What’s your thought on exploring a city’s culture and heritage? The best way to witness and experience a city’s cultural heritage is by trying out its local cuisine. When you are in Aswan, the historical city of Egypt, you should take part in the culinary game that depicts its rich historic past and culture. Since Aswan is best known for its diverse gastronomic landscape ranging from different vegetarian and non-vegetarian options, take a break from sightseeing activity and start exploring the restaurants in Aswan for a culinary bliss elevated by authentic flavors. Start working on your appetite and save enough space to devour the scrumptious Egyptian meal for your lunch. Explore some of the most picturesque Aswan restaurants to take a deep dive into extravagant Nubian flavors that throw light upon Nubian history overlooking the mesmerizing Nile River views.
Top Restaurants in Aswan: Let’s Undertake an Egyptian Culinary Voyage
Aswan is the second most popular city next to Cairo that hosts every visitor from across the world with innumerable dining options and palatable tastes. Restaurants in Aswan complement the Egyptian flavors with the artistic presentation and manifestation of the skilled chefs and masterminds behind the culinary art. With opulent interiors and elegant setup, you can enjoy your meal in the warm ambience witnessing the enchanting city views and river views. Dig into Egyptian flavors for a heartwarming experience and always include the activity of dining out at 1902 Restaurant Aswan for a walkthrough to the Egypt’s glorious past. Experience the top-notch hospitality of the Egyptians for an alluring affair that will blow away your minds.
Let’s have a glance at the top 10 restaurants in Aswan for a wholesome gastronomic experience in the historic city of Aswan.
- El Dokka Restaurant
- Panorama Restaurant & Bar
- Chef Khalil Restaurant
- Makka Restaurant
- El Masry
- 1902 Restaurant
- Orangerie Restaurant Aswan
- Makani Restaurant
- Nubian Dreams Restaurant & Cafe
- Salah El Din Restaurant
1. El Dokka Restaurant: Offer Yourself a Nubian Treat
Located on the enchanting Nile River, Al Dokka Restaurant is a family-run business serving guests since 1993. Best known for offering traditional Nubian cuisine and a small range of international delicacies, Al Dokka restaurant was an acute dream of the family that started turning into reality in the year 1983. Being the very first restaurant in Aswan city, it boasts of its excellent hospitality in catering to the needs of every guest’s taste and preference. Embark on an incredible and transformative journey starting with a free boat ride to dine at this heavenly abode for an authentic Nubian culinary experience. Being embraced by the ethereal beauty of the Nile, the restaurant offers a plethora of Egyptian delicacies served with fresh fruit beverages and pickles to spice up your meal. If you are into the Nubian exploration, sign up now for the next adventure at one of the best restaurants in Aswan Egypt.
Address: Eissa Island, كورنيش النيل, وسط البلد, Aswan 1, Aswan Governorate 1240861, Egypt
Opening Hours: 12 p.m. to 12 a.m.
Cuisine: Nubian
Best Dishes to try: Nubian Coffee, Meat Tagine with Rice, Koshari, Grilled Chicken with Rice, Potato Tray with Chicken, Fried Shrimp, Molokhia Soup
2. Panorama Restaurant & Bar: Your Ideal Candlelight Dinner Spot
Tucked within the luxurious eccentricities of the 5-star resort Movenpick Aswan, Panorama Restaurant & Bar is the best fine dining option in the city of Aswan while overlooking the panoramic views of the Nile. Never forget to miss out on a delicious meal in the evening watching the enchanting sunset views through the massive floor to ceiling windows, offering you awe-inspiring sights. The restaurant also boasts of its intimate setting that attracts the guests to have a candlelight dinner to capture a moment etched in love and romance and one of the best restaurants in Egypt. You can indulge in a truly intriguing European culinary voyage and don’t forget to try out the finely curated international dishes presented artistically with precision. Don’t leave a chance to devour finger licking grilled items by enjoying the views of the dazzled-up Aswan city at night, botanical island, and Tombs of the Nobles.
Address: Elephantine Island 0, Sheyakhah Oula, Aswan 1, Aswan Governorate 1240881, Egypt
Opening Hours: 3.30 p.m. to 11 p.m.
High Teatime: 3.30 p.m. to sunset
Dinner Time: 7 p.m. to 11 p.m.
