Best Places to Eat in Sofia Bulgaria

Sofia’s Street Food Scene: A Taste of the City

Sofia boasts a vibrant and delicious street food scene! Here are some of the best places to grab a tasty bite on the go:

Popular Bulgarian Street Food:

  • Banitsa & other Pastries: This is a MUST when in Sofia. Head to any banitsa shop (баничарница) for a classic flaky pastry filled with cheese, spinach, or even pumpkin!
  • Kebapche: No trip to Bulgaria is complete without trying these traditional grilled minced meat sausages. You’ll find small kebab shops and restaurants all over Sofia serving up sizzling plates of this local delicacy.

Here are some recommendations for experiencing the best street food in Sofia:

1. “Kebab” stands (кебапчета):

  • Kiril & Metodii: Located near the National Palace of Culture, this is a popular spot for traditional Bulgarian kebapche. Enjoy them with grilled vegetables and a refreshing ayran (a salty yogurt drink).
  • Vitosha Boulevard: This bustling pedestrian street is home to numerous vendors offering delicious and affordable food options.

2. “Mehana” restaurants: While not strictly “street food,” many restaurants in Sofia serve quick, casual meals like meze (small plates of Bulgarian appetizers), which are often considered a type of street food due to their shared nature.

Specific Dishes to Try:

  • Kebapche: These juicy sausages are best enjoyed with the traditional sides, like fries and “shopska salata” (a refreshing salad of tomatoes, cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, and peppers)
  • Banitsa: This pastry can be found in many varieties, from the classic cheese-filled to variations with spinach, pumpkin, meat, or even mushrooms.

Where to find them:

  • Look for “street food” vendors: You’ll often find delicious street food options at outdoor markets and along Vitosha Boulevard, Sofia’s main pedestrian thoroughfare.
  • Explore the “Mehanas”: These traditional Bulgarian restaurants are a great place to enjoy a variety of local dishes in a casual and social setting.

3. Explore the local cuisine: Bulgarian cuisine is known for its hearty and flavorful dishes. Try a “shopska salata” (a fresh salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, onions, and feta cheese) or a “banitsa” sandwich with fresh ingredients and savory flavors.

Try these traditional Bulgarian “mehana” foods:

  • Kavarma: This rich stew is made with various meats and vegetables, cooked in a clay pot and traditionally served in a “mehana” (traditional tavern).

3. Explore the local markets:

  • The market at the foot of Vitosha mountain: Enjoy traditional Bulgarian dishes like banitsa (cheese-filled pastry) and kebabche (grilled minced meat rolls) alongside fresh baked goods, pastries, cheeses, and fruits.
  • Sample “banitsa” with different fillings: This can be a fun way to experience the variety of Bulgarian flavors!

Enjoy your culinary adventures in Sofia!