Mohamed Gomaa: “Koshary El-Khedawy… a dish perfected by a team, and a journey shaped by passion and resolve”

“From a family venture to a structured corporate entity… The El-Khedawy story as narrated by Dr. Mohamed Gomaa inside the Journalists’ Syndicate.”

Cairo – Maii Abdo:

In an atmosphere marked by professionalism and a genuine curiosity to uncover the foundations of lasting success, I conducted an exclusive interview with a young business leader whose vision is redefining food-service management in Egypt.

Dr. Mohamed Gomaa — the strategic architect behind the El-Khedewy Koshary Group — stands as a distinguished example of how a modest family endeavor can evolve into a full-fledged institution with a growing footprint across several governorates.A representative of a new generation of entrepreneurs, Dr. Gomaa combines academic excellence with refined administrative insight.

He holds a degree in Foreign Trade and Business Administration, an MBA, and is currently pursuing his doctoral studies. He is a firm believer that success is achieved not only through accumulated experience, but through continuous learning, disciplined management, and commitment to operational excellence.Known for his analytical mindset and calm leadership, Dr. Gomaa excels in building cohesive teams and motivating employees.

He places the welfare of his workforce at the forefront, emphasizing teamwork, internal development, and the creation of a tightly integrated operational system grounded in quality, discipline, and shared purpose. His cultural awareness and strategic outlook reflect a broader ambition: to position El-Khedewy not merely as a restaurant, but as a respected Egyptian brand with the potential to compete in regional and European markets.

Origins in Shubra El-Kheima

El-Khedewy journey began in 1993 with the opening of its first branch in Shubra El-Kheima, Qalyubia — at a time when the concept was simply a humble family shop built on authenticity, integrity, and consistently high product quality.

The brand soon gained prominence, largely due to its distinctive flavor profile — a “signature blend” that came to define the identity of its dishes, from its renowned koshary to accompanying side specialties.

A second branch followed in 1997 — today regarded as one of the group’s most influential outlets — marking the beginning of a shift toward more structured management practices. By 2006, rising demand led to the opening of a third branch, further solidifying the brand’s presence in the local market.

From individual management to institutional governance… a pivotal transformation

Over time, Dr. Gomaa recognized that El-Khedewy had expanded beyond the scope of a traditional local eatery. It had become a brand in need of proper institutionalization to maintain momentum and ensure sustainable growth.This realization culminated in 2018, when a specialized company for restaurant management and operations was established.

The transformation included:A comprehensive corporate structure encompassing Finance, HR, Marketing, Operations, Quality Assurance, and Procurement.Partnerships with expert consultants to design and equip branches according to industry-leading standards.A centralized administrative headquarters integrating all departments.A large-scale central production facility ensuring consistency and product integrity.

Advanced warehouse systems linked to branches through an equipped logistics fleet.

A unified hotline and a dedicated delivery management center.These steps, as Dr. Gomaa noted, were not optional enhancements but essential measures to safeguard the brand in a rapidly evolving and highly competitive market.

–A network of 18 branches across five governorates… and a growth trajectory that continues to accelerate

With its refined corporate system, El-Khedewy successfully expanded its operational footprint, reaching 18 branches by the end of 2025 across:Cairo Qalyubia Alexandria Monufia Sharqia

The group continues to pursue additional openings within Egypt, alongside preparations for regional and international expansion.Today, El-Khedewy Koshary operates one of the most extensive branch networks in the Egyptian popular-food sector.

Its presence spans numerous districts, serving a broad and diverse customer base.

Branch locations include:Shubra El-Kheima, Baegam, Basous, Abu El-Gheit, El-Haditha, Qalyoub, El-Qanater El-Khayreya, Shebin El-Kom, Nasr City, El-Mataria, Shubra Masr, Miami (Alexandria), Benha 1, Benha 2, and El-Salam City.This widespread expansion reflects the brand’s strong reputation for quality, consistency, cleanliness, and service efficiency.

–Dr. Mohamed Gomaa… where knowledge meets vision and leadership

Dr. Gomaa’s academic foundation is clearly reflected in his management philosophy. He prioritizes continuous training, performance development, and the establishment of a robust work culture rooted in ethics, collaboration, and motivation.His leadership can be seen through:

Structured staff development programs

Skill-enhancement initiatives

Incentive systems such as the “Employee of the Month” award

A workspace built on mutual respect and unified purpose

In his own words:“My objective is not profit alone… I want El-Khedewy to become a global Egyptian brand.”This vision highlights his ambition — one that extends well beyond Egypt’s borders.-

–Looking toward the Gulf… and aspirations reaching Europe

Dr. Gomaa revealed that the company’s first international expansion will begin in Saudi Arabia, a market known for its robust consumer base and strong appreciation for Egyptian cuisine.

Further plans include additional Arab countries, ultimately aiming for a presence in Europe — a region he considers ripe for high-quality ready-to-eat brands.These ambitions are supported by a detailed strategic roadmap centered on:Product quality

Consistent flavor

Professional packaging standards

Fresh ingredients processed through the central production facility serving the branches

—Journalists’ impressions of the dishes served

The meals presented during the interview — including koshary, a variety of casseroles, and rice pudding — received enthusiastic praise from attendees.

Journalist Mohamed described El-Khedewy as “the benchmark for authentic koshary,” commending the brand for maintaining the traditional flavor beloved by Egyptians.Journalist Sayed noted that the meal rekindled cherished memories, capturing the warmth and simplicity associated with koshary in earlier times.Journalist Abdo highlighted the balance of flavors and craftsmanship, stating that the food was prepared “to the highest standard.”

Journalist Mahmoud expressed complete satisfaction, remarking that the brand successfully combines ingredient quality, thoughtful preparation, and a lasting positive impression.

—In conclusion, the interview at the Journalists’ Syndicate encapsulated the evolution of a project that began modestly yet flourished through strategy, discipline, and collective effort.

It is a case study in how a local idea, driven by determination and professional governance, can evolve into a brand with genuine international aspirations.El-Khedewy’s story is not merely that of a restaurant — it is an affirmation that success is built through intentional development and an unwavering commitment to improvement.As Dr. Gomaa concluded:“Koshary El-Khedewy… a dish perfected by a team, and a brand built with passion.”