ActivityFoodLocalCulture

What to Eat in Hurghada

Beyond the all-inclusive buffet. From fresh Fish Market grills to the hidden street food souls of El Dahar.

Difficulty

Easy

Timing

All day

Cost

$ - $$$

Who it's for

Foodies, families, and anyone who wants to taste the real Egypt.

What to bring

AppetiteHand sanitizerCash (EGP)Humility

Operator Selection Checklist

  • Look for the "Daily Catch" displayed on ice
  • High local turnover is the best seal of quality
  • Transparent pricing (menus should have prices)
  • Traditional tea served after the meal (the local way)

The Culinary Landscape

Hurghada’s food scene is split between the polished Marina, the bustling Sheraton Road (Sakala), and the authentic Old Town (El Dahar). You can eat a multi-course seafood feast for the price of a burger back home, or find the perfect 10-EGP falafel sandwich late at night.

What & Where to Eat

Sakala Seafood Grills

Sakala Seafood Grills

The heart of Hurghada’s seafood scene. Fresh catch from the morning, grilled with lemon, garlic, and secret spices.

  • Grilled Sea Bass (Singary style)
  • Calamari Tajine
  • Fresh Baby Shrimp
The Egyptian Breakfast

The Egyptian Breakfast

The fuel of the nation. Best found in the early mornings in El Dahar or Sakala side streets.

  • Ful Medames (Fava beans)
  • Fresh Ta’meya (Falafel)
  • Aish Baladi (Fresh bread)
Marina Waterfront Dining

Marina Waterfront Dining

Polished, breezy, and perfect for sunset. A mix of high-end Egyptian fusion and international favorites.

  • Grilled Octopus
  • Egyptian Meze platters
  • Seafood Risotto
El Dahar Koshary

El Dahar Koshary

The ultimate comfort food. Layers of pasta, rice, lentils, and chickpeas topped with spicy tomato sauce and crispy onions.

  • Extra crispy onions
  • Lemon-vinegar "Da’ah"
  • Spicy chili oil
Traditional Ahwas (Cafes)

Traditional Ahwas (Cafes)

Where the town breathes. Low chairs, backgammon, and the scent of strong coffee in El Dahar.

  • Turkish Coffee (Mazbout)
  • Fresh Mint Tea
  • Iced Karkadeh (Hibiscus)
Late Night Shawarma

Late Night Shawarma

Bustling stands on Sheraton Road that stay open until the early hours.

  • Chicken Shawarma (extra Toum)
  • Mixed Meat Wraps
  • Tahini dip
The Fish Market Pick-n-Grill

The Fish Market Pick-n-Grill

An experience in itself. Buy your fish directly from the fisherman at the market and take it to a nearby local grill.

  • Red Snapper
  • Jumbo Prawns
  • Ask for Egyptian salad on the side
Mamsha Dessert Spots

Mamsha Dessert Spots

Sweet endings on the El Mamsha promenade. Traditional Egyptian pastries and modern ice cream.

  • Om Ali (Bread pudding)
  • Hot Basbousa
  • Kunafa with cream
Fresh Juice Stands

Fresh Juice Stands

Vibrant, colorful stalls on nearly every corner. The best way to rehydrate in the heat.

  • Sugarcane (Asab)
  • Pure Mango Juice
  • Pomegranate (seasonal)
Family-Friendly Grills

Family-Friendly Grills

Casual, loud, and welcoming spots in Sakala where kids are treated like royalty.

  • Kofta & Kebab skewers
  • Grilled Chicken
  • Plenty of fries & Tehina
Bedouin Canyons Tea

Bedouin Canyons Tea

The taste of the desert. Sage-infused tea brewed over camel-thorn embers in the mountains.

  • Hot Sage Tea (Marmaraya)
  • Bedouin flatbread
  • Smoky embers aroma
Sahl Hasheesh Fine Dining

Sahl Hasheesh Fine Dining

For a special night out south of the city. Elegant plazas and upscale Mediterranean cuisine.

  • Filet Mignon
  • Lobster Bisque
  • Local Red Sea wines

Respect the Vibe

"Drink bottled water: Avoid tap water, even for brushing teeth if you’re sensitive."

"Eat where it’s busy: High turnover is the best safety guarantee."

"Ramadan awareness: During the fasting month, many local spots close during the day and open with a feast at sunset."

"Tipping (Baksheesh): 10-15% is standard for good service in restaurants."

Book Smart Tip

For the most authentic experience, head to El Dahar for breakfast and the Marina for dinner. Always agree on fish prices by weight before they grill it.

Questions about What to Eat in Hurghada

Is street food safe in Hurghada?↓
Generally yes, if you go where it's busy. High turnover means fresh ingredients. Stick to bottled water.
Where is the best seafood?↓
The Fish Market in Sakkala for the experience, or established spots like Star Fish for comfort.
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On this page

  • The Culinary Landscape
  • What & Where to Eat
  • Safety & Local Respect
  • Book Smart Tip
  • Common Questions