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Salahadeen Restaurant

Here’s one of those hidden gems you might be looking for.

First, you get to experience the real Luxor as you by taxi or calesh ride to where the locals live. It’s only a five minute ride from the trainstation, but still an experience in itself. I’m sure Mara, who runs this place, can arrange that for you as she has her own drivers who knows how to get there smoothly. As you arrive you’re in a dark and dusty alley, but as soon as the gates of Salahadeen swings open the magic begins.

The decor is lovely, like you’d imagine it’d be in One Thousand and One Nights or something. The music is setting the mood (even though I’d prefer some more “magical”, mysterious music) and the staff will take very, very good care of you.

The thing is, this restaurant is only open when there’s a worthwhile number to open to, so it’s very exclusive. You really need to call or mail in advance, probably several days, maybe even weeks, to make sure it is open (might be different on bigger holidays, like Easter). And there’s only a few tables, although I’m sure they can make room for more if needed. A quick call or email is all it takes, Mara will respond immediately.

I’m not a big eater, I get full very quickly, but wow… The food was so good I just had to dig deeper. 15 dishes cooked, served and eaten in true traditional Egyptian fashion with the dishes served on one large tray that you spin around. You’ll be instructed how to get the most out of the food as well, combining different dishes to make it even more delicious.

I’ve been in Luxor for five days, and this is easily the best food I’ve tasted so far. Highly recommended for that extra memorable experience.

IndyGrinder, Stockholm, Sweden –Visited March 2013 (Reviewed on TripAdvisor)