Pizza Roma.it

Pizza Roma.it is a modest Italian restaurant on St Joseph Street in the Awameya area of the East Bank, south of the town centre. It has a loyal following among budget travellers and residents for one simple reason: good pizza and pasta made with fresh ingredients, at prices well below those of the hotel restaurants.

The menu concentrates on pizzas, pasta and a selection of Italian meat dishes. Portions are very large, so sharing is a sensible plan, especially if you also want a starter. The setting is plain, with no lavish decoration, and the focus is firmly on the food rather than the surroundings.

The restaurant does not serve alcohol, but guests can bring their own wine, which makes it a good-value choice for a relaxed evening. Service is friendly and informal, and it is the sort of place where you can turn up in your sightseeing clothes after a long day without feeling out of place.

Pizza Roma.it suits families with children, travellers on a budget, and anyone who needs a break from Egyptian food after several days of grills and mezze. It is also a practical option for a quick, filling meal before an early night ahead of a sunrise balloon flight.

The restaurant is a short taxi ride from Luxor Temple and within reach of the hotels along Khaled Ibn El Walid Street. It is small, so arrive early or expect to wait at busy times in the winter season. Check opening times locally, as they are not published online. If you plan to bring wine, buy it in advance, as shops selling alcohol are limited in Luxor.

A small tip for good service is customary in Egypt, and paying in cash with small notes is easiest at independent restaurants like this one. During Ramadan, many restaurants adjust their hours and some open mainly in the evening, so check before you go if you are visiting at that time of year.

If you prefer to eat in your room or on a hotel terrace, ask whether takeaway is possible; many small restaurants in Luxor are happy to pack food to go.