Almastaba Cafe & Restaurant – Hurghada, Egypt: A Cozy Retreat Merging Egyptian Tradition with Modern Flair

Almastaba Cafe & Restaurant offers a uniquely Egyptian dining experience that stands out amid the city’s vibrant culinary landscape. With its blend of traditional Egyptian aesthetics, warm hospitality, and a menu that embraces local and international favorites, Almastaba serves as a cozy retreat for tourists and locals looking to escape the bustling streets and indulge in a meal or coffee surrounded by the authentic charm of Egypt.

A Perfect Spot in the Heart of Hurghada

Hurghada, a city that has long been a favorite destination for tourists worldwide, is renowned for its stunning Red Sea coast, luxury resorts, and lively nightlife. Amid all this excitement, Almastaba Cafe & Restaurant is a calm and inviting haven for those seeking a more relaxed cultural experience. Located in a convenient area, the cafe and restaurant are close enough to Hurghada’s main attractions, making it the perfect place to enjoy a meal or drink after exploring the beautiful beaches or diving into the Red Sea’s famous coral reefs.

The name “Almastaba” itself reflects Egypt’s rich cultural heritage. Derived from the Arabic word meaning “bench” or “seating area,” the term evokes the image of traditional communal gathering spaces where families and friends come together to share stories, food, and laughter. True to its name, Almastaba is designed as a place for people to gather and enjoy the company of others, whether over a cup of coffee or a delicious, hearty meal.

Atmosphere and Ambiance: Traditional Meets Modern

Upon entering Almastaba Cafe & Restaurant, guests are immediately welcomed by an atmosphere of warmth and authenticity. The decor is an elegant blend of traditional Egyptian elements and modern comforts, creating a unique ambiance that appeals to a wide range of diners.

The interior design of Almastaba showcases beautiful Egyptian craftsmanship, with intricate woodwork, colorful patterned tiles, and vibrant textiles that evoke the essence of old Cairo. Soft lighting complemented the rustic, earthy tones of the walls and furnishings, creating an intimate and cozy environment. Traditional Arabic music plays softly in the background, enhancing the dining experience and transporting guests to different times and places.

The seating options at Almastaba are versatile, catering to different preferences. There are comfortable indoor tables for those who prefer a more private dining experience. At the same time, the outdoor terrace offers a delightful option for al fresco dining, allowing guests to enjoy Hurghada’s balmy evenings. The terrace is trendy during sunset, offering a serene view that perfectly matches the restaurant’s laid-back vibe.

A Menu Rooted in Egyptian Tradition

The menu at Almastaba Cafe & Restaurant is a testament to Egypt’s rich culinary heritage. Focusing on traditional Egyptian dishes, the restaurant offers a variety of flavorful options that showcase the diverse influences that have shaped the country’s cuisine over the centuries. From hearty meat dishes and fresh seafood to vegetarian-friendly possibilities, there is something to satisfy every palate.

Starters and Appetizers

Almastaba’s menu starts with a selection of classic Egyptian appetizers designed to awaken your taste buds and set the stage for the main course. The Mezze Platter is a favorite among diners, offering a variety of small, shareable plates that include staples like hummus, baba ghanoush, stuffed vine leaves (wwareenable), and tahini. These dishes are served with freshly baked baladi bread, a traditional Egyptian flatbread perfect for dipping and scooping.

Other popular starters include the Lentil Soup, a comforting, hearty soup made with red lentils, onions, and spices, and Fattoush Salad, a refreshing mix of fresh vegetables, crispy pita, and a tangy sumac dressing. The Sambousek (deep-fried pastry filled with spiced minced meat or cheese) is a must-try for those seeking something more indulgent.

Main Courses: Traditional Egyptian Favorites

The main courses at Almastaba Cafe & Restaurant are where the kitchen truly shines, offering a diverse selection of traditional Egyptian dishes carefully crafted to reflect the region’s authentic flavors.

• Koshari: One of Egypt’s most beloved street foods, koshari is a hearty and satisfying dish made with rice, lentils, pasta, and chickpeas, topped with a tangy tomato sauce and crispy fried onions. At Almastaba, this humble dish is elevated to restaurant-quality perfection, with the flavors expertly balanced to create a truly memorable meal.
• Molokhia: For a taste of something a little more unique, try the molokhia, a traditional Egyptian soup made from finely chopped jute leaves. Served with rice and your choice of meat (usually chicken or rabbit), molokhia has a distinctive, slightly earthy flavor that many Egyptians believe.
• Fattah: Another must-try dish is the Fattah, a celebratory Egyptian meal often served on special occasions. It consists of layers of crispy bread, rice, and tender, slow-cooked meat topped with garlic and vinegar sauce. The version at Almastaba is rich and flavorful, making it the perfect choice for a hearty, satisfying dish.
• Grilled Kofta and Kebabs: The restaurant offers a variety of grilled dishes for meat lovers, including kofta (minced lamb or beef seasoned with spices and grilled to perfection) and shish kebab (tender chunks of marinated meat). These dishes are served with grilled vegetables, rice or bread, and a side of tahini sauce.
• Seafood Specialties: Given Hurghada’s coastal location, it’s no surprise that Almastaba offers a range of fresh seafood dishes. Grilled sea bass, fried calamari, and shrimp tajine are just a few of the options available, each prepared with a Mediterranean twist that highlights the natural flavors of the sea.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

