The exception to that is the little-known Makino, found in the Hilton Zamalek. Makino is very well known with Japanese expats living in Cairo, but remains a hidden gem to Egyptian locals and tourists. Their kitchen is staffed by Japanese chefs who not only serve up authentic sushi, sashimi, makimono, daily bento, udon and ramen, but also occasionally give an Egyptian twist -- molokheya cold noodle anyone?

Makino aren’t particularly known for their salads, but more as the kings of ramen, sushi, sashimi and Yakimono, but they have a couple of star salads that we just couldn’t keep off the list, tbh. Next time you’re there, be sure to check out their Tako (Octopus) Carpaccio, Kaisen Chasoba (raw fish and green tea soba noodle) or Ika Rukkora Shio Konbu Marine (squid, rucola and seaweed) salad.

With no official opening yet, my expectations on my visit were quite low, since reviews from friends had generally been negative. At first, Makino is a confusing and deceiving little place. You walk up to the hotel and towards what looks like the main exterior entrance, only to find a little pink sign explaining that the entrance is inside the hotel.

Rumored to have been opened at the behest of Japanese businessmen who wanted a place to dine on some home cooking while in town for work, Makino claims to be the most authentic Japanese restaurant in Cairo – and we agree. You can find Makino at the Hilton Zamalek on Mohamed Mazhar Street. Call ahead to make reservations on 02 27375163.

Locals talk about Makino as one of the best Japanese restaurants in Cairo. The interior of the Japanese eatery focuses on light neutral colors and wood, the Nile view from the restaurant and the riverside terrace is beautiful. So is the plating of the eatery, located on the base of the Hilton Zamalek residence.

Makino is one of the best restaurants in Cairo with a Nile view. Located at the base of the Hilton Cairo Zamalek Residences, Makino offers stunning views of the Nile from its riverside terraces and dining room. With its light woods and neutrals, the ambiance is calm and inviting.

Located in Zamalek, Makino is the only place in Cairo that serves a variety of Ramen dishes. Not only that, it has an extensive menu that includes sushi, gyoza, and tofu. If you want to try real Japanese food, Makino is the place to go without a second of doubt.

Makino is a favorite to foreigners in Egypt and it has been rated on trip advisor as the best Japanese restaurant in Cairo. The staff is friendly and the food is always fresh, the chef is amazing and there has not been one complaint.

Makino** in Zamalek is a Japanese restaurant known for its fresh sushi and authentic dishes. The minimalist decor and high-quality food provide a genuine Japanese dining experience.

Makino – hidden away in the Zamalek Hilton, this is possibly the best Japanese offering in Cairo. Expect authentic Japanese eats – often with an Egyptian twist.

When the Japanese people want to dine in Egypt, they head to Makino. That alone is a testament to Makino’s authenticity. The sushi is out of this world.