New Cairo’s The Brasserie turns dinner into a full night out

🍴 There are restaurants where you eat dinner, and there are restaurants where dinner comes with a whole production around it. The Brasserie is the latter — a New Cairo spot that treats an evening out as an occasion, with live music, polished interiors, and a dress code to match.

First impressions: We were seated immediately, with the choice of an indoor dining area or outdoor terrace. We opted for a table facing the band, which turned dinner into something of a live performance. The Brasserie typically has live entertainment throughout the week, with a band taking over in the evening before a DJ comes on later; weekends bring more commercial entertainment. The space is large, with dimmed lighting giving the room a more intimate feel. Service was another high point — the waiters were attentive and quick, and the menu is extensive with something for just about everybody.

What we liked: The truffle cheese balls were an easy favorite — piping hot, with plenty of cheese but none of the heaviness that can sink a fried appetizer. The truffle also came through without taking over. The truffle mushroom risotto followed suit for one of our mains. It was generously portioned and packed with fresh mushrooms rather than the canned variety. The cream and truffle worked well together. The smoked chicken rigatoni was another strong showing, with al dente pasta, plenty of chicken, and a subtle smoky note. The tomato-based sauce also incorporates roasted vegetables, giving the dish something more than your standard red-sauce pasta. To drink, the Virgin Brass Mule — ginger, malt drink, and lemon in a large brass mug — was refreshing and well-balanced.

What we didn’t like: The chocolate fondue was the meal’s weak link. It arrived hot, but the promised molten center was nowhere to be found — just a small chocolate cake with vanilla ice cream. Decent enough, but not what was advertised. The bigger issue was the volume. Once the band and DJ were in full swing, conversation required shouting, and requests to lower the music went unanswered. If you’re there for the spectacle, that’s part of the gig. If you’re not, the outdoor terrace is probably the better call.

The verdict: The Brasserie is built for evenings when you want dinner to come with a bit of spectacle. The food largely delivers, the service knows what it’s doing, and the entertainment gives the restaurant its identity. Just don’t expect a quiet night out.

💡 NOTE- Reservations are strictly required, particularly on weekends, and the restaurant is selective about entry for anyone under 25. There’s a minimum charge and a smart-chic dress code — details shared when you reserve.

WHERE TO FIND IT- The Brasserie is located in Lake View, New Cairo.

💵 Per person: EGP 1.2-2.5k

🪑 Outdoor seating: Yes

🍺 Alcohol: Yes

🦽 Accessibility friendly: No