Albania is a cooking pot of cultures when it come to its food. From Byrek, a flaky filo pastry stuffed with cheese, spinach or meat, to stuffed aubergines and lamb stews, every mouthful is a delight. Albanians are known for their hospitality, so expect generous portions and a warm welcome at every meal!

1. Saranda

Pasticeri Cako 

A charming little bakery in Saranda that offers freshly baked Bereks for 100 LEK. It’s the perfect spot for a quick, satisfying lunch, especially if you’re about to head out and explore the area.

Limani Restaurant 

Perched in a stunning waterfront location, this restaurant boasts the best views of the harbor of Saranda. The warm and friendly staff create a welcoming atmosphere, while the fresh, generously portioned dishes make every meal a delight. With fair pricing and a menu full of delicious options, be sure to try the seafood risotto or one of their outstanding pizzas!

Sophra Restaurant

Make this cute little café your go-to for a traditional Albanian breakfast. Amazing coffees and petullas with a wonderful view of the Saranda’s seafront.

Spar Supermarket

Eating out in Albania is often more affordable than grocery shopping. However, if you need a few essentials, this supermarket offers the best selection and most competitive prices in the area.

2. Gjirokaster

Taverna Traditionale Kardashi

If you’ve ever wanted to be transported straight into your grandmother’s living room—assuming your grandmother was Albanian and an excellent cook—then Taverna Kardashi is the place for you. Warm, welcoming, and run by an owner who seems to have hospitality down to an art form, this little gem in Gjirokastër has rightly earned every one of its five Tripadvisor stars. Tucked away just beyond the high street, perched on the hillside like a well-kept secret, it feels all the more delightful for the effort it takes to find it. Once you’re in, do yourself a favour and order the stuffed aubergines, the mixed vegetables, and the rice balls. You won’t regret it.

3. Tirana

My Favourite

Wandering through Tirana Park, you might just feel like you’ve stumbled into Narnia—if Narnia had Aperol Spritz and really good pizza. This outdoor gem is all bean bags, gentle music, and that perfect Sunday afternoon vibe, no matter what day of the week it actually is. For just 500LEK, you can tuck into a lovely pizza, and at 450LEK, the Aperol Spritz is a must. Throw in a lakeside view, and honestly, what more could you possibly need?

Kernace Zgare Fatosi

The one with all the locals. Always a good sign, isn’t it? If you’re looking for somewhere truly authentic—where the tourists are blissfully outnumbered—then this traditional street food spot in the heart of Tirana is the place to be. It’s all part of the city’s effortlessly cool charm, and if you hang around long enough, you might just find yourself swept up in a spontaneous folk singalong. Stranger things have happened.