Traveling to Egypt as an Indian tourist is an unforgettable experience from the majestic pyramids to serene Nile cruises and bustling souks. But one concern that often arises is what to eat, especially for vegetarians, vegans, and those with religious or cultural food preferences. This guide is crafted especially for Indian travelers, offering insights into local food options, dietary dos and don’ts, city-specific tips, and cultural etiquette. Whether you’re a hardcore foodie or a cautious eater, this guide will help you stay well-fed and worry-free on your Egyptian adventure.
DOs: What You Should Do
1. Explore Egyptian Cuisine
Don’t miss out on traditional and vegetarian-friendly dishes:
Koshari – rice, pasta, lentils, and fried onions topped with tomato sauce.
Ful Medames – slow-cooked fava beans with spices, often eaten with pita.
Taameya – Egyptian falafel made from fava beans.
Mahshi – vegetables stuffed with herbed rice.
Molokhia, grilled kofta, and shawarma for non-vegetarians.
2. Eat Where Locals Eat
Busy local eateries are usually cleaner and serve fresher food. Try trusted local chains like Gad, Zooba, and El Tabei El Domyati.
3. Ask Clearly for Vegetarian Options
"Ana nabaty" (أنا نباتي) – I am vegetarian.
"Bedoon lahma / dagag" (بدون لحمة / دجاج) – Without meat/chicken. Be specific to avoid dishes cooked in meat broth or animal fat.
4. Stick to Bottled Water
Only drink sealed bottled water. Avoid using tap water even for brushing teeth.
5. Carry Indian Snacks
Great backup for vegetarians and picky eaters:
Ready-to-eat meals (MTR, Haldiram’s).
Dry snacks: thepla, khakhra, chivda, poha, cup noodles.
Spices or masala sachets, tea/coffee powder.
6. Try Local Desserts
Treat yourself to Basbousa, Baklava, or Konafa — but in moderation, as they are extremely sweet and rich.
DON’Ts: What to Avoid
1. Don’t Assume ‘Vegetarian’ Means No Animal Products
Dishes labeled vegetarian may still contain eggs or meat-based broth.
2. Avoid Unwashed Raw Foods
Skip raw vegetables or fruits you can't peel. Stick to cooked items or peelable fruits like bananas or oranges.
3. Avoid Dirty Street Food Stalls
Only eat from stalls that are busy and visibly clean. Local chains are safer for street food cravings.
4. No Ice in Drinks
Ice is often made from tap water. Stick to canned or bottled drinks.
5. Don’t Depend Solely on Indian Restaurants
They exist in major cities like Cairo, but are limited elsewhere and often pricey. Have backups ready.
6. Avoid Wasting Food
City-Specific Food Tips
Cairo
Many options for vegetarians and Indian cuisine (Indira, Maharaja, Zooba, Massala).
Best areas: Zamalek, Downtown, and Maadi for global cuisine.
Luxor & Aswan
Limited vegetarian/Indian food.
Hotels usually offer rice, bread, soups, and grilled vegetables — request in advance.
Try fresh juices, fruits, lentil soup, pita with hummus or baba ganoush.
Sharm El Sheikh / Hurghada
Resort buffets cater to international guests with some vegetarian options.
Pescatarians will enjoy fresh seafood.
All-inclusive hotels may accommodate Indian-themed nights or custom vegetarian dishes.
Cultural Etiquette
Eat with your right hand, and wash hands before/after meals — this aligns well with Indian customs.
During Ramadan, avoid eating or drinking in public during daylight hours out of respect.
Egyptians are very hospitable — you might be offered food while visiting. Accept politely or decline respectfully.
Packing List for Indian Food Lovers
Ready Meals: MTR, Haldiram’s, Poha, Upma.
Dry Snacks: Thepla, khakra, sev, murmura, roasted peanuts.
Tea/Coffee: Instant coffee, masala chai powder, tea bags.
Condiments: Pickle sachets, dry chutneys, small masala packets.
Helpful Arabic Phrases
Useful Travel Apps
Google Translate – Arabic ↔ English.
HappyCow – Finds vegetarian/vegan restaurants nearby.
Google Maps / TripAdvisor – Reviews and filters for cuisine types.
Zomato Egypt – Some listings for Cairo and Alexandria.
Foods to Be Cautious About
Unpasteurized dairy products or cheese from local markets.
Tap water – avoid for drinking or rinsing produce.
Raw salads from unknown eateries.
Dishes labeled vegetarian but made with animal fat or cooked in meat broth.
