Dubai’s got glitz, it’s got glam, but did you know it also hides a secret stash of Egyptian culinary treasures? Hold off on that camel burger (trust us, it’s not all it’s cracked up to be) and join us on a delicious detour to discover the city’s most authentic Egyptian eats.
Picture this: steaming plates of koshari, that glorious blend of rice, lentils, and pasta that’ll warm your soul. Or dive into the verdant depths of molokheya stew, a green haven that’s as comforting as your grandma’s hug (with a lot more cumin, of course). And don’t even get us started on the falafel – light, fluffy clouds of chickpea goodness that’ll have you questioning physics.
We’re talking cosy cafes buzzing with chatter, hole-in-the-wall gems where locals gather, and vibrant street vendors tempting you with aromas that’ll make your nose do the samba. Let’s dive in!
What to Love About Egyptian Food?
Egyptian cuisine is a rich and diverse culinary tradition that has been shaped by thousands of years of history, cultural influences, and geographical factors. It combines elements from Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and African cuisines, resulting in a unique fusion of flavours, spices, and cooking techniques.
The cuisine heavily relies on staple ingredients such as grains, legumes, vegetables, and herbs. Common grains include rice, wheat, and barley, while legumes like lentils, fava beans, and chickpeas are widely used in various dishes.
Fresh vegetables like tomatoes, onions, garlic, eggplant, and cucumbers are integral to Egyptian cooking. Herbs and spices like cumin, coriander, parsley, dill, mint, and garlic are used generously to enhance the flavours of the dishes.
Where to Get the Best Egyptian Food in Dubai
Hadoota Masreya
- Address: Sheikh Zayed Rd – Al Safa – Al Safa 1 – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
- Hours: 10 AM- 12 AM
- Phone: +971 4 380 9000
Hadoota Masreya is an Egyptian restaurant in Dubai that aims to bring the flavours of Egypt to the Emirates. Established in 2011, it fulfils the dream of Egyptians longing for the taste of home. The restaurant’s warm and inviting ambience, with wooden panelling, Arabic lamps, and metallic accents, sets the stage for an authentic dining experience.
Their lunch menu is particularly impressive, featuring a range of Egyptian specialities such as Fried Eggplants, spicy Ta’ameya, Molokhleya with Meat, Koshari, Mixed Grills, and Hamam Mahshi. Generous portions, delicious food, and excellent service make for a memorable dining experience.
To top it all off, Hadoota Masreya offers delectable desserts like Konafa and Baqlawa. With ample parking available, this restaurant is a must-visit for those seeking an authentic taste of Egypt in Dubai.
In addition to the culinary delights, Hadoota Masreya offers an unforgettable shisha-smoking experience for you and your friends. From 12 pm to 1 am every day, you can indulge in the pleasure of smoking shisha while enjoying the restaurant’s vibrant atmosphere.
Kazoza
- Address: Al Wasl Rd – Al Safa – Al Safa 2 – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
- Hours: 8 AM- 1 AM
- Phone: +971 4 339 7973
Kazoza is a truly unique and trendy Egyptian outlet in Dubai that offers a one-of-a-kind dining experience. Combining a European look and feel with the flavors of trendy Egyptian cuisine, it places the customer right in the kitchen to dine, learn, and savor the diverse tastes from various regions of Egypt. From grilling to baking, the action happens in the individual kitchens, providing an immersive experience for diners.
The magical atmosphere and integration of the diner into the kitchen work create a total sensory experience that engages all the senses. With a focus on the best food quality and a wide range of flavors, Kazoza offers a trendy Egyptian food experience that is sure to delight food enthusiasts and create lasting memories.
Abu Shakra Restaurant & Cafe
- Address: 22 Al Maktoum Rd – Deira – Riggat Al Buteen – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
- Hours: 7 AM- 2 AM
- Phone: +971 4 606 9900
Abu Shakra Restaurant in Dubai offers an authentic Egyptian taste experience with international standards and a passion for exceptional service. Their mission is to provide guests with the best food, service, and ambience, making it a place to celebrate life’s special moments. Sustainability is a key focus, sourcing from local, sustainable suppliers and reducing their carbon footprint.
At Abu Shakra, teamwork and trust are valued, with employees contributing their unique talents to create exceptional experiences. Customer satisfaction is paramount, with a commitment to excellence in every aspect of the dining experience. With carefully crafted dishes, a thoughtful menu, and attentive service, Abu Shakra strives to surpass expectations and turn each visit into an unforgettable culinary journey.
Allo Cairo Restaurant
- Address: Business Center – Shop No. 15 – Garhoud – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
- Hours: 8 AM- 12 AM
- Phone: +971 58 598 5244
Allo Cairo Restaurant, located in UAE’s Dubai Silicon Oasis, is a popular destination for those craving delicious grills, and Egyptian, and Arabic cuisine. Their menu offers a wide variety of dishes, but their best-selling items include the mouthwatering Kofta Sandwich. Made from minced meat, vegetables, and spices, shaped into small balls, and grilled to perfection, this savoury sandwich is served with a delectable tahini sauce, making it a favourite among sandwich enthusiasts.
Another highlight of Allo Cairo Restaurant is its Charcoal Grilled Chicken, which is known for its succulent and flavorful taste. The Allo Cairo Mixed Grill is a must-try for those looking for a heartier option, featuring a delectable combination of grilled meats. Rice with Vermicelli is also a popular choice, serving as a perfect accompaniment to the flavorful main dishes.
Khofo Restaurant
- Address: Dubai Creek – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
- Hours: 9 AM- 2 AM
- Phone: +971 4 388 5005
Khofo is a casual dining restaurant located in the heart of Dubai, offering a unique experience with its pharaohs’ ambience, delicious Egyptian cuisine, and friendly service. The restaurant is built around the concept of ancient Egypt, emphasizing fun, fantasy, glamour, and romance. From the architecture and interior design to the food, beverages, ambience, and music, every aspect of Khofo reflects the theme of the pharaohs and Egyptians.
With a culinary experience that engages all the senses, Khofo brings the taste of Egypt to Dubai. It is known as the best Egyptian restaurant in town, offering a true immersion into the flavours and culture of Egypt.
Guests can enjoy delightful food, good drinks, and high-quality entertainment, all within the captivating atmosphere of Khofo’s pharaohs’ theme.
