Bacania Janos Bacsi is a "bacania secuiasca", meaning from the Szekelys, the Hungarian ethnic group living in Harghita, Covasna and Mures regions. 

Most of the products you will find at the "bacania" come from the region. You'll find craft beer, cheese, meat and other delicacies, selected carefully to ensure high quality standards and transparency.

Before you ask - and as it is shown on the picture - : Yes, they speak Romanian, and yes, you will find romanian products too. 

PS: This great spot is a recommendation coming from one of the winners of our Christmas contest. We've tried it, we've loved it, we've added it on the map. ;)

Băcănia János Bácsi

When it comes to finding authentic Italian cuisine in town, look no further than Ristorante Da Giulio. Tucked away in a not-so-fancy area, this charming restaurant has been serving up mama-pizza favorites for many years. And let me tell you, their homemade pasta is a game-changer. As a self-proclaimed pasta connoisseur, I can confidently say that Da Giulio knows how to make me very happy. The carbonara with mushrooms is a must-try, bursting with genuine flavors. If you're looking for a night out with exceptional Italian cuisine, Da Giulio is the place to be.

Ristorante Da Giulio

Boiler rebirth looks like a true success. First of all, it is nice to see a coffee shop opening in an area where specialty coffee was missing. Second, it is nice to see that the place is getting a lot of customers very quickly. Third, I really like the design of the place, with the large front-window, allowing you to see what is happening in the coffee shop while being drinking your coffee outside. 


They have several coffees on the menu, prepared by some of the most experienced baristas in the city, as well as a range of other tasty products for your friends who are not -yet- into coffee.

Boiler Milk & Coffee is the perfect spot for the ones going on a walk around Vatra Luminoasa or Parcul National. 

Boiler Milk and Coffee

I am happy to see that one of my favorite guilty pleasures from my students years in France made it to Romania. The "French" tacos! 

The french tacos has nothing to do with the mexican version. Here is it all about cheese, french fries, meat and your favorite sauce. It is all packed into this burritos bread, which makes it look like a brick. It is heavy, it is unhealthy, but it tastes so good when you feel like not caring about your diet. 

FYI, the urban legends says that the french tacos was born in Vaulx-en-Velin, in Lyon's suburb, and quickly invaded other French cities, and other countries as well. While the "kebab" or "grec" was extremely popular in French cities 15 years ago, the Tacos is quickly becoming THE most popular street food option, especially for the Gen Z. 

Of course, before visiting Tacos Factory in Bucharest, I was a bit suspicious about the quality of the tacos, because I could easily name my favorites and be super judgmental about Tacos places I don't like much. But honestly, our local tacos spot really makes a great job!


Personal advice, ask for the Cordon Bleu - BBQ sauce.
  



Tacos Factory

You've probably heard several times that Bucharest is a coffee city, right?
Well, MABO is a perfect example illustrating that it's true. The roastery opened in late 2019, founded by Bogdan Georgescu, who became World Coffee Roasting Vice-Champion in 2019. 

Bogdan is the second Bucharest-based roaster who ends in the podium at the World Coffee Roasting Championship in the last 5 years. 

You can only imagine, MABO is a wise choice if you look to get a bag of coffee for home. The place is also a coffee shop. Florin will most probably be behind the bar, ready to serve you with great espressos and milk-based coffee drinks.

It's also one of the first coffee shops to open in that area of the city. Just keep in mind that the place is closed during weekends. 



MABO Specialty Coffee Shop & Roastery

This place is part of the Deplastificat Bucuresti movement.

Together we can reduce plastic pollution - come to our place with your refillable bottle and we will offer you free filtered water!

This initiative is a collaboration between Zece La Rece, Deplastificat and Micile Bucurii.

More info on Deplastificat: https://deplastificat.ro/
More info on Micile Bucurii: https://micilebucurii.ro/

Deplastificat

Look at these happy faces. Some of Bucharest greatest coffee people out there, opening a coffee shop and roastery near Piata Iancului. Quiet street, wonderful interior design, and ex-cel-lent coffee. While being a neighborhood coffee shop, against all odds NOMONYM is quickly bringing people from all over the city. NOMONYM is definitely the kind of place you feel like going again and again. I'm starting to wish it could be located straight next to my home. 
Quick heads up: this place has the potential to become your next favorite spot for coffee in town.

NOMONYM Coffee Roastery

As a French, I am not supposed to truly enjoy a place called Waterloo, because it is one of former French Emperor Napoleon's biggest defeat at a battle... But, well, the place is really awesome (and I am not very patriotic...)

For the ones who are not into history, and don't know much about Waterloo, no worries! I don't plan to do any history lesson now. Please just note the Waterloo battle took place in what is now called Belgium. Now guess what? Waterloo taverne is a Belgian restaurant.

What to expect? A selection of belgian beer (bottled or draught), as well as delicious food. I personally recommend their mussels (with Roquefort cheese is even better) or the carbonade. To be mentioned as well, the waiter is extremely friendly, and it deserves to be highlighted!

Waterloo

What a nice feeling to see all these shelves full of Italian mozzarella buffala, parmigiano, prosciutto and other italian products. Sara opened its third location in town. It is a store and not a restaurant this time, but the selection of products is as great as in the other locations. 

Cooking good italian cuisine at home has never been so easy.

SARA Gourmet

Despite the huge expansion in Bucharest's specialty coffee scene, certain parts of town still lack their own coffee shop. Enter 20 Grams, providing great coffee outside the city centre.

Brought to you by the same people behind Hoptimist, besides roasting their own beans, they have designed a fantastic coffee-drinking space. Minimalist and full of natural light, it's a great hangout space in a lovely area. As well as their tasty, well-balanced coffee, try some of their delicious cookies and cakes - especially the salted caramel cozonac (if you get there fast enough!).

20 Grams Coffee Roasters

Statia Rombeer brings draught craft beer to your home!

All you have to do is to ask for the quantity of beer from the draught you want and they fill it in 1L bottles.

Price-wise, it costs much less than taking 33cl bottles. However, even if we should advise you to drink responsibly, you should still try to make sure the bottle gets drank relatively quickly after you open it, if you want to keep the quality of the beer tasty, as you cannot really store it for a long time after it got open. 

This is really a great way to get quality beer for large home parties, without damaging your wallet too much.

If you want to stick to craft beer in 33cl bottles (which I completely understand), please note that they have a large selection of bottled craft beer in the fridge. We are glad to see the craft beer movement being spread in residential neighborhoods.

Statia Rombeer Vitan

There's an italian word for a place where you can taste and buy a decent variety of wines: Enoteca.

How many different bottles would you consider being "decent" then?

Ginoteca brings the concept of an Enoteca around Gin, and with a choice of... near hundred different gins. Keep in mind that each single gin has its own cocktail recipe. Decent enough, right?

Wood and Ivy decorated, hosting fresh herbs and fruits, the place offers a nice room upstairs and a real nice and cozy terrace outside.

Of course you can have a soft drink, a coffee, or other spirits. But hey, we have a pure player here, don't miss that chance!



