What Food To Try in Oradea and Food Prices

Eggs with Ham - Ouă Pârlite cu Şuncă (savory breakfast) - This dish features eggs fried with crispy ham, often topped with fresh herbs. Locals enjoy it for breakfast, usually paired with a side of homemade bread for a hearty start to the day.

Paprikash Chicken - Pui Paprikash (spicy stew) - A tender chicken stew simmered in a rich, smoky paprika sauce, served over a bed of polenta. It's a favorite family meal on Sundays, often shared around the table with loved ones.

Sarmale (cabbage rolls) - These cabbage rolls are filled with a mixture of minced meat and rice, then slow-cooked in tomato sauce. They’re commonly enjoyed at festive occasions, especially during winter holidays, and reflect a rich cultural tradition.

Mămăligă cu brânză (cornmeal polenta with cheese) - Creamy cornmeal polenta lusciously topped with sheep’s milk cheese and sour cream, providing a hearty and filling vegetarian option. It’s often eaten as a comforting dinner dish, perfect for cooler evenings.

Mititei - Little Smoked Sausages - A blend of minced meats, garlic, and spices, these finger-licking sausages are grilled and served hot, typically with mustard and bread. You'll see locals enjoying them at outdoor grills, especially during summer celebrations.

Tomato and Cucumber Salad - Salată de Roșii și Castravete (fresh and crisp) - This refreshing salad combines juicy tomatoes and crunchy cucumbers, lightly dressed in oil and vinegar. It's a beloved side dish during summer meals, making the most of local produce, enjoyed daily.

Pastramă (smoked mutton) - This dish features tender smoked mutton, generally served hot with pickles and a side of polenta. Many locals savor it especially during colder months, as a warming comfort food that truly sticks to your ribs.

By the way, if you’re exploring Oradea, don’t be surprised if you see people enjoying their meals late into the evening—they often linger over dinner, savoring every bite and sip with friends!

Palinca - Țuică (plum brandy) - A potent spirit made from fermented plums, distilled to create a rich, fruity flavor. Often served as an aperitif before meals, it’s customary for locals to toast with it on special occasions—just remember to sip slowly; it’s stronger than it seems!

Ciocolată caldă - (thick hot chocolate) - This is no ordinary hot chocolate; it’s a dense and creamy delight that's more like a liquid dessert. Locals love enjoying it in cozy cafés during chilly evenings, often accompanied by a dash of whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon on top.

Fresh Orange Juice - Suc de portocale (freshly squeezed juice) - Made from local oranges, this juice is bright and refreshing, perfect for combating the summer heat. Many locals visit fruit stalls or market cafes for this vibrant drink, and it's a staple during breakfast or morning brunch.

Papanasi - Papanasi (cheese doughnuts) - Delightfully sweet, these doughnuts are made from cottage cheese and served with sour cream and blueberry jam. They’re typically enjoyed as a treat during festivals, often served warm and crispy on the outside, making them impossible to resist.

Inghetata - Înghețată (ice cream) - This rich, creamy gelato-style ice cream comes in a variety of local flavors, like sour cherry or pumpkin, and is served in small cups or cones. Found at street vendors in summer, it’s perfect for cooling off while wandering through the city’s picturesque parks.