15 perfect restaurants in Bucharest, Romania

Welcome to Bucharest, the city where your taste buds will do their happy dance! In this gastronomic adventure, we'll take you on a whirlwind of culinary bliss as we explore the 15 most fantastic restaurants this vibrant city has to offer. From hidden gems serving succulent grilled meats that will make your mouth water to quirky cafes boasting heavenly pastries that will require some serious willpower, Bucharest has got your cravings covered! So, tighten your belt, put on your stretchy pants, and get ready to dive fork-first into a true culinary treasure trove!

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1. Shift

4.5 (4222)

Avenue, Strada General Eremia Grigorescu 17, București 010476, Romania

Welcome to Bucharest, where the most fashionable neighborhood awaits you with open arms - Shift! Aptly named, this district is like a chameleon, constantly transforming itself with new hipster cafes, vibrant street art, and bohemian boutiques. Prepare yourself for a rollercoaster ride of coolness, where vintage bicycles mingle with man buns, and oversized glasses are a fashion must! In Shift, it's all about embracing the quirkiness, so make sure to strut down Strada Argentină, where you'll find an array of quirky vintage shops just waiting for you to uncover hidden treasures. Don't be alarmed if you stumble upon a shop selling bizarre trinkets like a hairbrush from the 80s or a collection of mismatched socks; it's just part of the charm! Grab a coffee at one of the hole-in-the-wall cafes and relish in the delightfully pretentious atmosphere while discussing the latest obscure indie band. But Shift's true essence lies in its food scene, because nothing says "alternative" like dining in a repurposed shipping container! Yes, that's right, here you can enjoy gourmet vegan tacos or craft burgers in these trendy containers-turned-restaurants, all while feeling like you're part of some funky urban uprising. So, prepare your taste buds for a culinary adventure like never before, where the fusion of flavors and the creativity of the chefs will leave you with a lingering smile, and perhaps a catchy hashtag to capture the experience! In Shift, you'll trade the traditional landmarks for walls adorned with vibrant murals that tell stories of revolution, love, and the occasional hipster cat. So, unleash your inner art critic and don't forget to strike a pose against the backdrop of these masterpieces – it's practically mandatory! As you immerse yourself in the urban tapestry of Shift, you might just find yourself wondering why you didn't bring your beret and sketchbook to truly blend in with the ever-evolving artistic crowd. So, pack some ironic t-shirts, put on your most flamboyant pair of sneakers, and prepare to be dazzled by the charming oddities of Shift. Just keep in mind, the only certainty in this neighborhood is change – but hey, isn't that the beauty of it all?

www.shiftpub.ro

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2. Trattoria Il Calcio

4.2 (1340)

Strada Delea Veche 36, București 024102, Romania

Welcome to Trattoria Il Calcio, where you can embark on a culinary adventure that will make your taste buds do the wave! Nestled in the vibrant heart of Bucharest, this lively trattoria promises to tackle your hunger faster than a sprinting footballer chasing a wayward ball. With a menu designed to score goals in flavor and presentation, their lip-smacking Italian dishes will have you cheering for more like an enthusiastic fan in the stands. So, bring your appetite and get ready to experience a gastronomic match that will leave you shouting "Goooaaalll!"

trattoriailcalcio.com

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3. Kane

4.5 (534)

Strada Dianei 9, București 020971, Romania

In an unexpected twist of multiverse travel, Kane found himself in Bucharest, a vibrant and quirky city that captured his attention like a persistent street performer. With a dash of Eastern European charm and a sprinkle of chaos, Bucharest welcomed him with open arms, inviting him to explore its maze-like streets and discover hidden gems at every turn. From sipping potent palinca at rustic taverns to playing hopscotch with tramlines, Kane couldn't help but be swept away by the delightful eccentricity of Bucharest.

kanerestaurant.ro

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4. Hard Rock Cafe

4.6 (11336)

Şoseaua Pavel D. Kiseleff 32, București 011343, Romania

Welcome to Hard Rock Cafe in Bucharest, a rocking paradise for music aficionados and food enthusiasts alike. Nestled in the heart of the city, this vibrant establishment is a must-visit for those craving a heaping dose of groove with a side of delicious grub. Prepare to sway your hips to the rhythm of legendary rock tunes, while indulging in mouthwatering burgers that are so tasty, they'll make your taste buds forget the meaning of boring.

www.hardrockcafe.com

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5. Energiea

4.5 (5493)

Strada Ion Brezoianu 4, București 050023, Romania

Nestled in the heart of Bucharest, Energiea is a haven for the wanderlust foodies and hipsters alike. This trendy hotspot effortlessly blends a retro-industrial vibe with the charm of a secret hideaway known only to the city's cool crowd. Sample their delectable lineup of artisanal pizzas while sipping on craft beers, all under the watchful gaze of a giant gorilla mural—it's the perfect spot to energize your appetite and your Instagram feed.

www.energiea.ro

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6. Biutiful by the Lake

4.3 (1495)

Șoseaua Nordului 3, București 077190, Romania

Nestled amidst the vibrant city of Bucharest lies the enchanting haven known as Biutiful by the Lake. This whimsical oasis exudes a playful charm that is sure to make your heart leap with joy. Stroll through its picturesque surroundings while savoring the delightful clash of elegant swans and boisterous locals engaging in synchronized paddle boating, an event not to be missed.

www.biutiful.ro

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7. M60

4.5 (1778)

Str. D. I. Mendeleev 2, București 010364, Romania

Welcome to Bucharest, where the M60 is like a trusty steed, only in the form of a metro line. Serving as a lifeline for commuters, this charming line whiskers you away through the heart of the city, just like a magician waving a magic wand. Delight in its ability to connect you to all the major attractions, all while providing a cozy escape from the chaos of the busy streets above.

instagram.com

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8. Dianei 4

4.4 (2694)

Strada Dianei NR 4, București 020972, Romania

Welcome to Bucharest, where history meets humor at Dianei 4, a charming quarter of the city. This lively district combines bohemian vibes with a dash of whimsy, providing a unique experience for all visitors. Discover quirky cafes, artistic hideaways, and a buzz of creativity as you wander the enchanting streets – don't be surprised if you stumble upon a disco-loving unicorn or a magician bartender, adding a touch of magic to your day!

