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5 Best Places to Eat in Alexandria (2026)

Ranked by price band, cuisine type, and dine-in experience. From budget koshary counters under EGP 50 to waterfront seafood spots, led by a century-old fish restaurant on the Corniche.

Stanley Beach in Alexandria with turquoise waves, beachgoers, sun umbrellas, and the iconic Stanley Bridge under a clear blue sky

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The 5 best places to eat in Alexandria, ranked: from desserts to seafood to grills
Frequently Asked Questions

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Fish Market tops the list, with fresh catches priced from around 80 EGP per portion and a straight shot to the Corniche. Kadoura runs a close second, drawing locals for its no-frills grilled seafood and faster table turnover. Spend a little more at Samakmak for a sit-down experience with harbour views. Budget eaters chasing street bites should head to the Downtown Alexandria stalls instead.

The 5 best places to eat in Alexandria, ranked: from desserts to seafood to grills

Mohamed Ahmed Restaurant
A local institution since 1950, Mohamed Ahmed serves Egyptian breakfast and street food that Alexandrians have eaten for generations. The ful medames and falafel platters cost under 50 EGP each. Seats roughly 80 across two cramped but lively floors on Shekh Ali Tantawi Street in the Mansheyya district. Arrive before 9 a.m. on weekends or expect a queue stretching onto the pavement. Best for: budget-first travellers who want an authentic sit-down Egyptian meal.
4.6
Under 50 EGP per dishView on map
Kadoura Fish Restaurant
Kadoura has anchored the Bahary fishing district on the Eastern Harbour since the 1950s. Pick your fish fresh from the display counter, priced by the kilogram (expect 250-500 EGP per kg depending on species), then watch it grilled or fried to order. The calamari rings and shrimp saute are consistent crowd favourites. Tables spill onto a terrace with direct sea views. Best for: groups who want the classic Alexandrian seafood-by-weight experience without a tourist markup.
4.5
250-500 EGP/kgView on map
Zephyrion Restaurant
Set on a rocky promontory in Abu Qir, about 20 kilometres east of central Alexandria, Zephyrion has served Mediterranean seafood since 1929. The mezze spread runs 8-12 small plates and is designed to be shared; a full meal for 2 averages 600-900 EGP. The terrace practically hangs over the water, and the kitchen is known for its stuffed calamari and grilled sea bass. Best for: a longer lunch outing combined with a visit to the nearby Abu Qir Bay archaeological site.
4.4
600-900 EGP for 2View on map
Sarhan Kofta & Grills
Sarhan is the go-to grill spot in the Sidi Bishr neighbourhood, pulling in locals with charcoal-cooked kofta, kebab, and whole grilled chicken. A full kofta plate with rice, salad, and bread costs around 120-180 EGP. The kitchen turns over orders quickly, making it practical for a meal between beach visits; Sidi Bishr beach sits less than 5 minutes on foot. Best for: families and beach-day groups who want generous, fast grilled-meat portions at a predictable price.
4.3
120-180 EGP per plateView on map
Venous Ice Cream
Venous has operated on the Alexandria Corniche since 1953 and is the city's most referenced dessert stop. The signature is a dense, creamy ice cream served in a cone or cup, starting at 30 EGP. Over 20 flavours rotate seasonally; mango and pistachio sell out fastest in summer. The parlour seats around 40 inside and draws long queues on summer evenings between 7 and 10 p.m. Best for: a post-dinner stroll treat or an afternoon pick-me-up before exploring the Corniche.
4.7
From 30 EGPView on map

Frequently Asked Questions

How did you decide the ranking order?

Three factors drove the order: practical utility (transit access, proximity to key attractions), value relative to quality, and fit for a specific traveller type. Every pick on the list wins clearly on at least one factor; the top-ranked entries score well across all three. The Journeys editorial team weighted real traveller priorities over marketing reputation.

Which pick suits solo travellers versus families?

Solo travellers typically get the most from picks with strong walkability, lively food scenes, and mid-range price points, usually under $150 per night. Families benefit most from picks that offer larger room configurations, proximity to green space, and easy transport links. Check the 'best for' tag on each entry for a quick match.

When is the best time to book to get the lowest prices?

Book 6 to 8 weeks out for the best availability and rates at most properties on this list. Prices climb sharply during local festivals and public holidays. Checking rates midweek versus weekends often reveals a 15 to 25 percent difference, so flexibility on arrival day pays off.

Are there good alternatives if my top pick is sold out?

Yes. Each pick on this list has at least one comparable alternative within the same neighbourhood or a short transit ride away. Look at the comparison table included in the article for side-by-side pricing and key attributes, then work down the ranked list until you find an open option that matches your priorities.