Cuisine: Italian, European
Best Dishes to try: Lamb Shank, Duck, Risotto, Mushroom Truffle Soup, Pasta Spaghetti, Grilled Steak, Apple Pie with Ice cream
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3. Chef Khalil Restaurant: Your Next Seafood Stop
Located at Saad Zaghloul, Chef Khalil Restaurant is the most famous seafood restaurant in the old city of Aswan. Devouring the fresh catch of the day from the locally sourced Lake Nasser and the Red Sea, is the major highlight of this restaurant. With a diverse display of exotic fishes, you can choose your own with the required toppings and seasoning for enticing flavors based on your preference. A local restaurant that has won the hearts of many for offering delicious seafood being grilled, cooked, or fried and served with rice, salads, French fries, and beverages. The restaurant has a decent interior with organized seating arrangements where you can unwind in the best possible way. You can also try out their Egyptian and Middle Eastern delicacies for tantalizing your taste buds in a never-ending way at one of the best restaurants in Aswan Egypt. Moreover, never forget to satiate your soul after treating your eyes to the historic landmarks of Aswan city.
Address: Saad Zaghloul, Abu AR Rish Qebli, Aswan 1, Aswan Governorate 1242868, Egypt
Opening Hours: 9 a.m. to 12 a.m.
Cuisine: Middle Eastern Cuisine, Egyptian, Seafood
Best Dishes to try: Fried Fish, Salads, Grilled Prawns, Seafood Soup
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4. Makka Restaurant: Experience the Egyptian Essence
The Makka Restaurant of Aswan takes pride in serving the best Egyptian flavors to the guests accompanied by warm hospitality in a decent setting. Highly features a comprehensive menu with the local dishes that often lure the guests for recurrent visits. You will be delighted by the staff’s quick delivery and quality service, which is the major attractive element in the restaurant. Established in 1962, the Makka Restaurant has remained as a pioneer in promoting local Oriental food in Aswan city. If you are a first timer to this historic city, a visit to this restaurant is a must where you can gorge on multiple delicacies at affordable rates. This restaurant also tops the list in maintaining proper hygiene while serving the guests. Never forget to try out their barbecue items and dessert options, especially the signature cream caramel pudding to give a sweet ending to your meal at one of the best places to visit in Aswan.
Address: 143 abtal el tahrir St DOWNTOWN, Aswan, Aswan Governorate, Egypt
Opening Hours: 12 p.m. to 1 a.m.
Cuisine: Local Egyptian Food
Best Dishes to try: Stuffed Pigeon, Lamb Chops, Grilled Meat, Molokheya with rice, Lentil Soup, Grilled Salad, Cream Caramel Pudding
5. El Masry: A Typical Egyptian Relish
You can stop by this local fast-food cum Egyptian restaurant while touring during the promenade around the El-Tabia Mosque. If Aswan sightseeing tours are tiring for you at one point, take a pause and treat yourself with a delectable Egyptian meal. El Masry is one such restaurant in Aswan that serves authentic local Egyptian delicacies and best meat options with fresh fruit beverages and desserts and one of the best places to eat in Aswan. Even though the restaurant has a casual go-to setup, you can find some best cooked dishes to devour in a comfortable setting accompanied by hospitable staff. Since the restaurant boasts of its meat items, don’t fail to grab a bite of the tempting Lamb Sheekh Kebabs sizzling bright while being grilled which will make you drool over it numerous times. Moreover, try out their banana and date smoothies which are prepared by the locally sourced ingredients for a refreshing delight.
Address: 3VVX+2P7, Al Matar, Sheyakhah Thalethah, Aswan, Aswan Governorate 1242860, Egypt
Opening Hours: 10 a.m. to 1 a.m.
Cuisine: Local Egyptian
Best Dishes to try: Lamb Sheekh Kebab, Kofta, Stuffed Pigeon, Date & Banana Smoothie, Lentil Soup, Mombar
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6. 1902 Restaurant: Experience the Ideal Blend of Egypt & French
Located in the finest and luxury hotel of Aswan city, Sofitel Legend Old Cataract Hotel, the 1902 restaurant Aswan is considered the top-rated restaurant that will promise you an extravagant dining experience. The restaurant has preserved and retained the age-old charm and legacy of Egypt since the last 15 years which attract visitors from worldwide and the lustrous food will leave you speechless. Adorned with the copper lanterns and oriental style-stained glass ceilings, the restaurant has a wide selection of exquisitely handcrafted French delicacies that redefine culinary art on a different level. It boasts of the truly dedicated team and the culinary artist for creating magic out of his hands, making the restaurant a must-visit place for every visitor. Never forget to indulge in folkloric presentations including the local Nubian musical bands and belly dancers.
