| The “bride of the Mediterranean” offers the country’s best seafood By May El Khishen |
| Alexandrian chefs pride themselves on their ability to create the best seafood dishes in the country. So far, they have yet to be proven wrong. Call me biased, but no one can make a seafood meal quite like an iskandarani (Alexandrian), and the abundant number of seafood restaurants found on every corner of the city attest to that.
At each restaurant, guests choose from the catch of the day and specify how they want it cooked. Alexandria’s specialty is fish — preferably sea bass — cooked a la singary. This cooking method is all about infusing the taste of fresh ingredients into the smooth and somewhat bland meat of the fish on an open grill. The fish is drenched in a marinade of freshly cut tomatoes, green peppers, celery, onions, minced garlic and seasoned with salt and pepper. It is then grilled and served with lemon.
With so many appealing restaurants to choose from, picking one is a daunting task, especially if it’s your first time in Alexandria. Egypt Today shares its top-three spots that promise to appease all taste buds.
Bella Vista
Located on a beach in Abu Qir, this culinary haven serves seafood dishes worthy of a king. One of the few seafood places that serves alcohol, this spot is popular among Alexandria’s expat community.
HIGHLIGHTS: Strategic location, speedy service and the grilled sea bass with olive oil and lemon dish
LOWLIGHTS: The Chinese ornaments decorating the walls of the restaurant
Bella Vista • 43 El-Geish St., Abu Qir • Tel: +2 (03) 562-0625
Samakmak
With branches in Alexandria, North Coast and Cairo, this is one of the country’s most popular seafood chains. Located in the heart of halet el samak (fish market), the restaurant has indoor and outdoor seating areas. If the weather is not too humid, the outdoor area is definitely recommended.
HIGHLIGHTS: Seafood farafelle pasta with dill-flavored cream sauce
LOWLIGHTS: Lack of proper parking
Samakmak • 42 Kasr Ras El-Teen, Al-Anfushy • Tel: +2 (03) 480-9523
Fish Market
Definitely the most luxurious seafood in the city, this restaurant overlooks the city’s port and provides impeccable customer service. Also a favorite among Alexandria’s tourists.
HIGHLIGHTS: If a member of your party does not eat seafood, they can order from the neighboring grill house, Tikka. Also provides a great view and great service.
LOWLIGHTS: The food, although tasty, will not be enough to satisfy a die-hard seafood lover.
Fish Market • In Bahary next to the Scouts Club •
Tel: +2 (03) 480-5114
|
Be Social
Comments
Leave a Comment