Food Guide in Yerevan

Must-Try Dishes:

• Lula Kebab: Ground meat kebab with bulgur and spices. Texture similar to falafel but meat-based. National treasure.
• Harissa: Ancient wheat and meat porridge cooked overnight, labor-intensive. Comfort food served at celebrations.
• Lavash Bread: Thin, crispy flatbread baked in traditional tandoor oven. Eaten with every meal, available everywhere.
• Khorovatz (Kebab): Grilled meat skewers, pork or lamb. Street food staple, quality varies.
• Manti: Pasta dumplings filled with meat, topped with yogurt and spiced butter. Labor-intensive specialty.
• Lentil Soup: Hearty everyday soup, comforting and inexpensive.
• Pomegranate Molasses: Sour fruit reduction used in cooking and salads. Uniquely Armenian flavor.

Dining Tips:

• Breakfast: Cheese, bread, jams, tea or coffee. Hotels include extensive spread.
• Lunch: Main meal, typically 1-3pm. Many restaurants close between lunch and dinner.
• Dinner: Later meal, starts 7pm or later. Social, leisurely event.
• Local Restaurants: Seek places where locals eat rather than obvious tourist spots. Better prices and quality.
• Pricing: Meals range from ₽1,500-3,000 AMD (street food) to ₽10,000-20,000 AMD (upscale). Wine/brandy adds cost.
• Hospitality: Armenians extremely hospitable; expect generous portions, offers of toasts (honor to accept small sips), family-style dining.