Raoucha, Cairo

This upscale restaurant overlooking Sphinx Square offers diners a beautiful setting in which to sample authentic Lebanese specialties. Well-lit but relaxing, the interior is elegantly decorated with ornate stonework on the walls and ceilings. The music is kept low until 9:30pm when a singer comes on to perform pop and Arabic tunes. Mezzes are a Lebanese specialty, and Raoucha has plenty to sample. Start with the Creamy Goat Cheese Labneh, laced with garlic and drizzled with olive oil. The tabbouleh, Fattoush and Kebbeh Makli are also quite good. The Kharouf Mahshi (spiced roasted lamb served with rice) is delicious; but for a real treat, try the Laban Omou (cubes of boiled lamb simmered in yogurt and flavored with garlic, mint and pine seeds). Traditional favorites like Shish Tawouk, kebabs and Chicken Fatta round out the menu. Save room for the delicious Semolina-filled Tamria.