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Restaurants in Bansko, the popular ski resort town at the foot of the Pirin mountain, offer several local specialties.
In this mountainous region in Southwest Bulgaria, the food is hearty, and many of the dishes are made from generation-old recipes.
Slow-cooked dishes like Kapama, Katino Meze appetizers, and Kavarma hearty stews, are some of the unmissable regional specialties.
Compared to restaurants in major cities like Sofia or Plovdiv, the restaurants in Bansko have their own unique identity.
Bansko restaurants or traditional taverns known as “Mehanas” have a traditional folk-style atmosphere with simple and rustic fresh flavors.
After spending three months in Bansko exploring the local specialties, we’ve put together this guide to the best traditional restaurants in Bansko.
Savor Bulgarian cuisine at these 10 best restaurants in Bansko.
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PS: If the dates don’t match your schedule, inquire about a private tour
Bansko Restaurants Map Guide
For simplicity purposes, navigating Bansko generally falls into two main areas.
The Old Town area has narrow cobblestone streets, unique Bulgarian Renaissance houses, and large plazas.
And the upper side of town is referred to as the Gondola area, where a gondola station is located close to Pirin Mountain.
During the summer months, the gondola area is relatively quiet, and the inverse is true during the popular winter ski season.
In this guide to the restaurants in Bansko, you’ll find restaurants located primarily in these two parts of town.
Use this map to guide you to the best traditional Bansko restaurants.
AUTHENTIC FOOD QUEST TIP: When you get to Banko, we recommend taking a walking tour to get oriented around the city. This 2-hour Old Town Bansko walking tour takes you to key landmarks within the city and also introduces you to traditional recipes and some of the local popular restaurants to try some of the dishes.
10 Best Restaurants in Bansko that You Need to Try
1. Tavern Voyvoda
Located about halfway between the gondola and the old town area is Mehana Voyvoda. You can’t miss the impressive wooden sign above the tiled roof.
The large enclosed courtyard with outdoor tables is particularly inviting during the warm months.
On the inside, the decor is traditional, and the atmosphere is cozy.
Exceptional Grilled Meats
Grilled meats and barbecue is the main specialty at this Bansko restaurant. Though the menu also features vegetarian dishes and good traditional Bulgarian food.
After passing by several times, we finally stopped in for dinner one evening with friends.
We could not believe the massive freshly grilled meat skewers or shashlik that we received. Even though we were only four, the generous portions were enough to feed at least six people.
Presented in a traditional manner, the skewer-like swords had cuts of chicken, pork, lamb, beef, and vegetables. Underneath the skewers were more vegetables and grilled potatoes.
The exceptional meat and friendly staff, coupled with the great outdoor seating, made for a wonderful evening.
Best Restaurant in Bansko for Grilled Meat
Address: Pirin Street 58, Bansko 2770
Hours: Open daily, 11:00 am – 12:00 am
Price: Grilled meats on skewers for four about 100 BGN (approx $56.05)
Pro Tip: The restaurant offers “to-go” boxes, which are perfect for the generous portions. Don’t hesitate to get one.
RELATED: 7 Best Melnik Wineries to Visit for Amazing Bulgarian Wine Tasting
2. Baryakova Mehana
Baryakova Mehana is one of the oldest and most traditional Mehanas in the city.
It is housed in a large and impressive traditional Bulgarian Bansko house in the heart of the Old Town.
During our visit to Baryakova Mehana, we sat in one of the cozy verandas on the second level, which had lush flowers all around.
The decor is traditional but not as rustic as some of the other restaurants in Bansko.
The outdoor views from the second floor as well as the flowers and nature, create a relaxing, cozy atmosphere.
During the wintertime, the restaurant has a large wood-burning fireplace. They host Bulgarian dancers and musicians during the holiday season.
Traditional Bansko Oven Specialties
Baryakova is a member of the “Unique Bansko” association. On their menu, they offer many Bansko specialties and, in particular oven-baked cuisine.
