Top Local Dishes & Where to Try Them in Bucharest, Bucureşti, Romania
1. Sarmale cu Mihalceai (Cabbage Rolls)
Traditional Romanian dish made with cabbage leaves wrapped around a mixture of minced meat, rice, and spices. Try it at Caru' cu Bere, an iconic beer-house dating back to 1879.
- Authentic Atmosphere: Experience the rich history of Caru' cu Bere while savoring Sarmale
- Taste of Tradition: Sarmale offer a delicious blend of flavors representative of Romanian cuisine.
- Lunchtime Special: Many restaurants in Bucharest offer Sarmale as a daily lunch special.
2. Mititei (Romanian Skinless Sausages)
Thin, grilled sausages made with ground meat and spices. A must-try at La Ceaunu or Hanul Lui Manuc.
- Flavorful Twist: Mititei have a unique smoky flavor and slightly spicy taste.
- Local Favorite: Mititei are one of the most popular dishes in Bucharest.
- Outdoor Dining: Many restaurants offer outdoor seating to enjoy your Mititei al fresco.
3. Drob de Miel (Roasted Pork Roll)
A large roll made of minced pork, seasoned with garlic and spices, roasted on a spit. Don't miss it at Dianei Vechi Restaurant.
- Large Portions: Drob de Miel is perfect for sharing.
- Bucharest Icon: Dianei Vechi is one of the oldest restaurants in Bucharest, offering traditional dishes since 1924.
- Social Gathering: This dish is ideal for group dining, as it's best enjoyed with friends and family.
4. Zacuscă (Eggplant Salad)
A traditional Romanian vegetarian dish made with eggplants, tomatoes, onions, and peppers. Try it at Hanu' lui Manuc.
- Vegetarian Option: Zacuscă is a delicious vegetarian dish to sample in Bucharest.
- Healthy Alternative: This eggplant salad is a light and refreshing choice for a meal.
- Sharing Dish: Zacuscă is usually served as a side dish, making it perfect to share with others.
5. Plăcintă (Romanian Cheese Pastry)
Flat, round pastry filled with cheese or other fillings. Enjoy it at Plăcintea Regele Mihai.
- Quick Snack: Plăcintă is a perfect snack for those on the go.
- Affordable Price: These pastries are reasonably priced and make a great budget-friendly option.
- Variety of Fillings: Plăcintă comes in many flavors, including cheese, sweet jam, or even spinach and feta.
6. Souma (Transylvanian Soup)
A hearty soup made with beans, smoked meat, and vegetables. Try it at Casa Doina.
- Heartwarming Meal: Souma is a perfect comfort food for cooler weather.
- Transylvanian Cuisine: Casa Doina specializes in Transylvanian dishes, offering a taste of the region.
- Family-Run Business: Casa Doina is a family-run restaurant, providing a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
7. Sarmale cu legume (Cabbage Rolls with Vegetables)
A healthier version of Sarmale made without meat, filled with rice and various vegetables. Try it at Vegetar'ul Bucuresti.
- Vegetarian Option: Sarmale cu legume is a vegetarian dish to sample in Bucharest.
- Healthy Alternative: This vegetable-based dish is a light and nutritious choice for a meal.
- Vegan-Friendly: Many restaurants, like Vegetar'ul Bucuresti, offer vegan options, making it easy to find plant-based dishes in Bucharest.
8. Cozonac (Sweet Bread)
A sweet Easter bread made with flour, milk, eggs, sugar, and raisins. Available year-round at most bakeries.
- Traditional Treat: Cozonac is a traditional Romanian dessert with roots in Easter celebrations.
- Sweet Tooth Satisfaction: The sweet and slightly fruity flavors of Cozonac make it a popular choice for dessert lovers.
- Year-Round Availability: Although originally made for Easter, Cozonac is now available in bakeries throughout the year.
9. Bob Chitorit (Stuffed Capon)
A traditional dish made with capon (mature rooster) stuffed with rice, onions, and spices. Try it at La Ceaunu.
- Rich Flavor: Bob Chitorit has a rich and satisfying flavor.
- Rare Delicacy: Capon is less commonly found in other countries, making this dish a unique culinary experience.
- Festive Option: This dish is often served during special occasions and holidays.
10. Mamaliga (Polenta)
Cornmeal boiled until it thickens, usually served as a side dish. Try it with Sarmale or Mititei at Caru' cu Bere.
- Comforting Side: Mamaliga is a comforting and filling side dish.
- Versatile Pairings: Mamaliga pairs well with various dishes, such as Sarmale or Mititei.
- Affordable Price: Polenta is a budget-friendly side dish option.
11. Ciorbă de Perișoare (Meatball Soup)
A soup made with meatballs, vegetables, and sour cream. Try it at Hanu' lui Manuc.
- Hearty Meal: Ciorbă de Perișoare is a filling and warming soup.
- Sour Cream Topping: The sour cream topping gives the soup a unique tangy flavor.
- Taste of Romania: This soup is one of the most popular dishes in Romania.
12. Papanași cu Sarmă de Vişină (Cheese Dumplings with Plum Sauce)
Fried dumplings made from cottage cheese and semolina, served with sweet plum sauce. Try it at Caru' cu Bere.
- Sweet & Savory Combination: The contrast between the savory dumplings and sweet sauce creates a unique flavor profile.
- Traditional Dessert: Papanași are a traditional Romanian dessert, often served during special occasions.
- Social Media Worthy: The vibrant plum sauce and colorful presentation make these dumplings perfect for Instagram.
13. Ciorbă de Burtă (Tripe Soup)
A traditional Romanian soup made with tripe, vegetables, and herbs. Try it at Hanu' lui Manuc.
- Rare Ingredient: Tripe is not commonly found in other countries, making this dish a unique culinary experience.
- Hearty Meal: Ciorbă de Burtă is a filling and warming soup.
- Authentic Taste: This soup is a staple in Romanian cuisine, providing an authentic taste of the region.
14. Clatite de Oaie (Lamb Crepes)
Thin crepes filled with minced lamb and onions, topped with sour cream. Try it at La Ceaunu.
- Flavorful Filling: The savory filling of minced lamb and onions gives these crepes a unique flavor.
- Traditional Dish: Clatite de Oaie is a traditional Romanian dish, often served during special occasions.
- Festive Option: These crepes are a great choice for those looking to try something unique and festive.
15. Mihalcele (Cornmeal Dumplings)
Small dumplings made from cornmeal, usually served in a soup or with sour cream. Try them at Hanu' lui Manuc.
- Comforting Side: Mihalcele are a comforting and filling side dish.
- Versatile Pairings: Mihalcele pair well with various dishes, such as soups or sour cream.
- Authentic Taste: These dumplings are a staple in Romanian cuisine, providing an authentic taste of the region.