These 9 Ramadan hotspots are your ticket to great food, peak vibes, and at least one dramatic tanoura performance.
No one truly grasps the power of Ramadan tents. Sure, some call them festive dining spots, but let’s be real—they’re your ultimate Ramadan escape. You dodge family iftars where your aunt cross-examines your life choices like a court hearing, avoid the post-meal dishwashing trap, and, most importantly, have a neutral zone to meet that one person who ghosted you for seven months but suddenly resurfaces with a “yalla neftar youm ma’ ba’d?” text. Plus, you get endless food, over-the-top décor, and a guy spinning in circles for 20 minutes without passing out. Best of all? No one judges when you order a second kunafa—if anything, they respect it.
The funny thing is, despite the name, not all of these "tents" are actual tents. Some are full-blown palaces because in Egypt, we break our fast in venues fancy enough to host international peace talks. Some scream luxury, others turn into full-on concerts, and a few will have you wondering if you came for sohour or accidentally walked into a live reenactment of 1001 Nights.
Whether you’re looking to catch up with friends, impress your boss at a corporate iftar, or just enjoy a guilt-free meal without explaining your entire life story to nosy relatives, we’ve got you covered. Here are the top Ramadan tents you need to check out this year.
Babbo’s | West El Balad
Babbo’s is here for the vibes. Located in West El Balad, this spot blends authentic Egyptian street food with a modern twist. Less extravagant chandeliers, more late-night storytelling and loud laughter over foul and ta’ameya. The perfect mix of real and a little extra flair.
El Mashrafia | Grand Egyptian Museum
Curated by Fairmont Nile City, so you already know it’s top-tier. Located at the Grand Egyptian Museum, El Mashrafia offers iftar and sohour with unreal pyramid views. This is where you go if you want your meal with a side of “Wow, our ancestors really built that with their bare hands?” Just be warned—if you bring someone who just discovered the pyramids, prepare for a meal-long deep dive into wild conspiracy theories about “the secret energy of the Sphinx.”
Sawa | Muhammad Ali Palace
Step into history with Sawa, set in the breathtaking Muhammad Ali Palace. Picture breaking your fast surrounded by Ottoman architecture, golden chandeliers, and walls that have probably witnessed centuries of royal gossip. The setting alone makes you feel like you should be sipping karkade in a velvet robe. If you’ve ever wanted to feel like Ramadan royalty (without actually ruling anything), this is your spot.
Hakawy El Qahera | The Citadel
Back in the day, the Mamluks were invited to a feast at The Citadel by Mohamed Ali—only to realize too late that the main course was actually them. Lucky for you, the only thing getting destroyed at Hakawy El Qahera is the mountain of food on your table. With a historic backdrop, live performances, and a Ramadan spread fit for a (safe and well-fed) sultan, this is one iftar where you can relax—no dramatic plot twists or ambushes included.
Meshmesha | South 90 St., New Cairo
Ramadan meets cool, artsy cousin energy at Meshmesha, where the setup is effortlessly laid-back but the food is seriously good. Whether you’re here for iftar or suhoor, expect an atmosphere so cozy, you’ll start planning your next visit before you even finish your meal.
Tabali x The Ark | The Ark East & West
Your favorite Egyptian comfort food but make it gourmet. Tabali x The Ark takes everything you love about local flavours and levels it up in a setting that’s modern, stylish, and dangerously photogenic. Basically, this is where you go when you want an iftar that feels both homey and high-end at the same time.
El Saraya Tent | Abdeen Palace
Breaking your fast in Abdeen Palace? Casual. El Saraya Tent brings all the grandeur of one of Egypt’s most iconic landmarks, minus the political drama. With an atmosphere so extravagant, you’ll start questioning whether you should be discussing serious state affairs over your sambousek—or just focusing on how many plates of fattah you can handle.
Layalina | Baron Palace & Pyramids Sphinx
Ramadan is already magical, but having iftar at Baron Palace? That’s just showing off. Layalina transforms one of Egypt’s most fascinating landmarks into an Arabian Nights fantasy, complete with candlelit tables, plush cushions, and a menu that’ll make you forget you swore to "eat light" this year. The only thing missing is a genie granting unlimited kunafa wishes (though, honestly, the waiter might if you ask nicely).
