On my recent journey through Egypt, I explored these dessert havens and discovered their unique stories. Let me take you on a flavorful journey through 14 of Egypt’s most beloved dessert shops and patisseries that have stood the test of time.
A Sweet Legacy: 14 Historic Dessert Shops in Egypt
1. Groppi (Founded in 1891, Cairo)
Located at the heart of Downtown Cairo, Groppi is an Egyptian institution. Established by Swiss chocolatier Giacomo Groppi, this patisserie became famous for its chocolates, ice creams, and cakes.
- Don’t Miss: Their iconic chocolates and éclairs.
- Location: Talaat Harb Square, Cairo.
2. Simonds (Founded in 1898, Cairo)
Simonds is a blend of tradition and creativity. Known for its fusion of Oriental and Western desserts, this patisserie has been a favorite for generations.
- Top Picks: Mille-feuille and kunafa cups.
- Branches: Zamalek, Dokki, and Downtown Cairo.
3. Trianon (Founded in 1905, Alexandria)
This elegant café brings a slice of Alexandria’s golden age with its European-inspired desserts. Its cozy interiors and artisanal bakes make it a must-visit.
- Signature Items: Cheese pies and fruit tarts.
- Location: Saad Zaghloul Street, Alexandria.
4. Tseppas (Founded in 1912, Cairo)
Tseppas combines heritage and modernity, offering a wide array of traditional and contemporary sweets. It remains a staple in Egyptian celebrations.
- Try This: Petit fours and basbousa.
- Branches: Multiple locations in Cairo.
5. El Malky (Founded in 1917, Cairo)
Specializing in dairy-based desserts, El Malky is renowned for its rice pudding and creamy desserts that are perfect for a nostalgic treat.
- Fan Favorites: Rice pudding and muhallabia.
- Location: Numerous branches in Cairo and Giza.
6. Délices (Founded in 1922, Alexandria)
A hallmark of Greek-Egyptian culinary culture, Délices offers an array of cakes, pastries, and chocolates in a charming seaside location.
- Must-Try: Chocolate éclairs and baklava.
- Location: Raml Station, Alexandria.
7. Mandarine Koueider (Founded in 1928, Cairo)
This family-run patisserie introduced Egypt to the finest oriental sweets, including baklava and Turkish delights.
- Best Sellers: Pistachio baklava and kunafa rolls.
- Branches: Zamalek, Maadi, and Heliopolis.
8. Fluckiger (Founded in 1930, Alexandria)
Known for its "clo-clo" cone-shaped ice cream, Fluckiger is an Alexandrian favorite that continues to innovate while preserving its rich legacy.
- What to Order: Clo-clo ice cream and meringue pies.
- Location: Multiple branches across Alexandria.
9. Gianola (Founded in 1939, Port Said)
This Swiss-Egyptian patisserie has charmed Port Said residents for decades with its classic European pastries and fresh bread.
- Must-Try: Tiramisu and croissants.
- Location: Downtown Port Said.
10. A L’Americaine (Founded in 1943, Cairo)
Born as a budget-friendly alternative to Groppi, A L’Americaine offers cakes, biscuits, and traditional Egyptian sweets.
- Don’t Miss: Petit fours and basbousa.
- Branches: Downtown Cairo.
11. El Domiaty (Founded in 1950, Damietta)
El Domiaty blends generations of family recipes to serve some of the best oriental sweets in Egypt.
- Top Picks: Kunafa with cream and basbousa.
- Branches: Damietta, Cairo, and other cities.
12. Patisserie Alexandra Hamos (Founded in 1957, Alexandria)
This patisserie brings European elegance to Alexandria with its fine cakes and pastries, served in a cozy setting.
- Recommended: Fruit cakes and macarons.
- Location: Ramleh Station, Alexandria.
13. Saber (Founded in 1960, Alexandria)
Saber began as a humble dessert shop and has since become a household name for winter treats and unique ice cream offerings.
- Fan Favorites: Rice pudding and winter ice cream.
- Location: Several outlets across Alexandria.
14. Manna (Founded in 1969, Alexandria)
This iconic patisserie has served Egyptian icons like Abdel Halim Hafez. Its traditional sweets and European pastries remain timeless.
- Try This: Mille-feuille and hazelnut cakes.
- Location: Downtown Alexandria.
FAQs About Egyptian Dessert Shops
1. Are these dessert shops suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, most of these patisseries offer vegetarian-friendly options, especially dairy-based and fruit desserts.
2. Do these shops offer takeout?
Absolutely! All these shops offer takeout, and many also provide delivery services.
3. What’s the best time to visit these dessert shops?
Evenings are usually the best time to enjoy these shops, especially for a post-dinner treat.
4. Can I find gluten-free options?
While most traditional sweets contain wheat, some shops like Mandarine Koueider may offer nut-based or dairy-only desserts that are naturally gluten-free.
Conclusion
Egypt’s historic dessert shops and patisseries are more than places to indulge in sweets; they’re cultural landmarks that tell stories of the past. Whether it’s Groppi’s Swiss chocolates or Délices’ Greek-inspired pastries, each shop offers a unique taste of Egypt’s rich heritage.
Planning a trip to Egypt? Make sure to include a stop at one (or more!) of these iconic dessert shops. Book your Egypt tour here to experience the country’s timeless flavors!
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