No other nation in the world says ‘Welcome’ as often as the Egyptians, and every time, they mean it. While the ancient civilization of Egypt continues to amaze, contemporary Egyptians are equally remarkable.
Vegetarian Travelers to Egypt
Vegetarian Travelers to Egypt
Guide for Vegetarian Travelers to Egypt
Egypt offers a variety of delicious vegetarian options, making it a friendly destination for those following a plant-based diet. Here’s a guide to help vegetarian travelers enjoy the local cuisine:
Vegetarian Dining in Egypt
- Appetizers as Meals:
- Opt for a selection of appetizers like stuffed vine leaves, hummus, yogurts, cheeses, and fresh bread for a satisfying meal. Check if vine leaves are meat-free before ordering.
- Coptic Fasting Foods:
- During Coptic fasting periods, many restaurants offer “fasting meals” which exclude meat and dairy, aligning well with vegetarian diets.
- Popular Vegetarian Dishes:
- Foul and Falafel: Staple Egyptian dishes, available at almost every corner.
- Kushary: A mix of macaroni, spaghetti, rice, lentils, chickpeas, black lentils, tomato sauce, and topped with fried onions.
- Ta’amia: Similar to falafel, made with fava beans or chickpeas.
Vegetarian-Friendly Fast Food Chains
- Zooba:
- Locations: Heliopolis, New Cairo, Maadi, Zamalek, Nasr City.
- Offers a variety of vegan options.
- Website: Zooba Eats
- Felfela:
- Location: Alexandria.
- Known for its traditional Egyptian vegetarian dishes.
- Website: Felfela
- Cake Café:
- Location: Zamalek.
- Offers vegetarian-friendly cakes and snacks.
- Lychee:
- Location: Zamalek.
- Focuses on healthy, fruit-based dishes.
- Website: Lychee Fruit Bar
- Kazaz:
- Location: Downtown Cairo.
- A popular spot for traditional Egyptian vegetarian dishes.
- Peking Lodge (Chinese):
- Location: Zamalek.
- Offers vegetarian Chinese cuisine.
- Beano’s Café:
- Locations: Nasr City, Maadi, Zamalek.
- A café with a variety of vegetarian options
- Mori Sushi (Japanese):
- Locations: Maadi, Zamalek.
- Offers vegetarian sushi options.
- Website: Mori Sushi
Tips for Vegetarian Travelers
- Ask About Ingredients:
- Always inquire about the ingredients, as some dishes may contain small amounts of meat.
- Explore Local Markets:
- Local markets often have a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables.
- Stay Hydrated:
- The Egyptian climate can be hot and dry, so keep hydrated, especially when exploring.
- Carry Snacks:
- Have some vegetarian snacks on hand during long tours or trips to remote areas.
By exploring these vegetarian-friendly options, you can enjoy a diverse range of delicious and authentic Egyptian dishes while adhering to your dietary preferences.