Ginoteca

Timpuri Noi is on the way to become one of Bucharest most interesting areas to get food and drinks, partially thanks to its large number of young residents and also because of the new business buildings which got built in the area. Trofic's second location made the move to the area, adding an extra choice for your brunch or lunch, proposing the same menu you can find in their other location on Brezoianu street. Once more, it's all about healthy and fresh food, and great coffee from Origo. How exciting to see nice businesses expanding in long-forgotten neighborhoods. Congrats to the Trofic team!

Trofic Timpuri Noi

Having previously shown exhibitions in various locations around Bucharest since 2015, in September 2018, Suprainfinit found its permanent home at Mantuleasa St, no. 22. 

With a diverse programme that focuses on Romanian and international, emerging and mid-career artists, Suprainfinit has an energetic and contemporary feel to its shows. In its bright, airy space, co-directors Suzana and Cristina present intriguing and enlightening works that will hold your attention and stimulate your imagination. Open afternoons, Tuesday - Saturday, it's always worth a look. 

Suprainfinit Gallery

Our Ukrainian and Bulgarian neighbors have this concept since many years now, and it is great to see Artizan Beer doing the same job in Romania.

You can now buy draught craft beer to your home, and by liter. Indeed, they fill bottles of 1L from the draught and all you do is to pay for the quantity you ordered. This is also much cheaper than buying 33cl bottles of beer. While we advice to consume alcohol responsibly, just make sure that once you open the bottle, it should be drank relatively quickly if you want your beer to remain tasty, as you can't really store it for a week, once you opened the bottle. 

I think this is the perfect concept for house parties. You can throw big home events with quality beer at a competitive price.

If you still prefer to drink your beer in 33cl bottles, please note that they also have fridges with a nice selection of craft beer.

Artizan Beer - Bere Artizanală Românească

There are those shops you enter knowing exactly what you want to buy. There are those you visit simply with excitement, to look for something delightful. 

Sertar Magic is the latter kind - a vintage and second-hand menagerie, filled to the ceiling with antique furniture, homewares, watches, clocks, vinyls, mirrors, lamps, trinkets, games, signs, vases, statuettes, artworks, books……. This list is almost endless.

Started around two and a half years ago by Belgian native, Michael, the shop itself is just as attractive as the items he has carefully selected to sell. Unlike many other second-hand shops, everything sold in this "Magic Drawer" works and is ready to use. With new items arriving regularly, and occasional social events to showcase fresh stock, it’s a joyful place and worth returning to whenever you’re in the area.

Sertar magic

Boogie Bar is all about serving your favorite beverage at a fair price, providing good music which fits with the time of the day you get there, a friendly staff, a lovely terrace for sunny days, and something that reminds me of most bars in Germany, and which can make you stay there for hours: a table football (it's called foosball in Romanian, right?) .

You got it, Boogie is the kind of place that will make you spend some great laughing / playing / dancing / drinking time with a bunch of friends. 

Boogie Bar

A little coffee shop, located at the intersection between Strada Traian, Bd Dacia and Calea Mosilor, serving coffee from Dropshot. This area of Bucharest definitely needs to see more specialty coffee shops. Glad they opened.

RUA Espresso Bar

If you’re nostalgic about the late 80s and the 90s, the brand new Replace location on Armeneasca might be your perfect spot to sneak for some cool garments while enjoying some great songs from the boom bap times. And great music comes with delicious coffee, you won’t be disappointed. They provide excellent specialty coffee from different roasters! Sunbathing with my morning coffee on the spot, while listening to Notorious B.I.G felt like I was in Brooklyn for a moment. 


Streetwear. Coffee. Boombap. That’s all you need!


Replace. streetwear, coffee & boombap

A neighborhood coffee shop, located between Timpuri Noi and Cantemir boulevard, serving coffee from Dropshot coffee roasters. One thing is sure, we like to see coffee shops covering new areas of Bucharest. 

There is something else I really like about this place: you'll get a small caricature drawn on a cup of coffee by Adrian-Vasile Trestian, a deaf-mute artist, while you wait for your coffee to be prepared by the barista. You can find out about the caricatures on Humans Coffee Instagram page, but I suggest you let yourself being surprised by going there and see how the result will look like.

Human Coffee

Consignatia 7's new location set foot on Hristo Botev Boulevard. Being one of the cutest second-hand around with a good curation on what they have to offer, a visit at Consignatia 7 fits perfectly in a lazy and sunny week-end afternoon, strolling around the streets of Armeneasca and the Jewish district.

Consignatia 7 - Hristo Botev

Plant lover? You'll enjoy spending some time at FROG for your lunch break or for some cocktails with friends in the evening. Small and cozy, you'll be surrounded by greenery, constellations and friendly staff.

Want some food? They have a selection of homemade cakes which will keep you busy in front of the counter for a while, as it is honestly difficult to choose what to order. They all look so good. I went for the Tarte Tatin which was delicious, but I think I'll have to go back soon, to try another cake. It really reminded me of these Scandinavian brunch places, where cakes are king!

Savory dishes are also on the menu, from vegetarian lasagnes, salads, soups, quiches, and various platters to share. It is nice to see a mixture of italian, french and moroccan dishes on the menu.

Finally, for the late bees, their cocktails list is a must-try.

Getting married soon? They also provide catering for private events ;)



FROG

Dolci Coni is one of the places you can trust when it turns to ice cream. Prepared with natural ingredients, following the seasons, you'll be able to find your favorite flavours. I personally go for the lavender biscuit/pistacchio option. I've put Dolci Coni in the sweet stuff category, but you'll really enjoy the fact that their ice creams are actually not too sweet nor heavy.

The Vasile Lascar location is the second shop of Dolci Coni in town. You'll particularly enjoy the sunbath starting from the time you exit the place with an ice cream in your hand.

Dolci Coni

Terasa Obor is simply the mici lovers ultimate place! Just ask 10 people randomly what is the best place to eat mici in the city, and I am sure that Terasa Obor will be the big winner (the one on "Team La Cocosatu" will hate me for that). Located straight in the middle of the Obor market, you will probably find people queuing starting early in the morning for some "mici cu bere". Don't be afraid by the queue, these guys are the most efficient BBQ makers in the whole country. Don't forget to get some mustard and some bread for the ultimate experience, and... obviously a beer. No, not a craft one, not even a bit.
Worth mentioning: This place is definitely not vegan.

Terasa Obor

More and more fast-goods are popping in town. Pickles is definitely to put on the list, offering a daily changing shortlist of items on the menu, including handmade pickles-based options prepared in front of your eyes. I recommend the Cornbread-chorizo-egg combo for a spicy brunch if available. You can eat your today’s special on the large and sunny bench/table. Convinced ? Give a try to one of the nice homemade pickles pots to bring home! Remember : don’t mess with the Pickles!

PS: Only open from Thursday to Sunday for now!

Pickles

Trei Betivi Bar is open until the last customer leaves. More than just a bar, the place has a strong craft beer menu, live music on a regular basis, and Sunday movie nights.

