Suez Egypt Travel Guide
Egyptian food is hearty and flavorful, with emphasis on legumes, grains, and vegetables. It has historical ties to ancient Egyptian sustenance.
Suez's harbor town status means it has always been a crossroads for goods plus residents, subtly shaping its gastronomic landscape.
Suez, on the Sea of Suez, has a strong emphasis on fresh seafood. A wide array of fish, shrimp, and calamari is available.
Seafood is often grilled, fried, or baked in flavorful sauces.
This regional seafood focus distinguishes Suez's dining from inland Egyptian cities.
A national staple, slow-cooked fava beans with olive oil, lemon, cumin, and newly baked bread. A hearty and inexpensive breakfast.
You can find it at small local eateries and street vendors.
A popular national dish. Rice, macaroni, and lentils, garnished with chickpeas, spicy tomato sauce, garlic vinegar, and crispy fried onions. A tasty vegetarian meal.
Look for specific koshary shops.
Unlike chickpea falafel, Egyptian ta'ameya uses fava beans. These deep-fried patties are crispy outside and soft inside.
Enjoy them in bread with salad as a sandwich. Find them at street food stalls.
Karkadeh (hibiscus tea), Tamarind juice, Sugarcane juice (freshly pressed), and Sahlab (warm, milky winter drink). Tea plus coffee are widely consumed.
Alcohol is available in some higher-end hotels and licensed restaurants. Suez is generally conservative, so options are limited. Local Egyptian beer (Stella, Sakara) and wine are available.
These are limited in Suez city. Some upscale hotels might have sophisticated eating experiences with foreign menus.
Several local restaurants specialize in Egyptian cuisine and fresh seafood. These are pleasant and are a good deal.
Abundant throughout the city, especially in market areas. Authentic flavors at very budget-friendly prices.
Many Egyptian dishes are naturally vegetarian. Ful Medames, Koshary, and Ta'ameya are excellent choices. Vegan options are here, but confirm no animal fats or broths.
Rice-based dishes are naturally gluten-free.
Egypt is a Muslim-majority country, so most meat served is Halal. Food that follows jewish dietary laws is generally not available, possibly in specialized stores in Cairo.
Bring phrase cards with specific dietary requirements in Arabic.
Not widely available in Suez; more common in Cairo/Luxor.
Not a common tourist activity in Suez (port focus).
No major Suez-specific food festivals. Local holidays have special family meals.
Regional seafood restaurant with fresh Gulf of Suez catch. A unique experience.
Often light, it features dishes like ful medames with bread, cheese, or eggs.
Eaten in the morning.
Typically the main meal, eaten mid-afternoon (2-4 PM). It includes meat/fish, rice, vegetables.
A substantial meal of the day.
A lighter meal, usually eaten later in the evening (after 8 PM).
Basbousa (semolina cake), Konafa (shredded phyllo pastry), Baklava, Roz bel Laban (rice pudding).
Always verify restaurant hygiene. Look for clean premises plus lively kitchens.
Always drink bottled water to avoid stomach upset. Ensure seals are intact.
Be wary of uncooked street food, raw salads, and unpeeled fruits.
Hydrate regularly, especially in warm weather. Carry a use a reusable bottle and fill it up with bottled water.
Dehydration can contribute to feeling unwell.
Pack a basic first-aid kit with remedies for common travel ailments like an upset stomach or indigestion.
Be prepared for minor health issues.
During The month of ramadan, be mindful that many restaurants adjust their hours, often opening only after sundown for Iftar.
Bread (Aish Baladi) is a staple. It often accompanies every meal. Use it to scoop up dips and stews.
Locals are known for their hospitality. If invited for food or drink, accepting, even briefly, is a sign of respect.
When dining in Suez, a basic grasp of local customs enhances your experience.
