Tamarai Restaurant & Bar

Egypt’s history, culture and heritage are re-imagined in this most cutting edge of settings; a luxurious and lavish restaurant in the heart of Cairo. The main concept was to create a space where the magic and mystery of the ancients in Egypt are made modern. The primary goal was to gently coax Egypt’ pharaonic heritage into the 21st century to create a space that is undeniably of its time.

Each design element was especially commissioned and exclusively crafted. The temples of the pharaohs are reborn in soaring pillars molded from amber-colored granite and marble, while the rough-stone walls are imprinted with drawings of temple plans. The textures and colors of the ancients envelop the space. Lush hand-made linens lined with gold tumble down the floor-to-ceiling windows, covering chairs and lining tables, guests dine from plates of terracotta and alabaster, while a rich palette of black, white, turquoise, red copper and burgundy draws on the wonders of Tutankhamen’s treasures.

The formal and the informal blend seamlessly in 400 square metres of fluid space, with fine dining areas up to 250 guests curving around the lounge area and the sensual spots in-between where drinks are sipped and tales are spun. The floor rises and falls, the carefully created levels ensuring guests never loose sight of the Nile beating beneath.

The pièce de resistance is the pharaonic sun-boat that seemingly floats at the very heart of the Tamarai. Made of shimmering wood, it houses the restaurant’s main bar and forms a fantastical focal point. From the moment guests step out of Tamarai’s private elevator, the design adventure begins, with the iridescent curves of the boat stretching up to the ceiling and out to the reception area, creating a map in the sky to draw you into the space.

And beyond it all, past the panoramic walls of glass, another world awaits, right beneath the stars. 500 square metres of outdoor space evoke silent Nile-side dreams of swaying palm trees and balmy evenings. The shades and textures of papyrus dominate the space, with olive trees and mute greens creating a lush landscape in which to lounge. Three private bars for up to ten people pepper this tantalising outdoor terrace, with beautiful built-in lounge areas making for lush languid summer nights.

By Shahira H. Fahmy Architects