Best Budget Eats in Cairo, Al Qāhirah, Egypt

Cairo, Egypt, Cairo, Food & Drink, Best Budget Eats

Best Budget Eats in Cairo, Al Qāhirah, Egypt

Koshary Abou Tarek

1. Koshary Abou Tarek

Known for its iconic koshary, Abou Tarek serves a delicious mix of pasta, rice, lentils, and a spicy tomato sauce that satisfies any hunger at a low cost. The restaurant is simple, but the food is filling and quintessentially Egyptian.
  • Price: Very affordable, perfect for budget travelers.
  • Location: Centrally located in downtown Cairo, easy to find.
  • Authenticity: A genuine Egyptian experience not to be missed.
Felfela

2. Felfela

Offering a wide variety of Egyptian street food, Felfela is famous for its good falafel and hearty servings. This spot delivers quality fast food at budget-friendly prices.
  • Menu Variety: Offers more than just falafel, including delicious shawarma and kebabs.
  • Experience: Operates as both a restaurant and takeaway, giving more options.
  • History: A long-standing name in Cairo's food scene.
Koshary El Tahrir

3. Koshary El Tahrir

This chain is known for serving consistently tasty koshary meals across different locations in Cairo, making it a reliable choice. Each dish is customizable with varying amounts of garlic and chili.
  • Locations: Multiple branches throughout the city for convenience.
  • Customization: Personalize your dish with different sauces.
  • Speed: Quick service for those on the go.
Zooba

4. Zooba

Taking traditional street food to a modern setting, Zooba presents dishes like taameya (Egyptian falafel) with a creative twist. It's the perfect spot for those wanting local food with a unique flair.
  • Ambiance: Bright, stylish decor with a cool vibe.
  • Health: Follows high hygiene standards, ensuring a clean meal.
  • Innovations: Combines traditional recipes with new-age cooking techniques.
Gad

5. Gad

This popular chain serves a variety of foods including traditional Egyptian favorites, fast foods, and desserts, all at low prices. It's a great spot for a quick and satisfying meal.
  • Diversity: Offers everything from feteer to shawarma.
  • Accessibility: Numerous branches throughout Cairo.
  • Fast Service: Ideal for busy schedules or quick breaks.
Abo Ammar El Soury

6. Abo Ammar El Soury

Specializing in Syrian-Egyptian cuisine, the restaurant's grilled meats and shawarma wraps are a delicious and budget-friendly option. Known for generous portions and vibrant flavors.
  • Flavor: Rich Syrian spices make this a different offering.
  • Portions: Big servings make sure you are full.
  • Popularity: A local favorite with foreigners and Egyptians alike.
Kazaz

7. Kazaz

Located near Tahrir Square, Kazaz is known for its sandwiches, especially liver and sausage options, that offer quick bites at economical rates. A frequent stop for those exploring central Cairo.
  • Central Position: Perfect for sightseers visiting downtown landmarks.
  • Quick Eats: Fast service makes it ideal for a short stop.
  • Value for Money: Offers substantial food for small prices.
El Prince

8. El Prince

Famous for its hearty meals, El Prince in Imbaba is particularly famed for its molokhia (jute leaf soup) and grilled meats. The big portions and low prices make it popular among locals.
  • Signature Dishes: Authentic molokhia and mixed grills.
  • Atmosphere: A bustling, lively setting.
  • Size: Serves up large meals ideal for sharing.
Sabaya

9. Sabaya

Nestled in the InterContinental Cairo Semiramis, Sabaya offers Lebanese cuisine at affordable prices in a high-class setting. A place to sample mezze dishes in an upscale environment without breaking the bank.
  • Location: Offers a luxurious meal in a renowned hotel.
  • Specialty: Excellent choice for affordable Lebanese flavors.
  • Experience: Gourmet feel with budget-friendly price tags.
Haty El Gomhoureya

