
Khan El Khalili Restaurant & Naguib Mahfouz Cafe
An authentic Egyptian dining experience in the heart of Khan El Khalili, named after Nobel laureate Naguib Mahfouz, offering history, hospitality, and...

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Khan El Khalili Restaurant & Naguib Mahfouz Cafe

Highlights
Must-see attractions
An authentic Egyptian dining experience in the heart of Khan El Khalili, named after Nobel laureate Naguib Mahfouz, offering history, hospitality, and live music.
"An oasis of calm and charm amidst the bazaar's buzz, serving delicious Egyptian fare with soul-stirring music."
Lunch Value
Visit during lunch for great value meals under $20 USD for two.
Evening Music
Experience live music performances after 6 PM for a vibrant atmosphere.

Quick Facts
Cuisine
Egyptian
Price
Mid-range
Phone
+20 10 94091546
Address
5 ش Sekat Al Badstan, خان الخليلى, El Gamaliya, Cairo Governorate 4331310, Egypt
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Authentic Egyptian Ambiance
Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Cairo with traditional decor and live music.

Live Music Extravaganza
Experience vibrant evenings with captivating live music, including an electric violin.

Culinary Journey Through Egypt
Savor authentic local dishes like kofta, falafel, koshari, and dolma in a historic setting.
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Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Lunch Value
Visit during lunch for great value meals under $20 USD for two.
Evening Music
Experience live music performances after 6 PM for a vibrant atmosphere.
Reservations Recommended
Consider booking ahead to avoid waits during peak hours.
Explore Nearby
Discover Khan El Khalili Bazaar before or after your meal.
Tips
from all over the internet
Lunch Value
Visit during lunch for great value meals under $20 USD for two.
Evening Music
Experience live music performances after 6 PM for a vibrant atmosphere.
Reservations Recommended
Consider booking ahead to avoid waits during peak hours.
Explore Nearby
Discover Khan El Khalili Bazaar before or after your meal.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Diners praise the restaurant's authentic Egyptian ambiance, friendly staff, and captivating live music, making it an oasis in the bustling Khan El Khalili bazaar. While the atmosphere and hospitality are consistently lauded, some guests found the food to be average or slightly underwhelming for the price, with occasional issues like expired drinks and slow service reported during busy periods.
"I recently visited Naguib Mahfouz Restaurant at Khan El Khalili and had a pretty great experience! The food was really good, but there’s a minimum charge of 600 pounds. The highlight for me was the live music, especially the electric violin—I'm not usually into Arabic music, but it was really enjoyable. The waiters were traditionally dressed and super friendly, adding to the authentic vibe. There are two main areas: one for dining, which isn’t too loud, and another perfect for grabbing a drink and soaking in the music. It’s definitely a place to visit, with such a historical feel. Highly recommend!"
Anastasia Travkina
"The atmosphere at Naguib Mahfouz Restaurant is truly charming — rich with traditional Egyptian decor and a warm, nostalgic vibe that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into history.
The staff are friendly and attentive, adding to the welcoming experience.
However, the food itself is average Portions are decent, but the flavors felt a bit underwhelming for the price.
Oriental desserts are not good at all, kofta seem to be pre-cooked and stored on the fridge and then coocked.
Overall, it’s a nice spot to visit for the ambiance, but don’t set your expectations too high on the food."
Mohamed Hafez
"My husband and I are world travelers and were taken there for iftar by a local friend (who we were meeting there for the first time - referred by her brother in another country). We had lunch there earlier while we waited to meet her and then again a set dinner at 6 pm when the fast ended. The food just kept coming, and it was phenomenal! The management and staff were incredibly friendly and helpful. Our new friend (and management) refused to take money from us as they said we were their guests - even though we invited our new friend for a meal. It was actually embarrassing for us but in a very humble, good way.
I can only say good things about this restaurant and about Egyptians (particularly our new friend) and their incredible hospitality and friendliness and desire to please and assist/help. This was an evening that we will remember and treasure for ever!"
Elle Rens
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
There is a minimum charge of 600 Egyptian pounds per person.
Yes, live music performances, including an electric violin, typically take place after 6 PM.