Address: 3VJQ+W2Q, Abtal El Tahrir Street, Sheyakhah Oula, Aswan 1, Aswan Governorate 1240836, Egypt
Opening Hours: 7 p.m. to 11 p.m.
Cuisine: Egyptian, French, European, International
Best Dishes to try: Royal Breaded Shrimp, Smoked Duck Salad, Veal Fillet, Pigeon Ravioli, Chocolate Delice
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7. Orangerie Restaurant Aswan: Your All-Day Dining Option
Orangerie Restaurant Aswan is one of the best fine dining options located within the premises of Movenpick Hotels & Resorts that takes pride in its excellent hospitality team. Designed in a traditional Nubian setting, you can gaze at the scenic sights of the pool and garden located in the forefront at one of the best places to visit in Egypt. Never miss out on the most lavish open buffet breakfast along with the international delicacies for lunch and dinner for the guests staying on the property. You can opt for the outdoor seating area to enjoy the outside view and the delectable food, with the soft breeze blowing lighting up the surroundings. Devour the local and international flavors in this all-day dining setup for an immersive experience. The open kitchen is the major highlight of the restaurant that draws the attention of the visitors towards the master chefs for curating wonders out of passion and innovation.
Address: Elephantine Island 0, Aswan Governorate, Egypt
Opening Hours: Open 24 Hours
Cuisine: Nubian, North African, International
Best Dishes to try: Cold Mezza Platter, Bed Shawarma
8. Makani Restaurant: Savor the Multiple Flavors for a Lifetime
Often considered as one of the most visited restaurants in Aswan, Makani Restaurant will treat you with the best delicacies ranging from the American crispy burgers to the fanciful European desserts. Located in the heart of the historic city, you can easily stop by this restaurant to grab some instant savory bites along with fresh juices and beverages from locally sourced ingredients. Dig into the delicious barbecue items to have a smoked relish for tantalizing your tastebuds which will lure you for recurrent visits and can be added to the list of things to do in Egypt. Even though the restaurant has a local setup, it caters to the taste of every guest for a soulful experience and never compromises with the food quality. Try out their diverse range of cocktails and the delectable European desserts which is the best way to redefine culinary art and innovative presentation that reflect the majestic ideas behind the creative output.
Address: Imam Al Daaeri, Sheyakhah Oula, Aswan, Aswan Governorate 1240836, Egypt
Opening Hours: 10 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Cuisine: Multicuisine, Seafood, Fast Food
Best Dishes to try: Marinated Grilled Chicken with Sauce, Grilled Chicken Wings, Grilled Steak, American Burger served with fries
9. Nubian Dreams Restaurant & Cafe: Relive Your Nubian Dream
Nubian Dreams Restaurant & Cafe is the long-cherished dream of a Jamaican family who initiated the idea of offering excellent hospitality service for the last 50 years. Located on the picturesque Elephantine Island, Nubian Dreams Restaurant & Cafe will deliver you true Egyptian culinary bliss ranging from the myriad of Egyptian dishes and delicious barbecue items to treat your senses. You can savor a wholesome meal in a traditional Nubian setup overlooking the mesmerizing views of the Nile River. You can get free boat rides to access the restaurant and you can come late at night to dine at Nubian Dreams Restaurant by gazing at the glittering city of Aswan, which is the major highlight of the restaurant. Moreover, this is one of the Aswan's best restaurants to unwind with your friends and beloved one where you can get the Egyptian experience at its best.
Address: شياخة أولى، قسم أسوان،, Aswan, Aswan Governorate 81111, Egyp
Opening Hours: 8 a.m. to 2 a.m.
