Alexandria, Egypt’s second-largest city and a cultural crossroads for millennia, is renowned for its historical significance and thriving culinary scene. Situated on the Mediterranean coast, Alexandria blends flavors from Greece, Lebanon, and Egypt to create a unique gastronomic experience. Whether you’re craving seafood fresh from the Mediterranean, traditional Egyptian fare, or European-inspired cuisine, Alexandria offers a dining experience for everyone. In this article, we’ll explore some of the must-try restaurants in the city, ranging from cozy local eateries to upscale dining establishments.
Overview
From casual local eateries serving authentic Egyptian dishes to upscale dining venues with panoramic views of the Mediterranean, Alexandria offers diverse culinary delights. Many of the city’s restaurants emphasize seafood, taking advantage of the city’s proximity to the sea, while others specialize in traditional Egyptian and Mediterranean flavors. Alexandria has plenty to offer if you’re in the mood for a relaxed, homey meal or a lavish dining experience. Below, we look closely at some of the must-try restaurants in this beautiful coastal city.
Greek Club (White and Blue Restaurant)
Location and Ambiance:
Located near Alexandria’s historic Qaitbey Citadel, the Greek Club provides a stunning view of the Mediterranean Sea and is known for its picturesque outdoor seating area. The ambiance is peaceful and inviting, perfect for a leisurely meal while enjoying the sea breeze.
Menu and Cuisine:
The menu focuses on Greek and Mediterranean cuisine, emphasizing seafood dishes. Some standout dishes are freshly caught fish, shrimp, calamari, and grilled octopus.
Food Presentation and Preparation:
The dishes are presented elegantly, with an emphasis on freshness and authenticity. The seafood is perfectly prepared, often grilled or baked with Mediterranean herbs and olive oil.
Customer Reviews and Ratings:
The Greek Club receives consistently high ratings for its food quality, service, and breathtaking views. It is a popular spot for residents and travelers.
Santorini Greek Restaurant
Location and Ambiance:
Nestled in the heart of Alexandria, Santorini Greek Restaurant transports diners straight to Greece with its white-and-blue decor, reminiscent of the iconic Greek island it’s named after. The relaxed, seaside-inspired ambiance is perfect for a casual meal.
Menu and Cuisine:
The restaurant specializes in Greek cuisine and serves various Mediterranean dishes, such as gyros, souvlaki, and stuffed vine leaves. Seafood is also a highlight.
Food Presentation and Preparation:
Simple yet vibrant plating emphasizes fresh, clean flavors. The grilled meats and seafood are perfectly cooked, offering the rustic, hearty feel of Greek home cooking.
Customer Reviews and Ratings:
Santorini is a beloved spot for those seeking authentic Greek food in Alexandria. Customers particularly praise the fresh ingredients and friendly atmosphere.
Mohamed Ahmed
Location and Ambiance:
In downtown Alexandria, Mohamed Ahmed is a no-frills local eatery with a long-standing reputation. Its vibrant atmosphere, filled with locals and tourists, gives it an authentic Egyptian feel.
Menu and Cuisine:
Mohamed Ahmed is famous for its traditional Egyptian breakfast offerings, particularly its foul (fava beans) and falafel. You’ll also find other Egyptian classics such as foul, taameya, omelets, and shakshuka.
Food Presentation and Preparation:
The presentation is simple and rustic, befitting a local eatery. The focus is on traditional preparation methods and bold, authentic flavors.
Customer Reviews and Ratings:
Mohamed Ahmed is regarded as one of Alexandria’s best places to enjoy an Egyptian breakfast. It has earned excellent reviews for both its food and its affordability.
El Lol
Location and Ambiance:
El Lol is a cozy, family-run seafood restaurant in Alexandria’s old town that has become a local favorite. Its rustic decor and lively ambiance make it an inviting spot for casual dining.
Menu and Cuisine:
El Lol specializes in seafood, emphasizing local Mediterranean catches. The menu includes a variety of grilled and fried seafood dishes.
Food Presentation and Preparation:
The food is served in generous portions and presented in a straightforward, no-fuss manner. The focus is on delivering bold, authentic seafood flavors.
Customer Reviews and Ratings:
El Lol is highly rated for its fresh seafood and local charm. It’s a go-to spot for an authentic Alexandrian seafood experience.
Chez Gaby
Location and Ambiance:
Chez Gaby is a quaint Italian restaurant near the Alexandria Opera House. Its intimate, cozy atmosphere and classic French decor exude old-world charm.
Menu and Cuisine:
The menu features traditional Italian dishes, emphasizing pizza, pasta, and seafood. There are also several Egyptian-influenced options to appeal to the local palate.
Food Presentation and Preparation:
The presentation is elegant, with careful attention to detail. The dishes are meticulously prepared using traditional Italian cooking, ensuring authenticity and flavor.
Customer Reviews and Ratings:
Chez Gaby is praised for its warm atmosphere, excellent service, and high-quality Italian cuisine. It’s a favorite for romantic dinners or special occasions.
Balbaa Village
Location and Ambiance:
Located in Alexandria’s Sidi Gaber district, Balbaa Village is a sprawling, casual restaurant known for its lively atmosphere. It’s trendy among families and large groups.