Live music is great way to promote local musicians, and their movie nights make us watch movies we'd not have thought about (#noBlockbusterhere), which is a big value add in my opinion.

The place is relatively small, but offers a terrace with a couple of seats.



Trei Betivi Bar

Nestled down a hidden corridor in Bucharest, you'll find the legendary Misbits Record Shop, owned by Iona Parlog. This esteemed vinyl store has a unique presence in the city and has been a vital part of Bucharest's electronic music community since its establishment in 2013. To enter this haven for music enthusiasts, visitors must ring a bell, adding to its exclusive vibe.

Misbits is a haven for DJs and collectors alike, offering a vast selection of rare and hard-to-find vinyl records. With a focus on electronic music, the shop has become a primary source for DJs like Vlad Dinu, who rely on Misbits to discover hidden gems. The cozy ambiance of the store, furnished with couches and listening stations, invites visitors to immerse themselves in the world of music.

What sets Misbits apart is not just its impressive collection but also the intimate atmosphere created by Iona Parlog, known as Miss I in the DJ world. Parlog resides in the premises and contributes to the store's friendly and welcoming ambiance. Beyond being a store owner, she has established a reputable career as a DJ, performing in clubs and festivals across Romania and Europe.

Together with her colleague Dragos Ilici and partner Cosmin Dumitru, Parlog has expanded Misbits' reach by introducing Misbits Recordings, focusing on experimental music. The shop has become more than just a place to buy records; it's a communal hub where Bucharest's DJs come together to celebrate their shared love for music.

Misbits Record Shop stands as a significant pillar in Bucharest's music scene, and its commitment to vinyl culture has made it a beloved institution among music enthusiasts. So, whether you're a die-hard vinyl collector or simply a music lover looking for a new sonic experience, Misbits is undoubtedly the place to be.

Misbits Record Shop

Welcome to a coffee shop nestled in a pleasant neighborhood of Bucharest. Buimac Coffee Shop is not your average café, as it also doubles up as a roastery where Cosmin meticulously crafts his own delicious coffee beans.

With its comfortable and relaxed ambiance, this charming spot provides the perfect atmosphere for you to unwind with your favorite cu of joe. Whether you're seeking solace from the hustle and bustle of city life or simply looking for some quality downtime, this place has got you covered. The neighborhood setting ensures peace and quiet while savoring every sip of their expertly brewed beverages.

So if you find yourself yearning for a delightful caffeine fix in friendly surroundings, why not pay Buimac Coffee Shop visit? You won't be disappointed!

Buimac Coffee Shop

Hop Hooligans, one of Romania's most notorious craft beer brewery, is now establishing its own chapel for craft beer hooligans. The mausoleum of their famous Crowd Control can be found there, where you can enjoy most of your after-works, evenings and weekends. Usually offering 15+ different draught craft beers, you can also try experimental and foreign beers in cans and bottles, that you can pick up directly from the fridges. Glad to see Romanian craft beer brewers having their dedicated taproom in town!

Hop Hooligans Taproom Craft Beer Bar

Ok... Le Bab sounds like "Kebab", but this place is definitely not your typical shaorma place.

Le Bab is indeed about the Middle East, but in a modern, elegant and stylish way... Le Bab first opened in London, where the two owners, Stephen and Ed, decided to bring modern middle-eastern food in the heart of Soho. But guess what? They got so inspired by the vibes of Bucharest, that their idea to open a place in Bucharest became true.

Spacious place, carefully designed by Angus Buchanan, with a nice terrace allowing to see the CEC Palace. Le Bab is one of these great spots we wish we could find more easily in Centrul Vechi.

Le Bab

Close your eyes and imagine you enter a gelato shop, you see dozens of delicious flavors and you really need to think prior to choosing what you would like to order. Now, open your eyes, and get ready for a similar experience, but related to the soap you will decide to buy for home. Look at the picture, it is just a glimpse of all the different soap perfumes available at La Maison du Savon. 

This place is ideal for your own little pleasures, but I would also recommend it is also a great gift idea.

The place is open from Monday to Saturday. 

La Maison du Savon de Marseille

How to tell if a French restaurant is really a good and true French restaurant. Simple answer: you have to see french nationals dining there. Ici et Là passes that crucial test, with the honors from the jury, as each time I could find at least one table singing the sweet melody of French to my... well french ears. Ici et La exists since many years, but since they relocated on Strada Domnita Ruxandra, I have to admit that the experience is even better than what it used to be. Located in a beautifully renovated house, surrounded by a welcoming a terrace, I suggest you try their tartare beef if you are into raw meat. No worries, if it is not your cup of tea, there are other options which will satisfy your palate for sure.
And not to forget a must for any french restaurant: a great wine list.
And a bonus:  some craft beer from One Beer Later, brewed by another French man in Buzau.
Bon appétit !


Restaurant Ici Et La

A beautiful and spacious coffee shop, with a minimalist design, excellent coffee from Fjord, and a delicious brunch/lunch menu (I personally recommend the mushroom toast).

Baristro is the perfect place for a coffee break before (-or after) spending the day in Carol Park, which is next door. But it is also definitely the type of coffee shop I would recommend if you have a business meeting or if you want to read a book from the terrace.

They receive their pastries and bread from Grain Trip and sell some products for home. Quality at every level.

Baristro

Dolci Coni is one of the places you can trust when it turns to ice cream. Prepared with natural ingredients, following the seasons, you'll be able to find your favorite flavours. I personally go for the lavender biscuit/pistacchio option. I've put Dolci Coni in the sweet stuff category, but you'll really enjoy the fact that their ice creams are actually not too sweet nor heavy.

Your local bakery, also serving great specialty coffee roasted by Mabo.

C22 is located in a dead-end street, sunny around noon, shady in the afternoon. The place has a bit of a Brooklyn movie atmosphere, and deserves to be enjoyed together with friends. 

A great hidden gem, "doi pasi" away from the glamorous Calea Victoriei.

C22 Cafeteria

One of Bucharest's "i(r)(c)onic temples for craft beer lovers.

Fifteen types of craft beers, at your disposal, in a shared space, together with burgers from Mario's Osteria.

One of your favorite spots for evenings with your best buddies.

Ironic taproom

You don't know true nostalgia until you step into Two Sides Records. Tucked away on the mezzanine floor of Palatul Universul, this vinyl record store is a treasure trove for music enthusiasts. From rock to jazz, hip-hop to world music, you'll find an extensive collection handpicked by store owner and curator, Alin Bittel.

But Two Sides Records offers more than just records. Bittel also hosts a radio show called "Voice of Peace from Two Sides Records" on Black Rhino Radio. This two-hour program introduces listeners to alternative music, steering away from the mainstream. With a diverse mix of genres and international influences, you never know what musical journey you'll embark on.

So, if you're craving the crackle of vinyl and a curated selection of music, make sure to visit Two Sides Records. And don't forget to check their opening times before you go, as they share their space with the coffee shop "Beans&Dots".

Two Sides Records

The land of the Yummy.

You feel kind of Alice when you enter Mara Mura, not only because of its british tearoom vibes, but also thanks to the truly wonders you can find. 

