No question is too difficult for Al Zaieem. However, this one required some asking around since Al Zaieem breaks his fast almost exclusively at home. Here's a couple of quick recommendations that should please your girlfriend without bankrupting you too badly.

Abou El Sid: This would be Al-Zaieem's choice if he was in "impress the girlfriend" mode. This relatively new restaurant/coffee shop is in the same space in Zamalek that used to house Zinc and La Charmerie. The latest incarnation of the place has been done up to look like something out of Layali al Helmia. Lots of low light and cushions and inlaid brass lamps. The menu is Middle Eastern and the sheesha is excellent—although it's hard for us sheesha purists not to roll our eyes at a tobacco selection that includes cantaloupe, grape and cappuccino flavors. There's also the added bonus of people-watching among the Cairo elite. For Al Zaieem's money, there's nothing quite like the sight of rich girls in leather pants air-kissing--although don't let your girlfriend catch you lingering too long. Be warned though: You WILL spend at least £E 75 per person for the full drinks-to-dessert experience.

Attaturk: A dark horse contender. This Turkish restaurant, with branches just off Shehab Street in Mohandessin and off Al-Thawra Street in Heliopolis, serves consistently unique and interesting dishes with a real sense of style. In Ramadan, they offer an open buffet for a flat £E 49. Staff there make a point of stressing that the buffet fee includes all taxes and service charges—no hidden expenses or running up the bill.

El-Tekia: An old favorite. Pure home food—with extra semna. El-Tekia is a cozy little place with a branch tucked away in Dokki, and another on Hegaz Street in Heliopolis, that specializes in classic Egyptian dishes. But Al-Zaieem isn't sure if this would be his choice for a special Iftar with the girlfriend. The décor is relatively spartan, and the authenticity of the food might be a drawback in these circumstances. Somehow, eating the exact same food your mom makes might take away from the specialness of the evening. El-Tekia is definitely your most budget-friendly option—as two people can gorge themselves for less than £E 50 total.

In all cases: calling in advance and making a reservation is strongly advised.
Abou El Sid: 735-9640
Tekkia: 349-6673
Attaturk: 347-5135

If you're interested in doing any further research, Al-Zaieem can also recommend a pair of websites to aid your quest. http://www.cairodining.com contains an extensive list of different restaurants, organized by location, price range and type of food. http://www.layalyramadan.com allows visitors to reserve spaces in one of a dozen different suhour tents around the city.