A young man plays the oud (عود), a traditional Arab string instrument, while seated next to a smiling companion inside El Fishawi Cafe (قهوة الفيشاوي), one of Cairo's oldest and most iconic coffeehouses located in the Khan el-Khalili bazaar district of Islamic Cairo. The interior features ornate carved wooden frames, wall-to-wall mirrors, and colorful hanging lanterns characteristic of traditional Egyptian coffeehouse (ahwa) decor. El Fishawi has been in continuous operation for over 200 years and has been a gathering place for artists, intellectuals, and visitors throughout its history.