Cilantro Aswan is a modern café with a chic ambiance and a picturesque riverside location. Known for its wide array of coffee blends, international bites, and trendy atmosphere, Cilantro has become a favorite hangout spot for locals, expats, and tourists. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a leisurely breakfast by the Nile, grab a quick lunch, or settle in for some quiet work time, Cilantro offers a versatile experience that combines modernity with Aswan’s serene beauty.
History and Vision
Cilantro has long been recognized across Egypt as a modern café chain that bridges the gap between Western coffee culture and local Egyptian hospitality. Established in the early 2000s, Cilantro has become one of Egypt’s most beloved café brands in major cities like Cairo, Alexandria, and Aswan.
The Aswan branch of Cilantro was opened to bring a touch of contemporary style to the historic city. With its signature decor, minimalist yet cozy seating, and the warm aroma of fresh coffee, it serves as a welcoming oasis for anyone looking to unwind, catch up with friends, or even host informal business meetings. Cilantro’s vision is to provide a casual yet refined experience that resonates with traditional coffee lovers and those seeking creative beverages and modern dining.
The Mission
At Cilantro Aswan, the mission is to offer a welcoming space where customers can enjoy high-quality coffee and food while taking in stunning views of the Nile. The team at Cilantro aims to:
- Create a Relaxing Atmosphere: Provide a space where customers can unwind, work, or socialize in a calm and inviting environment.
- Deliver Quality: Use only the finest ingredients, from coffee beans to freshly baked goods, to ensure that each dish or drink meets the highest standards.
- Innovate: Regularly update the menu with new flavors and seasonal offerings, keeping things fresh and exciting for returning guests.
- Serve the Community: Be more than just a café by engaging with the local community through events, art showcases, and cultural activities.
Menu Highlights
Cilantro Aswan offers an extensive menu that caters to various tastes, whether you’re a coffee connoisseur or looking for a hearty meal. There’s something for every palate, from breakfast platters and fresh salads to decadent desserts and signature beverages.
Signature Beverages
Coffee and Espresso
Cilantro prides itself on delivering top-quality coffee with beans from some of the best coffee-growing regions worldwide. The baristas are skilled in creating everything from classic espresso to more elaborate coffee drinks.
- Café Mocha: A smooth blend of espresso, chocolate, and steamed milk topped with whipped cream.
- Cilantro Cappuccino: A perfectly balanced cappuccino with a rich foam layer, offering just the right blend of boldness and creaminess.
- Caramel Macchiato: A sweet and indulgent coffee treat with layers of espresso, steamed milk, and caramel syrup, topped with a drizzle of caramel.
- Affogato: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream drowned in a shot of hot espresso, offering a delightful contrast of temperatures and flavors.
Cold Beverages
Cilantro’s selection of iced coffees, smoothies, and cold drinks is perfect for those seeking a refreshing pick-me-up, especially in Aswan’s warm climate.
- Iced Americano: A refreshing, bold cold brew with a robust coffee kick, served over ice.
- Frozen Caramel Latte: A sweet and frosty blend of caramel syrup, espresso, and milk, topped with whipped cream.
- Mango Passion Smoothie: A tropical fruit blend that’s both refreshing and revitalizing.
- Freshly Squeezed Orange Juice: Made from fresh, local oranges for natural sweetness and vitamin C.
Breakfast and Light Bites
Cilantro’s breakfast menu is packed with delicious and healthy options, which is perfect for starting the day right.
- Scrambled Eggs & Avocado Toast: Creamy scrambled eggs served atop crusty toast with a mashed avocado seasoned with lemon and chili flakes.
- Cilantro Croissant Sandwich: A buttery croissant filled with eggs, turkey, or cheese for a light, satisfying breakfast.
- Granola & Yogurt Bowl: This bowl features a wholesome mix of crunchy granola, fresh fruits, and creamy yogurt drizzled with honey for sweetness.
Lunch and Snacks
For lunch, Cilantro offers a range of hearty sandwiches, fresh salads, and light snacks catering to various dietary preferences.
- Grilled Chicken Caesar Wrap: A flavorful wrap filled with tender grilled chicken, romaine lettuce, parmesan cheese, and Caesar dressing.
- Turkey & Cheese Panini: A hot, pressed sandwich made with thinly sliced turkey, melted cheese, and mustard.
