About Cairo Kitchen
Our Story
Bassem’s story is one of heritage, hard work, and heart. Born and raised in Alexandria, Egypt, he discovered his love for cooking at a young age in his mother’s kitchen. It was there — surrounded by the aromas of slow-cooked stews, freshly baked bread, and fragrant spices — that he learned the true meaning of Egyptian hospitality: food made with love is meant to be shared. Those early days shaped not only his passion for authentic Egyptian cuisine, but also his deep belief that meals bring people together.
Driven to refine his craft, Bassem moved to New York, where he worked in a variety of restaurants and sharpened his culinary skills in fast-paced, diverse kitchens. The experience exposed him to new techniques and high standards, helping him grow into a confident and versatile chef. After returning to Alexandria, he opened his first restaurant, bringing with him a blend of traditional Egyptian flavours and global culinary experience.
Life took a beautiful turn during a church mission trip to Uganda, where Bassem met his future wife, a South African. Their shared faith and love for people laid the foundation for a new chapter. Soon after, he made the life-changing decision to move to South Africa and continue his culinary journey there.
Today, Pretoria proudly calls Cairo Kitchen its home. Through his restaurant, he shares the rich, authentic flavours of Egypt with the community he now serves. For Bassem, food is more than a business — it’s a way to honour his roots, celebrate culture, and bring people together around the table. Every shawarma, every dip, every hearty rice dish carries a piece of his story — a story of family, faith, passion, and the timeless power of good food.
