Cilantro Cafe
About
Cilantro Cafe offers weary traveling families a comfortable respite in bustling Mohandessin with its dedicated kids' menu and healthy meal options that cater to even picky eaters. Popular with Cairo locals, this welcoming spot provides a clean, air-conditioned environment where parents can relax over quality coffee while children enjoy familiar favorites in a safe, family-oriented atmosphere.
Highlights
- ✓Dedicated kids' menu with child-friendly portions and familiar options
- ✓Healthy meal choices including fresh salads, smoothies, and lighter fare
- ✓Air-conditioned, clean environment perfect for escaping Cairo's heat
- ✓Welcoming staff accustomed to serving families with young children
- ✓Reliable WiFi for families needing to check maps or connect with home
Pro Tips
- 1.Visit during off-peak hours (mid-afternoon between 2-4pm) to avoid the lunch and evening rush when local families crowd the cafe.
- 2.Ask for a table near the back or corner areas where kids can move around more freely without disturbing other diners.
- 3.The cafe accepts credit cards, but carry some Egyptian pounds for small tips, as tipping is customary in Egypt (10-15% is standard).
- 4.Don't hesitate to ask staff to adjust spice levels in dishes, as Egyptian cuisine can be flavorful and staff are accommodating to children's preferences.
- 5.Use this as a convenient pit stop between sightseeing in Cairo, as Mohandessin is centrally located and the cafe offers clean restroom facilities.
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings (9-11am) or mid-afternoons are ideal when the cafe is less crowded. Avoid Friday afternoons and evenings when local families typically dine out after prayers, making wait times longer.
What to Know
Prices are budget-friendly with most items under 200 Egyptian pounds (approximately $6-8 USD). The cafe is located in a modern neighborhood with taxi and Uber access readily available, though street parking can be challenging during peak hours.
Seasonal Notes
Open year-round. Summer months (June to August) see more families using the cafe as a cool refuge from extreme heat. Consider visiting during Egypt's pleasant winter season (November to March) when you can enjoy the full Cairo experience.
More Activities Near Mohandessin
Beano's Cafe
Beano's Cafe is a beloved family hangout in Cairo's Mohandessin neighborhood, offering a rare combination of quality cafe fare and dedicated children's play space. Parents can relax with Egyptian coffee or light meals while kids burn energy in the on-site playground and participate in organized activities, making it an ideal spot to recharge during busy sightseeing days.
Mohandessin Cultural Center
Mohandessin Cultural Center provides a welcoming space for families to engage with Egyptian arts and culture through hands-on workshops and classes. This community hub offers children the opportunity to explore creative activities like painting, crafts, and music while experiencing local culture in a safe, family-oriented environment. It's an excellent way for visiting families to connect with Cairo's artistic community beyond the typical tourist sites.
Nile Street Playground
Nile Street Playground offers a welcome respite for families exploring Cairo, featuring modern play equipment and shaded areas perfect for escaping the city heat. This well-maintained community playground provides a safe, clean environment where children can burn off energy while parents relax in the shade, making it an ideal break during sightseeing adventures in Mohandessin.
The Hole in the Wall
The Hole in the Wall is a beloved local ice cream parlor in Mohandessin that offers families a sweet escape from Cairo's heat. With creative flavor combinations, comfortable seating areas perfect for lingering, and a welcoming atmosphere, it's an ideal spot to treat the kids after a day of sightseeing or just to experience authentic Egyptian ice cream culture.