Jessica Pan
Google
This place is a mixed bag. Where do I start?
Positives: The place has a stunning view of the pyramids from its courtyard and there are plenty of tables for dining. Its beautiful water feature is a great spot for photos. The time I arrived, my hotel did not end up making a reservation on my behalf so when I got there there were no tables available. In saying that, the hostess was an absolute star! She told me to give her some time so she could find a table for me. I think I waited maybe only 10-15 mins while I took photos before a table was ready. (Marriott Mena Hotel Management, take note!) we also got to enjoy the traditional Egyptian dance (floating skirt) was really cool to watch and the guy stopped by our table for photos and videos, which was a great experience.
Now, the negatives…Firstly, the waiters kept pushing us to go for the buffet which we were not interested in because we wanted to try local food, and the buffet was basically international fare. We ordered the Egyptian Mashawy which was a mixed meat grilled platter and honestly, the food was dry/burnt and we couldn’t tell what was what because the food was really dark as it was also dark at our table as well. We also ordered a mint lemonade mocktail but what they gave us had no real mint nor lemons. It came in a bright neon green and had a hint of menthol, which I assumed was the mint flavouring. I couldn’t get over the taste so did not finish the drink. Lastly, this is to no fault of the hotel but just for awareness that once the sun sets, the pyramids do not light up at night (like in the photos), so you’ll practically be staring out into the darkness (and stars) while you become an open buffet for the mosquitoes.
TLDR; Take the snaps, tip the hostess, stay for the show, skip the food & drinks.