Alfi Bey Cairo, Egypt

Established in 1938, some of the staff have been here nearly as long. Known city-wide for its traditional Egyptian fare and hilariously misspelled menu, locals and tourists alike will find this Cairo landmark a charming treat. Apart from air conditioning, little has changed over the decades. The copper engravings, polished wood floors and uniformed antique waiters give diners a chance to sample a restaurant of yesteryear. Don't think octogenarians can't move quickly either; service is prompt. Ask your waiter to translate the garbled English menu and prepare for a hearty meal. The baba ghanoug, kebab and fattah all come highly recommended, and at very affordable prices given the setting. The stuffed pigeon, apparently a specialty, is nothing to coo about, but the half-chicken is roasted to perfection. No alcohol is served.