During our visit, we ordered several dishes and house wine to share. We all unanimously loved the oven-baked beans, made with a tasty tomato sauce and local Bulgarian beans.
We also enjoyed a warm walnut cheese dipped into traditional Bulgarian honey.
The popular restaurant also makes its own bread and has a large selection of Bulgarian meat dishes.
On the extensive menu, you’ll find a long list of Bansko foods and other Pirin regional specialties.
This is one of the best restaurants in Bansko to try many different authentic Bulgarian dishes.
Best Restaurant in Bansko for a Beautiful Traditional Setting
Address: ul. “Velyan Ognev” 3, 2770 кв. Стария град, Bansko
Hours: Open daily, 12:00 pm – 2:00 am
Price: Main dishes range from 18.90 BGN to 40 BGN (approx $10.60 to $22.40)
Pro Tip: Be sure to sit in the upper verandas in the restaurant and enjoy a pleasant dinner outdoors.
RELATED: Bulgarian Food Guide: 15+ Traditional Foods You’ll Fall in Love With
3. Veziova House Mehana
This rustic-looking restaurant with a cozy patio caught our eyes while walking down Pirin Street towards Bansko Old Town.
Located on the upper side of town, Veziova House Mehana is a short walk from the gondola station.
A member of the “Unique Bansko” association, Veziova House is noted as one of the best restaurants in Bansko for traditional Bulgarian cuisine.
Additionally, the Veziova House is also a small charming hotel with a sauna, where you can unwind after a day of hiking or skiing.
The restaurant’s patio is shielded away from the bustle of Pirin Street. And the interior courtyard is a wonderful setting to enjoy a meal outdoors.
In addition, the restaurant also has a spacious indoor dining area.
Tasty Traditional Bulgarian Food
To go along with delightful homemade red wine, we ordered a Shopska salad to start and shared Kapama, one of the most traditional dishes from Bansko.
Like other restaurants in Bansko, the portions are quite abundant. Plan on sharing or go hungry.
The Kapama with chicken, pork, veal, and sausage cooked in a traditional pot with rice and cabbage was excellent. Simple and full of flavor, we savored every bite.
An authentic Bulgarian pancake with local honey was the perfect treat to end our meal.
Also worth mentioning is the friendly staff. Our server was attentive, spoke some English and guided us to the local specialties.
Best Traditional Hotel-Restaurant in Bansko
Address: Pirin Str. 79, Bansko
Hours: Open daily, 8:00 am – 12:00 am
Price: The price of the Kapama specialty is about 13.5 BGN (approx $7.57 USD)
AUTHENTIC FOOD QUEST TIP: Centrally located, consider booking a stay Veziova House especially if you are in Banko for just a few days. Enjoy mountain views and daily free breakfast as you explore the Bansko on your visit.
4. Restaurant Motikata
At the exterior of the city, on Pirin Street, past the gondola, and on the hiking trail, you’ll find this hidden gem.
Restaurant Motikata is popular with locals and was recommended by a friend who lives near the gondola.
Built-in a traditional style, the charming exterior has a small river with two bridges in the open courtyard.
With tables underneath trees as well as stunning mountain views, it feels like you are eating in nature.
The garden area is lovely in the warmer months, and it can get busy. Book ahead or be prepared to wait.
Tasty Local Bansko Food
The local specialties and grilled meats were some of the best we had in Bansko. The oven-baked pork knuckle, a house specialty, was particularly outstanding.
Tender, juicy, and flavorful, the pork was accompanied by mushrooms, roasted potatoes, and butter dill sauce.
Additionally, we also ordered Sache with pork, bacon, peppers, mushrooms, tomatoes, and potatoes. Like the pork knuckle, it was very tasty and copious.
Along with the meal, we enjoyed good Bulgarian wine and finished off with a delightful banitsa Turkish delight dessert.
This Bansko restaurant is a hike from the center of town, and while it may seem out of the way, it is worth the trek.
You’ll particularly enjoy the walk back as you digest the ample portions.
