There is only one terminal at Aswan Airport. The terminal building is a small, two-story structure. Inside the terminal, there are fast-food restaurants and cafes. There are more small cafeterias and fast-food restaurants than large, international chain restaurants.
Cilantro, Egypt’s most popular and modern coffee chain, operates at Aswan Airport. This cafe serves espresso, latte, and iced coffee-style drinks. Fresh sandwiches, muffins, and croissants are also served. There are small kiosks inside the terminal selling packaged snacks, cookies, and cold drinks.
Is the food at Aswan Airport expensive?
Prices are always higher at airport restaurants and cafes. This is a very common situation worldwide. ASW is not a huge gourmet food center like Cairo Airport. It is more of a boutique airport. Food prices at Aswan Airport are more expensive than restaurants in the city. However, the prices here are not as high as the food and beverage prices at large airports. So you can find food that fits your budget at Aswan Airport. I prefer to have a coffee at the airport before my flight. I eat my meal in the city center before arriving at the airport. There are also great restaurants in Aswan city center.
Pearl Lounge at Aswan Airport
You can wait for your flight away from the crowds in the VIP Lounge. The Pearl Lounge at Aswan International Airport is a great place to get away from the hustle and bustle of the terminal. The Pearl Lounge is located at the end of the terminal’s check-in area. This VIP Lounge is open 24 hours a day. If you have an early or late-night flight, you can wait for your flight in comfort here. The Pearl Lounge is a quiet and peaceful waiting area. Food and drinks are served in this lounge.
Pearl Lounge Facilities
Cold drinks and fruit juices.
Hot drinks such as tea and coffee.
Sandwiches and snacks.
Newspapers and magazines.
Free Wi-Fi.
Smoking area.
You can stay in the lounge for a maximum of 3 hours.
What to Eat in Aswan? Aswan Restaurants
When I first visited Aswan, I noticed something while walking along the Nile. This city captivated me not only with its historical treasures but also with its exquisite cuisine. Aswan will give you wonderful moments not only with its ancient temples and Nile views but also with its unique culinary culture. Located at the southernmost point of the Nile, this city bears traces of Nubian culture. You should definitely try traditional dishes with unique flavors such as okra stew, Ful Medames, Kushari, Moloukhiya, and Taamiya. When you come here, the aroma of spices rising from the streets will envelop you.
Local Dishes You Must Try
Nubian Chicken
Nubian Chicken is prepared with local ingredients. This dish reflects the culinary heritage of the Nubian people. The chicken is marinated with spices such as garlic, cumin, and coriander and then grilled or baked. This dish is served with rice or traditional bread.
Moloukhiya
This soup, prepared with finely chopped moloukhiya leaves, has both a salty and slightly bitter taste. The soup contains garlic and coriander. Moloukhiya is served with rice or bread.
Bamiya
Bamiya is one of the indispensable dishes of Nubian cuisine. The locals cook this dish with chicken or meat broth. It contains plenty of spices.
Ful Medames
You can find this traditional dish, made from crushed fava beans, everywhere on the streets of Aswan. It is served with olive oil, lemon, and cumin.
Kushari
This dish, consisting of brown lentils, pasta, rice, chickpeas, and a spicy tomato sauce, is one of Egypt’s most popular street foods. You must have tried this dish somewhere.
Shamsi Bread
This type of bread, unique to Aswan, is made in a very different way. The bread dough is left to rise in the sun before being baked. Some gourmets consider this bread to be among the best in the world.
Which restaurants in Aswan are a must visit?
El Dokka Restaurant
Located on Eissa Island on the Nile River, El Dokka Restaurant serves the finest dishes of Nubian cuisine. Its fresh fish and seafood menus are particularly famous.
Makka Restaurant
Makka Restaurant is known for its hospitality and fast service. This restaurant is open between 12:00 and 01:00. You should definitely try the grilled meats, molokhiya, and lentil soup.
Nubian Dreams Restaurant & Cafe
Located on Elephantine Island, this restaurant has a history spanning exactly 50 years. You can enjoy the magnificent view of the Nile River in a traditional Nubian setting.
King Jamaica Café
Located within the Bob Marley Guesthouse, this café offers a unique blend of Nubian and Jamaican cuisines. It is famous for its delicious tajines, jerk chicken, and fresh fruit juices.
1902 Restaurant-Sofitel Legend Old Cataract Hotel
Famous for its Egyptian decor and elegant dining, this restaurant welcomes visitors in an ancient Egyptian setting. The French-inspired menu is another highlight of the restaurant. The lobster risotto is particularly famous.
There are many delicious dishes you can try in Aswan. But be careful: if the prices are not listed on the menu, be sure to ask the price before ordering.