Varna doesn't have a big culinary scene, compared to Sofia, but there are many gems of tasty food waiting to be found. I have put the ones I go back to, over and over again.
Martini Bar
Hands down the best place in town for sushi and cocktails. The bartenders are so passionate and know their drinks very well. Sit at the bar and have a chat with them. I always learn something new when i go there. The cocktails and the food change regularly depending on the season so there is always a moment of excitement when you spot something new on the menu. I recommend it to everyone who wants to have a good time!
Bistro Europe
A family run restaurant where the food is cooked with passion and attention to detail. The service is always flawless. Occasionally they organise special set menu events where you get to taste very fancy gourmet food. The chef and owner of the restaurant Filip is a real character and will always make you feel at home. Its also one of the few places in Varna where they serve breakfast. Definitely recommend!
Ribu Ribu
A place that stands out from the normal fast food shops in Varna. The salmon burger is out of this world - juicy and huge. They have awesome fish and chips as well as fried calamari and shrimp in very affordable prices. If you are into spicy food you should try the Spicy Tuna burger - created with Chilli Hills sauce, made from Bulgarian Chillies. Yum!
La Pastaria
These guys sure know how to make good Italian food. Great service and yummy dishes. You should try the crispy courgettes with lemon mayonnaise. The deserts are my fave part. Oh and the mandatory limocello at the end of the meal. |
Klub Na Dokera
The newest place in town with tasty traditional Bulgarian food and excellent grilled meats. The only thing that puzzles me is the socialist glam concept of the restaurant, combined with contemporary interior design which seems to contradict the food, but is exceptional on its own. A real design masterpiece, when you are there look at the preserved rooftop that once belonged to the warehouse storage on the same spot. Cheers to the design team and their creativity!
El Kapan
A colorful place with great interior design that reminds of warm summer nights in South America. The food is great and they offer a huge section of nibbles to have on the side or with your drink.Kamen Briag, Trakata
A hidden gem just outside of Varna. Good luck finding it, but once you do, you will see old communist chairs and table cloths scattered around the garden, where the whole family serve and cook for you.
Seasonal:
Cullinary Arts Institute - opens in Winter
Here you can a have very professional dinner for cheap. The place has four-five tables, which makes for an intimate atmosphere, but at the same time you can see the students cooking, as the kitchen is open. In the summer the students work at Michelin restaurants and in the winter they show everything they learned in those special dinners, so expect a lot of creativity!
The special dinners are usually cooked every Friday or Saturday and there is lunch Monday - Thursday. Keep a look at their Facebook page for the latest event and news.
Pechkata - opens in Summer
A nice place to eat, but in the summer you need to book way in advance, or go there for lunch if you haven't booked. I recommend the fish soup, the crispy courgettes and salad Pechkata. Yummy! Oh and I almost forgot - Gincheto's cake is out of this world!
Nemo, Trakata beach - open in Summer
Between a quiet bay and a fishing village you can have freshly caught fish and enjoy the view.
