Bon Appetit

Casablanca Sweet Restaurant
A low-key café that packs in the crowds with its extensive list of savoury fiteer (Egyptian-style pizza) and French-style crêpes – the latter are perfect for anyone with an insatiable sweet tooth. Sharia Tewfik Khashba, +20 88 234 2727

Restaurant Sonesta
One of the few proper, sit-down restaurants in the city and good for Lebanese mezze or Egyptian kebabs. Sharia An-Nour, +20 88 234 2778

Shayk Sheperd Akbar
Egyptian standards, including falafel, charcoal-grilled meats and houmous, are served up in generous portions at this no-frills neighbourhood eatery. Sharia Saad Zaghloul, +20 88 234 2727

Suitcase Fillers

Assiutel Hotel
The gift store at this hotel boasts a fine selection of Egyptian goodies, including textiles, jewellery and pharaonic paraphernalia. Sharia At-Thawra, +20 88 231 2121

At Your Leisure

Banana and dates
Bargain with the felucca captains on the banks of the Nile before setting sail for Banana Island, a pleasant retreat from the congestion of the city. Stock up on picnic supplies beforehand, especially if you are lucky enough to be in the area during date season.