Beyond the shimmering turquoise waters and golden sands that define Hurghada, lies a vibrant culinary scene waiting to tantalize your taste buds. As a premier destination for 2026, Hurghada offers more than just breathtaking Red Sea diving and sun-soaked relaxation; it presents an authentic gateway to the rich flavors of Egypt. If you’re wondering what the best food in Hurghada is, prepare for a delicious dive into local traditions, fresh ingredients, and unforgettable dishes that tell a story with every bite. From bustling street stalls to charming seaside restaurants, your Hurghada foodie adventure is about to begin!
Savoring the Soul of Egypt: Iconic Staples & Street Eats
No culinary journey through Egypt, and certainly not Hurghada, would be complete without experiencing the iconic Koshary. Often hailed as Egypt’s national comfort food, this seemingly simple dish is a masterclass in texture and flavor, bringing together a symphony of carbohydrates and savory goodness. It’s a must-try for any visitor eager to taste the true essence of local Egyptian cuisine.
Egyptian Koshary: The Ultimate Comfort Food
Imagine a harmonious blend of rice, macaroni, and lentils, topped with a zesty tomato sauce, garlic vinegar, and a generous sprinkle of crispy fried onions and chickpeas. That’s the magic of Egyptian Koshary. It’s hearty, incredibly satisfying, and uniquely Egyptian. Each component is cooked separately and then combined to create a layered dish that is both complex and comforting. You’ll find Koshary everywhere, from dedicated Koshary shops to humble street vendors, serving it up fresh and steaming. A large, filling bowl can typically cost anywhere from 20-50 EGP, making it an incredibly budget-friendly and delicious meal. Lunchtime is when Koshary truly shines, offering a perfect mid-day refuel.
Ful Medames & Ta’ameya: The Breakfast of Champions
Beyond Koshary, two other titans dominate the Egyptian culinary landscape, especially during breakfast hours: Ful Medames and Ta’ameya. Ful, stewed fava beans, is the backbone of the Egyptian breakfast. Slow-cooked overnight in a massive copper pot (called a ‘qeddra’), the beans become incredibly tender and are typically served mashed or whole, drizzled with olive oil, a squeeze of lemon, and often seasoned with cumin and chili. You can enjoy it plain with fresh ‘eish baladi’ (local pita bread) or as a sandwich.
Accompanying Ful, or sometimes taking center stage, is Ta’ameya – the Egyptian version of falafel. Unlike its Levantine counterpart made with chickpeas, Ta’ameya is crafted from ground fava beans, giving it a distinct green interior and a lighter, fluffier texture. Deep-fried to a golden crisp, these flavorful patties are usually served with tahini sauce, salad, and bread. Starting your day with Ful and Ta’ameya is a truly authentic Hurghada experience, with prices ranging from 5-20 EGP for a hearty serving.
Red Sea’s Bounty: Fresh Seafood Delights
Given Hurghada’s prime location on the Red Sea, it’s no surprise that fresh seafood Red Sea style reigns supreme here. The daily catch brings an incredible variety of fish and shellfish straight from the ocean to your plate, prepared with a simplicity that lets the natural flavors shine. This is where Hurghada truly distinguishes itself as a foodie haven for pescatarians and seafood enthusiasts alike.
Grilled Fish & Seafood Platters
Imagine succulent whole fish, perhaps a Red Sea bream, sea bass, or snapper, seasoned with a blend of garlic, cumin, and lemon, then perfectly grilled over charcoal. The result is a flaky, tender interior with a beautifully charred skin, bursting with natural flavors. Alongside, you might find platters laden with plump grilled shrimp, tender calamari, or even lobster, all cooked to perfection. Many local restaurants allow you to choose your fish directly from an iced display, ensuring peak freshness. Places like El Mina Restaurant near the marina are renowned for their exceptional seafood. Prices vary significantly based on the type and weight of seafood, but a generous fish meal typically ranges from 150-400 EGP.
