Traditional Albanian Food: 20 Must-Try Dishes for Food Lovers

Albanian cuisine is a delicious blend of Mediterranean and Balkan flavors, shaped by Ottoman influence and local traditions.

Main Dishes

1. Tavë Kosi

Albania's national dish - tender lamb baked in a creamy yogurt and egg sauce until golden. Rich, tangy, and utterly satisfying.

2. Fërgesë

A Tirana specialty of peppers, tomatoes, and cottage cheese baked until bubbly.

3. Qofte & Byrek

Qofte: Albanian meatballs with herbs and feta. Byrek: Flaky filo pastry filled with cheese, spinach, or meat - the ultimate Albanian snack.

Seafood

Grilled Fish

Fresh catch from the Adriatic and Ionian - sea bass, sea bream, and mullet grilled simply with olive oil, lemon, and herbs.

Appetizers & Sides

Djathë i Bardhë

Albanian white cheese similar to feta, made from sheep or goat milk. Found on every table.

Sweets

Bakllava & Trilece

Bakllava: Albanian-style baklava with walnuts and sweet syrup. Trilece: Three-milk cake soaked in cream and topped with caramel.

Drinks

Raki: Albania's national spirit - grape brandy. Albanian Wine: Try reds from Berat. Coffee: Espresso culture rivals Italy.

Where to Eat

Seek out family restaurants away from tourist centers. Don't miss breakfast at local bakeries serving fresh byrek with dhallë (buttermilk).