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Cairo's nightlife scene is certainly cool, but most locations defy easy definition, moving seamlessly from early evening cocktail lounge to mid-evening eatery to late-night dance venue. The clientele is a cosmopolitan mix of wealthy Egyptians, foreign residents and workers, and a grab bag of international visitors. In summer, Cairo is a great playground for visitors from Gulf countries, many of whom come to enjoy the city's clubs and bars. Popular clubs usually close around 2 am, though some close earlier.
Belly dancing, which was once a favorite performing art, is falling out of favor with both Egyptians and visitors. Your best bet if you want to see tame versions of these once risqué performances is to visit one of the major hotels in the city. Belly dancers will normally gyrate for 15 or 30 minutes nightly at their signature Middle Eastern/Lebanese restaurants. At this writing, only a couple of hotels still offer dancers.
International coffee chains have arrived in Egypt, so there's no need to miss out on your favorite caffeine hit. However, Cairo has its own café culture, where you can be assured of a freshly brewed espresso or cappuccino, though you'll find that Egyptians will more often take tea.
Locals gather on this beautiful terrace, on the eighth floor of a 1930s family-run hotel, to escape the city’s chaotic streets and to take in the incredible skyline views. Staffers are quick on their feet and friendly, and there's a wide range of alcoholic and nonalcoholic drinks. The indoor area, with hardwood floors and large windows, is the place to be when it's chilly.
This beautiful, 100-year old villa has a selection of restaurants, all with bars, that make it a go-to place for a night out. Enjoy Latin dishes at El Barrio, pizza at Il Divino, Middle Eastern at Carlos, sushi at The Smokery, and meat dishes at OX. Reservations at any of them are a good idea.
Founded in 1908, Café Riche was once the social headquarters for members of Cairo's theater and literary communities. The historic ambience makes it a great place to enjoy a relaxed drink and, perhaps a French-influenced Egyptian grill dish from a menu that has changed very little in more than a century.
This quintessential local bar has been the go-to spot for leftist intellectuals, writers, artists, poets, and expats since the 1930s. You can sip coffee, tea, or a cold beer, all under one roof.
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