You can’t go to El Moez Street without wandering through the alleys of the adjacent Khan el Khalili, Cairo’s most famous souk or bazaar where you will discover a 255 years old (open in1782) watering hole in the alley, possibly the world’s oldest and longest running restaurant.
Al-Fishawy, not even his family knows his first name, began by serving coffee to his friends in an alley after prayers every evening. His descendants who are keeping the tradition alive says over the years his customer base grew bigger and bigger, simply because his motive was to create a place where friends could socialize freely.
Over the years mint and anise tea were added to his informal menu, along with shishas, or water pipes, bringing to life Qahwat al-Fishawi, Fishawy’s Café, now the most renowned and monumental café in the Arab world.
“We are different from the other coffeehouses because we work to preserve the old style,” says Akram al-Fishawy, one of the café’s seventh-generation owners. “Qalnvat al-Fishawi really represents Egypt’s past.”
The Café though cramped in the noisy hub of Cairo’s wealthiest area of Islamic history and architecture, is a tradition that his heirs see equivalent to the many other historical sites of Egypt. While there be sure to shop Khan Al-Khalili which is undoubtedly one of the best markets in Egypt. Located in the historic center of Cairo, it’s an attraction for locals and tourists alike.
Its beginnings date back to the 14th century, during Egypt’s Mamluk period, when a caravanserai was set up here, the origin of the present-day bazaar. Weave your way through handicrafts, souvenirs, antiques, jewelry, carpets, food, cafés and virtually any type of product in one of its almost 1,000 stalls. You’ll also realize that this isn’t a market for tourists, as most of its visitors are locals.
Khan el-Khalili, El-Gamaleya, El Gamaliya, Cairo Governorate 4331302, Egypt
