El Fishawy Cafe

If the Egyptian Museum delighted your eyes with artifacts spanning 5,000 years of history, then it is time to experience Egypt through its aromas, flavors, and the everyday lives of its people.
Nestled within Cairo’s famous Khan el-Khalili Bazaar, Khan el-Khalili, El Fishawy Cafe is one of Egypt’s most iconic traditional cafés, boasting a history of more than 250 years. Established in the late 18th century, it is renowned for having never closed its doors, not even for a single day. As such, it stands as a living piece of Cairo’s cultural heritage, offering visitors one of the most authentic glimpses into the city’s rich history and traditions.
The café’s interior, adorned with antique mirrors, brass decorations, and intricate Arabesque designs, feels like stepping back in time to old Cairo. It is also famously known as a favorite gathering place of Naguib Mahfouz, Egypt’s first Nobel Prize laureate in literature, making it a cherished destination for artists, writers, and travelers from around the world.
Sitting here with a cup of strong Arabian coffee, I watched the endless flow of merchants and travelers passing through the market while soaking in the vibrant energy of the city. As evening falls, Khan el-Khalili becomes even more alive, offering a unique atmosphere that captures the true spirit of Cairo.
If the pyramids symbolize ancient Egypt, then El Fishawy Cafe represents the living culture of modern Cairo—a place where history, tradition, and everyday life continue to meet.
A small tip for visitors: I ordered only a cup of coffee, but a plate of peanuts was served alongside it without being requested. Assuming it was complimentary, I enjoyed them, only to discover later that they were not free. When the bill arrived, the peanuts cost more than the coffee itself! Fortunately, the owner smiled, waived the extra charge, and told me not to worry. It turned into a funny travel memory and a reminder to always ask before enjoying anything that appears on the table.
Cairo, Egypt
Photowalking 10,000 Steps a Day
Photos by Edward Park 然道
June 6, 2026 🌍☕📸

DON’T COME HERE!! SCAM!! Be careful!!

We went today here and the steal our money in our faces, and they do it on purpose on your face without any kind of bad feelings. They are professional thieves.

We arrived and asked for the menu, the waiter said that he was the menu. I insisted on seeing the menu and after a while he brought a phone (see picture) with the menu, so I took a picture.

We ordered one mango fresh drink and a ginger tea, as anyone can see in my picture and many other pictures is 150EGP each, in total 300EGP.

After one minute they brought us water and a plate with appetisers (snacks & seeds mainly. Just after receiving it we said to the first thief (he was acting like a waiter) that we didn’t ask for it, so he can take it back. He said that we will not be charged because of that if we don’t eat/drink it. I insisted him to take it back, but he didn’t.

After we finished our drinks we ask for the check. The main thief came and asked for 600EGP, which obviously we rejected, and asked him what was him charging. He was trying to charge us everything, the untouched snacks and the unopened water.

When he understood that was not touched at all, he asked for 350EGP because he said that we need to pay for the amazing service..

Please Google Maps, you should add a category for tagging this kind of places to want users, this kind of thieves will end with the tourism