Eating Like a Local in Cairo

Cairo street food is fast, affordable, and bursting with character. Our Cairo-born guides share their personal favorites for an authentic culinary journey.

Top 5 Must-Try Dishes

1. Koshari — Egypt's national dish: layers of rice, lentils, pasta, and crispy onions with tangy tomato sauce
2. Taameya (Egyptian Falafel) — Made with fava beans instead of chickpeas, lighter and more flavorful
3. Ful Medames — Slow-cooked fava beans with olive oil, lemon, and cumin
4. Shawarma — Thinly sliced marinated meat wrapped in fresh bread
5. Fresh Sugarcane Juice — Pressed to order on street corners across the city

Choose busy stalls with high turnover and visible hygiene. The busier the stall, the fresher the food.

Most street food meals cost between 20-50 EGP (under $2), making Cairo one of the most affordable food destinations in the world.