This Pizzeria Honours Italian Cuisine on the Alexandrian Coast

In 2019, just before the world was upended by the COVID-19 pandemic, Alexandria's streets witnessed an intriguing shift. A seemingly unassuming pizzeria opened its first branch in a back street near Fouad St., Al Attarin. At first glance, it seemed like another addition to the city's vibrant culinary scene, where new cafés and restaurants are constantly emerging. But this time, something was different.

As a Mediterranean city—arguably Egypt's most charming coastal gem—Alexandria is steeped in the flavours of other Mediterranean cuisines, particularly Greek and Italian. From a young age, Alexandrians are introduced to the city’s beloved Italian spots—think Chez Gaby, Minouche, and Focacceria—which have become integral to its culinary heritage. These cuisines are almost a natural part of the city's identity.

Yet, this new spot felt distinct. For those unfamiliar with Alexandria's Italian dining scene, the pizzeria in question is Basilico, which has quickly become a beloved destination for locals.

Basilico was founded by Ahmed Hussein, a former banker who found himself enamoured with Italian cuisine during his time in Italy. “I realised my true passion lay in the culinary world,” Hussein shares. “When I decided to leave my career, Italian cuisine became my solace.”

Partnering with his cousin—affectionately known as 'El Khawaga'—an Italian chef with three decades of experience, Basilico was born. The pizzeria is now infamous for its authentic, wood-fired pizzas and impeccable risotto, perfectly balanced between creamy and al dente. Beyond the basics, their menu boasts a wide array of Italian dishes, from pastas to salads and decadent desserts.

My first visit to Basilico was on a fateful day in March 2019, just before the world changed. Back then, it felt like a hidden gem, known only to a few. The pizza was extraordinary—unlike anything I'd tasted in the city—making it feel like my own private discovery. Today, Basilico continues to win hearts across Alexandria, with branches in Fouad St., Kafr Abdo, and the North Coast’s Marassi.

Wherever they go, Basilico fosters a familial atmosphere. “The warm, family-like environment and our team’s dedication to customer satisfaction have played a huge role in our growth,” Hussein says. “We’re always thrilled and humbled by the overwhelming response from the community.”

Looking ahead, Basilico aims to expand beyond Alexandria, with plans to establish a presence in Cairo and eventually across Egypt. “The vision is to make Basilico a beloved and trusted name in the Italian dining scene, not just here but throughout Egypt and beyond.”

Yet, Alexandria and its deep-rooted connection to Italian cuisine remain central to Basilico’s identity. “Catering to the Alexandrian clientele has been a rewarding experience,” Hussein reflects. Alexandria, after all, is where Basilico’s story began.