Menu and Cuisine:
The menu features various Egyptian dishes, from grilled meats to seafood. Balbaa is particularly famous for its mixed grill platters and traditional Egyptian appetizers.
Food Presentation and Preparation:
The food is served family-style, with large platters meant for sharing. The preparation focuses on traditional Egyptian grilling techniques, resulting in flavorful, succulent dishes.
Customer Reviews and Ratings:
Balbaa is a beloved institution in Alexandria, known for its generous portions, affordable prices, and authentic Egyptian flavors.
Jeeda’s
Location and Ambiance:
Jeeda’s is a chic, modern eatery located in the heart of Alexandria. Its sleek decor and contemporary design offer a trendy atmosphere for casual dining and special occasions.
Menu and Cuisine:
The menu combines international and Egyptian cuisine, focusing on fresh, seasonal ingredients. From creative salads to hearty meat dishes, there’s something for everyone.
Food Presentation and Preparation:
The food presentation at Jeeda’s is modern and stylish, emphasizing creativity and flair. The dishes are as visually appealing as they are delicious.
Customer Reviews and Ratings:
Jeeda’s has garnered positive reviews for its innovative menu, friendly service, and stylish ambiance, making it a favorite for those seeking something contemporary in Alexandria.
Sahar El-Laialy Restaurant
Location and Ambiance:
In Alexandria’s Sidi Beshr district, Sahar El-Laialy offers traditional Lebanese dining in a cozy and welcoming ambiance.
Menu and Cuisine:
The menu at Sahar El-Laialy Restaurant celebrates Lebanese cuisine, providing various dishes that highlight the country’s rich culinary heritage. From mouth-watering cold and hot Mezze like Muhamarah and Makanek to hearty main courses like Lebanese Fattah, Pigeon, and grilled meats, the restaurant’s offerings cater to various tastes.
Food Presentation and Preparation:
The food is served in a homey, traditional style, focusing on hearty, comforting dishes.
Customer Reviews and Ratings:
Sahar El-Laialy is highly rated for its authentic Lebanese flavors and generous portions. It’s a great spot to experience home-style cooking in Alexandria.
NEO Lounge Alexandria
Location and Ambiance:
At Sidi Beshr, Alexandria, NEO Lounge is an upscale, stylish lounge offering panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea. The modern, chic decor makes it a popular spot for evening cocktails and fine dining.
Menu and Cuisine:
NEO Lounge prides itself on offering a diverse menu that caters to various tastes. The cuisine reflects a fusion of international flavors with local Egyptian influences.
Food Presentation and Preparation:
The presentation at NEO Lounge is top-notch, with visually stunning and meticulously crafted dishes. The quality of preparation reflects its status as an upscale dining venue.
Customer Reviews and Ratings:
NEO Lounge is praised for its luxurious setting, excellent food quality, and impeccable service. It’s a go-to spot for those looking to indulge in fine dining in Alexandria.
Fish Market
Location and Ambiance:
Situated along the Corniche with a direct view of the Mediterranean, Fish Market offers a casual yet refined ambiance. The open, breezy atmosphere makes it a popular spot for seafood lovers.
Menu and Cuisine:
As the name suggests, Fish Market specializes in seafood. It offers a variety of fresh catches that diners can select and have prepared to their liking.
Food Presentation and Preparation:
The seafood is presented unpretentiously, emphasizing freshness and flavor with an elaborate presentation. The grilled and fried options are popular among regular patrons.
Customer Reviews and Ratings:
Fish Market is consistently praised for its fresh seafood, friendly service, and unbeatable sea views.
La Gourmandise Restaurant and Café
Location and Ambiance:
La Gourmandise offers a chic and elegant atmosphere in the San Stefano district. The sophisticated decor and plush seating make it a favorite spot for casual dining and special occasions.
Menu and Cuisine:
La Gourmandise specializes in French cuisine, with various pastries, gourmet sandwiches, and main courses.
Food Presentation and Preparation:
The dishes at La Gourmandise are presented with the finesse and attention to detail one would expect from a fine French establishment. Each plate is a work of art.
Customer Reviews and Ratings:
La Gourmandise is loved for its high-quality food, elegant presentation, and sophisticated ambiance. It’s a top choice for anyone who enjoys a French dining experience in Alexandria.
Sea Gull
Location and Ambiance:
Perched along the Corniche with stunning sea views, Sea Gull is a seafood restaurant with a laid-back, casual ambiance. The airy and open design lets diners enjoy their meal with a refreshing sea breeze.
Menu and Cuisine:
Sea Gull offers a wide selection of seafood dishes, from grilled fish to calamari and shrimp. The focus is on fresh, local ingredients.
Food Presentation and Preparation:
The dishes are served with no frills, emphasizing the freshness of the seafood.
Customer Reviews and Ratings:
Sea Gull is widespread among seafood lovers, particularly for its generous portions and relaxed atmosphere.
Abd El Wahab Village
Location and Ambiance:
Abd El Wahab Village is located in Moharam Bek, Alexandria. The restaurant has a traditional Egyptian feel and emphasizes creating a warm and welcoming ambiance.
