Casablanca

Once a popular restaurant on the West Bank, Casablanca moved to the East Bank in September 2006 when it opened opposite Snobs, in the side road opposite the Lotus hotel.

Casablanca seats about 30 in a rather regimented layout within a well-presented room, constrained by its small size and long, thin shape.

The menu is promoted as seafood and oriental. There is indeed a good variety of seafood and, as well as oriental dishes, there are a few traditional options, such as pizzas and steaks.

Visitors to Luxor who are not too adventurous but wish to sample something a little different will be happy here. Egyptian flavours are blended with dishes that do not stray too far from the western comfort zone. Bread is in the local style and s plentiful.

Service is excellent - although there are usually few guests so there is little pressure. If anything the service is rather too attentive. At King Tut, a similarly quiet restaurant, the waiting staff are discreet. At Casablanca the staff seemed to take it in turn to keep an eye on us. This is fine and response is immediate if something is wanted, but you might ant to face away from the service bar if you don't like being watched.

The standard of food is very good. Everything is freshly prepared and cooked to order, so it may take a little time but is worth waiting for. Presentation, too, is excellent.

Prices are very competitive. Soups are LE15, steaks are around LE40, with sauce, and some other main courses are around LE30. a good range of desserts is available for LE12 - LE20. Tax and service charges are included, so two can eat 2 courses with a soft drink or water for around LE100.

Definitely one to try.

 

Review updated March 2010
Prices at March 2010