Sayadeya: The Ultimate Fish & Rice Dish
For a truly traditional seafood experience, you must try Sayadeya. This fragrant and savory dish features chunks of fresh white fish (often sea bass or snapper) cooked with rice, caramelized onions, and a special blend of spices. The onions are slowly cooked until deeply browned, giving the rice a beautiful golden hue and a subtly sweet, rich flavor. It’s a comforting, wholesome meal that perfectly captures the essence of coastal Egyptian cooking. Sayadeya is often served as a main course, accompanied by a fresh green salad or tahini, and is a staple in many traditional Hurghada seafood eateries.
Beyond the Main Course: Sweet Treats & Refreshing Sips
After a savory feast, the Egyptian sweet tooth truly comes to life. Hurghada’s dessert scene is a delightful array of traditional pastries, rich in syrup, nuts, and historical recipes. And to wash it all down, look no further than Egypt’s refreshing beverage staples.
Basbousa, Baklava, and Konafa: A Symphony of Sweets
Prepare for a delightful sugar rush with Egypt’s most beloved desserts. Basbousa, a semolina cake soaked in sweet syrup, often flavored with rose water or orange blossom and topped with a single almond, is moist and incredibly fragrant. Baklava, though popular across the Middle East, has its own Egyptian charm – layers of thin filo pastry filled with nuts (pistachios, walnuts, or almonds) and drenched in syrup. Then there’s Konafa, a shredded phyllo pastry baked until golden and crisp, often filled with cream, cheese, or nuts, and similarly soaked in syrup. These indulgent treats are perfect with a cup of strong Egyptian tea or coffee and can be found in local bakeries (‘forn’) and sweet shops across Hurghada for around 10-30 EGP per piece.
Sugarcane Juice & Hibiscus Tea (Karkadeh)
For something truly refreshing, especially on a warm Hurghada day, seek out ‘Asab (sugarcane juice). Freshly pressed before your eyes, it’s a naturally sweet, earthy, and incredibly revitalizing drink. Look for street vendors with large juicing machines. Another popular thirst quencher is Karkadeh, a vibrant red hibiscus tea, served either hot or, more commonly, chilled and sweetened. It’s not only delicious but also known for its health benefits. Both offer a refreshing break from the sun and cost a mere 5-15 EGP for a glass.
Eat Like a Local: Tips for Your Hurghada Culinary Adventure
Exploring Hurghada’s culinary landscape is an adventure in itself, but a few local insights can transform your dining experience from good to extraordinary. Embrace the local culture, be adventurous with your choices, and prepare for a truly authentic taste of Egypt.
Where to Find the Best Food in Hurghada
For truly authentic and budget-friendly eats, venture away from the main tourist strips. The bustling streets around El Dahar Square (Hurghada’s old town) are a treasure trove of local eateries where you’ll find the best food in Hurghada. Don’t be afraid to try small, unassuming restaurants or even well-established street food carts. If cleanliness is a concern, look for places with a high turnover of customers – a good sign of freshness. For a more diverse and upscale experience, the New Marina offers a range of international and local restaurants, albeit at higher price points. Always ask for local recommendations; Hurghada residents are often proud to share their favorite spots.
Embracing Local Etiquette & Prices
Tipping (known as ‘baksheesh’) is customary in Egypt, usually around 5-10% in restaurants, but often a small amount is appreciated for good service in any interaction. Don’t be shy to ask for menu explanations if you’re unsure; most restaurant staff in tourist areas will have some English. While prices for local food are generally very affordable, particularly for Koshary, Ful, and Ta’ameya, seafood prices can fluctuate based on the daily catch and season. For street food, carrying small denominations of Egyptian Pounds is always useful. Enjoy the communal aspect of dining; sharing dishes is common and encouraged, allowing you to sample more of Hurghada’s incredible flavors.
From the hearty embrace of Egyptian Koshary to the exquisite bounty of fresh seafood Red Sea style, Hurghada’s food scene is a vibrant tapestry of flavors waiting to be explored. It’s a journey that delights the palate, connects you with the local culture, and leaves you with memories as rich and satisfying as the dishes themselves. Forget just seeing Hurghada; truly experience it through its culinary heart.
Ready to embark on your own Hurghada food adventure? Don’t just dream about these delicious dishes – taste them! Book your unforgettable 2026 trip and culinary tour today at HurghadaTrips.com, and let your taste buds guide you through the wonders of this incredible destination.