The Cairo Marriott s Cinema Almaz, located on the roof of the palace, has been refashioned into a small stadium-like ground with a panoramic Nile view hosting daily screenings of the U 20 FIFA games. The not-so-cheery crowd, coupled with shisha, beer and signature Marriott comfort food, serves as an alternative to your regular loud street coffee shop gatherings. From the waiters uniforms to the names of items on the menu, the concept is that of a soccer field. Waiters and waitresses strut around in soccer t-shirts, shorts or short skirts and sneakers. Some gear up in caps for a signature sportive look. Browsing through the menu was just as delightful as feasting on our choices of food. While Offside are crispy spring rolls with a veggie filling, Mexican Wave is a platter of the notorious Latin American quesadillas, served with zesty guacamole. My dinner partner and I opted for an All-Star Buffalo Wings platter served with a blue cheese dip along with freshly cut cucumbers and carrots. Aside from struggling to separate the chicken from the bones in the dimly lit venue, it was delicious. After the starter, and half way into the match, we indulged in a British-style platter of fish and chips, dubbed Back at the Net . With only a hint of freshly squeezed lemon, our taste buds were tingling with satisfaction. Other items include Football Field salad, a plethora of greens served with fresh mushrooms and your choice of dressing, Half Time burger, Double Header Burger and a T-bone steak for the meat-lovers. On the menu, desert offerings fall under a section called Let s celebrate , a joyous treat that promises you a good time even after the match. Items include brownies, banana split with your choice of topping and molten cake served with one s choice of ice cream. Brush off your disappointment after Egypt s loss against Costa Rica and show some sportsmanship; head down to the Marriott s Champions Sports Bar for a casual drink while you watch your favorite team battle for the crown.- Daily News Egypt
