Albania

Albania was long hidden from the world under the boot of one of the most brutal totalitarian regimes the world has ever known. From the beginning of this century, however, Albania is now one of European tourism’s last frontiers. It is one of the most welcoming and beautiful places we’ve ever visited. While the rugged mountains, beautiful coastline and azure blue waters will take your breath away, the genuine warmth and friendship of its people – and the fabulous food – are the memories we cherish the most.

"The wonderful thing about Albania is that not only is it extraordinarily beautiful and provides everything you could want out of a vacation (wonderful seafood, fresh farms, affordability, culture and history), but it's also surrounded by a nation of people who are some of the kindest, most welcoming people I've ever met."
Eliza Dushku

Our Favourites

Each of these restaurants holds a special place in our hearts. Often, it’s more than just the food itself. It’s the richness of culture, the wonderful people behind the scenes, the way a spot makes us feel at home.

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We have eaten at each of these places, and genuinely loved our experience!

Tirana

Nouvelle Vague

Located in the trendy Bllok neighbourhood, this is a must-visit spot if you love creative cocktails. The speciality creations highlight aspects of Albanian history or culture. Ask for the back stories and enjoy!

Mon Amour

Not a restaurant, but this fabulous shop deserves special mention. This is a dessert lover’s wet dream. The biggest problem you’ll face is deciding which of the fabulous desserts to try. Great coffee too!

Ejona

The best meals we had during our six weeks in Albania. Great service; superb food; fabulous wine list; beautiful setting – all at ridiculously affordable Albanian prices. Just go – thank us later!

Still Fish

This trendy spot specializes in seafood, and they are very good at what they do. The menu is adventurous and the execution flawless (their risotto is off-the-hook). Great value for money.

Oda

Recommended by our hostel host, they serve huge portions of delicious, traditional Albanian food in an open air courtyard. There is often live music too – all at an incredible price.

Byrek Special “Luani”

This locals’ favourite quick eats/take away shop in the heart of Tirana’s downtown is always busy for a reason. The spinach pie is off-the-charts; and the meat and onion pie will change your life!

Himarë

Restaurant “Merkuri”

Arguably Himare’s best fine dining, these folks specialize in superb seafood, quality, fresh ingredients with a kitchen that knows its stuff. Beautiful setting, great service and prices. Just go!

To Steki sti Gonia

Delicious, reasonably priced Greek food served in open air comfort on the public beachfront. Superb moussaka, amazing tzatziki & warm pita, great stuffed vegetables – all served with a smile.

Pasticeri “Delight”

Excellent coffee, a full range of delicious home-made desserts, savoury treats (spinach Burek is off-the-charts) and the friendliest staff in Himare. Become a regular and get treated like family,

Brother’s Grill & Fast Food

Hands down the best casual grill and gyros house in Himare. Great selection of dishes, quality meats and veggies, decent fries (a rarity in Albania) and exceptional service. Well worth a visit.

La Famiglia (Himare)

One of our go-to breakfast spots in Himare, they serve a nice lunch as well. With a great location, sweeping views of the bay and good wi-fi this is a perfect spot to chill for a couple of hours.

Guma (Himare)

Don’t expect fancy. This is just reliably good, quick and cheap eats close to the beach. The gyros and Greek salad are particularly good (pro tip: pass on the fries). Skewers are good as well.

Shkodër

Bar Pasticeri Flo

Our go-to coffee and dessert shop during our two week stay in Shkodër. The staff are friendly, the coffee is delicious, the smoothies fresh, and the desserts are rich and sinfully addictive.

Restaurant Puri

A welcoming spot that’s as close to a North American “diner vibe” as we found in Albania. Full of regulars, huge portions, delicious food, friendly service and great prices because: Albania!

Fisi

A favourite among locals and visitors alike. Really good, traditional Albanian food at a reasonable price. Famous for grilled lamb and sausages, but trust us: have the Tavë Dheu. Thank us later!

Pelikani Kaçurrel

Drive up the west side of Lake Shkoder to the village of Zogaj for a charming surprise. Great views of the lake, delicious seafood (avoid the carp!) and great prices. Chill and stay a while.

Zum Rappen

Perched on a hillside overlooking the road to Zogaj (on the west side of Lake Shkoder) Zum offers a beautiful view of the lake. They also offer delicious food at great prices; well worth a visit.

Aroma

This is one of Shkoder’s best fine dining spots. Well executed Italian cuisine served in a beautiful setting. If you’re looking to impress, or to celebrate a special occasion, this is your spot.

Special Mention - Shala River

Bee-Eco Guesthouse

We only enjoyed a meal at the restaurant – we didn’t stay overnight. The grilled trout was perhaps the best we’ve ever enjoyed. Crispy skin without drying out the flesh, and perfectly spiced – just darn yummy! The sides of roasted potatoes, Greek salad and fresh baked bread were generous and tasty. Fascinating home made wine. A highly recommended day trip from Shkoder.