, flower, and bean-based drinks to help beat the heat. Among the country’s many unique beverages are tamarind, carob, doam, hibiscus, and orchid juices.

Where to drink: City Drink (two locations) in Cairo, Solaih Nubian Restaurant in Aswan, or Sofra Restaurant in Luxor.