Which hotel restaurants in Egypt are worth using, and how far ahead should you book à la carte dining?

Al Dente is a complimentary à la carte restaurant where you order from the menu. It is a good dinner choice for pasta and pizza, but reservations are in demand, so book roughly four days in advance.

The second complimentary restaurant is a buffet with food broadly similar to the main restaurant, but fewer diners and waiter-served drinks. Reservations are usually available for the following day.

Tables in the main restaurant can be hard to find at peak times. Come right at opening or close to the end of service; beef, pizza, pasta and desserts receive the best feedback.

The club breakfast has a more premium selection, including sparkling wine, smoked salmon, cheeses, pastries, and fresh mango or strawberry juice. Staff may remember regular guests’ usual orders.

The beach service offers drinks, ice cream, fruit, chips and sandwiches, but it is better for light snacks than a full meal. Plan a proper lunch in the main restaurant rather than relying on the beach counter.