Yes, reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours, to avoid waiting times.
Guests often enjoy local dishes like lamb or chicken kofta, falafel, koshari, and dolma.
Unfortunately, shisha is no longer offered at the restaurant post-Covid.
The cafe boasts a traditional Egyptian decor with a warm, nostalgic vibe, making it feel like a step back in time.
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You'll find Naguib Mahfouz Cafe tucked away within Khan el Khalili, the sprawling souk in historic Cairo. The restaurant is named after the late Egyptian novelist who won the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1988 and is operated by the luxury hotel group Oberoi. It's known as a cafe and a shisha lounge, in addition to serving a full food menu, and provides welcome respite amid the clamor of the bazaar.
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Located in the heart of Khan el Kahlili, the hidden gem of Old Cairo, the Naguib Mahfouz Cafe in Cairo takes you back to the days of ancient Egypt through arabesque surroundings. Started in 1989, it is named after the country’s most famous Egyptian writer Naguib Mahfouz and is well-known for its top-notch hospitality service and it should be added to the list of top things to do in Cairo. The cafe takes pride in the breathtaking interior that features wooden panels on the walls and ceiling, an arched roof with colorful designs, mirrors and intricately designed furniture.
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It’s challenging to find a quiet place in Khan El Khalili, the Middle East’s presumably oldest souk, and yet courageous the throngs of people and you’ll unwind (and eat well) at this delightful Egyptian eatery in Old Cairo devoted to and given the name after the great Pulitzer Prize-winning writer. Sit for a stuffing multi-course meal, or if food shopping is your primary concern, a fast sandwich or snack would then suffice. Hummus, lentil soup, hawawshi, & stuffed pigeon are on the menu, as is risotto flavored with cinnamon as well as raisins and topped with nuts.
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Tired from all the shopping, I stopped for some gahwa (coffee) at El Fishawy, the former hangout of one of my favorite authors, the late Naguib Mahfouz. El Fishawy is a family-owned café that is over 200 years old, with beautiful interiors and the constant aroma of coffee mixed with diverse shisha flavors. I asked the waiter about Naguib Mahfouz and he showed me the room in which the famous Egyptian author would hang out whenever he was there. It was nice to imagine that, while there, he may have drawn inspiration for his book – Palace Walk – one of my favorites.
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It’s no easy task to find a calm corner in Khan El Khalili – supposedly the oldest souk in the Middle East – but brave the crowds, and you’ll decompress (and eat well) at this charming Egyptian restaurant in Old Cairo dedicated to and named after the great Pulitzer Prize-winning writer. Sit down for a filling several-course meal, or if shopping at the market is your priority, a quick sandwich or snack will do. Expect hummus, lentil soup, hawawshi, and stuffed pigeon, as well as rice pudding flavored with cinnamon and raisin, then sprinkled with nuts.
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Named after Egypt’s most celebrated novelist and located in the captivating Khan El Khalili bazaar, the Naguib Mahfouz Cafe honors the literary giant with an atmosphere that hints at the essence of his works. The cafe retains a nostalgic 1940s decor, embellished with Arabic calligraphy and lanterns that create a warm, authentic ambience. It serves traditional Egyptian cuisine with a refined touch, and its coffee, mint tea, and oriental desserts are particularly well-known among the cafe’s diverse patrons.
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Khan El Khalili Restaurant & Naguib Mahfouz Cafe (or just Naguib Mahfouz Cafe for short) is the most famous restaurant and cafe in the market due to its being run by the Oberoi hotel group -- they have consistently good food and swankier surroundings then most other restaurants in the area. On weekends and other high traffic times there might be a wait though, and it’s pricier than other cafes in Khan El Khalili. For more restaurants in Cairo recommended for both tourists and locals alike, head here.
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Named after the renowned Egyptian author and Nobel laureate Naguib Mahfouz, this coffee shop pays homage to his legacy. The café offers a selection of aromatic coffees and traditional Egyptian delights, making it a perfect stop for those exploring the bustling bazaar of Khan El Khalili. Whether you’re a literature enthusiast or just seeking a culturally immersive coffee experience, Naguib Mahfouz Coffee Shop stands as a distinctive gem in the heart of Cairo’s historic quarter.
