Heliopolis has a strong local food scene that reflects both its residential character and its prosperous history. The main boulevards have a mix of upscale restaurants serving Egyptian and international food alongside excellent cheap eateries — the kind of neighbourhood where the koshary shop has been in the same spot for thirty years. The suburb's French and Belgian heritage left a lasting impression on its pastry and café culture, and several patisseries have been here long enough to feel like institutions.