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Aswan’s independent eateries serve Egyptian food with a Nubian flair. Other cuisines are found in hotel restaurants. The variable city tax on restaurants, combined with service charges, can total as much as 26%. Check menus to verify how each restaurant operates. Unless you are in a major hotel, consider tipping even if a service charge is included in the bill: waiters are not well paid, and the courtesy will be appreciated. If service is not charged, 10%–15% is a reasonable tip. And one more thing: Bring cash; most local restaurants take nothing else. As a rule, most hotel restaurants are open to the general public. Reservations are recommended at all hotel restaurants.
Don your best outfit (casual wear isn't allowed) and have a seat in the red-and-white, keyhole-arched dining room, originally opened in 1902 for dignitaries to celebrate the inauguration of the Aswan Dam. The atmosphere is unforgettable, and the French-inspired menu is heavy on seafood.
