Budget
Koshari el-Tahrir
Popular koshari chain, serves koshari in various sizes though the small 3 lb is a good size portion. You can add hot sauce or a lemon sauce. For 5.50 LE, you can get a small koshari and a can of Coca-Cola. Eat-in or takeaway.
Directly opposite the gates of the American University in Cairo AUC in the south-eastern corner of the square are to be found all the central Cairo branches of McDonalds, Pizza Hut and KFC.
Fatari Pizza Tahrir
Serves sweet fatirs, as well as varieties with cheese and meat toppings. Has a small sitting area, or is good for take away.
Midrange
The basement of the Annex to the Hilton Hotel on Tahrir Square has a large number of internationally-flavoured eateries in a mall-type setting, everything from Egyptian to Thai and hamburgers. Prices are reasonable and the setting comfortable.
Beano's
Modern coffee chain, serves salad, sandwiches, etc.
Cilantro
Modern coffee-chain that also serves sandwiches, salads, etc. Wi-Fi available, credit cards accepted.
Costa Coffee
Modern coffee chain that also serves desserts and some sandwiches
Midan Tahrir affords a large number of very convenient dining options for the traveller.
Bird Cage
Reportedly the best Thai food in Cairo. We see no reason to contest.