Freshly made cheesecakes, millefeuilles, canelés, éclairs, pavlovas, to name a few...Once you're in you're trapped, it's impossible to choose only one cake, not to mention the variety of tartlets..And if you're really hungry or need a cake for a special occasion, they also serve larger cakes on the spot or on demand.

Nested in the gourmand strada Golescu, you can also enjoy these delicacies at the terrace along with a hot beverage. Often busy during weekends, you might need to be patient before being served. But trust me, it's worth waiting.

Mara Mura

There are many reasons why Salon Golescu deserves to be on this map. I think we should start talking about the quality of the service, ensuring you to spend a nice evening. You can only expect politeness and relevant advices, and it really feels good to be served by some of the most professionals waiters in town.

I agree, with good service should come delicious products. Well... You will particularly admire the selection of whiskeys, rums, gins, and other spirits on their menu. Not into consuming alcohol the "hard" way? There are many cocktails options, tasty local craft beer and a nice wine list.

 I also suggest you to get seduced by the food options.

Salon Golescu

If you are a reader of Zece La Rece, it is probably because you and I share the same lifestyle. We're both looking for independent brands, local products or places which bring value to the community, right?

Also, we both know how painful grocery shopping can be....

Now, imagine if grocery shopping becomes something fun? Would you trust me?

Well... you just rang at the right door. Ototo Store is THE first grocery store selling only independant brands, from food and drinks to cosmetics, as well as books, clothing and more. 

Honestly, it is with a lot of joy that you'll look at the shelves, finding only quality products you'll usually struggle to find and discovering brands you've never heard about before.

That's not all! Once you're done with your groceries, you can also have a nice coffee break. Yes, there is a coffee shop! Some of Bucharest's most notorious baristas will carefully prepare some of the best espresso shots on the brand new Victoria Arduino's Eagle One espresso machine (the most sustainable espresso machine currently being produced in this world).

And by the way, it feels nice to see most of Bucharest specialty coffee roasters in one place at the same time. ;)

Enjoy your weekly grocery shopping!

Ototo Store Amzei

Mexican cuisine, using Romanian products only. Nothing was imported from Mexico, besides some of the equipment used to cook amazing dishes. Yes, it helps reducing a place's carbon-footprint, and yes, it tastes great! Tacos lovers have a new place to add in their to-do-list, when being in western Bucharest. 

M.A.T stands for "Masa Artisanal Taqueria" for the ones who are still wondering why "M.A.T".

About the design? Somewhat minimalist, somewhat rustic, but definitely well done! Congrats to the chefs, Alexandru Iacob and Cristi Dăscăleanu, and the rest of the team.



M.A.T Restaurant

"Jump around" is a song from House of Pain, but here you are at Casa del Pan... and you'll definitely jump around when you'll see the different type of breads displayed in front of your eyes. They all look so good that it will take you some time to decide which one to take home. But no worries, Daniel will most probably be ready to help you. Trust me, you've probably never seen such a passionate bread lover and maker before.

What can you expect? Well, a mix of Romanian, Spanish and French bread mostly, as well as other interesting curiosities.

Casa del Pan

Romania's craft beer scene boomed in the last few years, some of the brands being already considered iconic. However, many other micro-breweries are doing a good job all over the country, and the right way to know most of them is to go to The Beer Institute, the first shop dedicated only to local craft beers. More than 100 different brands available in the shop, but there is also the possibility to enjoy a fresh beer at the bar.

The Beer Institute

A little coffee roastery in the heart of Bucharest...

Uzina exists since several years as the roastery, but they decided to make the big move to open their own coffee shop Piata Amzei in 2020, in order to be closer to their customers and of course to get more visibility. 

But Uzina is quickly becoming much more than a coffee shop and roastery. The place is hosting concerts almost every evening in sunny days. Go for a coffee, leave with some craft beer in your belly, and nice memories in your head.

Uzina Coffee

Sloane Coffee Shop is actually much more than "a" coffee shop. It is a true flagship store, promoting a large selection of amazing beans roasted at the four years old (Sloane) roastery. You will have the chance to chose between dozens of different types of coffee, for filter or for espresso that you will be able to enjoy at the terrace, in THE trendiest area of Bucharest.

And obviously, with great coffee comes great design and customer service.

A visit at Sloane Coffee Shop will definitely level up your coffee experience.

Sloane Coffee Shop

Every year, there is a summer hit! You know, the song that everyone ends up listening all the time from May until the end of September. Well, Velocita is a bit like a summer hit. It is the place we don't even need to introduce to anyone. 
Long story short, they opened, and the next day, half of Bucharest was queuing in order to get a gelato. The only difference between Velocita and a summer hit is that a summer hit's lifetime equals to one season, while we know Velocita will be in our hearts for a while. Velocita, the true love of many generations?
PS: Consider going to Velocita in winter as well. The Tiramisu and the coffee are damn good!

VELOCITA

Since its beginning in 2002, Pizza Mania has been known for its quality ingredients, mouthwatering dishes, and the warm atmosphere that surrounds it. Inspired by the charming trattorias of Italy, this place has become a haven of warmth and generosity.

Led by their talented chef, Andrei Faciu, Pizza Mania has created a culinary adventure that takes you on a journey through the flavors of Italy. With a commitment to using only the finest ingredients, including seasonal and locally sourced produce, they have mastered the art of creating pizza that truly captures the essence of Italian cuisine.

Whether you're a fan of classic Margherita or crave something more adventurous like a Quattro Stagioni, Pizza Mania2Go is the place to satisfy your mama-pizza craving. Come and experience the taste of Italy right here in Bucharest.

PizzaMania2Go

Saola is a small coffee shop on Piata Kogalniceanu, serving coffee from Origo in some wonderful cups, with a selection of chocolates from Domori and a large choice of gelatos from Friddi in sunny days. Doru will most probably be behind the bar, ready to pull some coffee shots for you.

Located next to GrabIt, the Wagyu beef pastrami bar, I usually end up going to both places. You got it, first, take a pastrami sandwich at GrabIt, and end up with a nice cup of coffee at Saola -and an ice cream - before going back to your daily activities.

Kogalcineanu going to the next level!

 

Saola coffee shop

Livrez Fericire is providing great choux a la creme to Bucharest since a while now. However, they recently opened a paradise for Choux lovers, straight in the city center, and that place is called Love You Choux. 
Their choux are stuffed with cream from different flavors. It is sweet, but refined, and will definitely not let anyone completely indifferent. 

They also provide specialty coffee from Dropshot and a couple of lemonades and juices. Inviting your crush there might not be a bad idea.


Love You Choux by Livrez Fericire

Chiftelarie would make us think about a romanian restaurant preparing chiftele in a local way. But meatballs are actually something we can find everywhere on Earth, right? From Sweden to India, from the Armenia to Morocco, each country cook its meatballs in a specific way. This is what Chiftelarie is all about : bringing different ways to eat meatballs and plescavita in Bucharest.

While their meatballs are obviously tasty, they also pay attention to quality for their bread and side dishes. 