Best Restaurant in Bansko for Seating in Nature
Address: Pirin Street, Bansko
Hours: Open Tues-Sun,12:00 pm – 12:00 am; Closed Monday.
Price: Main dishes range from 16.90 BGN to 39.90 BGN (approx $9.47 to $ 22.36)
Pro Tip: Note that this restaurant is cash only.
AUTHENTIC FOOD QUEST TIP: One fun outdoor activity in Bansko is to take an off-road guide in the Pirin Mountains. This 5-hour guided Pirin Mountains tour and thermal baths tour, takes you on an exciting 4×4 tour to archeological sites within the Pirin national park. You’ll also enjoy lunch at a local trout farm and then relax in thermal spas fed by hot spring waters.
5. Restaurant Yazovir Krinetz
At the top end of Bansko, near the St Ivan Rilski hotel, is the Krinetz Dam or reservoir.
Popular with locals, Restaurant Krinetz, next to the dam, is known for serving seafood dishes like trout, carp, and other local Bulgarian dishes.
Getting to the restaurant is a bit of a hike. From the gondola area, it takes about 20 minutes of walking uphill in the direction of St Ivan Rilski Hotel.
Once you get to the top, you take a dirt road to the restaurant. Alternatively, you can drive or take a taxi.
Getting to the restaurant on foot is well worth the effort. The outdoor seating is spacious, with superb views of the Pirin mountains.
We recommend going at dinner to enjoy the amazing sunset colors and hues against the beautiful mountain backdrop.
Fresh River Fish
The food at restaurant Krinetz is simple and very reasonably priced. Fresh trout and carp from the dam are the two fish specialties you want to have.
Offering a varied menu, you’ll also find fresh salads, grilled meat, and vegetables, as well as seasonal desserts.
We had dinner at this restaurant several times and enjoyed every dish we ordered. The fish is prepared either grilled or fried.
The salads are exceptionally fresh, and everything is tasty. For dessert, get Bulgarian yogurt with sweet mountain blueberries.
Best Restaurant in Bansko for Best Sunset Views and Fish
Address: St. Ivan, Bansko
Hours: Open daily, 10:00 am – 11:00 pm
Price: Trout ranges from 3 BGN for 100g (approx $1.68).
Pro Tip: The restaurant can get busy with locals. In the peak season, book ahead.
6. Chalet Yanitza
Chalet Yanitsa is a simple family hotel restaurant located in the center of town, one block from the main plaza.
With small and cozy outdoor seating, Chalet Yanitza and the friendly “Garfield-like” cat welcome you.
Ivan and Masha, the owners, will welcome you warmly and invite you to sit wherever you want.
They both speak English and will be happy to help you with any questions you may have about the menu.
You will feel at home as soon as you sit down.
Simple Menu and Food
The menu at Chalet Yanitza has a few traditional Bulgarian dish options. They also have daily specials, including soups, appetizers, main dishes, and desserts.
The cuisine is simple and homemade. On the lunch menu try some of our favorite traditional Bulgarian dishes like Shopska salad, Moussaka, or Sache.
One of the best local appetizers is a homemade yogurt and roasted pepper appetizer. Fresh, spicy, and smooth in texture, we could not stop eating it.
The portions are generous, and prices are a steal. This is the perfect spot for a homey experience in the old town of Bansko.
RELATED: 10 Things to Do in Melnik With Restaurants And Hotels Recommendations
Best Restaurant in Bansko for Friendly Service
Address: ul. “Ivan Vazov” 5, 2770 кв. Стария град, Bansko, Bulgaria
Hours: Open daily, 12:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Price: Main dishes range from 4BGN – 12BGN (approx. $2.24 to $6.72 USD).
Pro Tips: Chalet Yanitza also offers delicious food to go. If you are not in the mood to cook, take home a prepared dish at a reasonable price.
RELATED: 7 Authentic Bulgarian Restaurants Not To Miss in Plovdiv
7. Kristy’s Restaurant – Ресторан Кристи
This unpretentious restaurant might be hard to find at first because the name is in Bulgarian and not the translated “Kristy’s” name.
