Restaurant
Sofra Restaurant & Café
A much-loved Egyptian restaurant in a restored 1930s house in central Luxor, serving mezze, stuffed pigeon and clay-pot dishes on a shaded upstairs terrace.
The Lantern Room
A welcoming East Bank restaurant mixing Egyptian and English cooking, known for warm hospitality, lantern-lit rooms and puddings such as sticky toffee pudding.
At a glance
- Type
- Egyptian and English
- Area
- Gazirat Al Awameyah, East Bank, Luxor, Egypt
- Price
- $$ · Mid-range
Good to know
- Vegetarian options
- Alcohol served
- Home-made desserts
Why we recommend it
The Lantern Room is popular with visitors and expatriates in Luxor and is known above all for its warm hospitality. It is in the Al Rawda Al Sharifa area of Gazirat Al Awameyah on the East Bank, south of the centre and within easy reach of the hotels along Khaled Ibn El Walid Street. As its popularity grew, the restaurant moved into a larger space, decorated with lanterns and a European-inspired interior.
The menu blends Egyptian and English cooking, with some Asian touches on traditional Egyptian flavours. You might find Egyptian dishes alongside familiar comfort food, and staff have a reputation for doing their best to cook something that is not on the menu if you ask. Vegetarians have options, and the desserts are a particular draw: lemon meringue cake and sticky toffee pudding are among the signature puddings.
Alcoholic drinks are available, which makes it a good choice for a relaxed evening meal with a glass of wine or a beer. The atmosphere is cosy rather than formal, and the welcome is often what diners remember most, along with the attentive service.
The Lantern Room suits couples, small groups and travellers who want a break from hotel dining without venturing too far from familiar food. It is also a good option for anyone staying several days in Luxor who wants a comfortable local spot to return to. Prices are moderate.
It is advisable to book, especially in the winter season when the restaurant fills up with regulars. Opening hours can vary, so check before you go. The restaurant is a short taxi ride from Luxor Temple and the town centre, and a walk from several of the large hotels on the river. After dinner you can head for a drink at one of the pubs or hotel bars nearby, or take a carriage back along the Corniche.
In winter, when many visitors stay for several weeks, regulars often return several times during a trip, which is a good sign of consistency. If you are celebrating a birthday or special occasion, mention it when you book. A small tip for good service is customary in Egypt and is appreciated by the staff.
The Lantern Room FAQs
Where is the Lantern Room?
In Al Rawda Al Sharifa, Gazirat Al Awameyah, on the East Bank south of the town centre.
What kind of food does it serve?
A mix of Egyptian and English dishes, some with an Asian twist.
What desserts is it known for?
Lemon meringue cake and sticky toffee pudding.
Does it serve alcohol?
Yes, alcoholic drinks are available.
Are there vegetarian dishes?
Yes, vegetarian options are available.
Do I need to book?
Booking is advisable, especially in the winter season.
Is it near the hotels?
It is within easy reach of the hotels along Khaled Ibn El Walid Street.