Did you know Bucharest is a street food paradise, offering a mouthwatering array of flavors and culinary delights? Whether you’re a local or a visitor, exploring the vibrant city’s street food scene is an absolute must! From savory snacks to sweet indulgences, Bucharest’s street food has something to satisfy every craving. In this guide, we’ll take you on a delicious journey, revealing the must-try dishes and top street food spots that will ignite your taste buds and leave you craving for more.
Shaorma – the Most Popular Street Food in Bucharest
Shaorma is the Romanian version of the Turkish doner kebab, a dish that consists of sliced meat cooked on a vertical spit and wrapped in a flatbread with various sauces, vegetables, and fries. Shaorma is the most popular and widely available street food in Bucharest, as well as in other cities in Romania.
Shaorma can be found everywhere, from street vendors to small shops to restaurants. Some of the most famous places to get shaorma in Bucharest are Shaormeria Băneasa, Dristor Kebab, Shaorma Genin, Shaorma WOW, Mesopotamia, Shaorma La Băiatu etc. Each place has its own recipe and style, and some offer different types of meat, such as chicken, pork, beef, lamb or mixed.
Shaorma is a filling and satisfying meal that can be customized according to one’s preferences. The flatbread can be plain or toasted, and the sauces can range from spicy to mild, from garlic to yogurt, from ketchup to mayonnaise. The vegetables can include lettuce, cabbage, tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and pickles.
The fries can be inside or outside the wrap, and some places also offer cheese or eggs as extra toppings. Shaorma is a street food that can be enjoyed at any time of the day, and is often accompanied by a soft drink or a beer.
The Irresistible Appeal of Covrigi: A Romanian Delicacy
Covrigi are soft pretzels that are a staple of Romanian street food. They are made of dough twisted into a ring shape, boiled, and then baked until golden and crispy. They are usually sprinkled with salt, sesame seeds, or poppy seeds, but they can also have other toppings or fillings, such as cheese, chocolate, jam, or nuts.
Covrigi can be found in many places in Bucharest, from street vendors to small shops called covrigarii or simigerii. Some of the most famous places to get covrigi in Bucharest are Simigeria Luca and Simigeria Matei, which offer a variety of products made of pretzel dough, such as covridog (with sausage), covricheese (with cheese), or covriking (with ham and cheese).
Covrigi are a popular snack for any time of the day, as they are cheap, filling, and delicious. They are often enjoyed with a cup of coffee, tea, or juice or sometimes with a glass of beer or juice, a traditional plum brandy. Covrigi are a part of the Romanian culinary culture and a symbol of Bucharest’s street food scene.
The Joy of Romanian Pastries: Gogosi, Kurtoskalacs, and More
Romanian pastries are a delight for anyone with a sweet tooth. When exploring Bucharest’s street food scene, be sure to indulge in these traditional Romanian desserts.
Gogosi: Similar to American donuts, these fried dough balls are a popular sweet treat. Gogosi are typically filled with jam or fruit, creating a burst of flavor with every bite.
Kurtoskalacs: Also known as chimney cakes, these twisted dough cones are a must-have street food in Bucharest. Cooked over an open fire, kurtoskalacs are then topped with sugar, chocolate powder, or other delightful toppings for a truly indulgent experience.
Merdenele: For a savory option, try merdenele. These puff pastry squares are filled with melted cheese, making them a perfect snack for a savory breakfast or on-the-go.
Placinta: Another popular street food option, placinta are savory cheese pies made with layers of flaky filo pastry. The combination of the crisp pastry and creamy cheese filling is a true delight for the taste buds.
When exploring Bucharest’s street food, seek out these delectable Romanian pastries. You can find them at bakeries and street food stalls throughout the city. Whether you have a sweet or savory preference, these traditional desserts will satisfy your cravings.
Mititei: A Street Food Staple in Bucharest
Mititei, also known as mici, are a beloved street food staple in Bucharest. These small, garlicky spiced sausages are made from a mixture of ground lamb, beef, pork, and a blend of seasonings and spices. The sausages are traditionally grilled and served without the casing, resulting in a juicy and flavorful meaty delight.
Mititei are often enjoyed with mustard sauce and are a must-try for meat enthusiasts visiting Bucharest. Whether you’re exploring the city’s vibrant streets or strolling through the bustling markets, don’t miss the chance to indulge in this mouthwatering Romanian delicacy.
Exploring Piata Obor Market: A Foodie’s Paradise
Piata Obor Market is a bustling food market in Bucharest that offers a true taste of local street food. Located in the heart of the city, this vibrant market is a paradise for foodies looking to explore Bucharest’s culinary scene.
