American Israeli Ian Friedman has formed a partnership with Arab Muslims and a Bermudian to open Caf? Cairo a restaurant offering exotic flavours of the Middle East.

?We have come together for one common goal ? to produce the best cuisine we possibly can,? Caf? Cairo executive chef Mr. Friedman said.

The Bermudian partner is Frank Arnold who has assembled a team of global talent to offer a wide repertoire of exotic delicacies.

Egyptian general manager and co-owner Amre Elsayeed has used his artistic talents to enhance the decor of the Front Street restaurant which opened on November 2.

Antique Egyptian wooden sculptures, clay and bronze have been used to create the ambience of old Egypt.

Mr. Elsayeed designed the wooden bases for the tables from old Egyptian ploughs or doors and he also made wall sconces with ornate designs.

?Caf? Cairo is a gateway to music, art and food,? Mr. Friedman said.

?The music Amre selected for the restaurant is very popular in Africa, Turkey, Algeria, Lebanon and Israel and it has a jazzy hypnotic and melancholy sound.

?Different flavoured Sheeshas can be smoked from large waterpipes on low level seating, creates a relaxing atmosphere.?

After dinner, Cairo turns into a lounge/club where food is served until three in the morning.

Mr. Elsayeed was intent on creating an atmosphere that would not only give the patron a unique dining experience but a taste of Middle Eastern culture.

Cultures which often clash in the Middle East, however, are coming together at Caf? Cairo instead.

?I was affected tremendously by the events of September 11, and I never dreamed I would be working alongside Muslims or Arabs,? said Mr. Friedman.

?At one point in my life, I think I swore vengeance against them and now I love the people I work with like my brothers. They work very hard and want to give the best you can possibly give.

?We are a Middle Eastern restaurant with global fusion influences and we have some talented staff from Bermuda, Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Brazil, Lebanon, Egypt and Morocco and that is a wide range of talent under on one roof.?