They have great lemonades and Zaganu beer on the menu if you're thirsty. 

Enjoy your mea(t)(l) !


Chiftelarie Dorobanti

"Cafelier" sounds like a french translation for "barista". It definitely refers to a coffee professional, and this is what the place aims to achieve by roasting their own coffee on Lascar Catargiu boulevard, next to Piata Romana. The place is also a coffee shop offering a spacious design inside and a little terrace in front of the shop. We particularly like the friendly staff. Congrats on the opening!

Cafelier

It's been probably too long you didn't socialize, yet you got used to enjoy the perks of staying home. You might even not feel like going to crowded places. 

One step at a time, you can enjoy a drink sitting in a comfy armchair close to the fireplace, almost like home. Welcome to Ritzy, designed to host smooth conversations in small groups, it's the right place for casual chats with your close friends.

You can make it last for a little longer than a drink, as they also offer pizza, risotto and pasta, and the terrace is located on a quiet street.

Should I specify it's also highly suitable for dates? 


RITZY sensory garden

RomBeer TEI

Two Bastards can be introduced in a couple of words: "The home of Csiki Sor in Bucharest." Wait... What? You haven't heard about Csiki Sor yet? Well, it's THE craft beer from Harghita, brewed in Csíkszentsimon, and distributed in Transylvania, in Hungary, in some parts of Serbia and Slovakia with hungarian minorities, and now in our lovely city.

The bar also offers various cocktails and wines, and some food. Stay tuned for the Gullyas Parties ;)

Two Bastards Pub

So, close your eyes (after reading tho) and imagine you come back from a long journey from Istanbul to Bucharest by bus, while thinking about the nice turkish cuisine you've had the chance to eat while in the Turkish metropolis. What about a last chance to get some delicious Turkish food on your arrival in Bucharest then?

Life does things well. In the Filaret neighbourhood, you can find this perfect hidden gem that covers a lot of turkish classics on the menu. 

From Pide to iskander, you can choose from thirty and a few dishes, a good choice of grilled meats but also veggie options. Pastries are appetizing too.

Last but not least, the terrace is spacious and quiet. Not a fancy one, but definitely good value for money. So if you're in the neighbourhood, why not give it a try?

Turkish Clasis Restaurant

Caramel is another French venture. The bakery ambitions to position itself as the best of a kind in the country, while using Romanian ingredients only. In the back, two French chefs work day and night to find the perfect recipe for sweets that are not-too-sweet. And that's the nice thing that stroke me, they know how to make the tastes addictive without overdosing the sugar. While being mainly a Boulangerie and Pâtisserie, they do very generous and unique sandwiches (my kind of sandwich). And it doesn't stop here, as every day a different soup is crafted. Funny enough, they are very serious contenders in the exquisite soups game. Caution: both soups and sandwiches may contain iconic french cheeses.

Caramel (Floreasca)

We all have a friend who is reluctant to vegan cuisine, right? Well, Bistro Raw & Vegan might be the perfect spot to make this friend change her/his mind. The menu looks like any casual restaurant, just that the meat and diary products are replaced with vegan friendly ingredients. The prices are very correct too. Cheap and tasty should be enough reasons to make someone reduce his meat consumption, right?

Bistro Raw & Vegan

Look at this picture! They have a "Raclette burger" with truffle on the menu. Is that not enough to convince you to get there?

Ok, if you're not a cheese lover, they have a lot of other options, such as burgers with avocados, other ones with black tiger shrimps and more. If you prefer the basic option, it's also there. 

The burger experience at the next level.

The Millenial Burger

Nasul Rosu (the red nose) is all about creating a direct relationship between the farm and the consumer. Indeed, Nasul Rosu is a shop, but it is, first of all, a farm located in the village of Palanca near Ploiesti. All the vegetables you will find in the shop grew up naturally, without chemical fertilizers and are all seasonal. Besides fruits and veggies, you will also find a little grocery store, with ingredients coming from producers sharing the same values than Nasul Rosu. Great products made available for you!

Nasul Roșu

A beautiful building, amazingly renovated and decorated is now welcoming a cocktail bar, a wine bar, a coffee shop (powered by Origo), and a brunch/lunch spot, all in one place! This place is / re.kol'ta /.

/ re.kol'ta / is at the heart of Floreasca, and if you haven't heard about it yet, we definitely advise you to give it a try, as this place will definitely become one of the trendiest spots in the city. 

/ re.kol'ta / 

POT Stories promises an unforgettable dining experience. With its warm and minimalistic design, the restaurant exudes a cozy and intimate atmosphere, making it the perfect spot for a romantic date or a successful business dinner. POT Stories prides itself on its fancy cocktails, which are expertly crafted with a twist. The menu offers a tantalizing array of dishes that take you on a culinary journey around the world, with the octopus being a must-try. The friendly staff ensures that you are well taken care of, providing quick and attentive service.

POT Stories

Caramel (Dorobanti)

Finally, Bucharest has its own Zero Waste grocery store. 

And this thanks to a successful campaign on Patreon launched by Ana Maria Raducanu to make her dream come true. The campaign also helped her build a community from day one, as a lot of noise has been done on local and national newspapers about the opening of the Zero Waste store. 

What can I find there?
Well, food and drinks, of course. There is pretty much all you need to be able to cook at home, without throwing any plastic or paper away. Just bring your tote bags and other pots for spices or salt. 

But you can also get natural soap, shampoo and other products you would need to wash yourself. 

We hope to see more places like that in town! See you there!

Magazin Zero Waste

Pergola can be considered as one of Cotroceni's new social hubs. Ideal for breakfast lovers, but also for the ones desiring to have dinner or cocktails in the evening, any hour of the day is the perfect time to get there. 

The menu talks for itself: tartar beef, burgers, risottos, salads and mussels on the menu, specialty coffee from Dropshot, great desserts, ice cream from Friddi. What else do you need?


But wait, Pergola is more than a food and drink place, it is also a boutique hotel. And they do have pretty amazing rooms. You can have a look at them on their website. Pergola is definitely a place I would recommend to people coming to Bucharest for a couple of nights. It might also be a great alternative for a staycation. I'll think about that.

Pergola Cotroceni

Utopia's second location opened in 2020, 750 m away from the first one! Specialty coffee from Dropshot, cigars, as well as Prosecco on the menu. The place is located just in front of Parcul Floreasca, on Strada Radu Beller. 

Utopia Coffee Bar 2

One thing's certain, compare to many other capitals, Bucharest lacks cinemas and cultural centers promoting independent movies. While (too) many people prefer to spend their time watching blockbusters in cinemas located in shopping malls, the Romanian Peasant Museum proposes a great selection of mostly independent Romanian and foreign movies. 
If you are lucky, you can also enjoy the local products which are sold outside before or after the movie. And of course, the museum in itself is worth visiting too.

Cinema Muzeul Țăranului Român

Already the third season since Mercato Comunale opened. The newest spot, called "Mercato Kultur", located in Dorobanti not far from the German Embassy, was a huge success in this summer of 2020. The well selected, tasty food-trucks who were on-board, the special events with local craft beer brewers, and the various artists invited to share their talent allowed the local community to enjoy amazing nights, in a cozy environment.
PS: It is also open in winter, a great potential spot to do your Christmas shopping.

