Moldova and Italy are two countries that share a special connection. Starting with the late 1990s, Moldovan emigrants started to massively go abroad in search of better economic opportunities. It is said that almost 1 million Moldovans live abroad and a big part of them live in Italy. This has made Italian culture very close to the Moldovan people. You can easily find Italian ingredients, food and restaurants in Chișinău, but none of them are as authentic as Il Forno. After travelling to Rome, Milan, Venice and Bari, I can say for certain that now we have pizza in Chișinău that is just as good as Italian Pizza. Many have tried, but Il Forno has succeeded. They have some other dishes in their menu, but it is definitely a pizza-focused place.
The best way to enjoy their pizza is to get it on the spot. Start with the Margherita classic mozzarella, basil and tomato. Their pepperoni is also exceptional. During the summer they have a lovely terrace which is in the city center and not far from Ștefan cel Mare street (check out the article). The wood-oven pizza project is a passion project of a Moldovan entrepreneur that has many restaurants in the city. If you are a fan of pizza, it's a must! Enjoy it with a glass of good Moldovan wine. Best of both worlds.
Find your way with 87 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
"Marlene Bar" in Chisinau might not even have the best cocktails in town (although I like them), but the atmosphere of this European-style bar is worth it!
by
"Cărturești Books" in Chisinau has everything from books, posters, board games, magnets... I esp. like the reading area where you can sit with a book.
by
"Fuior Restaurant" in Chișinău is all about the package. They bring you a Michelin-Star restaurant experience to Moldovan flavors. Try the black dumplings!
by
"Madam Wong Restaurant" in Chișinău makes the best Asian food in town, easily! My favorites include the Tom Yum, the Spinach Soup & the Duck Spring Roll...
by
If there's one place you need to check into after you arrive at Chișinău, it's "Wine Shop Pușkin St." Expect to find great prices for simply amazing wines!
by
"Yoga Surya" in Chisinau is run by Igor. He speaks Romanian and a little English. He's very helpful, friendly and the prices are very reasonable!
by
"Valea Morilor Park" in the heart of Chisinau is a great recreational spot for a hot summer day. Half the city is here but you'll find your quiet spot!
by
"Istanbul Bazaar" in Chisinau is a Turkish market for all your baklava, lokum and Turkish coffee needs!
by
"Buiucani District" in Chisinau is the only part of the city were old village houses and churches still exist. I like it because I've lived here forever...
by
"Chisinau Hotel" really has changed very little from soviet times. You don't have to stay, just ask to have a look around the rooms...
by
Chisinau's main "Train Station" is a must-see spot -- I always try to pass through it with my tours. The large soviet square is also worth looking at...
by
"La Izvor" in Chisinau is one of the most beautiful but still underestimated green areas in the city. You can even see people swimming in the lake here...
by
87 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 87 Insider Tips