What Food To Try in Plovdiv and Food Prices

Banitsa - Cheese Pie - This flaky pastry is filled with a mix of white cheese and eggs, baked to golden perfection. It's a popular breakfast choice, often enjoyed with yogurt or just straight out of the bakery.

Shopska Salad - Shopska Salata (Fresh Vegetable Salad) - A colorful blend of tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, and topped with crumbled feta. Locals love it with lunch, especially during summer, as a refreshing side dish or light main course.

Gyuvetch - Baked Vegetable and Meat Stew - A hearty stew made with tender meats, seasonal vegetables, and spices, cooked slowly in a traditional clay pot. It's a favorite dinner option, typically served hot and bubbling straight from the oven, especially during colder months.

Kavarma - Pork Stew - This savory dish features marinated pork, sautéed onions, and bell peppers, slow-cooked to create a rich flavor. Many enjoy it at family gatherings, often paired with a crusty loaf of bread to soak up all the delicious juices.

Patatnik - Potato Dish - Made from grated potatoes mixed with herbs and spices, then baked or fried for a crispy exterior. Folks relish it as a filling street food option, especially in the morning, paired with a hot cup of coffee.

Kolacz - Seasonal Cornbread - A fluffy cornbread variety often made with local corn in late summer and served warm with fresh tomato salad. It’s common to find it at family picnics or gatherings, celebrating the harvest.

Sarmi - Stuffed Cabbage Rolls - Cabbage leaves wrapped around spiced minced meat and rice, topped with a tangy tomato sauce. These are generally enjoyed in winter, often served at festive family dinners, showcasing the rich flavors of Bulgarian cuisine.

Kapama - Braised Cabbage - This dish combines layers of sauerkraut, meats, and spices, cooked slowly for hours. It's a great winter comfort food, generally prepared for special occasions and enjoyed best when shared among friends and family.

Ayran - Айран (yogurt drink) - This refreshing blend of yogurt, water, and a pinch of salt creates a creamy, savory beverage that's perfect for hot days. Locals typically enjoy it during lunch or with grilled meats, often served in a tall cup that showcases its frothy texture.

Turkish Coffee - Турска Кафе (strong coffee)** - Finely ground Arabica beans are simmered in a special pot called a džezva, resulting in a strong and aromatic coffee with a layer of dense foam on top. It's common for friends to gather during the afternoon, sharing stories while sipping from small cups—just make sure to let the grounds settle before taking a sip.

Mestivate - Местивата (local aperitif) - This herbal-infused spirit, usually crafted from grapes, boasts a complex flavor profile that's both sweet and herbal. You'll find it served chilled in small glasses during celebratory occasions or casual gatherings; it's customary to enjoy it along with salty finger foods.

Baklava - Баклава (sweet pastry) - Layers of flaky phyllo dough are filled with crushed walnuts and drenched in honey syrup, resulting in a decadent dessert with a delightful crunch. Locals savor this sweet indulgence during holidays or family gatherings, often served warm with a sprinkle of ground nuts on top.

Zahtar Ice Cream - Зехтнер (herbal ice cream) - This unique frozen treat, infused with local herbs and a hint of zest, offers a refreshingly aromatic twist to the usual ice cream fare. It's a popular choice during summer evenings near the central square, and locals often enjoy it while strolling through the vibrant streets—perfect for combatting the heat.

By the way, be sure to ask for the homemade version of Ayran, as it's often fresher and creamier than the industrial kinds.