Menu and Cuisine:
The restaurant specializes in Egyptian cuisine, offering a variety of grilled meats, seafood, and traditional dishes such as molokhia.
Food Presentation and Preparation:
The food is served family-style, with large platters meant for sharing. The preparation emphasizes traditional cooking techniques, delivering hearty and flavorful dishes.
Customer Reviews and Ratings:
Abd El Wahab Village is well-regarded for its authenticity and relaxed atmosphere. It’s an excellent spot for a casual meal with friends or family.
Hosny
Location and Ambiance:
Hosny is located in the heart of Alexandria and is known for its vibrant, bustling atmosphere. It’s a large, casual restaurant focusing on delivering traditional Egyptian dishes.
Menu and Cuisine:
The menu features a variety of Egyptian grilled meats, seafood, and traditional stews. Hosny is particularly famous for its kebabs and kofta.
Food Presentation and Preparation:
The dishes are presented in a simple, rustic style, emphasizing the quality of the ingredients and the traditional cooking methods.
Customer Reviews and Ratings:
Hosny is a favorite for locals and tourists looking for an authentic Egyptian dining experience. The restaurant is highly rated for its food quality and value for money.
Teatro Eskendria
Location and Ambiance:
Teatro Eskendria is a trendy, artistic café and restaurant in the heart of Alexandria. The ambiance is eclectic and artsy, and the venue often hosts cultural events and live music.
Menu and Cuisine:
The menu combines international and Egyptian dishes, emphasizing creative, contemporary cuisine. Salads, sandwiches, and main courses like grilled meats and pasta are available.
Food Presentation and Preparation:
The food has an artistic flair, reflecting the restaurant’s creative vibe. The emphasis is on fresh, vibrant ingredients.
Customer Reviews and Ratings:
Teatro Eskendria is praised for its unique ambiance and creative menu. It’s a popular spot for young professionals and artists looking for an incredible, laid-back dining experience.
Farag Abou Khaled
Location and Ambiance:
Farag Abou Khaled is a casual, family-run restaurant in Alexandria’s El Gomrok area. The ambiance is simple and unpretentious, focusing on serving hearty meals in a relaxed setting.
Menu and Cuisine:
Specializing in traditional Egyptian street food, Farag Abou Khaled offers a variety of sandwiches, kofta, liver, and Oriental sausage. It’s a quick, affordable option for those looking to grab a bite on the go.
Food Presentation and Preparation:
The food is served in a no-frills, street-food style. The focus is on delivering delicious, freshly made sandwiches.
Customer Reviews and Ratings:
Locals love Farag Abou Khaled for its quick service, affordable prices, and tasty sandwiches.
Negro
Location and Ambiance:
Located near the Alexandria Corniche, Negro is a cozy, family-friendly restaurant with a casual vibe. It’s a favorite spot for locals and tourists looking for a delicious meal.
Menu and Cuisine:
Don’t anticipate a menu or a wide selection of seafood to pick from — the chefs here prepare daily specials based on the freshest catch available. Typically, you’ll be served a salad, seafood soup, and a variety of surprise seafood dishes, all followed by a fruit salad for dessert.
Food Presentation and Preparation:
The food is served, emphasizing quality ingredients and traditional preparation.
Customer Reviews and Ratings:
Negro has earned high marks for its tasty seafood, affordable prices, and friendly service.
Samakmak
Location and Ambiance:
Samakmak is a seafood restaurant near the bustling Alexandria harbor with a lively, casual atmosphere. The restaurant is known for its fresh seafood and vibrant energy.
Menu and Cuisine:
Samakmak’s menu focuses on seafood, including grilled and fried fish, shrimp, and calamari. Diners can choose fresh seafood from the day’s catch.
Food Presentation and Preparation:
The food is presented straightforwardly, emphasizing the freshness and quality of the seafood.
Customer Reviews and Ratings:
Samakmak is highly regarded for its fresh seafood and lively atmosphere. It’s a must-visit for seafood lovers in Alexandria.
El Fallah Restaurant
Location and Ambiance:
El Fallah is a well-known Egyptian eatery in the center of Alexandria. The restaurant is simple and unpretentious, focusing on serving hearty, traditional Egyptian fare.
Menu and Cuisine:
The menu centers on Egyptian street food, with various sandwiches, including liver, beef, and chicken sandwiches. It’s a popular spot for a quick, affordable meal.
Food Presentation and Preparation:
The food is served casually, as is street food, focusing on delivering hearty, satisfying dishes.
Customer Reviews and Ratings:
El Fallah is beloved for its authentic Egyptian flavors and affordable prices. It’s an excellent option for those looking to experience Egyptian street food.
Alexandria is a haven for food lovers, offering diverse dining options that reflect the city’s rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re in the mood for seafood fresh from the Mediterranean, traditional Egyptian cuisine, or international fare, Alexandria has something for everyone. From casual street food joints to upscale dining establishments with stunning sea views, these must-try restaurants capture the essence of Alexandria’s vibrant culinary scene.