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Khan El Khalili Restaurant et Naguib Mahfouz Coffee Shop is a charming spot right in the heart of Cairo’s historic Khan El Khalili bazaar. It’s the perfect place to take a break from exploring the bustling market and soak in some old-world charm. The restaurant and coffee shop are named after the famous Egyptian writer Naguib Mahfouz, and the decor reflects that literary vibe, with traditional Arabic furnishings, colourful lanterns, and a cosy, intimate atmosphere.
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Khan Khalili Restaurant/Naguib Mahfouz Cafe�The only good place to eat in the Khan al-Khalili bazaar, this restaurant and cafe is run by the Oberoi chain and named for the famous Nobel Prize-winning writer, who used to eat there almost every day. Service is impeccable, and the Middle Eastern food is excellent�the atmosphere a perfect complement to the delicately spiced food. For a snack or a light meal, try the Naguib Mahfouz Cafe in the front of the restaurant.
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This restaurant is named after the famous Egyptian author, and it serves traditional Egyptian cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere. The cafe, which offers air conditioning amidst the bustle of Khan el-Khalili bazaar, is named for the renowned Egyptian author who was formerly its most cherished customer. The exquisite inlaid chairs, Fatimid architectural features, and the framed historical paintings on the walls transport diners to a bygone period.
In the middle of the sprawling market streets, this traditional coffee shop is named after Egypt's Nobel prize-winning novelist, who set many of his works in this area. Traditional musicians play most evenings; try for a table in the front section. It serves traditional Egyptian cuisine but you could just come for a juice and fabulous Om Ali, the national’s beloved dessert - a rich pudding made from sweet bread, dried fruit, nuts and cream.
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Naguib Mahfouz Cafe/ Khan El Khalili Restaurant – a bit of a tourist hot spot in the centre of the bazaar, but a fresh juice or a mint tea amongst the opulent mirrors and geometric tiles is a very enjoyable break from the clatter and hustle of the market. And it is certainly not without charm or history – the café opened in 1989 as a tribute to the wonderful Egyptian author Naguib Mahfouz, who won the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1988.
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Named after the famous Egyptian Nobel Laureate, Naguib Mahfouz Restaurant offers a sophisticated dining experience with a blend of traditional and contemporary Egyptian dishes. Located in the vibrant Khan El Khalili bazaar, this restaurant provides not only exceptional food but also a unique ambiance. Try their fatta (a dish made with rice, bread, and meat) and enjoy the cultural setting of one of Cairo’s most historic areas.
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With traditional Arab decor, the atmosphere at Naguib Mahfouz Cafe is like no other, making it a necessary stop, even if you have only 2 days in Cairo. Named after the first Arabic writer to win the Nobel Prize in Literature, it’s nestled in the famous bazaar, Khan el-Khalili. Both locals and tourists flock here for a cup of Cairo’s finest coffee, shisha, and traditional Arab dishes like moussaka and feeter.
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Naguib Mahfouz Restaurant and Cafe is another popular dining establishment in Cairo and it deserves to be among the top 10 restaurants in Cairo, Egypt. Here is some information about Naguib Mahfouz Restaurant and Cafe based on the search results:. Naguib Mahfouz Restaurant and Cafe offers a variety of traditional Egyptian dishes, including mezze (appetizers), grilled meats, seafood, and vegetarian options.
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So we abandoned the idea of seeking out cheap “local” places and ended up at an Oberoi-operated restaurant listed in every Cairo guidebook: the Naguib Mahfouz restaurant/Khan El Khalili Cafe. As the name suggests, the restaurant is inside the Khan El-Khalili souk, so you really run the gauntlet of touts to reach the restaurant. Inside, it’s an oasis of calm, but everyone in there was a tourist.
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Named after one of the first contemporary writers of Arabic literature, this café is home to some of the most authentic Egyptian cuisine in the country. Founded in 1989, the same year Mahfouz was given the Nobel Prize for Literature, it actually became one of the famed writer’s favorite spots. Furthermore, when evening strikes, you can enjoy the various singers performing classical songs.