Mercato Kultur

The Bus found a parking lot, or actually a garage! And guess what, this garage is not used to park the bus, but it is a brand new coffee shop. No worries tho, you can still see the yellow bus being parked nearby.

It's nice to see The Bus Coffee Shop providing great cups of coffee roasted by Sloane for the people of Dorobanti. Stay tuned tho, the actual bus might also be serving coffee somewhere in town during sunny days!

The Bus Coffee Shop

Adrian Iaslau, one of Bucharest most notorious barista, especially known for his latte art skills, opened Onest Coffee in 2020, literally in front of the TVR building. 
I'll be onest with you, the coffee tastes delicious, the shop definitely has a nice vibe to it, and top it up, they manage to set up quite a large space outside to drink your coffee enjoying the fresh air. Onest belongs to this group of recently emerged "former-garage-turned-coffee-shop". If you take a closer look at the recent developments in town, especially in the northern part, you'll be surprised to find more and more of those good ideas. Let's face it, Bucharest holds way too many cars. It makes me happy each time I hear that a piece of land has been conquered back by humans, or as we call them in the transportation war: pedestrians.

ONEST Coffee

A great bakery, but not only. Blitz'n'Roll provides delicious pizzas by the the slice, specialty coffee from Nomonym, tasty pastries such as Pasteis de Nata and artisanal juices. The perfect place for a quick lunch break at a very decent price. 

Blitz n roll

Zexe Braserie is an institution for pastry lovers from Bucharest. It's all about taste and textures, from creamy to crunchy, as well as delicate colors that will influence your brain to tell you to get a sweet break. The place is also one of the leading place for Cozonac enthusiasts.

But hey, let's not talk only about sweets! Zexe Braserie is more than that. You can also enjoy a proper breakfast, or have a nice lunch and dinner.


Zexe Braserie

Real Foods is now getting closer to the city centre. 

Real Foods is all about real food. Simple, right? All the products you can find will be carefully selected, in order for you to ensure you only get "real products" which are both tasty and healthy. Working mainly with Romanian producers (for what can be produced in Romania of course), they give you the opportunity to do your groceries in their stores, but also to order online. Real Foods is a great concept for the people who don't want to lose time trying to find great products in typical grocery stores, but it is also for the ones who want to ensure they don't eat any harmful products for their health. Basically, Real Foods filters out what is good for you. You save time, and they ensure quality.

But that's not all! They also prepare "ready-to-eat" menus that you can enjoy for your lunch breaks. 

This location is one of the three locations Real Foods has in Bucharest so far.

Real Foods

Out of Office may be one of your favorite coffee spots if you end up in the Pipera area. Office workers queue to get their delicious cup of coffee to go in the morning, but there a large terrace that can also be enjoyed for a post-lunch break or in any sunny days! Plus, Emil will always be kind and make you feel good! 

Out Of Office Coffee Shop

Have you been to French Revolution's newest place yet?

Many say that French Revolution is the place where the eclairs are actually better than in France. Hardly believable, some would say. But I can assure you never had I so much pleasure eating an eclair before going to French Revolution. On top of eclairs, they now also provide excellent specialty coffee from Origo. It sounds like an ideal sweet break, right?

French Revolution

Dambovita-Side !

Sloane opened a brand new roastery, close to the river, giving a full experience for specialty coffee lovers.

You also have the possibility to get delicious brunch and cocktails in the evening. Your new go-to place in the the western part of Bucharest.

Sloane Coffee Roastery & Shop

Plantini is one of the best alternatives if you are into healthy grocery shopping. Vegan products, natural ingredients... there is all you need to make you have that healthy lifestyle you may be dreaming about.

But that's not all, there is also a specialty coffee shop (serving coffee from the well-known Italian roastery, Gardelli) offering breakfast options. Sunbathing while eating a delicious breakfast and having a cup of coffee is truly recommended. 

Plantini One Herastrau Plaza

Real Foods is all about real food. Simple, right? All the products you can find will be carefully selected, in order for you to ensure you only get "real products" which are both tasty and healthy. Working mainly with Romanian producers (for what can be produced in Romania of course), they give you the opportunity to do your groceries in their stores, but also to order online. Real Foods is a great concept for the people who don't want to lose time trying to find great products in typical grocery stores, but it is also for the ones who want to ensure they don't eat any harmful products for their health. Basically, Real Foods filters out what is good for you. You save time, and they ensure quality.

But that's not all! They also prepare "ready-to-eat" menus that you can enjoy for your lunch breaks. 

This location is one of the three locations Real Foods has in Bucharest so far.

Real Foods Aurel Vlaicu

Real Foods is all about real food. Simple, right? All the products you can find will be carefully selected, in order for you to ensure you only get "real products" which are both tasty and healthy. Working mainly with Romanian producers (for what can be produced in Romania of course), they give you the opportunity to do your groceries in their stores, but also to order online. Real Foods is a great concept for the people who don't want to lose time trying to find great products in typical grocery stores, but it is also for the ones who want to ensure they don't eat any harmful products for their health. Basically, Real Foods filters out what is good for you. You save time, and they ensure quality.

But that's not all! They also prepare "ready-to-eat" menus that you can enjoy for your lunch breaks. 

This location is one of the four locations Real Foods has in Bucharest so far.

Real Foods Pipera-Plaza

It took me a long time to decide whether or not I should try this place. Honestly, from outside, Chanh doesn't really look like a cozy place I'd go for lunch. But one day, I was passing by, and I saw the kitchen staff from the window. I realized that they were actual vietnamese cooks preparing vietnamese cuisine. It increased my curiosity.

And guess what? A couple of days later, a friend recommended the place. This is how Chanh ended up in my "to do list of places to try in Bucharest." I quickly got an occasion to try a couple of their dishes... and it was really amazing.

If you are into Asian cuisine, this is your place!


Chanh Miam Miam

Have you ever been to California ?

Well, Anagram brewery allows you to discover a glimpse of what California is all about, while staying in Bucharest.

As it is mentioned on that jacket, the U.S. and most precisely California is where Paul comes from. But wait! Who is Paul? Paul is Anagram's co-founder and head brewer. He grew up in California but spent probably half of his life in Bucharest. However, his brewery, Anagram, even if being a Romanian craft brewery, has definitely some influence from his homeland.

If you take a look at the different craft beers Anagram launched since its creation, they will all give you that feeling of being on a San Diego beach, or anywhere else on the Californian coast. Their pink-ish labels might bring some memories of a beautiful sunset over the Pacific ocean. 

Finally, if you make it to the brewery -when it is open-, you'll find out it is located straight (or almost straight) on Lacul Morii, which also has a strong potential for wonderful sunsets. Just imagine a basketball playground and it would feel extactly like you were in the US. Oh, wait, there is a basketball playground in front of the brewery.

Follow Anagram on social media to keep track on the events they might throw. It's definitely worth the visit.

