What Food To Try in Varna and Food Prices

Shopska Salad - Шопска салата (refreshing vegetable salad) - A vibrant mix of tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, onions, and a generous topping of grated sheep's cheese. Often enjoyed during lunch on warm days, it's a staple at local taverns and the perfect start to your meal.

Banitsa - Баница (savory pastry) - Layers of flaky pastry filled with a mixture of eggs and feta cheese, baked until golden and crispy. Perfect for breakfast or a quick snack on the go, locals often grab it from street vendors for its convenience.

Drob-Sarmа - Дроб-сарма (stuffed giblets) - A hearty dish made with chicken giblets, rice, and spices, wrapped in grape leaves and simmered with herbs. Enjoyed by families at home, it’s a true taste of Bulgarian tradition, often served during special occasions.

Fish Soup - Рибена чорба (flavorful fish stew) - A rich broth simmered with assorted fresh fish, vegetables, and herbs, resulting in a comforting bowl of soup. Traditionally, locals savor this dish in seaside restaurants after a long day at the beach.

Gyuvetch - Гювеч (hearty casserole) - A baked mix of seasonal vegetables, rice, and meat, slow-cooked in a clay pot. You can find this dish at family gatherings or Sunday dinners as it brings everyone together around a hearty meal.

Kapama - Капама (cooked meat casserole) - A winter specialty featuring slow-cooked meat with rice, vegetables, and spices, all layered and baked until tender. It's particularly enjoyed during festive seasons, showcasing the local preference for warmth and comfort foods.

Baklava with walnuts - Баклава с орехи (sweet layered pastry) - Layers of pastry filled with finely chopped walnuts, sweetened with honey syrup, and baked to a golden crisp. Served during festive occasions, it highlights a sweet twist that many locals enjoy after heavy meals. By the way, be cautious when ordering, as it can be quite rich!

Sarmi - Сарми (stuffed cabbage rolls) - Cabbage leaves stuffed with a mixture of minced meat and rice, simmered in tomato sauce. This dish is particularly popular in the colder months and brings families together for cozy dinners.

Ayran - Айран (yogurt drink) - A refreshing yogurt-based drink blended with water and salt, served chilled. Locals enjoy it during hot summer days, often paired with traditional meals like kebabs; it’s a perfect way to cool off.

Kafa - Кафе (Bulgarian coffee) - Strong Turkish-style coffee brewed in a cezve, often served with a side of sugar and a small glass of water. You’ll find it being savored in cozy cafes throughout the city, especially as an afternoon pick-me-up while chatting with friends.

Tikvenik - Тиквеник (pumpkin pastry) - A delicious pastry made with thin layers of dough, filled with roasted pumpkin, walnuts, and spices, then baked to golden perfection. Typically enjoyed during the autumn months, especially at family gatherings or local festivals, this sweet treat boasts a comforting, warm texture.

Pahhli - Пахлава (sweet layered pastry) - This rich dessert features layers of dough filled with nuts and sweet syrup, often served with a sprinkle of cinnamon. You can find it particularly during celebrations or gatherings, and it’s best enjoyed freshly made, allowing the syrup to soak into the layers.

Malakana - Малака (frozen dessert) - A local ice cream-like treat made from whipped cream, but with a lighter, fluffier texture, often flavored with fruits like strawberries or cherries. It’s especially popular on hot afternoons at seaside cafés as a perfect way to indulge while taking a break from the sun.

By the way, don’t be surprised if you find locals enjoying ayran or coffee at all hours – it’s just part of their daily rhythm!