It is located in the upper area of town across from a deli store.
We heard about the restaurant from our landlord when we first moved to Bansko. Popular with locals, you’ll seldom see tourists.
Kristy’s has two rooms with traditional Bulgarian decor. The first large room is the main space you’ll walk into, and the back room is open and partially outdoors.
Even though the large room in the front was not used when we visited, it had an overpowering smell of cigarette smoke.
Head towards the back to the outdoor backyard for a better dining experience.
During our visit, we had no problem communicating in English.
Kristy’s Menu
This family-owned restaurant makes authentic homemade Bulgarian food. The food is made to order, and depending on the season and local produce, not every dish will be available.
All dishes we tried were fresh and well prepared. The Lutenitsa dip was one of our favorites. And, the chicken Kavarma and Guyvech, were both excellent and delicious.
All the dishes are made to order and presented in traditional earthenware pottery.
Overall, this great restaurant in Bansko serves authentic and good-quality food.
Our total meal with two appetizers, two dishes, one extra side dish, and a carafe of wine was only 27 BGN (approx. $15 USD)
While Kristy’s typically accepts credit cards, the card reader was not working during our visits. Plan to have enough cash on hand to pay for your meals.
Best Restaurant in Bansko for Local Food
Kristy’s Restaurant – Ресторан Кристи
Address: ul. “Todor Kableshkov” 25, 2770 кв. Новия град, Bansko, Bulgaria
Hours: Open daily, 6:00 pm – 11:30 pm
Price: Main dishes range from 6.50 BGN – 20 BGN (approx. $3.64 to $11.21 USD).
Pro Tip: Order the house wine. At first,we were not quite sure about trying it. However, we took our friendly waitress’ recommendation and found it smooth and easy to drink.
8. Mehana Vodenicata – Механа Воденицата (The Mill)
Mehana Vodenicata is located near Chalet Yanitza, a short walk from the main plaza. The entrance on the side street leads to a large interior patio with comfortable outdoor seating.
Inside, the rustic decor is a mix of wood and stones, with elegant tablecloths and cushions.
This is another location that is part of the “Unique Bansko” association, and it offers a fine dining experience.
According to their website, they claim to have been awarded the “best restaurant of the year.”
Elevated Traditional Bulgarian Food
The restaurant features a wide range of traditional Bulgarian dishes. The Lutenitsa was our favorite of all the Bansko restaurants, ranking as high as the one from Kristy’s.
The Shopska salad was beautifully presented with fresh and delicious tomatoes. We also enjoyed a tasty shashlik or chicken skewer. The meat was perfectly grilled, fresh, and firm.
Mehana Vodenicata is a great place for a date night or an upscale experience over traditional Bulgarian food.
Expect prices to be also on the higher side.
Best Restaurant in Bansko for Elevated Bulgarian Food
Mehana Vodenicata / Механа Воденицата (The Mill)
Address: pl. “Nikola Y. Vaptsarov” 1, 2770 кв. Стария град, Bansko, Bulgaria
Hours: Open every day from 12:00 pm – 12:00 am
Price: Main dishes range from 10 BGN to 40BGN (approx $5.60 to $22.40 USD)
Pro Tip: This is one of the best restaurants in Bansko to celebrate special occasions or plan a romantic dinner.
9. Mehana “Елите”
Mehana “Елите” is a simple tavern located in the residential part of the upper town.
This Mehana became our favorite lunch spot after we discovered it on the way to our gym.
Rayna, the owner, seating outside, was watching the morning unfold. Her friendly demeanor led us to ask for the menu and hours. Although her English is limited, she happily showed us the menu with her homemade lunch that day.
The best way to find the restaurant is to look for the big blackboard outside with Bulgarian food words written on it.
A small set of stairs leads you down to the dining room in her house. On the inside are three tables and wood benchesa with a typical Bulgarian decor.
