Food is not just food in Armenia, it’s a big part of the country’s hospitality and culture. Every meal is an opportunity to connect with friends, family, and even strangers. An invitation to “drink a cup of coffee” may turn into a festivity with three main courses.
Armenian cuisine is a beautiful mix of European Mediterranean and Middle Eastern influences, featuring hearty dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. From the moment tourists arrive in Armenia they are accompanied by scent of khorovats (barbecue) and freshly baked lavash. The food here is inviting and delicious.
This article will dive into the top Armenia food and wine experiences that make the country a must-visit for foodies. Let’s explore the best tastes that Armenia can offer!
Traditional Armenian Dishes
The Armenian diet is not only about meat and bread. Local dishes contain vegetables and grains. Key ingredients like eggplants, tomatoes, and a variety of herbs and spices feature prominently in many dishes.
There is no Armenian table without greens and fresh vegetables which perfectly fits farm-to-table concept. Even local barbecue or kebab, signature dishes in Armenia, are always served with grilled vegetables and fresh herbs. So, the vegetarians can find many dishes that will fit their diet. Besides, Armenians like wild-growing herbs like sorrel that is used in soups and salads.
The tonir, an essential part of Armenian culinary heritage, is a ground hearth used for cooking and baking. It’s where lavash, iconic Armenian flatbread is baked. It accompanies almost every meal.
Tolma is another classic, with grape or cabbage leaves wrapped around a flavorful mixture of minced meat, rice, and herbs. Harisa is a hearty wheat and chicken dish, typically enjoyed in colder months. The list of “winter dishes” also includes traditional khash, a warming winter soup made from cow’s feet. Both are so called “slow-cooked” dishes that require much time and are a part of a certain ritual making it a reason for family and friends gather during a weekend.
Another signature snack is basturma, cured beef, seasoned with a mix of many spices. It’s served in slices. A perfect match is freshly baked lavash and butter.
Armenia’s Wine Culture
Armenia’s wine culture is truly a hidden gem. It’s gaining recognition as one of the must-experience attractions for travelers. The country’s wines have emerged from the shadows in recent years, making Armenia an exciting destination for wine lovers. Local small wineries focused on indigenous grape varieties. There are over 20 indigenous grape varieties in Armenia, including Areni, Voskehat, and Kangun.
Modern wineries are shaping a new wine culture that is gaining popularity beyond Armenia. For example, last year Forbes included Armenia as an emerging wine region to watch. Armenian wines made it to the list of Top 100 Wines issued by Decanter.
In general, Armenia’s winemaking tradition dates back thousands of years. The excavations at the Areni-1 cave proved that Armenians have been producing wine since at least 4000 BC. This rich history is what makes a wine tour in Armenia so special. Visitors can explore both ancient techniques and modern innovations, enjoying the fusion of old-world charm and new-world flavors.
Wine regions like Vayots Dzor, known as the birthplace of Armenian wine, and Aragatsotn, with its stunning landscapes and modern wineries, are some of the best places to experience Armenian wines.
Besides, there are a couple of wine events like the signature Yerevan Wine Days and the Areni Wine Festival.
Best Food and Wine Tours in Armenia
Wine and food tours are quickly becoming one of the most popular attractions for visitors. There are variety of options – tourists can either visit some popular restaurants and wineries or draw a map of their individual custom-made route.
Levon Travel’s Gastro and Wine Tour is a perfect way to experience the top Armenia food and wine experiences. Tourists will visit some of the country’s most distinguished wineries, where they can taste a range of red, white, and rosé wines made from indigenous grape varieties like Areni and Voskehat. Alongside wine tasting, you’ll also get the chance to sample delicious local food, including signature dishes like khorovats and tolma. This mix of food and wine is complemented by traditional Armenian snacks, cheeses, and fruits, enhancing the tasting experience.
As Armenia’s gastronomic scene develops, visitors can also explore the fusion of European cuisine with Armenian flavors. Many restaurants are now incorporating modern techniques while still staying true to traditional recipes. The tours also include visits to ancient monasteries and scenic vineyards.
Must-try Dining Experiences
When it comes to dining in Armenia, there is a range of experiences that cater to every taste. There are both tavernas with home-made food and luxury restaurants.
Saryan Street in Yerevan stands out as a central hub for wine lovers and food enthusiasts. Lined with vibrant wine bars, this street is the perfect place to sample Armenia’s famous wines. The menu of a typical wine bar features both delicious snacks like cheese and smoked meats and main courses.
For a more traditional experience, Armenian tavernas are a must-visit. These cozy cafes often feature live music and dancing in the evenings, creating a lively atmosphere. Here, you can try classics accompanied by local wines or fruit vodka. The charm of these tavernas is that they bring you close to the heart of Armenian hospitality and allow you to enjoy authentic, home-style meals.
Those willing to explore Armenian cuisine in a more modern setting, high-end restaurants in Yerevan are offering innovative twists on traditional dishes. These places combine fine dining with the rich flavors of Armenia’s culinary heritage. Tourists can find traditional meat, herbs and vegetables prepared in a new and creative way.
When traveling outside Yerevan, each region has its own unique take on Armenian cuisine. Gyumri, for example, is the homeland of string cheese and a unique dessert made from a layered dough that you will not find anywhere else in Armenia.
Dining in Armenia is truly a journey of flavors, with something for every type of food lover.