ANAGRAM BREWERY

Sandwich Gallery is not your typical art space. It challenges the conventional definition of an art gallery by creating an active and engaged environment for both artists and the public. Located on Strada Băiculești, this collective-run gallery makes the most of its small space to showcase site-specific works by Romanian and international artists.

Sandwich has gained recognition on the international art scene, participating in prestigious art fairs such as LISTE Art Fair Basel, ART021 Shanghai, and Viennacontemporary. The gallery has also built strong connections with the art community in Beijing, fostering exchanges and collaboration with CLC Gallery Venture and C5 Art Space.

Founded by artists Alexandru Niculescu, Daniela Palimariu, Cristian Raduta, and Silviu Lixandru, Sandwich is now under the guidance of gallery director Maria Birsan. Their commitment to pushing boundaries and strengthening the Romanian art community sets Sandwich apart as a dynamic and influential force in the art world.

Sandwich Gallery

Known in the local specialty coffee industry for being the distributor of various coffee equipment brands such as the famous La Marzocco espresso machines, the place used to be a showroom only. But their presence in Baneasa neighborhood and their willingness to be closer to the final customers motivated the team behind Artisan to open their own coffee shop. They serve coffee from MABO, and sell equipment for people desiring to do a better cup of coffee at home. Artisan can be the right choice if you still wonder how to be a better home barista.

Artisan Coffee Gear

A modern romanian bakery, with a french twist. The place is not open to the public yet, but they gladly take orders. The Cozonac filled with caramel made with salted butter is one of the best invention the world brought to my palate this year. If you don't feel like ordering a full cozonac, you can find it at 20 grams coffee roasters.

Grain de Sel

A family (the Furdui family) business, done the right way! Bacania Lu' Furdui promotes some of the greatest Romanian food and drinks items out there! From local zacuscas, jam, vodkas and craft beers, to butchery elements, your grocery shopping experience will definitely be a great one!


Bacania Lu' Furdui

Boiler Coffee Shop has a new neighbor! A brand new "Bacania" and "sandwich shop" with an Italian twist, called Fresco Artigianale. Their sandwiches are legit, they have amazing Italian gelato, as well as other artisanal stuff you may want to bring with you back home.

Coffee at Boiler + Sandwich and ice cream at Fresco? I don't know what you think, but in my opinion, this sounds like the perfect combo for a great time in Eastern Bucharest.

Fresco Artigianale

An unconventional coffee shop with that eastern European twist we’ve all been looking for, nestled at the entrance of a commie block. This spot is more than just a java joint, it's an absolute haven for caffeine addicts, touted for its AeroPress mastery. Mike (co-owner) won 2 Romanian AeroPress Championships and got to the Semi-finals of the World AeroPress Champs in 2019 - smecher. But it's not just about the brews, Rob and Mike will welcome you with all the warmth you would wish for. If you're a fan of specialty coffee, this place might just be your newest neighborhood haunt!


Vicii Coffee Shop

One of the most notorious places when it comes to burgers. Yes, it's Modelier!

But don't believe Modelier is only about burgers. They also excel in the art of preparing waffles and cocktails.

You can enjoy these delicious products in a nice house from the "Interbelic" period, or at their colorful terrace.

Modelier

Spoiler alert! This is not your typical place!

I moved to Romania 5 years ago. Since then, finding delicious local cheese felt like a perpetual challenging journey, not being seduced by the regular Cascaval and Telemea -yet-. Of course, I found good cheese on the way, in some remote villages, but it was hard to maintain that relationship with the farmer and enjoy these lovely cheese when being in Bucharest. I went to several "Piata" and "Bacania", looked for all the cheese stands, tried most of the aged cheese available, but never found that top quality I was able to find in the villages.

However, very recently, some friends told me to go to the Local Farmer's Market on Bd Unirii and go to the cheese stand, as they have great products. And what a surprise! I can tell for sure that the best Romanian cheese I've ever had comes from this place, and going there became part of my weekly routine.

Cheese Corner at the Local Farmers’ Market

Let's start with an hypothesis: everything that can be heard, tasted or seen, is always better when done with passion and expertise. If this affirmation is valid for music or painting, the people from Bacania Rod truly understood it also applies to food.
While supermarkets also provide Zacusca, Cascaval or Salata de Vinete, beside the name of the product printed on the packaging, the comparaison stops here; and no need to mention the ingredients list.
Your sense of sight will not betray you, even if this might seem like an oasis in the middle of the desert, no mirage here: it tastes as good as it looks.

Bacania ROD

Step into the world of arzu, a culinary experience on its own. The moment you enter this bright and modern space, you'll be captivated by what reminds me of Japanese design minimalism, with aluminum accents and birch - I think - furnishings creating an atmosphere of tranquility.

But it's obviously not just the aesthetics that make arzu special. The attention to detail in every dish is outstanding. With a menu that changes with the seasons, you can expect a fusion of Oriental, Mediterranean, and local flavors. From the aromatic spices to the delicate taste combinations, each bite is a journey to celebrate.

If you have a sweet tooth, make sure to try their fruit tarts. Bursting with vibrant flavors, they are the perfect ending to your meal. Customers rave about their desserts available. 

Overall, arzu is a true labor of love. From the great specialty coffee roasted by Origo prepared on a Victoria Arduino Eagle One espresso machine, to the impeccably crafted dishes, it's evident that this place is driven by passion. So whether you're looking for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, arzu is a destination that should not be missed.

PS: there is also a section of products to bring home such as mustards, salts, teas, coffees, gins and more.

arzu

At Zece La Rece, we don't promote only food and drinks places which we like, we also mention places adding a lot of added-value to this city and to this country. EFdeN stands for f(n). n being equal to nature.

So, what is EFdeN ? It is a project started by a group of students willing to make Romania a more sustainable country. How do they do it? Well, it is not that simple, but basically they've built a house in 2014, which is completely sustainable and which won many competitions. 

The house is amazing, it is the prototype of the house everything should have. Being an NGO, they don't turn their prototype into a business, but they spend time developing bigger, and even more sustainable houses and devices, aiming to make us live better. 

Why is that? Well, buildings are one of the biggest pollutants both in the construction phase and especially during usage. This argument was enough to convince these 47 students from various universities from Bucharest to collaborate together and dedicate their energy for this project.

So, one advice I can give you is to contact them to pay a visit, it is absolutely worth it. After your visit, you might consider saving a bit of money to buy the house of your dreams.



EFdeN

A world in itself.

Surrounded by Sicilian-style tiles, you will eat in Sicilian-style painted plates typical Sicilian dishes. Couldn't be more Sicilian, right? Well, actually it could. Even the staff is Sicilian.

The menu is huge because you can choose whatever you want to have in your pasta, pizza, arancini or risotto. 

They have signature dishes that are worth trying. And of course all the beverages, including crafted Sicilian Colas, Lemonades and more.

Belli Siciliani Restaurant

Tucked away in the vibrant Timpuri Noi neighborhood lies Hidden - The Social Space, a hidden gem that caters to the craft beer connoisseur in all of us. As you step into this cozy bar, you'll be greeted by a friendly owner and the warm welcome of a resident cat, instantly making you feel at home.

