North Tower, Nile Towers, Boulaq

2-2-2461-9910

What: Restaurant/lounge bar with Egypt's most varied alcoholic-cocktail menu.
The look: High-tech industrial meets deconstructed pharaonic temple. Cairo architect Shahira Fahmy used traditional materials—including alabaster, copper, wood, and linen—to play with ancient references.
Who goes: Wealthy, unabashedly secular Arabs of a certain age book late-night dinner tables for parties of six to eight; young couples and singles stick to couches and tables or seats around the sun boat-inspired central bar.
Sound track: Multicultural lounge music, on tape.
What to wear: Skinny jeans and designer shades for guys (even at 11 p.m.); ladies, no veils, as much bare skin as possible.
What to drink: The signature Nile Martini blends vodka, peach schnapps, vanilla syrup, and fresh grape and apple juices.
Door policy: Enormous gloved bouncer wants to know if you have a reservation..