Sequoia

Sequoia is one of Cairo's most celebrated riverside dining destinations, occupying a prime spot on Abou El Feda Street in Zamalek with sweeping views over the Nile. The restaurant's multi-tiered terraces cascade toward the water, shaded by mature trees and lush tropical plants that lend the space its name and a sense of leafy seclusion unusual in the Egyptian capital. The Mediterranean and Lebanese menu draws on the cuisines of both shores of the sea, with grilled sea bass, mixed grill platters, and beef tenderloin among the signature dishes that have earned Sequoia its reputation for confident, crowd-pleasing cooking. Starters lean into the Levantine tradition — cold mezze plates of hummus, mutabbal, and tabbouleh appear alongside hot kibbeh and grilled halloumi — while main courses favour well-sourced proteins cooked over high heat. The dining room character shifts across the restaurant's levels: the lower terrace closest to the water is the most romantic, while upper seating works well for groups. The beverage programme is strong by Cairo standards, with imported wines, cocktails, and a full bar service that keeps the place lively until the early hours. Dress is smart-casual; the crowd skews towards Cairo's cosmopolitan professional class and well-heeled tourists. Dinner reservations are strongly advised, particularly on Thursday and Friday evenings when waits without a booking can exceed an hour. Lunch service is more relaxed and tables are easier to secure on weekdays.