The Definitive Guide to Living in the Capital , Cairo , Egypt

Amidst the tall, bushy trees of Maadi streets is a hidden gem that is cornered between greenery, Lokali is one of the up and coming destinations that serve American-fusion dishes with a few Egyptian twists, hence its name, which makes their creations as unique as their concept. Lokali is mostly known for their breakfast or brunch hours, when they’re the busiest. However, their menu is extensive and includes many creative items that aren’t just untraditional but delicious as well! 

Entering the restaurant, which is mostly outdoors with a few tables inside, there’s a garden to the left, where you can sit and enjoy the weather, which is exactly what we did. We began our brunch experience by ordering a Hibiscus Iced tea (EGP 37) and a make-your-own cocktail, so we went with strawberry banana (EGP 47). The iced tea was tart and refreshing, and the smoothie was extremely fresh and balanced.

We then decided to get started with their Halloumi Fries (EGP 95), which were topped with date molasses, cilantro sauce, and sweet pickled radish. The breading of the fries was very flavourful, and the halloumi was the texture it should be, with the cilantro sauce and the molasses giving the overall dish a great balance. 

We also ordered one of their top dishes, the Slow Cooked Brisket Sandwich (EGP 185), topped with apple slaw, cheese sauceand pickles. The brisket didn’t need the toppings; it was juicy and well seasoned, not to mention its tender texture that pulled apart easily. For the main dishes, we picked the Burrata Pizza (EGP 155) and the Turkey Schnitzel (EGP 180).

The pizza was cooked in their brick oven, which resulted in a charred crust. While the pizza wasn’t as authentic, it had a thin dough base and a soft, pillowy crust. The burrata melted all over the pizza, giving it a break in texture and a great flavour that complimented the acidic tomato sauce. The turkey schnitzel was out of this world, the cutlet was thicker than expected, but the breading was crispy and flavourful, drizzled with tomato salsa and melted burrata cheese. However, the red sauce fettuccine side dish was a jarring contrast to the turkey; it was mushy, indicating it was overcooked, and it was too dry and bland. 

Last but definitely not least, we had the Warm Apple Pie (EGP 90) for dessert, and it was everything we hoped it to be. The pie crust was crumbly and buttery, and the apple sauce was tart and just the right amount of sweet. They served the pie with their homemade vanilla ice cream with nuts. The combination of the ice cream and the pie was phenomenal, and it gave their apple pie an edge, and balanced the sugar levels of the dish. 

Our experience at Lokali was definitely positive, the waiters were very friendly and happily helped us with their suggestions, and the service was excellent.