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9. Nomad Skybar

4.4 (4643)

Etaj 2, Strada Smârdan 30, București 030167, Romania

Welcome to Nomad Skybar, where the energy is high, the views are breathtaking, and the cocktails flow like an endless river of pure joy. Perched atop a towering building, this hidden gem in Bucharest will take your rooftop bar experience to new heights, literally. Get ready to be mesmerized by the modern and edgy ambiance, as you sip your drink while pretending to be a sophisticated spy on a top-secret mission.

www.nomadskybar.ro

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10. Osteria Zucca

4.5 (952)

Str. Jean Louis Calderon 41, București 030167, Romania

Tucked away in the heart of Bucharest, Osteria Zucca is a culinary oasis where pasta dreams come true. This charming Italian eatery could easily be mistaken for a portal to the streets of Rome, with its warm ambiance and mouthwatering aromas. Prepare for a divine experience, as their talented chefs whip up tantalizing pasta dishes that will make you say "mamma mia!"

osteriazucca.ro

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11. Hanul lui Manuc

Hanul lui Manuc, Str. Franceză 62, București 030167, Romania

Welcome to Hanul lui Manuc in Bucharest, the place where history and hilarity unite! This legendary inn, named after its whimsical owner, Mr. Manuc, has witnessed more stories than a talkative parrot on caffeine. Step inside this quirky time capsule and prepare to be charmed by its fascinating tales, cozy ambiance, and the occasional ghost that might whisper comedic anecdotes in your ear. Whether you're seeking a hearty traditional meal or just a good laugh, Hanul lui Manuc is the perfect spot to uncover the secrets that centuries of travelers have deposited in its creaky yet welcoming wooden floors.

www.hanulluimanuc.ro

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12. Vatra

4.4 (3071)

Strada Ion Brezoianu 19, București 010131, Romania

Welcome to Vatra, a vibrant and quirky neighborhood tucked away in the heart of Bucharest! This colorful gem is a delightful mishmash of hipster hangouts, bohemian art galleries, and quaint cafés that will make you feel like you've stumbled upon a hidden treasure. Take a leisurely stroll down its lively streets and prepare to be charmed by the whimsical street art, the scent of freshly brewed coffee wafting through the air, and the incredibly stylish dogs strutting their stuff alongside their fashion-forward owners.

vatra.ro

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13. La Mama

4.1 (5472)

Strada Episcopiei 9, București 010292, Romania

Welcome to La Mama, Bucharest's culinary gem! Nestled in the heart of the city, this quirky eatery will transport you to a time when your grandma's cooking was the pinnacle of culinary delight. Offering a blend of kitschy decor, eccentric waitstaff, and mouthwatering traditional Romanian delights, La Mama guarantees an experience that will leave your taste buds begging for more. Be prepared for hearty portions that will make you question your pants' waistline, but fear not, because at La Mama, calories are as loved as the customers!

www.lamama.ro

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14. Locanta Jaristea

4.3 (972)

Strada George Georgescu 50-52, București 040133, Romania

Tucked away amidst the bustling streets of Bucharest, like a secret haven for food enthusiasts, lies Locanta Jaristea. This culinary gem prides itself on its ability to transport your taste buds to a realm of delightful confusion. With a menu as extensive as an encyclopedic trilogy, be prepared to engage in a rollercoaster of gastronomic pleasure, treating yourself to dishes that will leave both your stomach and your imagination full.

www.jaristea.ro

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15. Caru' cu Bere

4.4 (35192)

Strada Stavropoleos 5, București 030081, Romania

Welcome to Caru' cu Bere, the legendary beer house in Bucharest where you can embark on a journey through time, taste, and tipsy tales. Sitting right in the heart of the city, this architectural masterpiece looks like a gingerbread house on steroids, ready to seduce your taste buds and capture your Instagram-worthy moments. Step inside and brace yourself for an unforgettable experience of soaking up the lively atmosphere, pretending to understand the traditional Romanian menu, and trying not to spill too much beer on your freshly ironed shirt.

www.carucubere.ro

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How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Bucharest by plane is to fly into Henri Coanda International Airport (OTP), which is located approximately 17 km north of the city center. There are many airlines that fly to OTP from various destinations worldwide.

Car

Driving to Bucharest is possible from neighboring countries. The most direct routes from Hungary or Bulgaria are via the A1 highway. However, visitors should be aware that traffic in Bucharest can be congested and parking can be difficult in the city center.

Train

Although it is possible to get to Bucharest by train, it is not the most efficient method of transport. However, if traveling from nearby countries such as Hungary or Bulgaria, there are a number of daily train services available. The train station in Bucharest is Gara de Nord.

Boat

Unfortunately, it is not possible to reach Bucharest by boat as the city is not located near any major waterways.

Bus

Getting to Bucharest by bus is a convenient option, with many international bus companies operating services to the city. Eurolines and Flixbus are two popular companies that offer services from multiple destinations. The bus station in Bucharest is called Autogara Filaret.

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