Armenian cuisine offers tourists a wide variety of dishes to try in different price segments. From simple but tasty snacks to more sophisticated treats, Armenia delights visitors with a combination of flavors, aromas, and textures. Welcome Voyage team has prepared for you a list of traditional Armenian dishes and unique desserts that are worth trying during your trip.

1. Shawarma: A quick and filling snack

Shawarma in Armenia is especially popular among both locals and tourists. It differs from the usual version in that it is served in Armenian lavash with a large amount of fresh vegetables and aromatic sauces. This dish can be found in street stalls and cafes at affordable prices, and in restaurants – in a more sophisticated version with unusual additives, such as basturma or smoked cheeses.

2. Burgers: Trendy Fast Food with an Armenian Accent

Burgers in Armenia are not just fast food, they are a dish that can be found in a variety of formats. Local establishments offer both classic burgers and unique versions using Armenian ingredients such as basturma, sujuk or Armenian cheese.

3. Fish dishes: The exquisite taste of Lake Sevan

Fish, especially trout and whitefish, is a delicacy in Armenia. These dishes can be tasted both in budget cafes on the shores of Lake Sevan and in prestigious restaurants in Yerevan. Fish is usually grilled with a minimum of spices, which allows its natural taste to fully reveal. In more expensive restaurants, you will be offered fish with original sauces and side dishes.

4. Khorovats: Traditional shashlik in different variations

Khorovats is a dish that cannot be missed. In Armenia, it is made from pork, chicken or lamb, served with lavash and fresh vegetables. Inexpensive versions of this dish can be found in markets and cafes, while restaurants serve more complex versions with special marinades.

5. Dolma: A classic Armenian dish

Dolma is minced meat wrapped in grape leaves or vegetables, one of the most famous dishes in Armenian cuisine. It can be tried in both simple establishments and restaurants, where dolma is served with signature sauces and side dishes.

6. Sweets: Traditional and unique Armenian desserts

Armenian cuisine offers not only delicious main courses, but also a variety of sweets that are worth trying. Here are some of the most popular and unique desserts:

Traditional sweets:

• Churchkhela (cargo) Sharots (Arm.) is a sweet treat made from nuts strung on a string and covered in grape juice. It is one of the most popular desserts found in markets and stores throughout Armenia.
• Gata is a sweet pie with a buttery filling that is often served during holidays. It can be found in bakeries and cafes.
• Baklava is a multi-layered dessert with nuts and honey, which is considered a symbol of Armenian holidays and feasts.

Signature and unique desserts:

• Chocolates with pomegranate and wine – Armenian confectioners offer unusual combinations of flavors, creating unique sweets with the addition of local products such as pomegranate, wine and honey.
• Desserts with apricots – apricot, which is considered a symbol of Armenia, is often used in modern signature desserts such as mousses and cakes.
• Armenian cheeses with honey and nuts are not exactly a dessert, but sweet cheese with honey and nuts can be considered the perfect end to a meal.

7. Harisa: A hearty dish made from wheat and meat

Harissa is a traditional Armenian dish made from wheat and chicken or lamb. It is simmered for a long time over low heat, turning into a thick, mushy mass. Harissa is a hearty and nutritious dish that is especially popular in winter.

8. Lavash and flatbreads: Simple but delicious snacks

Lavash is a thin Armenian bread that is served with most meals. It can be found in any cafe or restaurant, and can also be bought at markets. Lavash is not just bread, but the basis of many Armenian snacks, such as cheese or meat sandwiches.

9. Armenian Coffee: Traditional After Meal Drink

Drinking a cup of Armenian coffee is a mandatory ritual after a meal. It is brewed in a Turk over low heat, which gives the drink a special strength and rich aroma. Traditional Armenian sweets such as baklava or gata are often served with coffee.

Conclusion

Armenia is a country where you can try delicious dishes and desserts for every taste and budget. From shawarma and burgers to exquisite fish dishes and unique signature desserts, every tourist will find something for themselves. The Welcome Voyage team recommends exploring local markets, cafes and restaurants to enjoy all facets of Armenian cuisine. Regardless of your budget, your gastronomic trip to Armenia will be unforgettable!