Must-try Dishes
Tarator - A cold yogurt and cucumber soup, often spiced with garlic and dill. Locals enjoy it as a refreshing appetizer or side dish during summer gatherings, served chilled.
Banitsa - Flaky pastry wrapped around a mix of eggs and cheese. Typically eaten for breakfast, it's often accompanied by a thick yogurt and enjoyed on-the-go from bakeries, making it a beloved morning staple.
Shopska Salad - Шопска салата - A vibrant salad made with tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, and topped with crumbled white cheese. It’s a favorite at lunch, often paired with grilled meats, enjoyed as a cooling side during warm days.
Kavarma - A slow-cooked meat stew with peppers and spices, served in a clay pot. This hearty dish is usually shared during dinner with family, offering both warmth and flavor after a long day.
By the way, you can’t miss Gyros - Гирос - Slow-cooked meat served in fluffy pita bread with fresh veggies and zesty sauce. It's a popular street food option; locals often grab a quick gyros after a night out.
Lutenitsa - A savory spread made from roasted red peppers, tomatoes, and garlic. Commonly enjoyed in the spring and summer, it’s smeared on bread or served with a side of banitsa during leisurely breakfasts.
Bob Chorba - Bean Soup - A rich soup made with beans, carrots, and spices, often topped with parsley. Traditionally eaten for lunch, it's especially popular in winter; it’s a comforting choice during chilly afternoons.
Meshana Skara - Mixed Grill - A selection of grilled meats like kebabs and sausages, served with sides of rice or fries. This dish is perfect for evening gatherings with friends, celebrating the end of a long work week with hearty bites.
Desserts & Drinks
Turkish Coffee - Турска Кафе (rich, strong coffee) - Finely ground Arabica beans slowly brewed in a special pot called cezve until it reaches a frothy peak. Locals often enjoy it after meals, savoring the ritual of sipping slowly while reading the coffee grounds for fortunes.
Boza - Боза (thick fermented drink) - A sweet, tangy concoction made from fermented grains, typically corn or millet, blended with sugar and sometimes topped with cinnamon or peanuts. It's a popular winter drink, often found warming up street vendors' carts, embraced by locals seeking comfort in colder months.
Rakia - Ракия (fruit brandy) - A fruity spirit, most commonly made from grapes or plums, known for its potent kick and smooth finish. It is traditionally served as an aperitif during family gatherings, often accompanied by a plate of olives and cheese. By the way, the locals will insist on a toast before taking the first sip, which is always done with eyes locked!
Baklava - Баклава (layered pastry) - A deliciously sweet pastry made with layers of phyllo dough, filled with finely chopped nuts and drenched in syrup or honey. Typically enjoyed during holidays and special occasions, it's best served warm and often shared among families.
Kulak - Кулак (frozen dessert) - A popular frozen treat, similar to sorbet, made from fresh fruit blended with water and sugar. You'll find it enjoyed most during hot summer days, especially when locals gather for a refreshing respite at the beach. It's light and refreshing, perfect for sharing after a swim!