While Egyptian cuisine is often associated with meat-heavy dishes, Almastaba caters to vegetarians and vegans with various plant-based options. In addition to the vegetarian mezze selections, diners can enjoy dishes like falafel (deep-fried chickpea patties served with tahini and salad), stuffed bell peppers, and Egyptian-style moussaka, made with layers of eggplant, tomatoes, and spices.

International Favorites with an Egyptian Twist

In addition to its traditional Egyptian offerings, Almastaba also features a selection of international dishes with an Egyptian twist. Spaghetti Bolognese with spiced beef grilled chicken with a tahini marinade and pizza topped with local ingredients are just a few of the fusion dishes that reflect the restaurant’s ability to cater to a diverse crowd of diners.

A Beverage Menu to Satisfy Every Craving

Each meal at Almastaba Cafe & Restaurant is complete with a drink from their extensive beverage menu. The cafe offers various hot and cold beverages to suit every mood and time of day.

• Traditional Egyptian Coffee and Tea: Almastaba’s coffee menu includes Turkish coffee, a strong, unfiltered coffee served in small cups, and Arabic coffee flavored with cardamom for a more aromatic experience. The cafe serves Egyptian black tea for tea lovers, often enjoyed with fresh mint or a squeeze of lemon.
• Fresh Juices and Smoothies: For something more refreshing, Almastaba offers a range of fresh fruit juices and smoothies made with local produce. Popular choices include mango, guava, and pomegranate juice, perfect for cooling down after a day in the sun.
• Specialty Drinks and Cocktails: Besides non-alcoholic beverages, Almastaba offers a selection of specialty drinks and cocktails that blend local flavors with classic international recipes. Hibiscus iced tea, a traditional Egyptian drink, is a popular choice, as is mint lemonade, which provides a refreshing twist on a classic.

Sweet Endings: Egyptian Desserts

For those with a sweet tooth, Almastaba’s dessert menu is a delightful exploration of traditional Egyptian sweets. Om Ali, a warm, creamy bread pudding made with layers of phyllo pastry, milk, and nuts, is a must-try. Other popular desserts include Konafa, a sweet pastry made with shredded phyllo dough filled with cream or nuts, and Basbousa, a semolina cake soaked in syrup.

Friendly Service and a Welcoming Vibe

One of the most standout aspects of dining at Almastaba Cafe & Restaurant is the friendly and welcoming service. The staff is attentive and eager to ensure that each guest has a pleasant dining experience, offering recommendations from the menu and accommodating special requests with ease.

The restaurant’s relaxed atmosphere is an excellent spot for casual meals and special occasions. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick coffee or settling in for a leisurely dinner, Almastaba’s team goes above and beyond to make every visit a memorable one.

Almastaba Cafe & Restaurant: A Community Hub

Beyond being just a restaurant, Almastaba Cafe & Restaurant serves as a community hub where locals and tourists can unite to share food, culture, and conversation. The cafe regularly hosts cultural events, live music performances, and art exhibitions, providing a platform for local artists and musicians to showcase their talents.

Whether you’re a solo traveler looking to experience authentic Egyptian cuisine or a group of friends seeking a relaxed spot to unwind after sightseeing, Almastaba Cafe & Restaurant offers a welcoming environment that invites everyone to feel at home.

Practical Information

• Address: Almastaba Cafe & Restaurant, Hurghada, Egypt
• Hours: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM
• Contact: +20 123 456 789 | info@almastabarestaurant.com
• Social Media:
  • Facebook: @AlmastabaHurghada
  • Instagram: @almastaba_hurghada

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is Almastaba Cafe & Restaurant family-friendly?
  Yes, the restaurant welcomes families and offers a diverse menu that caters to guests of all ages, including children.
• Can I make a reservation?
  Yes, reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours and for larger groups.
• Do they offer vegetarian options?
  Almastaba has a range of vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes that cater to different dietary preferences.
• Is there Wi-Fi available?
  Yes, the cafe offers free Wi-Fi for guests, making it an excellent spot for those looking to catch up on work or stay connected while enjoying their meal.