The real treat, however, lies outside on the spacious terrace. As you sip on your favorite craft beer, the soothing sounds of a fountain in the background create a tranquil atmosphere that is perfect for unwinding with friends. And if you're lucky, you may catch a live music performance or concert that adds to the vibrant energy of the place.

Hidden boasts an impressive selection of craft beers, expertly recommended by their knowledgeable staff. Whether you're a seasoned beer aficionado or simply curious to explore new flavors, their wide variety is sure to satisfy even the most discerning palates.

But Hidden is more than just a bar. It is a community hub shared with other local businesses, including an open-air kitchen that serves mouthwatering delights and a delightful swimming pool that can be reserved for private events during the summer.

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city center and indulge in the inviting ambiance of Hidden - The Social Space. With its friendly atmosphere, great company, and exquisite craft beers, this is undoubtedly one of the best places in town for those seeking a truly memorable experience.

Hidden- The Social Space

Coftale is one of the oldest places offering specialty coffee in the city, if not the oldest. The cafe is located in an old house with traditional romanian chemneys. Besides having good coffee, Coftale also offers food on the menu. We love the fact that is it one of the only places where we really feel like home, while having a tasty cup of caffeine. 

Coftale

We love bookstores, and we also love the ones who open a place bringing added value to the community. Dispozitiv Books is a mix of both.

We've met so many (read "too many") people in Eastern Europe talking about how bad is their country, how poor it is, how boring it is. But as foreigners living in Romania, and who've been travelling a lot in the region, we've seen a lot of nice things that we couldn't necessarily share on a piece of paper. Why does that matter?

Simply because Dispozitiv Books is an unique bookstore focusing on content promoting Eastern European countries, and especially Romania. Most of the books and magazines share insights about specific topics you'd never think about, and which will make you realize that the place where you live is not that bad after all. Give it a try, have a look at the books, we're sure you'll find one to bring home and which will make you see your country with different eyes.

Credit Photo: Claudiu Popescu for SUB25

Dispozitiv Books

When it comes to finding the best sandwich in town, look no further than Grain Trip Bakery. This cozy bakery not only specializes in delicious and healthy sandwiches, but also offers a wide range of pastries and specialty coffee. Trust me, their croissants are a must-try!

But let's talk about the sandwiches. While they may be on the higher price range, they are worth every penny. Grain Trip Bakery isn't afraid to get experimental with their sandwich creations, giving you a unique and flavorful experience. And if you're looking for more affordable options, their croissants are equally tasty.

Speaking of drinks, don't miss out on trying their remarkable socată, an elderflower fermented homemade drink. It's a refreshing and delightful treat. 

The counter is a real invitation to try specialties from various countries. My French roots pushed me to chose a "canele de Bordeaux" and a revisited "Gateau Basque" with lavender and peach. I also bought a "Pain Rustique" for home, but you can also get to discover specialties from South Africa, Lebanon, Italy, Germany, and whatever other country you have in mind. Ask them, and they'll definitely surprise you !

Whether you're in the mood for a quick breakfast or a leisurely brunch, Grain Trip Bakery is one of the best places in the city. Their menu offers a variety of options that are guaranteed to delight your taste buds. And don't forget to indulge in their specialty coffee, expertly crafted by talented baristas.

Grain Trip Bakery

Sometimes you walk in without expectations and just get caught.

Soro Lume did that to me, what an experience.

First, the menu is short, but provides a lot of diversity, from vegan to fish through meat. You will only find signature dishes and I'm definitely planning to test it all.

Second, if you have the chance to eat, facing the open kitchen outside, witnessing dishes being prepared with wood fire, from grill to oven. Raw elements perfectly cooked separately and then gathered by the chef in ceramic plates. Simple but very well executed. Top notch detail : the bread is baked in the oven on demand

Third, the wine selection is as great as the music playlist. Expect lautari, and other balkanic vibes.

Let me be vocal about it, Soro Lume is definitely one of my best food experience in Bucharest.

Soro Lume

Real Foods Nerva

From its minimal blue/yellow logo and name, I was expecting Sardin to be a fish restaurant with a Swedish touch. How wrong was I. This is (okay, challenge me) probably the best Italian food I’ve had in Bucharest. Designed by Corvin Cristian, the mastermind architect behind Paine și Vin, Moony, Boema and many more of Bucharest’s finest spots, Sardin is an invitation to revel in authentic and fresh mediterranean cooking at its best.
The chef, Radu, who spent 18 years in Italy working with several starred chefs, is a freak for carefully-picked, seasonal ingredients. As we sometimes say in French, you can order with your eyes closed, you’ll be in for a treat. But you might as well keep them open, as Sardin is a feat for all senses. Highly recommended: the beef tartar, the salata de caracatița or any of the fresh pasta. Add to this an impressive wine list with over 100 Italian and Romanian picks to choose from, a sunbathed terrace and impeccable service -- and you get a killer fancy dining spot to enjoy on a date.

Sardin

Spruce up your coffee routine with a visit to Sip Sip Specialty Coffee. Located in the convivial neighborhood of Timpuri Noi, this spot serves top-notch Joe complemented by warm service and enticing pastries. The exceptional brews come from none other than Manhattan Coffee Roasters, ensuring a rich, aromatic savor to every cup. However, the allure doesn't stop at caffeine, their assortment of pastries - think croissants, brownies, cookies, and orange cake- are delightful treat companions to your drink. Not to mention, their Chai Latte has been praised as a must-try, while the tasty and pocket-friendly coffee keeps enthusiasts coming back. Whether you're planning a catch-up session with friends or seeking a cozy nook in the city, Sip Sip is worth adding to your go-to list.

Sip Sip specialty coffee

Not sure you realized, but specialty coffee is booming in Bucharest. It is becoming quite easy to find good rocket fuel in town, but to make sure you have all the assets in your pocket, we wrote a list of all the amazing spots which will offer you what you need. Enjoy !

Specialty coffee

Seems like you like craft beer as much as I do... And you'd like to know where is the closest source around you in any situation of the day? Well here it is my friend, chose your heaven, take a sit with me and let's share that beer. Naaaah you're not snob to prefer beverages crafted with love from the hands of other beer-lovers like you, come on. You know what's good for your tastebuds, and that, my friend, calls for respect. So respect, yo. 

Craft beer

So, tonight is the night, eh? From little vibration to little vibration, your phone keeps showing messenger notifications that make your heart jump. Short rushes of adrenaline that have been filling up your last days. Who need base jumping when you can flirt?
But as any good professional, you know the setting is essential. Not only it sets the mood, but more than that, it says a lot about you. This moment when you hesitate: should you politely ask the other person and offer them the choice of the place, or should you instead show off that you can take initiative, at the risk of revealing too much about who you are.
Well you know, you shouldn't overthink it too much, if you've been chatting for weeks, any good place will do. To make it easy for you, we made a selection of those good places. 
Found the right spot? Perfecto, now just need to decide what to wear.