Tastings in Sharm El Sheikh

If you’re sticking around Sharm El Sheikh for more than beach days and snorkeling, tastings are a neat way to connect with the local flavors and culture. I remember my first backyard tasting of Egyptian hibiscus tea in Hadaba,sweet, tart, and a little floral, nothing like the store-bought stuff.

You won’t find many formal wine tours here like in Europe, but there’s a small, growing scene with places like Tiran Island Vineyards offering a chance to taste local wines made from desert-grown grapes. Then there’s the often overlooked spice market near Old Market, where vendors encourage you to smell, touch, and even sample fresh herbs and blends that Egyptians use daily.

And don’t brush off the street food tastings. Try the shish tawook at Soho Square or the little stands near Naama Bay for marinated meats that tell stories of Sinai’s culinary roots. Quick tip: If you want a real spice tasting experience, ask for dukkah,it’s a nut and spice mix you’ll want to sprinkle over everything. Sharm El Sheikh’s tastings offer something informal and genuine, not some touristy setup, so hang out, chat with locals, and let your palate wander.