One thing that surprises travelers when they first come to Bucharest is how huge the city is and how modern and vibrant it is. At every street corner in the city center you will be inundated by the advertisements of the big businesses. But, if you happen to believe, like our team does, that small business should be supported, here is a list of hidden restaurants, perfect from enjoying delicious authentic Romanian food.

“Argentin” on Blanari street is located on that one quiet street in old town, so different than the over-crowded ones. The unassuming décor and the great food and wine selection have been bringing back the regulars since the 1990s, when the owner tended to the bar himself. At this venue our personal recommendation is: the house’ platter (Platoul casei), a mix of grilled meat, grilled mushrooms, baked potatoes with garlic, and plenty of pickles, and, for dessert the traditional fried doughnuts (Papanaşi), served warm, smoldered in sour cherry jam and sour cream.

“Bodega La Mahala” on Covaci Street has a discrete entrance hidden in plain sight, in the heart of old town. Once you make it through the narrow corridor from the busy street to a peaceful covered summer terrace, you will be transported to a nostalgic 1980s esthetic, amplified by the selection of popular Romanian music in the background. At this venue our personal recommendation is: the smoked ham and beans soup (Ciorbă de fasole cu afumătură), served with onions on the side, and the traditional grilled skinless sausages (Mici), served simply with mustard and bread.

“Bucătăraşul” on Olteni street is hosted by a beautiful turn of the century house in the old Jewish neighborhood of Bucharest. The menu is described as “Romanian food with a soul” and indeed it feels like the homemade meals our moms prepare for us with love. At this venue our personal recommendation is: the big bowl of chicken soup with sour cream (Ciorbă de pui a la grec), and the cook’s specialty (Tigaia bucătăraşului), a plentiful stew with pork, beef, chicken, veggies, served with the much beloved corn polenta (mămăliguţă).

And, since we get asked about it quite frequently, here is some extra information about the restaurant culture in Bucharest: Restaurants are open all day long, without a break between the typical lunch rush and the flexible time for dinner, no need to worry about it when you schedule your guided tours. The portions at traditional restaurants are quite generous, so feel free to share some dishes and that way avoid wasting too much food. Tips are not included in the bill, but it is common practice and the waiters will ask you about it. Payment both by cash or card is accepted at any venue nowadays.

We hope you enjoy our recommendations! Poftă bună!