10. Haty El Gomhoureya

Known for its exceptional quality of grilled meats at very reasonable prices, this restaurant offers local foodies and travelers excellent value. The mixed grill platters are particularly favored.
  • Expertise: Highly skilled in grilling techniques.
  • Cost: Inexpensive for the quality offered.
  • Local Favorite: A hidden gem loved by regulars.
Arabiata

11. Arabiata

This eatery is the go-to spot for affordable Egyptian street food classics like fuul (fava bean stew) and taameya. With branches all over Cairo, it’s easy to find cheap eats no matter where you are.
  • Reliability: Consistent quality across outlets.
  • Wide Reach: Easily accessible due to many locations.
  • Specialty: Iconic for Egyptian sandwiches.
Bashandy

12. Bashandy

Delivering fresh kofta sandwiches, Bashandy is ideal for a quick bite that packs flavor without a heavy price. Known for speedy service and tasty offerings.
  • Efficiency: Quickly prepared meals made well.
  • Simplicity: Straightforward menu focused on a few key items.
  • Tidy: Clean premises maintained for hygiene.
Kebdet El Prince

13. Kebdet El Prince

A culinary institution for liver and meat lovers, offering expertly prepared, flavorful dishes at a reasonable cost. The carefully seasoned liver is a must-try specialty.
  • Renowned Flavors: Highly praised for its taste.
  • Authenticity: A truly local dining experience.
  • Expertise: Mastery over specific Egyptian dishes.
Gringo's Burger

14. Gringo's Burger

Offering Egyptian adaptations of American fast-food classics, Gringo's Burger provides budget-friendly gourmet burgers made with fresh ingredients.
  • Fusion: Blends American fast-food with Egyptian tastes.
  • Quality: Uses good-quality meats for a tasty meal.
  • Casual Setting: Relaxed atmosphere complements the menu.
Mahrous

15. Mahrous

Specializes in stuffing egyptian sandwiches with mouth-watering roast duck, offering unique flavors that differ from typical budget food. The small but mighty eatery makes sure quality tops all.
  • Specialty: Unique duck-focused sandwiches.
  • Popular: Frequently visited by locals who keep coming back.
  • Proximity: Positioned in a neighborhood with tourist attractions.
Bab El Hadid

16. Bab El Hadid

Located next to Ramses Station, this eatery is a go-to for hungry travelers just arriving in the city. Known for filling dishes like fuul and falafel.
  • Convenience: Positioned perfectly for arrivals.
  • Fast: Quick service despite a bustling environment.
  • Comfort: Familiar foods that resonate well with newcomers.
Abouzeid

17. Abouzeid

Renowned for its rich, flavorful hawawshi (stuffed pita bread) and meats at low prices, making it a staple for budget foodies craving savory specialties.
  • Mastery: Known for mastering the delicate process of making hawawshi.
  • Savory: Incredibly flavorful offerings.
  • Bargain: Bang-for-your-buck with portion sizes and taste.
Mohamed Ahmed

18. Mohamed Ahmed

Located in Alexandria, this spot is an exception for those willing to travel out for an amazing food diversity of authentic fuul and more. Known for its cozy interior and friendly service.
  • Legacy: One of the oldest eateries boasting a rich history.
  • Exploration: For travelers venturing beyond Cairo.
  • Welcoming: Warm services that make the place inviting.
Talaat Heba

19. Talaat Heba

Recognized for its irresistible pies filled with minced meats, chicken, or vegetables, all at budget prices. A consistent choice for satisfying and tasty bites.
  • Expertise: Specializes in savory pies that delight.
  • Cost: Low cost for high taste.
  • Consistency: Reliable dining option for repeat visits.
Shawerma House

20. Shawerma House

Catering to shawarma lovers, this small chain offers mouth-watering wraps that don't skimp on flavor or value. A consistent discovery for late lunches or quick dinners.
  • Simplicity: Limited but focused menu.
  • Late Hours: Great for late night meals.
  • Satisfaction: Hearty fillings guaranteed to satisfy.