Rayna’s Homemade Food
Rayna offers a very simple lunch menu. Ask her for an English menu, and she will guide you along as she uses a Bulgarian menu with the same dishes.
She offers made-to-order salads, grilled meats, and desserts. Depending on the day, she also has special soups, dishes, and of course, homemade wine.
The food is really fresh and tasty. Not all the menu items are available all the time, and she will always let you know what she can offer that day.
Our favorite was the Shopska salad, one of the best we had in Bulgaria. Rayna also makes amazing grilled pork chops and sausages.
You can also find refreshing soups like the traditional tarator soup, a cucumber, and yogurt-based soup.
The desserts are particularly outstanding. We enjoyed banitsa, made like a rice pudding, not too sweet and simply excellent.
For homemade food at a great value, go to Rayna’s for homemade traditional Bulgarian food.
Best Restaurant in Bansko for Home-Made Lunch
Address: ul. “Bratya Veleganovi” 40, 2770 кв. Новия град, Bansko, Bulgaria
Hours: Open daily, 12:00 pm – 2:00 pm; check if the blackboard is out.
Price: Main dishes range from 3BGN – 6 BGN (approx. $1.68 to $3.36 USD).
Pro Tip: If you are looking for a wool hat or socks, Rayna has amazing and reasonably priced traditional hand-knitted items.
10. Belizmata Restaurant – Ресторант “Рибарска Среща” (Fisherman’s Meet)
With the natural beauty around, hiking the Pirin Mountain is a popular activity.
Behind Saint George Palace Hotel, on the right side of the gondola, is Belizmata Dam and an adjoining restaurant.
Belizmata is a popular place to end a hike and relax over a meal and drinks. The atmosphere is rustic, and wooden tables and benches underneath umbrellas are scattered on the open grounds.
Just beyond the tables is a large size dam where you can fish for trout, carp, or mullet.
If you are lucky enough to catch some fish, the restaurant will cook your fresh catch for you.
Simple Fish and Bulgarian Food
The menu is simple and consists of fresh fish, grilled meats, and vegetables as well as traditional Bulgarian salads. You also find a selection of local wine and beer.
The friendly staff speaks some English, and the menu is translated into both Bulgarian and English.
Be aware that the service is rather slow. You want to take your time and enjoy the beautiful dam and mountain views in the background.
Fortunately, the dishes are freshly made to order and very tasty. Salads are full of flavor made with homegrown vegetables. The star dish, the grilled trout is fresh, firm, and well-seasoned.
Overall, the food is simple and tasty. Even though the location is a little outside of town, it is well worth the walk for the food and relaxed atmosphere.
Best Restaurant in Bansko to Catch Your Fish
Belizmata Restaurant – Fisherman’s Meet
Address: улица “Белизмата”, 2770, Bansko
Hours: Open daily in the Summer, 10:30 am -11:00 pm
Price: Main dishes range from 10 BGN to 18 BGN (approx $5.61 to $ 10.09)
Pro Tip: Ask for a fishing rod and reel in your own fresh catch
FAQs – Restaurants in Bansko
As you look to experience traditional restaurants in Bansko, here are some additional considerations to keep in mind.
AUTHENTIC FOOD QUEST TIP: Make your culinary travels worry-free! With the right travel insurance, you’ll enjoy a delicious experience. From medical emergencies, flight cancelations, car rental protection, or tour cancelations, a good travel insurance has got you covered. Check out our travel insurance review for food lovers to get started.
How Much Is a Meal in Bansko?
Dinner for two people could run anywhere between 20 BGN to 80 BGN (approx. $11 to $45).
Wine and beer prices are also very reasonable. A bottle of beer is around 3.50 BGN (approx. $2), and a bottle of Bulgarian wine starts at about 7.50 BGN (approx. $4.20).
While credit cards are commonly accepted, we recommend always bringing cash to cover your meal, just in case. Typically, the prices are very reasonable and lower than in other European countries.
What is the Dining Experience Like in Bansko?
