Some restaurants are built for dinner. Others are built for brunch. This one falls firmly in the second camp.
Set in Indianapolis, IN, The Egyptian Cafe & Hookah Bar has carved out a corner of the city's weekend brunch scene with a personality of its own. The room comfortably seats a mix of solo diners working through a coffee and a newspaper, couples splitting a stack of pancakes, and friend groups settling in for a slow, three-hour Saturday.
Light streams in through tall windows, jazz plays at a sensible volume, and the espresso machine hums in the background like a third instrument.
Vegetarians and vegans are well taken care of — at least three plant-forward mains anchor the menu, not just an afterthought side of fruit.
Like a lot of the best brunch spots in Indianapolis, The Egyptian Cafe & Hookah Bar is at its most magical on weekend mornings, when the kitchen is firing on all burners and the room slowly fills with the kind of low, happy hum that only good food and unhurried company can produce. Whether you're a tourist with one weekend in town or a local with a Sunday ritual, this is a place that earns its reputation plate by plate.
Frequently asked questions
Does The Egyptian Cafe & Hookah Bar take reservations?
Most brunch spots in Indianapolis are walk-in friendly, with a wait list during peak hours. Larger parties (5+) should call ahead to ask about a reservation.
Is The Egyptian Cafe & Hookah Bar kid-friendly?
Yes — The Egyptian Cafe & Hookah Bar welcomes families. Most brunch menus include simple kid-friendly options like pancakes, scrambled eggs, and fresh fruit. Highchairs are usually available.
What kind of cuisine does The Egyptian Cafe & Hookah Bar serve?
It's classified under egyptian — broadly an American-style brunch experience with regional touches you'd expect in Indianapolis.
Is there outdoor seating at The Egyptian Cafe & Hookah Bar?
Outdoor seating is not always confirmed. We recommend calling ahead during nice weather.
Location
Coordinates: 39.8694, -86.1446. Use these coordinates with your preferred maps application for directions.