Spice level warning — Aish Baladi is not what I expected

I underestimated Aish Baladi. The hearty and filling description didn't prepare me for the reality. cumin brings a heat or pungency that builds steadily rather than hitting upfront. By halfway through I was sweating but couldn't stop eating.

koshari is considered the national dish representing the multicultural influence on Egyptian cooking. The a traditional Egyptian koshari shop setting means locals eat this with ease while visitors like me reach for water. karkadeh hibiscus tea cut through it better than water would have. Don't order the mild version out of caution — the full version is the point. I'd go back. Three stars only because I wasn't warned.