When dining in Bansko, prepare yourself for a lot of cigarette smoking. Bulgarians smoke a lot – and everywhere – even at most restaurants. Be prepared for the smell of smoke to occasionally permeate inside.
Service in Bansko truly depends on the restaurant. You may get better service at more touristy locations, though this is not a rule. Go with the flow and manage your expectations
See more in our Bulgarian restaurants guide about what to expect at Bulgarian restaurants.
Bansko Restaurants Seasonality
Bansko is a popular ski resort. The main season is during the winter from the end of November until the end of March. That’s when the majority of restaurants are open.
In the Summer, the town attracts hikers, mountain bikers, and those interested in outdoor activities. Summer peak months are from the middle of July to the end of August.
Many restaurants in Bansko are open and have beautiful and inviting outdoor gardens and patios.
In between the peak seasons, some restaurants might be closed. We recommend checking the hours directly at the restaurants. Note that you cannot rely on the hours noted on Google Maps.
What Is a Mehana?
The word Mehana literally translate to a tavern. A mehana in Bulgaria typically refers to traditional restaurants where you will find local Bulgarian food.
Local Bulgarian wines are served, the decor and utensils are traditional, and in some cases local music is played.
Have you been to Bansko? What restaurants in Bansko would you recommend for authentic Bulgarian food?
Please share your comments below.
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Claire is co-founder of Authentic Food Quest and a lover of simple and exquisite cuisine. Since 2015, with her partner, Rosemary, she has been traveling the world as a digital nomad, creating content about local food experiences.
Her advice from visiting 45 countries and more than 240 food cities has been featured in Lonely Planet, Business Insider, Honest Cooking, Food Insider, and Huffington Post. She has also co-authored three books, including one in collaboration with Costa Brava Tourism.
An ex-mechanical engineer, Claire is responsible for SEO, keeping the website running, and the fun food & travel videos on YouTube.
When Claire is not eating, she can be found running or cycling. Find out more about Authentic Food Quest
i’ve never had this kinda food before but let me tell you i’m down to try it. it looks sooo good and that trout. whew. i need that in my life.
So glad you enjoy reading about the food. Thank you for stopping by
Wow ! That’s a really great price! Also, all of the food looks INCREDIBLE.
This is a great list! I love to try authentic and local foods when we are traveling.
You are right, Clair, tasting the local food while taveling is the best part (we are biased) of the trip. Thanks for stopping by.
Eating is my favorite way to explore a country and culture! There are so many delicious options highlighted here!
That’s great to hear Christa. Is there any particular dish that stood out to you? Eating your way through the local food specialties is indeed a fun way to explore a destination. Cheers.
All of this food looks absolutely amazing. Definitely need to bookmark this for future reference, thanks for sharing!
Kileen
You have done amazingly well – how did you ever find Elite and what a brilliant recommendation! Some of the places on your list, like Yazovir Krinets and Kristy are indeed the best in Bansko (and I’ve eaten in every reasonably priced non-tourist local food place in town). On the other hand, some of your listings, like #3 Veziova are just horrible – I have been foolish enough to eat there more than once and had average to poor food at high prices every time, though the service is good.
The ones you missed are: Vihren (next to the little sports pitch on Rila St.) a counter-service lunch place with a nice outside terrace and the best and most varied traditional food in town; Simona (Drama St.) a shack with a tiny menu including great soups, grills and salad; Kancheto (Vaptsaros St) their baked pork ‘on tile’ is my favourite meal in all Bansko; Орлово гнездо (Eagle’s Nest, on the big square on Tsar Simeon St) elegant surroundings, top service and wonderful food at local prices; and not strictly Bansko but worth the 10 minute drive, another Kancheto (Mehomiya St, Razlog) with a huge menu rock bottom prices and the best traditional food in this part of Bulgaria – book ahead for this one!
Wow, thanks so much Mark for these awesome additions to our list. We will certainly try them out when we are next in Bansko. We didn’t go beyond Bansko this time, but we are intrigued by Kancheto. These are great and we look forwarding to updating this list once we’ve tried your recommendations. Cheers!