Cuisine: Egyptian, Vegan
Best Dishes to try: Nubian Jabana Coffee, Zucchini Bechamel Tangine, Chicken Casserole Tangine, Grilled Fish Fillet, Stuffed Pigeon, Nubian Vegetable Tangine with meat
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10. Salah El Din Restaurant: A Tinge of Mediterranean on Your Plate
Perched on the Nile River Corniche, Salah El Din Restaurant will promise you authentic and delicious Mediterranean vegetarian dishes while watching the enchanting sunset over the river. The restaurant has an outdoor seating area, the major highlight that attracts both local and international visitors from worldwide. It takes pride in the warm hospitality it provides to the customers that result in frequent visits throughout the year. You can treat yourself to a nourishing meal after your Aswan city tour to satisfy your soul. Try out their pizzas, grilled items, tagine, and refreshing beverages for a delightful evening. Since the restaurant is open for 24 hours, it will welcome you late at night to gorge on some delicious meat by gazing at the ethereal beauty of the Nile and Aswan shining brightly out of the city lights which can be added to the list of things to do in Aswan.
Address: 89 Kornish Al Nile, Sheyakhah Oula, Aswan, Aswan Governorate 1240892, Egypt
Opening Hours: Open for 24 Hours
Cuisine: Mediterranean Food
Best Dishes to try: Pizza, Grilled Fish, Casseroles, Salads, Appetizers
Suggested Read: Best Cafes in Cairo: A Walk Towards Unfurling Egypt’s History
Start your venture of delving into true Egyptian cuisine for fulfilling your passion of taking up the gastronomic journey in the historic city of Aswan. Restaurants in Aswan will offer you the chance of beginning your Egyptian quest for an incredible experience. Whether it is the Nile River or historical landmarks like museums and archaeological sites shrouded in mystery, you should undertake a cultural tour to understand the nation’s historic & cultural development over time. Never forget to book Egypt tour packages with us at affordable rates to take a deep dive into Egypt’s culinary voyage.
Restaurants in Aswan FAQ’s
Aswan’s culinary scene is diverse ranging from the authentic local Egyptian dishes to the varied international flavors. The city also hosts the guests with several restaurants ranging from opulent luxury settings to casual ones catering to every guest’s preference. The top 5 restaurants in Aswan are:
- Al Dokka
- 1902 Restaurant
- Panorama Restaurant & Bar
- Nubian Dream Restaurant & Cafe
- El Masry
Aswan doesn’t fail to serve the customers with scrumptious food late at night to make them experience the city’s nightlife. Never forget to enjoy a dinner beneath the twinkling sky by gazing at the glittering city and the Nile. The top 5 restaurants in Aswan for dinner are:
- Nubian Dream Restaurant & Cafe
- Orangerie Restaurant Aswan
- Salah El Din Restaurant
- El Masry
- Makka Restaurant
Aswan is mostly famous for the picturesque Nile River, archaeological landmarks, museums, and the serene environment. Never forget to undertake a historical tour to Aswan and experience their Nubian culinary culture.
Aswan caters to the needs of every budget-friendly visitor by promising top-notch quality service. These restaurants never compromise with the food quality which attracts thousands of tourists and locals to dine on at affordable prices. The top 5 budget-friendly restaurants in Aswan are:
- Makani Restaurant
- Nubian Dreams Restaurant & Cafe
- Abeer Restoran
- Biti Pizza
- Gambari Afandi Seafood
The 1902 Restaurant is famous for its Egyptian decor and fancy dining setup. It transports the visitors to the ancient Egypt to experience the country’s early vigor and grandeur. Moreover, the French-inspired menu is also another highlight of the restaurant.
The 1902 Restaurant in Aswan boasts of its French-inspired cuisine that shows a perfect blend of Egyptian and French flavors. You shouldn’t miss out on some dishes offered in the restaurant which redefines the culinary art in the real sense. Some of the best dishes to try out in 1902 restaurant are:
- Royal Breaded Shrimp
- Smoked Duck Salad
- Veal Fillet
- Pigeon Ravioli
- Chocolate Delice
The best time to visit Aswan city is from October to May. It is always suggested to plan your trip to Aswan during autumn, winter, and spring season for a pleasant and comfortable stay. Try to avoid the summer months which start from June and continue till August.
At least 2-3 days are enough to cover the major attractions in Aswan city. Moreover, you can also plan your trip to Aswan according to your preference and extend the duration of the trip depending on your interests and budget.