I rarely write reviews, but after my experience with Khufu’s Bistro I feel it’s important to share so that others are aware before making reservations.
I made a reservation at this restaurant four months in advance to celebrate a very special occasion — both my partner’s and my birthday. We were looking forward to what we expected would be a memorable evening at a unique location. Unfortunately, the entire process turned out to be frustrating, disappointing, and ultimately disrespectful.
About a month before our reservation date, I was contacted by someone from the restaurant saying that their operating hours had changed and we would need to adjust our booking. I agreed to move our reservation to a later slot, and I was told a new menu would be shared with me soon. Despite several follow-ups, I never received the menu or any clear explanation of what the new dining experience would entail.
Instead, I was eventually told that to confirm our reservation, we would need to pay a minimum of 9,900 EGP for two people (approximately $320 USD / £250 GBP), and that this price did not even include the actual cost of food — it was just a required prepayment covering “service charge and taxes.” I want to emphasize: this was not the full dinner price, not a curated tasting menu, not drinks — just fees. At no point was a menu shared, nor was any justification given for such an extreme charge.
To put it plainly, this felt like price gouging. Restaurants with premium locations often charge more, and I understand and respect that. However, to demand such an inflated, unexplained amount upfront, without transparency or basic communication, is unacceptable. Especially when guests are booking to celebrate personal milestones, the least one expects is courtesy and honesty.
We were left feeling disappointed, misled, and frankly insulted. What should have been a joyful celebration turned into a source of stress and frustration. Needless to say, we declined to proceed with the reservation.
In summary: if you are considering Khufu’s Bistro, be very cautious. Make sure you ask for full written confirmation of costs and request to see the menu upfront. Based on my experience, I cannot recommend this restaurant. There are many other places in Cairo that will treat you with respect, provide excellent food, and offer a memorable experience without resorting to such unreasonable and...
Read moreAs a person who has dined at many michelin restaurants around the world, I was excited to lunch at one of the (alleged) leading culinary establishements in Egypt (MENA N.5 on the 50s best list or whatever) - but left with a huge disappointment. There is nothing to fault about the food, it's tasty classic egyptian cuisine executed tidily and with some creative, modern technical touches, presented beautifully. The portions are very generous and mocktails are refreshing. The service however, is a total letdown. To call it sloppy and chaotic would be a compliment. For ex. waiters unable to explain the dishes. When asked why the Rozz Meaemar came with the beef terrine rather than charcoal grilled beef (as per menu description) we were gaslit by the waiter "this is how it is supposed to be". The main course arrived a little under 15mins of us having our appetizers, with waiter trying to remove plates from under our noses saying "this is the correct timing, all dishes come in one go". When we got moved to outside for dessert, we were sat on a naked table - our desserts arrived already with a fork in the dish (mind you a rice pudding, and an icecream dish), we had to ask for spoons, and were not even given an apology. The location is obviously stunning. Indoor is neat but extremely loud (mostly due to staff loudly conversing among each other and poor acoustic panneling). Beware that their booking system will let you book an outside table, but you will later receive a cryptic email that "your reservation is an overbooking and sitting outdoor will be subject to availability" (just make it unavailable on the booking platform ffs). I am all for a laidback dining experience, but for fine dining prices, one would expect a little more finesse from the staff, rather than a street food / ahwa vibe. Note that the restaurant is inside the necropolis site, meaning you need to account for 45mins delay in and out, and pay for tickets, extra parking etc.. The restaurant closes at 4pm - which is also when the archeological site closes, meaning chaos to get out amongs the 50px tourist buses, camels and horse carriages.
Overall it is pretty much on brand with the visit to the pyramids : great essence, dreadful experience, doubt i...
Read moreKhufu's Restaurant is a culinary gem nestled in the heart of Cairo, Egypt. Named after the iconic pharaoh Khufu, the restaurant pays homage to the rich history and vibrant flavors of Egyptian cuisine. With its warm ambiance, attentive service, and delectable dishes, Khufu's Restaurant offers a truly unforgettable dining experience.
As you step into Khufu's, you are immediately greeted by the tantalizing aromas wafting from the open kitchen. The restaurant's elegant decor, inspired by ancient Egyptian motifs, creates a unique and inviting atmosphere that transports you back in time. The attentive staff ensures that every guest feels welcomed and well taken care of, adding to the overall dining experience.
The menu at Khufu's is a culinary journey through Egypt's diverse culinary heritage. From traditional dishes like koshari and molokhia to modern interpretations of Egyptian classics, each dish is carefully crafted using the finest locally sourced ingredients. The chefs at Khufu's take pride in presenting a harmonious blend of flavors, textures, and spices that showcase the depth and complexity of Egyptian cuisine.
One of the highlights of Khufu's Restaurant is its commitment to showcasing the best of Egyptian hospitality. The staff is knowledgeable about the menu and is always ready to offer recommendations and suggestions to enhance your dining experience. Whether you are a seasoned food enthusiast or new to Egyptian cuisine, the staff at Khufu's is dedicated to ensuring that every guest leaves with a satisfied palate and a smile on their face.
In addition to its exceptional food, Khufu's Restaurant also offers a carefully curated selection of Egyptian wines and beverages. From locally produced wines to refreshing traditional drinks like hibiscus tea, the restaurant provides the perfect accompaniment to your meal, further enhancing the overall dining experience.
Khufu's Restaurant is not just a place to enjoy a delicious meal; it is a celebration of Egypt's culinary heritage and a testament to the country's rich history. With its warm ambiance, attentive service, and mouthwatering dishes, Khufu's invites you to embark on a culinary adventure that will leave a...
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