A long-time Maadi favorite, this cozy crêperie is a fine example of the world-class international cuisine on offer in this diverse Cairo neighborhood. While it may not look like much from the outside, Crêperie Des Arts manages to capture the essence of rustic French dining in both atmosphere and cuisine. The cabin-like look of the restaurant's exterior carries over to the interior, where wooden beams and rough-hewn dark wood tables and chairs make for an unpretentious and comfortable setting. The relaxed decor is contrasted by the classy table settings: posh wineglasses, quality tableware and more than one kind of fork. The food here is by no means humble. Crêperie Des Arts has expanded its delicious crêpe menu to offer a wide selection of French classics with a few Egyptian accents. We suggest opting for a full meal to enjoy the full range of gourmet options on offer here. Our ideal three-course meal would begin with the delectable French-style onion soup (LE 13) or the rocca salad (LE 23) served with crumbly feta, crunchy onion, tangy olives and saffron. Main dish choices include meat options; we like the entrecote steak (LE 59), served with European-standard French fries and salad, as well as a wide selection of gourmet paninis, pasta dishes and, best of all, savory crêpes. We suggest coming straight to the crêpes because, frankly, they are amazing. Light, fluffy batter and the perfect combination of fillings make for a truly delectable experience. While tasty traditional fiteer is available; go for the French selections and you won't be disappointed. We love the Hollywood crêpe (LE 23.5), a strangely delicious combination of chicken, gruyere, béchamel sauce and walnuts. Not for you? Try the more subdued force 4 crêpe, which is filled with Roquefort, mozzarella, gruyere and goat cheese (LE 26.5). We applaud Crêperie Des Arts' humor with the menu choices, especially the Memphis crêpe (LE 19.5), a down-home treat of hamburger, French fries, fried egg and onion all wrapped up in a crêpe —just don't tell the French. Dessert is this crêperie's forte; so save plenty of room. Sweet crêpe offerings include classic fillings such as butter and sugar (LE 10.50), jams (LE 12.50), chocolate, caramel and Nutella (LE 12.50-15.50), as well as a few wilder options for adventurous eaters. We enjoyed the chocolate coconuts (LE 15), a chocolate crêpe stuffed with coconut and walnuts. We also like the music hall (LE 20.50); a classic crêpe filled with chestnuts, vanilla ice cream and whipped cream. A selection of waffles with various toppings is also on the menu. With such an extensive menu, everyone will find a satisfying crêpe and a visit to Crêperie Des Arts will transport you from Maadi to the heart of France — their crêpes just might be better. Best bit Come here for delicious French-quality crêpes at affordable prices. Worst bit Menu ingredients are a little repetitive. 360 Tip Crêperie Des Arts is located on the Misr Helwan Road, a few steps before Metro Market. Crêperie Des Arts 30 Misr Helwan Agriculture Rd., Maadi, Cairo Tel: 016 967 3444, 2521 4151 Open: 12-11:30 pm This article was contributed to Daily News Egypt by Cairo360 www.cairo360.com