- Cilantro Club Salad: A fresh and colorful salad with mixed greens, turkey, avocado, boiled eggs, and a light vinaigrette dressing.
- Zaatar Flatbread: This Middle Eastern-inspired flatbread is seasoned with zaatar (a blend of thyme, sesame seeds, and sumac) and olive oil. It is served with labneh on the side.
Desserts
No visit to Cilantro is complete without trying one of their indulgent desserts, perfect for pairing with your favorite coffee.
- Chocolate Lava Cake: This rich and decadent chocolate cake has a gooey molten center and is served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Cheesecake: This creamy and smooth cheesecake has a graham cracker crust and is served with strawberry or caramel sauce.
- Carrot Cake: Moist and flavorful carrot cake layered with cream cheese frosting and topped with walnuts.
Ambiance and Atmosphere
Cilantro Aswan combines modern design with natural elements to create a chic yet relaxed atmosphere. The cafe’s open-plan layout, contemporary furnishings, and cozy corners make it ideal for casual and intimate meetings.
Interior Design
The café’s interior is stylish and modern, with clean lines and a minimalist aesthetic. Earthy tones dominate the color palette, creating a sense of calm, while using a gardener adds a touch of warmth. The seating is comfortable, with options ranging from plush sofas to bar stools, catering to solo visitors and groups.
Outdoor Seating
One of Cilantro Aswan’s standout features is its scenic outdoor seating area. Overlooking the Nile River, the outdoor space offers a serene environment where guests can enjoy their coffee while enjoying the stunning views. The outdoor lounge is trendy in the early mornings and late afternoons, offering a peaceful retreat from the bustling city.
Work-Friendly Environment
Cilantro Aswan provides a conducive environment with free Wi-Fi, ample seating options, and plenty of natural light for those looking to do some work. The café is a favorite spot among students, freelancers, and remote workers who need a comfortable space to focus, with the bonus of great coffee and snacks to fuel their productivity.
Customer Service
At Cilantro Aswan, the team is dedicated to providing exceptional service that enhances the overall dining experience. The staff is friendly, attentive, and always ready to offer recommendations or customize orders to meet your preferences.
Quick and Efficient Service
Whether you’re in for a quick takeaway or a relaxed sit-down meal, the service at Cilantro is consistently prompt and efficient. The staff is trained to deliver orders swiftly without compromising quality.
Attention to Detail
From the presentation of the food and beverages to the cleanliness of the café, attention to detail is evident throughout the customer experience. Whether a beautifully crafted latte or a carefully plated dessert, each item is served with care and precision.
Pricing and Value
Cilantro Aswan offers a well-priced menu that caters to a range of budgets, making it accessible to locals and tourists alike. The quality of the food and drinks, the relaxed atmosphere, and the beautiful views ensure excellent value for money.
Location, Accessibility, and Hours
Cilantro Aswan is located in one of the city’s most accessible areas, making it a convenient place to tour Aswan or commute.
Location and Contact Information
- Address: Cilantro Aswan, Corniche El Nil, Aswan, Egypt
- Phone: +20 122 345 6789
- Email: contact@cilantroaswan.com
- Social Media:
- Facebook: @CilantroAswan
- Instagram: @cilantroaswan_official
Hours of Operation
- Monday to Sunday: 7:00 AM – 12:00 AM
With its extended hours, Cilantro Aswan is an ideal destination for early-morning coffee runs, leisurely lunches, or late-night desserts and drinks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Cilantro Aswan offer vegetarian or vegan options?
Cilantro Aswan provides vegetarian options, such as Avocado Toast, Granola & and yogurt. While vegan options are limited, the kitchen can customize certain dishes upon request.
Is there free Wi-Fi available?
Cilantro Aswan offers free Wi-Fi, making it an excellent spot for remote work or casual meetings.
Can I make a reservation?
Cilantro Aswan operates on a first-come, first-served basis, but reservations can be made for large groups or special events.
Does the café offer takeout?
Yes, Cilantro Aswan offers takeout for all menu items. You can place an order at the counter or via their app.
Are there gluten-free options available?
Cilantro Aswan does not have a dedicated gluten-free menu, but some items, such as salads and certain beverages, can be made gluten-free upon request.
Is Cilantro Aswan pet-friendly?
Pets are welcome in the outdoor seating area but not allowed inside the café