At Piata Obor, you’ll find a wide array of fresh produce, meats, and cheeses sourced directly from local farmers and vendors. The market is known for its diverse selection of street food options, showcasing the best of Bucharest’s culinary delights.
One must-try dish at Piata Obor Market is mici, also known as mititei. These small, garlicky spiced sausages are a beloved Romanian street food staple and can be found at Terasa Obor, a popular spot within the market. Indulge in the juicy and flavorful mici, paired with mustard sauce, for an authentic taste of Bucharest.
As you wander through Piata Obor, you’ll be captivated by the vibrant atmosphere and the bustling energy of locals shopping for their daily groceries. The market truly embodies the spirit of Bucharest, offering a glimpse into its rich culinary traditions.
Whether you’re seeking a quick snack or looking to sample the diverse flavors of Bucharest, Piata Obor Market is the perfect destination for food lovers. Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere, engage with local vendors, and savor the delicious street food that defines the culinary landscape of Bucharest.
Pizza, a fast alternative
Pizza is a popular and versatile street food in Bucharest and other cities in Romania. It is influenced by Italian cuisine but also has its own local variations and flavors. Pizza can be found in many places, from street vendors to small shops to restaurants, and can be eaten quickly, at reasonable prices, and with different toppings or fillings.
One of the most common types of pizza in Bucharest is pizza al taglio, which means pizza by the slice. It is usually sold in rectangular pieces cut from large trays of pizza baked in electric ovens. The dough is thin and crispy, and the toppings can include cheese, tomato sauce, ham, salami, mushrooms, olives, corn, and more. Pizza al taglio can be eaten on the go, or with a fork and knife at a table.
Another type of pizza in Bucharest is pizza napoletana, which means Neapolitan-style pizza. It is made with a thicker and softer dough, cooked in a wood-fired oven, and topped with simple ingredients, such as tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, basil, and olive oil. Pizza napoletana can be found in specialized pizzerias, such as Ciao Napoli or Il Pizzaiolo, that follow the traditional rules and methods of making authentic Neapolitan pizza.
Other Best Locations to Savor Bucharest’s Street Food Scene
There are several must-visit locations when it comes to savoring Bucharest’s street food scene. The Old Town is a great place to start, offering various street food options, including fast food, local cuisine, and international delights. Wander through the charming streets and indulge in mouthwatering dishes from popular street food vendors.
Another hotspot for street food is Victory Square, where numerous restaurants and cafes serve up delicious bites. Explore the vibrant atmosphere and sample the diverse flavors that reflect Bucharest’s culinary scene.
If you’re looking for a mix of street food and natural beauty, don’t miss the chance to visit Herastrau Park. Here, you’ll find a range of street food cafes offering traditional Romanian dishes, Korean cuisine, and French pastries. Enjoy your meal while taking in the picturesque surroundings of the park.
Whether you’re searching for the best street food spots, following a Bucharest street food guide, or looking for street food markets, these locations will satisfy your cravings and immerse you in Bucharest’s vibrant street food culture. Embark on a culinary adventure and experience the city’s popular street food vendors for a memorable gastronomic journey.
Conclusion On Street Food in Bucharest
Bucharest’s street food scene is a culinary adventure that should not be missed. From traditional Romanian delicacies to international delights, the city offers a diverse and vibrant array of flavors to satisfy every palate. Whether you’re exploring bustling markets or wandering through charming streets, Bucharest is a foodie’s paradise.
Immerse yourself in the Bucharest street food guide to discover the city’s best street food spots. Indulge in Covrigi, the irresistible Romanian pretzel, or savor the flavorful Frigarui, the Romanian kebab. Treat your taste buds to the ultimate cheesy indulgence with Cascaval Pane, a breaded-fried cheese delicacy. Don’t forget to satisfy your sweet tooth with Romanian pastries like Gogosi, Kurtoskalacs, and more.
As you explore the city’s street food scene, you’ll find that Bucharest seamlessly blends traditional Romanian cuisine with modern flavors. From the classic Mititei, garlicky spiced sausages, to fusion street food creations, there’s always something new and exciting to try. Bucharest truly offers a unique and unforgettable street food experience.
So, whether you’re a seasoned foodie or simply looking to explore the culinary wonders of Romania, Bucharest’s street food scene is sure to leave you craving for more. Indulge in the best street food in Bucharest and embark on a gastronomic journey through Romanian cuisine.
