“From a modest worker to a household name in Sheraton… The inspiring journey of Haj Ali Tantawy and the legacy of authentic Egyptian flavor”
Cairo – Maii Abdo:
The story of Haj Ali Tantawy, founder of the widely recognized “Abou Abdo” restaurants in Sheraton and Al-Khanaka, is one of determination, resilience, and a deep respect for tradition. His path spans decades—beginning with humble beginnings in the heart of Cairo and culminating in a brand cherished by fans of koshari and traditional Egyptian dishes across the city.
Roots in Aswan… and the first steps in Cairo (1988)
Haj Ali left his hometown of Aswan in 1988, carrying little more than a dream and unwavering optimism. He started out as an assistant in a small koshari shop, moving between steward duties and kitchen work.
In those early days, he observed attentively, gathering every technique and every secret that would later shape his signature style.Working in areas like Ataba and Bulaq Abu Al-Ela, he mastered what he proudly calls “the true koshari craft”—a blend of inherited taste, authentic Egyptian flair, and precise seasoning. These principles became the foundation of everything that followed.
The first venture… Koshari carts on Cairo’s streets
Instead of letting his experience remain just a chapter in his past, he transformed it into his first business. He launched a koshari cart in Al-Sabtiyah, followed by another in El-Herafeyeen’s Gamal Abdel Nasser Street.
For the first time, he felt the weight of responsibility—and the joy—of having people appreciate food made with his own hands.
As his reputation grew and business expanded, he set his sights on something bigger.—The first restaurant in Al-Khanaka… The birth of “Abou Abdo”Al-Khanaka became home to his first full-scale restaurant—one that did not borrow any previous name, but instead introduced a brand-new identity: “Abou Abdo.”
Alongside the restaurant, he established an import-export company that operated successfully for years before pausing temporarily. Yet through all ventures, the restaurant remained his true passion and the heart of his story.
Sheraton branch… A defining milestone
The opening of the Sheraton branch marked a transformative moment. The branch quickly became known for steady crowds and strong demand, drawing customers from far beyond the neighborhood.
Its reputation for authentic, “old-school” flavor made it a destination in its own right.One moment he recalls with pride is when a foreign delegation booked in advance just to eat at the restaurant before their meeting—an experience he considers a testament to international appreciation for his work.
The secret behind the taste… “We keep it original—no exaggeration, no shortcuts”When asked about the key to “Abou Abdo’s” success, Haj Ali answers with confidence:“The secret is that we keep the authentic taste. No unnecessary spices, no complications—everything is measured and done properly.
”His kitchen is built on uncompromising principles:100% natural tomato sauceFresh local coriander
Premium pasta, rice, and lentils
Fresh daily cooking, with no overnight storageFor him, exceptional ingredients are a rule, not an option.His philosophy is simple:“Street food must be cleaner than home-cooked food.”
Clay-pot dishes… A tribute to classic Egyptian cuisine
Over the years, “Abou Abdo” grew beyond koshari, becoming a destination for rich clay-pot dishes celebrated for their deep, traditional flavor. Many customers return not out of habit, but because they recognize the taste instantly—something rare in today’s fast-paced culinary scene.
A family legacy… The name behind the brand
The brand carries a family story at heart. It is named after his son, Dr. Abdelrahman Tantawy, an obstetrician and gynecologist who also manages the Sheraton branch with youthful drive and the disciplined work ethic instilled by his father.Looking ahead, Haj Ali is considering adding pizza to the menu—crafted with the same authenticity and quality that define the restaurant, believing the market needs options that blend tradition with modern tastes.
A craftsman at heart… and a man of humility
Despite decades of success, Haj Ali remains deeply hands-on. He continues to stir sauces, oversee cooking, and personally inspect cleanliness—a value he equates with blessings and honest livelihood.He often says:“I love what I do. This is my livelihood, and I offer it sincerely.”Social media, for him, is simply a way to show the world what he creates—not a tool for exaggerated marketing.
A loyal community… built on trust and genuine appreciation
“Abou Abdo” has grown a loyal customer base, many of whom know him personally and see him as a guardian of flavor that many restaurants have lost over the years.He believes true success isn’t measured by the number of branches, but by the trust of people—earned slowly, and preserved with consistency.
In every chapter of his story, Haj Ali Tantawy remains the man who started at the very bottom yet never abandoned the roots of the craft, the authenticity of taste, or the principles of honest work.
Today, “Abou Abdo” stands as a brand defined by simplicity, quality, and a timeless flavor that reflects the past—while thriving confidently in the present.
