Koshari is Egypt's beloved national dish and Koshari Abou Tarek near Tahrir Square (16 Maarouf St) is the absolute legendary spot for it. This cafeteria-style institution serves massive portions of perfectly layered lentils, rice, macaroni, and spicy tomato sauce for just 60-200 EGP. The local atmosphere is incredible — Packed with office workers, students, and families who've been coming here for decades.

For breakfast, hunt down a ful cart — These fava bean stalls are scattered throughout downtown Cairo. Waheed Ful Falafel Cart on Qasr al-Nil Street does the most authentic versions with fresh ta'meya (Egyptian falafel), creamy ful with olive oil and lemon, or Alexandria-style with butter and tomatoes. Pair with warm baladi bread straight from the oven for maybe 30-50 EGP total — It's filling, nutritious, and exactly what locals eat.

Skip hotel restaurants completely for authentic Egyptian flavors — They water everything down for tourist palates. The street food scene is phenomenal if you follow the local crowd rule: stick to busy places with high turnover where you see Cairenes actually eating. Empty restaurants targeting tourists are red flags. Look for places where the owner is actively cooking and locals are lined up during meal times.

Pro tip from my Korean perspective: Egyptian cuisine shares surprising similarities with Korean temple food — Lots of legumes, fermented flavors, and communal eating styles. The spice levels can be intense, so start mild and work your way up to the proper Egyptian heat levels.