Alexandria, a port city on Egypt's Mediterranean coast, is a true cultural and culinary melting pot. With a history dating back to the ancient Greeks and Romans, its strategic location has made it a crossroads of civilisations, and this rich heritage is perhaps best experienced in its dynamic street food scene.

From centuries-old traditions to unique coastal delicacies, the city's streets tell a story of cultural fusion and diversity. The Sandy Times guide will take you through the very essence of Alexandrian street food, revealing local specialities.

Get ready to dive into a world where ancient history and modern flavours come together on every corner.

For the authentic culinary soul of Alexandria, dive into its street food, where every plate serves up centuries of tradition. The city's food scene is a testament to its rich heritage, offering dishes that are both deeply rooted in Egyptian culture and uniquely Alexandrian in character. Here are the classics you can't miss:

Kebda Eskandarani: The city's name in a sandwich

No tour of the city's streets is complete without trying Kebda Eskandarani, a dish so synonymous with Alexandria that it carries the city's name. This isn't just liver, it is a sensory experience.

Thinly chopped beef liver sizzled with a generous amount of garlic, green peppers, and a kick of cumin creates an aroma that will draw you in from blocks away. Most often, this flavorful mixture is packed into a soft, crusty sandwich loaf and served hot. It is a quintessential Alexandrian experience, and you will find the most authentic versions at small, dedicated street carts that have perfected the recipe over generations.

Ful and Taɺmeya: The hearty breakfast staples

Next, you will encounter the twin pillars of Egyptian breakfast: Ful and Falafel. Ful Medames is a simple yet satisfying dish of mashed fava beans cooked with garlic, olive oil, and spices. It is a nourishing start to the day for countless Alexandrians.

The perfect companion to ful is Taɺmeya, the Egyptian version of falafel. Unlike the chickpea-based falafel found elsewhere in the Middle East, Taɺmeya is made from fava beans and a blend of herbs. The result is a lighter, crispier patty that's soft on the inside. It is often served in pita bread with fresh vegetables and a drizzle of tahini, making it a flavorful and affordable meal at any time. Seek out these staples at street stalls, where vendors prepare them fresh to order.

Coastal delights: From the sea to the streets

Alexandria's cuisine thrives on its coastal identity, with street food that showcases its strong connection to the sea. The city is renowned for its fresh and accessible seafood. You can find vendors grilling or frying up the day’s catch — including fresh shrimp, cuttlefish, and various types of fish — often served simply with a squeeze of lemon and a side of tahini.

This direct-from-the-sea simplicity allows the natural flavours of the seafood to shine. A must-try is Sayadeya, a traditional Alexandrian dish of fish cooked with spiced rice and caramelised onions, creating a comforting and savoury meal that captures the essence of the city's maritime culture. For the best street food in Alexandria, make sure you explore the areas near the local fish markets for these traditional and delicious offerings.

Alexandria's culinary scene is best explored by wandering through its distinct neighbourhoods, each offering a unique taste of the city. The Anfushi District, an ancient quarter just south of Fort Qaitbey, is a prime destination for an authentic local experience.

Its narrow streets are a gastronomic delight, with the briny aroma of freshly caught fish wafting from local restaurants and traditional coffeehouses spilling onto the sidewalks. Anfushi is particularly renowned for its fresh seafood, where you can often pick your fish directly from the day's catch before it is prepared to perfection.

For a different vibe, a stroll along the Alexandria Corniche provides a scenic backdrop for a culinary adventure. This famous waterfront promenade is not just for sunset walks, it is a hub for evening and late-night street food snacks. As you take in the views of the Mediterranean, you will encounter a variety of vendors selling popular treats, such as roasted corn and baked sweet potatoes, perfect for a casual bite on the go.

Beyond these well-known spots, you can find other hidden gems for foodies. To lose yourself in the local food culture, explore the city's street markets. The bustling El Mansheya Market and Souq El Khodra are excellent examples of where to eat in Alexandria, Egypt.

These vibrant markets are not only a great place to stock up on fresh produce and spices but also offer a chance to sample local street food from a variety of stalls. For a classic falafel experience, a visit to a popular spot like El Falafel El Demashky is a must. These street markets in Alexandria, Egypt, are where you can witness the city's daily rhythm and culinary heart.

​Choose busy stalls: A long line of locals is a good sign that the food is fresh and the stall is well-regarded.

​Stay hydrated: Be sure to carry a bottle of water, as many dishes can be spicy and filling.

​Bring cash: Most street food vendors operate on a cash-only basis, so have small bills ready.

​Start with popular dishes: Ease into the local cuisine with national favourites like koshari, a hearty mix of rice, lentils, and pasta with a spicy tomato sauce, or ful medames, a savoury fava bean stew. Alexandria also has its own specialties, like kebda Eskandarani, a fried beef liver sandwich.

​Embrace local flavours: Look for dishes that highlight the city's coastal location, with an emphasis on fresh ingredients.

​Look for fresh ingredients: Pay attention to how the food is displayed and handled in the street food of Alexandria. Choose stalls that keep their ingredients fresh and covered.