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

Perched gracefully along the Nile, Tenaya in Maadi invites you to dine with a view, and it’s not just the scenery that’s worth writing home about. This newcomer to Cairo’s fine dining scene offers a refreshing mix of ambience, elevated comfort, and a menu that dances between Egyptian classics and international staples. Whether you’re a Maadi person on the hunt for a new favourite night spot or a tourist craving calm sophistication away from Cairo’s buzz, Tenaya has got you covered!

Vintage with a Touch of Luxury 

Walking into Tenaya, you’re instantly greeted by sweeping Nile views and a wide, airy outdoor seating area that’s perfect for a laid-back lunch or golden hour catch-up. But ironically, the real charm lies indoors. The interior is the perfect blend of upscale meets old-school comfort, think classic restaurant vibes dressed up in luxe textures and warm lighting. It’s the kind of place that feels fancy without being stiff like your go-to hangout just got a subtle makeover.

Starters That Set the Tone

We kicked things off with the Cilantro Lime Butter Shrimp (790 EGP) from their range of international, Greek, and Egyptian starters. The shrimp was fresh and poached in a rich butter blend, giving it a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Rather than a sharp citrus hit, the shrimp leans into a rich, buttery profile with hints of garlic, perfect for those who love comforting, mellow flavours. That said, if you’re into buttery, garlic-heavy flavours, this one’s your soulmate.

Egyptian Comfort: A Mild, Creamy Take on Chicken Sharkesya

From the Egyptian corner, we went for the Chicken Sharkesya (680 EGP), a creamy walnut sauce dish that’s mild, rich, and full of cosy flavours. The rice was fluffy and perfectly cooked, and the sauce brought a thick, almost stew-like comfort to the plate. The tender chicken allows the creamy walnut sauce to shine, making this dish a refined, understated comfort for those who appreciate subtler, home-style flavours.

A Safe Haven for Steak Lovers

We couldn’t leave without trying something from the international side, so we picked the Steak Frites, rib-eye with homemade fries and Café de Paris entrecôte sauce (1200 EGP). This dish takes you on a flavourful journey, from hearty skin-on fries to the true star: the garlicky, lime-kissed Café de Paris sauce that ties it all together beautifully.

Nile Views, Live Beats, and a Menu Worth Exploring

What Tenaya gets right is the full experience. Good music, a menu with real range, and a setting that makes you want to stay a while. It’s ideal for anyone looking to see a quieter, more peaceful side of Cairo, especially  those who want a Nile view without the touristy chaos. Tenaya’s not just another fancy restaurant; it’s the kind of place you’ll want to come back to when you don’t want to think too hard but still want to eat well.