Best Restaurants in Red Sea 2025
Explore the culinary scene of Red Sea - from local favorites to fine dining.
The Red Sea Governorate is Egypt's premier coastal destination, stretching over 1,200km along the Red Sea coast and offering world-class diving, pristine coral reefs, and luxury beach resorts. From the bustling resort hub of Hurghada to the unspoiled shores of Marsa Alam, this governorate combines natural wonders with modern amenities. The region attracts millions of visitors annually seeking underwater adventures, desert safaris, and sun-soaked relaxation.
Must-Try Dishes
These iconic dishes define the culinary identity of Red Sea.
Traditional Cuisine
Red Sea's cuisine reflects its rich cultural heritage. Ask locals for their favorite dishes and recommendations for authentic dining experiences.
Local Street Food
Street vendors offer affordable and authentic local flavors. Look for busy stalls with high turnover for the freshest options.
Complete Food Guide
100+ restaurants, local recipes, and dining recommendations for Red Sea.
Top Restaurants
Our handpicked recommendations for the best dining experiences.
Moby Dick Restaurant
Moby Dick is a Hurghada institution, one of the oldest and most beloved restaurants in the city, serving fresh Red Sea fish and seafood in a relaxed setting near the marina. The daily catch includes grouper, red snapper, calamari, and prawns — all grilled to order over charcoal. The open-air terrace overlooking the Hurghada marina is a wonderful spot for a leisurely dinner watching the boats return from the sea.
La Plage
La Plage is El Gouna's most romantic restaurant, set on a wooden deck above the water at Abu Tig Marina with panoramic views of the lagoon and the marina. The menu focuses on fresh Mediterranean cuisine — grilled fish, pasta, risotto, and wood-fired pizza — using high-quality imported and local ingredients. The cocktail menu is excellent and the wine list features bottles from Italy, France, and Lebanon.
Abu Khadeiga
Abu Khadeiga is the local legend of Hurghada's Ad-Dahar neighborhood, a no-frills Egyptian restaurant serving authentic local food to workers, fishermen, and budget travelers since the 1980s. The menu includes koshary (Egypt's national dish of rice, lentils, and pasta), foul medames, grilled chicken, and fresh bread from the wood-fired oven. The prices are absurdly low, the portions generous, and the food genuinely delicious.
Jokers Restaurant El Gouna
Jokers is one of El Gouna's most popular and lively restaurants, set in the heart of the downtown area near the central square. The restaurant serves a broad menu of burgers, pasta, seafood, Egyptian dishes, and salads in a convivial atmosphere popular with expats, visitors, and local El Gouna residents. The terrace is particularly pleasant in the evening and the cocktail menu is extensive.
Kiki's Restaurant
Kiki's is El Gouna's most intimate fine dining experience, a small French-influenced restaurant tucked in the lagoon-side development with tables overlooking the water. The menu changes seasonally and focuses on classical French techniques with Red Sea fish and locally sourced produce. The duck confit, rack of lamb, and fish meuniere are outstanding. Reservations are essential — the restaurant has only 30 covers.
Papillon Restaurant
Papillon is a popular open-air restaurant at the Abu Tig Marina in El Gouna, known for its reliably good food, fair prices, and excellent waterfront location. The menu covers all bases from pasta and pizza to fresh fish and Egyptian mezze. It is particularly popular for lunch, when the marina terrace is buzzing with returning kite surfers, divers, and day-trippers.
Little Buddha Hurghada
Little Buddha is the most glamorous restaurant and bar in Hurghada, housed in a spectacular multi-level venue with a giant golden Buddha statue and theatrical Asian-inspired decor. The menu spans Japanese sushi and sashimi, Thai curries, Vietnamese spring rolls, and fusion dishes that blend Asian flavors with Red Sea ingredients. The cocktail bar is exceptional and the DJ atmosphere makes this the perfect night out in Hurghada.
Elysees Restaurant
Elysees at the Steigenberger Al Dau Beach Hotel is Hurghada's premier hotel fine dining experience, offering beautifully prepared international and Egyptian dishes in an elegant beachfront setting. The kitchen is headed by European-trained Egyptian chefs who excel at both classical European cooking and refined presentations of Egyptian cuisine. The seafood mezze and grilled fish are highlights.
Restaurants by Cuisine
Find restaurants that match your taste preferences.
Seafood Cuisine
Moby Dick Restaurant
Sea Horse Restaurant
Mediterranean Cuisine
La Plage
Egyptian Cuisine
Abu Khadeiga
Fares Restaurant
Oriental Night Restaurant
International/Mediterranean Cuisine
Jokers Restaurant El Gouna
Casa del Mar Restaurant
French/European Cuisine
Kiki's Restaurant
International/Seafood Cuisine
Papillon Restaurant
Captain's Inn Hurghada
Le Meridien Beach Restaurant
Orca Restaurant Shagra
Street Food & Markets
The best local flavors at affordable prices.
Street Food Tips
- Look for stalls with high turnover - fresh food and local favorites
- Watch how locals eat - they know the best spots
- Check that food is cooked fresh in front of you
- Carry small bills for easier transactions
- Ask about ingredients if you have dietary restrictions
Dining Etiquette & Tips
Navigate the local food scene like a pro.
Tipping practices vary - check local customs. In many places, service charge is included in the bill.
Restaurants may close between lunch and dinner. Plan meals around local dining hours.
Learn a few food-related phrases in the local language - it enhances the dining experience.
Popular restaurants may not take reservations - arrive early or be prepared to wait.
Cash is often preferred at local restaurants and street food stalls.
Food Budget Guide
What to expect at different price points.
Taste the Best of Red Sea
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