Having a Drink in Egypt: Boozers Guide

Beer, Wine, Alcohol are readily available in Egypt. Locally made but don't let put you off. The favorite beer by far for all expatriates living here is Sakara (bottle or can), Heineken, followed by Stella ( the original beer and was nasty) but all changed a few years ago with introduction of El Gouna Brewery, who started up in direct competition to local brewery. They did so well, the local brewery bought them out. And even though there is a anti-monopoly law - this buy out went ahead. Beer in 5 star hotels can get to 35 LE(or more), pub restaurants about 25 LE, my private club 12 LE and at the booze off-sale stores 6 to 9 LE. (For purchases, Drinkies is most known but there are others). Also be advised in most establishments there is a 10% sales tax plus a 12% service charge on top of menu price- and they still expect a tip!
Wine I avoid as don't like what seems to be a formaldehyde flavor with exception of Grand Marquis.
Local spirits, whiskeys, gin, etc are lethal and I do not know anyone that has gone beyond the sample taste.
If you want to find a Drinkies, (ph 19330) or company called Cheers (19131) to find closet location, or get delivery phone. Not sure hotels with bars agree to delivery, but there are ways. Also, if you have cell roaming on mobinil dial 8000 for assistance for finding places or numbers. Also for travellers - recently announced the Grand Hyatt no longer serves alcohol - their 5 star rating and actually being able to keep Hyatt name is in question. If going there check ahead. Also do not know status of Hard Rock Cafe which is located at the Grand Hyatt - check ahead. Correction - the Croc advises the hard Rock cafe is wet for alcohol drinks and intends to stay that way.".
When in Cairo, keep your eyes open for a small book called Croc Free guide - wealth of great information for all including those of us living here.

I was going to write a bit more about Beers and Wine in Egypt but found this site that does a good job on the subject Link

Below is a listing of pubs found in Croc Free Guide. My favourites not included as they are Fusion(japanese - shusi etc.), TGIF, Grand Cafe (outdoors and favourites are shisha smokers), all located on Corniche (on Nile) at Entrance to Maadi (pronunced Ma-adi). All in same complex and all serve beer wine. In Maadi there are so many other pubs and restaurants you would need a guide dog.

Click on images to enlarge.