restaurant review

35 Lounge Bar

35 El Giza St. (beside The First Mall entrance)

3573 85 00

Arguably the best destination for all night-life aficionados, 35 Lounge Bar is considered to be the favorite hang-out of Cairo's elite and foreigners, impressing with both: ambience and cuisine. Expensive cars flock to this posh area (the place is located Within the First Place complex housing the First Mall and the Four Seasons hotel at the First Residence), bringing with them glamorous girls and dress-to-impress gents between the early 20's and late 40's. Impressive entrance takes you to an equally impressive club, and those who will be able to go through a strict face control, will not leave disappointed.

The venue is divided into two areas: one dedicated to partying and passing a drink or two (thus, the long stools and the tiny tables, organized in such a way that those who feel like dancing, can do so, with not too much freedom in their movements); the other is more secluded, offering dining in an atmosphere that is all about chic and comfort, boasting comfy red sofas with soft cushions and candles that make the setting cozy and romantic. Add to this the remarkable illumination and big plasma TV screens and what you get is a venue with a modern twist.

Those coming here to party till the wee hours of the morning, can drop by just after midnight (the DJ starts entertaining the crowd with fabulous house music), the masses become merrier, mingling, dancing, laughing and the fiesta begins); however, those who plan on dining, should make sure that they come early (from 10pm till midnight the place is less crowded, the music is quieter, thus enabling you to talk and enjoy a magnificent dinner).

Oh, the dinner! Firstly, the venue has the same culinary standards as its neighbor, Four Seasons; secondly, 35 Lounge Bar is exceptional when it comes to quick and efficient service (the dishes were served within 20 minutes, and the explanations given were to the point and accurate); and, finally, the lounge & restaurant boasts an extensive menu, ranging from a rich array of alcoholic beverages (4 pages dedicated to drinks only) to Sushi (choose any of your beloved options: Hoso Maki, Oshizushi, Futo Maki, Gunkan, Temaki, Sashimi, Nigiri, Ura Maki, Tempura Rolls, Crispy Rolls and many others).

But the surprises do not stop here: non-alcoholic cocktails are also on offer among which we recommend you to savor 35 Lounge Bar (a blend of mango, peach, strawberry, pineapple, fresh mint and grenadine) or San Francisco (orange juice, cranberry and pineapple).

The appetizers were all delicious (and the portions are big), offering everything from Coconut Thai Soup (shrimp, mushroom, coconut milk, lemon grass and ginger) to Thai Spring Rolls; whereas the main dishes were so tender that they melted in the mouth. Grilled Australian Beef Tenderloin (served with mashed potatoes, chives and black pepper sauce) along with the Imported Dover Sole (pan-stirred Dover sole with porcini mushroom (crepes) sauce and porcini Maki) were worthy, though the portions weren't big, letting us leave room for the dessert. Sum up your meal with Chocofondant or Fruits Sashimi (selection of seasonal fruits served with shaved coconut and passion fruit sherbet) and remember to come here with a lot of positive emotions and good mood.

Additional Information:

Dress Code: smart casual.
Age: minimum 21
Prior reservation is a must.
For reservation, please call: (3573 85 00)