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Khan El-Khalili restaurants as well as Naguib Mahfouz cafe, a tribute to Nobel prize winner Egyptian novelist, since their opening in 1989. When in 1989 the Khan Khalili Restaurant and Café, run by the Oberoi chain, opened its doors, the café was dedicated to Naguib Mahfouz and named after him. Located in the heart of Khan el Kahlili, the Naguib Mahfouz Café is a pleasant place to be.
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Naguib Mahfouz Restaurant and Cafe has been one of the most popular Egyptian restaurants in Cairo for a long time. Located in the oldest Middle East soups, is not only popular for its authentic food but the intricate beauty of the interiors. Believing in presenting a great satisfying taste to the guests, Naguib Mahfouz Restaurant has a special menu for all your meals.
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The Naguib Mahfouz Café Restaurant has a very strong Arabic vibe and a laid-back atmosphere. The interior décor of the venue is filled with art dating back to the 1940s, and there are live musicians who play their trade with traditional Arabic instruments. It’s located near the Khan el Khalili bazaar, so it’s easy to find even though the restaurant is modestly-sized.
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In Khan el Khalili, the vast souk in old Cairo, you’ll find the Naguib Mahfouz Cafe. The late Egyptian novelist, who received the 1988 Nobel Prize in Literature, is honoured by having the restaurant, which is run by Oberoi, a prestigious hotel chain, bear his name. Along with offering a comprehensive meal menu, it is also recognised as a cafe and a shisha lounge.
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We went to the Khan el Khalili Bazaar and ate lunch at the Naguib Mahfouz Restaurant (owned by the Mena House and located off the main alleyway of the bazaar). The food was delicious – probably my favorite meal and the best kofta of the trip!. Shopping in the bazaar was fun and thank goodness for Mohamed as he was the one who wheeled and dealed for us.
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Visit Naguib Mahfouz café in Khan El-Khalili and lose yourself in a cultural atmosphere filled with authenticity and amusement. Enjoy the sound of the gentle Egyptian melodies and the aroma of the delicious food stuffing the air!. The café is your relaxation hub after roaming the cramped street of Khan EL-Khalili and shopping its antiques.
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This atmospheric restaurant in the heart of historic Cairo offers Egyptian cuisine amid some colorful oriental decor. The restaurant is named after Egyptian author Naguib Mahfouz, who grew up in this district and was the first Arab author to win a Nobel Prize. It’s lush with panelled walls, painted ceilings and metal lanterns.
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Timings: 11:00 AM to 12:00 midnight every day except Thursdays and Fridays (closes at 1:00 AM on Thursdays and Fridays). After your shopping session at Khan el-Khalili, you can stop at Naguib Mahfouz Café for mouth-watering Middle Eastern dishes. The café is air-conditioned and has good music playing in the background.
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The Naguib Mahfouz Restaurant and Cafe is located in Khan El Khalili Bazaar the oldest souk in the Middle East. It is a great place to fully explore the culture, and history while enjoying the genuine and delicious cuisines, snacks, desserts, and drinks of Egypt in very comfortable surroundings.
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I only had a cup of fruit here but the food looked really good and the atmosphere was fun!. I gave the staff my allergy translation card, even for just a cup of fruit, and they did seem a little nervous. I knew I’d be going home soon to make a safe meal so I was fine to wait.
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Experience real Egyptian cuisine in the setting that inspired Nobel laureate Naguib Mahfouz. Naguib Mahfouz Cafe is one of the best cafes in Cairo where you enjoy a unique dining experience with an authentic oriental atmosphere and Arabic music.
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Located in the heart of Khan El Khalili, this café is one of the top tourist destinations in Egypt, attracting visitors from around the world. The interior design reflects Egyptian history and the beauty of this vibrant neighborhood.
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Located in the heart of the busy marketplace, Khan El Khalili Café offers the best atmosphere one can get with traditional Egyptian coffees and snacks. This is an excellent place to rest from shopping and get a taste of the culture.
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The eatery spot has repeatedly made many go back over and over since its start. Many consider it one of the attractions in Old Cairo. If you are in the vicinity, you must visit Naguib Mahfouz Restaurant and Café.
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