Kokomo: A Design-Driven Culinary Escape in Cairo

In 1988, ‘Cocktail' had The Beach Boys singing about a far-off paradise called Kokomo, where the daily grind feels a million miles away. Fast forward to today, and Egyptian restaurateurs Omar Fathy and Alia Helmy have taken that dreamy idea and reimagined it in the heart of Cairo with their latest venture, Kokomo. 

The duo, known for their successful spots Eatery and Otto, have turned Kokomo into a place that feels like a break from the Egyptian capital’s intensity - a space that’s all about thoughtful design and an eclectic, global vibe. 

Helmy’s eye for reclaimed and repurposed materials is evident from the moment you walk in. The space is layered with industrial textures, from the leather seating that invites you to sink in and stay a while, to the massive stone walls that give the space its weighty, grounded feel. Even the restrooms carry this raw, unpolished aesthetic, making sure that every corner of Kokomo feels cohesive and intentionally designed. 

The design sets the stage, but it’s the blend of cultures that really defines Kokomo. Fathy and Helmy, inspired by their travels and the dining scenes they've encountered across the globe, have created a menu that pulls from Egyptian, African and Asian influences. 

At Kokomo, whether you're diving into a meal that’s as beautifully crafted as the space itself or just soaking in the atmosphere over drinks, there’s a sense that you’re part of something special. It’s not just about escapism; it’s about experiencing something new, something that feels both familiar and entirely unexpected even in a city that is as dynamic as Cairo.