Almost every restaurant and cafe in Cairo serves some type of food that resembles Italian cuisine. And this makes me wonder, do we actually have any proper Italian restaurants in town, and are they actually good? The answer is yes we do, and yes they are. Here are some places that will make your Italian taste buds go crazy.
La Rosa
It is too often that a restaurant comes along, causes some big fuss, and then fades out before we know it. La Rosa, located in Maadi, is definitely a place you can rely on, holding up a strong clientele with considerably low prices.The small interior is made up of old Chianti bottles now covered in candle-wax and framed pictures of Rome and Venice. A little taste of Rome, I might say.
O’s Pasta
Nestled in the middle of Zamalek, on the 26th of July street, on the alleyway between Diwan bookshop and Maison Thomas; follow the blue door. A tiny place, with unquestionably the most delicious pasta in town. The kitchen is right in front of you so you can watch the chefs at work, giving you a mouthwatering experience before you actually taste the food.
White Owl
For all the vegans out there, you MUST try white Owl’s pink cream tagliatelle. The pasta is tossed in a coconut cream and tomato sauce that has sweet, rich and creamy flavors. It blows your mind with a touch of fresh cilantro and the spiciness of thin chilli pepper slices, almost resembling a frutti di mare pasta, just without the seafood. If vegan food tastes like this, where do I sign up?
Pepenero
Welcome to Italy, literally! The only problem you’ll face is the hassle of picking between sitting indoors or outdoors. The indoor area is so authentic and beautiful while the outdoor area is more lively as you can see the streets of lovely Korba. You should definitely try their risotto, it’s to die for!
