Cairo Station Café in California

"Cairo Station has a breath taking ambience. This is authentic North African, Egyptian cuisine and not a hipster or over-priced anglo-American take on Egyptian food. As I was walking on Telegraph Ave, I was so moved by this restaurant. So much so, that I purchased a meal while having already previously ate and not being hungry. I was so ecstatic to support! The men who work there are very kind. Very inviting and open. The doors fully open and you can view the street so it is not claustrophobic or a tight space. The art on the wall is eclectic and captures the soul of this cafe. Will be returning every time I'm in Oakland."

"Chicken gyro was delicious and loaded with yummy chicken and veggies, white sauce and hot sauce were on point. Chips were also crispy. Service was quick and easy, very kind people. $14 exactly for the gyro ONLY. Looks small but it’s actually a good portion. Definitely will be back here to try other dishes."

"Chicken rice plate was plentiful and delicious. Great spot right across from the Fox Theater if you're looking for a bite to eat before a show. Limited seating inside and out (weather permitting)."

"I ordered the chicken plate and my husband ordered the beef shawarma. We ordered takeout, so I can only speak to the service and food, but the staff were kind. For the price, I expected a larger portion of rice with the chicken plate, and the chicken could have used a bit more flavor. The beef shawarma was much better though, great taste and a generous amount of protein in the wrap."

"We went on First Friday, August 1 2025 and this place was hopping at 2am. I can recommended the chicken shawarma. I want to try their desserts, which by the time my group of intrepid Oaklanders made it there was sold out. If you are inebriated or high. This us the place to get some bomb dot com Egyptian style middle eastern food. The ambiance is cool too. Highly recommend, and we will be back."

"We ordered the falafel as takeout, and it was absolutely phenomenal. The falafel itself was moist and flavorful, not too dry or salty, the pita was fresh and soft, and the other toppings (lettuce, tomato) we're fresh and plentiful. It came with seasoned fries and ketchup, garlic sauce, and chili sauce. For only $15 this was a good deal. The garlic sauce warrants its own shout-out: it was absolutely fantastic. The place is very small for dine-in but very atmospheric and cute. Service was fast and professional. Highly recommend - some of the best falafel I think I've ever had."

"I recently visited Cairo Station Café in downtown Oakland along Telegraph Avenue, an area known for its vibrant mix of international restaurants and student-driven energy due to its proximity to several cultural and academic institutions. Cairo Station Café adds a distinctive Egyptian culinary presence to the neighborhood, offering dishes that are not commonly found across most American dining scenes. The atmosphere feels casual and welcoming, very much in the spirit of a street café you might encounter throughout cities in Egypt. The space is modest but lively, with a relaxed environment that works well for quick meals, casual dining, or stopping in for coffee and conversation. The setting emphasizes comfort and accessibility rather than formal dining. The menu focuses on Egyptian comfort foods and popular street-style dishes. Items like koshari, falafel, shawarma-style sandwiches, and grilled meats reflect the everyday foods commonly enjoyed in Cairo. The flavors are bold and layered, often built around lentils, rice, chickpeas, herbs, and warm spices that create satisfying and filling meals. Service during the visit felt friendly and approachable. Staff interactions were relaxed and welcoming, contributing to the neighborhood café feel that makes the space approachable for both locals and visitors. From a global travel perspective, Cairo Station Café reminded me of the small urban cafés I have visited in Cairo and Alexandria where simple ingredients, bold spices, and quick service come together to create deeply satisfying meals."

"Amazing place for a gyro! Hands down, my new favorite go to. Yes, better than halal guys. This place cooks with LOVE. Coming from a small restaurant owner myself, I could tell the difference between quality food such as this place and The Halal Guys Also, try their baklava. It is a wonderful sweet/pastrie truly out f this world. Had that and the mango drink, I was full. And satisfied."