Walking into the 1902 Restaurant made me somehow feel as if I were approaching a mysterious, decorated tomb in the Valley of the Kings. Inside the darkened room were several massive archways, decorated in red and maroon stripes, leading to darkened corridors. Copper lanterns punctured with tiny holes let light escape and illuminate the arches. Flames from gas lights flickered on the walls, as if lining the passage to the tomb. Small circular tables were scattered under the huge, domed, mosque-like ceiling punctuated with tiny panels of stained glass niched into the walls.
No wonder this is considered one of Egypt's finest restaurants. Opening night, long ago, was attended by the sovereign of Egypt, Winston Churchill, King Edward VII's brother, and many other dignitaries. It truly is elegant, mysterious and unique.
Wait staff, colorfully costumed, were attentive and friendly. The dinner menu offered creative French cuisine, heavy on local fish. I had "Howard Carter's Bolty Fish in Its Own Sarcophagus" which consisted of flaky fish inside a buttery puffed pastry decorated with swirled cream sauces and shredded vegetables. My husband had "Egyptian Style Fish" which consisted of small balls of bolty fish in a tomato sauce over rice. Both were yummy. Most entrees were around $20 US.
One night a belly dancer entertained us while we ate dinner, seductively dancing around the small tables, and encouraging us to participate in a group dance at the end. Another night, a local Nubian band performed at the edge of the dining area. It was enjoyable to hear and see the local talent. There were surprisingly few people in the restaurant on either night, maybe four other couples was all.
Breakfast on the other hand, was well visited. The breakfast buffet is included in the price of your room if you are staying either at the Old or New Cataract Hotel. Everything imaginable was served, and creatively presented. Even the juices were served in ornate, ancient-looking Moroccan containers.
Located in the Old Cataract Hotel, note that this is not your typical hotel restaurant fare. Tasteful, creative foods in a unique setting made this one of our favorite restaurants.