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

Image via Monica Magdy

Step into Odoriko, the first of its kind in Cairo, and you’re instantly whisked away to Japan, not just through the food but through every detail of the space. Located at Arkan Plaza, Sheikh Zayed, it was inspired by their original restaurant abroad. The decor is a soft symphony of beiges, natural wood, and organic forms. It’s serene, warm, and sophisticated, the perfect match for the culinary experience ahead.

We popped in last week during their soft launch, and what a treat it was. The menu promised a contemporary twist on traditional Japanese flavours, and Odoriko delivered!

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We kicked things off with the Wasabi Calamari (220 EGP) — a crisp, golden start with the perfect kick of heat and delicate seafood flavour.

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Accompanying it was the Reef & Beef Gyoza (230 EGP), filled with beef and shrimp in soft bedding, topped with crispy noodles and drenched in soy sauce, adding to the taste that simply exploded in a symphony of flavours with each bite.

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Then came the showstopper: the Big Catch Sushi Platter (1400 EGP). A colourful array of raw and fried sushi that was so fresh it practically melted on the tongue. The fusion of flavours was spot on — not overpowering, just enough to keep every bite exciting.

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Then came a surprise favourite: the Loaded Kimchi Fries (260 EGP). Now, we didn’t expect to fall in love with fries at a Japanese spot, but trust us; these were at the next level. Think crispy golden fries smothered in a rich, spicy kimchi sauce, with soft pieces of kimchi stirred through. Each bite had that perfect contrast: crunchy outside and soft inside, with a spicy zing that kept us reaching back for more. The Pulled Beef Pao (290 EGP) was another standout. Soft steamed buns filled with tender beef, each bite was juicy, flavour-packed, and felt like a little escape to a Tokyo street market right in the heart of Sheikh Zayed.

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We also tried two noodle dishes: the Beef & Mushroom Udon (390 EGP) and the Chicken Stir Fry Noodles (190 EGP). Both were absolutely spot on. The noodles were cooked just right. Silky, firm, and full of bounce, with meat and vegetables, enveloped in savoury sauces that were rich without being heavy—comfort food done with flair.

To sip? We kept it simple with a Peach Iced Tea (160 EGP), but this wasn’t your average brew. Served the Japanese way, it was a refreshing blend of peach, lemon, mint, and passionfruit — the perfect companion to our flavour-packed feast. Though their drinks menu has unlimited options from boba tea, coffee, matcha, and your typical iced and hot drinks, whatever you desire, you surely will find it there!

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And then, dessert. A sweet ending to the perfect dinner. The Matchamisu (260 EGP) was a genius twist on the classic tiramisu — matcha-soaked ladyfingers layered with mascarpone cream and topped with matcha jelly. Not too sweet, not too earthy — just pure bliss in every spoonful. We also couldn’t resist the Japanese Cheesecake (220 EGP), which was soft, airy, and had that delicate jiggle we love. A drizzle of caramel added the perfect finish, cooling the spice from dinner with a gentle sweetness.

After witnessing the hype of Odoriko ourselves, it is the kind of place that’s going to have queues out the door, and for good reason. Whether you’re after sushi, noodles, bao, or just a cosy vibe with standout dishes, it’s a must-visit for food lovers looking for something fresh, exciting, and truly delicious. They are open every day from 4 pm, and for reservations, send a DM to their Instagram page.