The world’s best emerging restaurant is in Egypt – and it was opened by an Italian

The restaurant everyone should keep an eye on was opened by an Italian in Cairo – but there’s no need for national pride here. The success of Khufu’s isn’t due to its Italian roots (it’s part of the Pier88 group founded by Italian Giovanni Bolandrini), but rather to its world-class cuisine and a view that can only be described as breathtaking: overlooking the Giza archaeological park, it faces the main pyramids of the necropolis, including the Great Pyramid of Khufu – also known as Cheops – the oldest and largest of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

That’s its calling card, a truly unique global attraction – but it alone wouldn’t explain why The World’s 50 Best Restaurants, the most influential international ranking, would decide to spotlight this venue among the countless others visited and reviewed by its team.

The new Egyptian cuisine at Khufu’s

What truly sets it apart is Bolandrini’s vision, paired with the culinary offering and the skill of Chef Mostafa Seif, who is developing a bold, personal, and inspired version of contemporary Egyptian cuisine. Seif delves deep into his roots, celebrates rural cooking, and reinterprets it with talent, technique, and sensitivity, reimagining it from the inside out while remaining faithful to its essence.

Take, for example, his version of koshari, Egypt’s national dish made with rice, pasta, and lentils. In his childhood, it was served with eggs – now, he transforms it into a salad, served cold with quail eggs, crispy chickpeas, and fried onions to enhance the texture. He elevates the dish’s structure and aromatic profile, starting with the spices he so masterfully handles. This humble, soulful dish is deconstructed – as he does with many home-style recipes – and lightened, while keeping its emotional depth and adapting it to modern palates.

Accompanying this is a curated drinks list designed to complement the culinary offering, including plant-based options – a bridge between local gastronomic tradition and modern dietary trends. Add just the right amount of glamour, and Khufu’s becomes a go-to spot for fashionable locals – and now, a global gourmet destination.

Who is Chef Mostafa Seif

Seif – who hails from rural Egypt, where he first learned to cook from his family’s street food cart – rose to fame after winning Top Chef Arabia in 2017 and Top Chef Middle East in 2018. With Khufu’s, he has drawn international attention, earning the title of Best Restaurant in Egypt and ranking No. 4 on the 50 Best Restaurants 2025 list for the Middle East and North Africa.

Khufu’s has now also received the One To Watch award from The World’s 50 Best Restaurants 2025, recognising emerging global venues making a significant impact on the culinary world. In doing so, Khufu’s is writing a new chapter in Egyptian cuisine.

Bolandrini’s stated goal was to give something back to the Egyptian people, offering both locals and the rest of the world a reason to rediscover this ancient cuisine. The aim was to create a unique dining experience that fused the soul of Egypt’s heritage with contemporary hospitality. Goal achieved.