Tam Tam Oriental Cafe

Tam Tam Oriental Cafe is an oriental-style cafe in Naama Bay, Sharm El Sheikh, in Egypt's South Sinai Governorate. Decorated with sofas, cushions and Middle Eastern touches, it follows the model of the Egyptian ahwa, the traditional coffeehouse, adapted for the resort setting. It is a place to sit for a long time over tea, shisha and a meal rather than a quick stop, and its hours reflect that.

The menu focuses on Egyptian dishes. A mixed grill, combining kebab, kofta and chicken served with rice, salad and bread, is the listed specialty, and oriental mezze such as hummus, baba ghanoush, tabbouleh and stuffed vine leaves are common starters. Mint tea, Egyptian coffee, hibiscus and fresh juices are the main drinks, and sweets such as basbousa and kunafa often feature as desserts. Shisha in a range of flavours is served at the tables. Prices fall in the mid-range ($$) bracket for Naama Bay, and a shared grill with drinks is usually reasonable.

The atmosphere is relaxed and social, with low seating, ambient music and a steady stream of visitors from nearby hotels. There is no dress code beyond resort casual, and noise levels are moderate. The cafe is open daily from about 10:00 until 02:00, covering daytime coffee, dinner and late-night shisha. Alcohol is not the focus of oriental cafes, so visitors should expect teas, soft drinks and juices unless the venue says otherwise.

Walk-in service is normal and reservations are rarely necessary, although large groups may prefer to call ahead on busy weekend evenings in high season from October to April. The cafe's Naama Bay location is close to many hotels, which makes it an easy option for a late, unhurried evening.