In the heart of labyrinthine streets and back alleys in Alexandria's El-Mansheya area, about as hidden as can be, an antique coffeehouse captures the city's classical charm. Established in 1882, the Ali El-Hendy Coffeehouse is both a lesser-known but locally beloved gem, and a stunning work of Art Nouveau architecture.

At the time of its founding, the coffeehouse was run by a Greek woman named Maria Khritiobas. Her partner, an Egyptian named Ali El-Hendy, later bought the place from her and named it after himself. During the two World Wars, it is said to have been used by citizens as a shelter.

Set in a quadrangular courtyard with a large skylight ceiling, the Ali El-Hendy resembles an Italian galleria, a grand oasis in a desert of dusty alleyways. There are many tables in the covered square, where locals sip their morning coffee (Egyptian and thick, of course) and catch up. It’s a perfect place to start your morning in Alexandria.